Building Your Firearms Career: Mitch Eckler on Writing, YouTube, and Content Creation

"Every journey into the firearms space is fueled by passion, persistence, and a relentless commitment to quality—no shortcuts."

Episode Summary

In this episode, Big Keith and I sit down in the studio with Mitch Eckler, the mastermind behind Hangfire TV and a prolific contributor to Athlon Outdoors. We get into the nitty gritty of content creation in the firearms world, tackling everything from overcoming social media algorithm hurdles to the impact of AI on writing and photography, and why building a genuine voice matters more than ever. Mitch shares his journey from music to guns, his take on revolvers and 1911s, and the realities of trying to make it behind enemy lines here in New York. We also dive into advocacy, staying motivated despite challenges, and tips for anyone wanting to get involved in the 2A community.

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Show Sponsors

• Modern Gun Trade School: Turn your passion for firearms into a career with hands-on, at-your-own-pace online gunsmithing courses. Visit mgs.edu or call 1-800-493-4114—tell them The Gun Experiment sent you!
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Key Takeaways

• Persistence and authenticity are key to success in firearms content creation.
• Building a portfolio (even starting a YouTube channel) can open doors in the industry.
• AI and large language models (LLMs) are here to stay; use them to bolster your writing, but don’t lose your unique voice.
• Social media platforms can be tough for gun content—follow the rules, create original photos, and stay “middle of the road.”
• New York gun owners face unique challenges, but local and national organizations work behind the scenes to protect 2A rights. Donating to any is better than none!
• The importance of supporting local gun shops and continuing your firearms education.
• Authenticity in content—whether written, photographed, or filmed—will always stand out, no matter how advanced technology becomes.
• Getting started is about doing the hard work first and being willing to