All Episodes

December 16, 2025 82 mins

Episode Maxim

"Celebrate innovation, embrace craftsmanship, and champion the values that shape gun culture—whether it’s gear, mindset, or our rights."

Episode Summary

In this episode, I sit down with Mitch Eckler to chop it up about everything from German gun culture, American trailblazing, and the latest gear to the state of the Second Amendment. We uncork some Penelope Bourbon, get hands-on with Lucky Wolusiak’s extraordinary knives, and talk about flagship firearms from Kings River Customs—including a show-stopping $12,000 1911. We get honest about the realities and setbacks in the gun industry, dive into the impact of new legislation, and poke fun at AI “shooting robots” and the latest crazy headlines. It’s a wide-ranging, spirited discussion packed with candor, laughter, and practical tips for anyone passionate about firearms, knives, and gun rights.


Call to Action

Make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss a Tuesday drop! If you enjoyed our conversation, leave a comment, connect with us on Instagram, Discord, or Spotify, and share what resonated most. And if you have thoughts, corrections, or want us to cover a topic, let us know!


Show Sponsors

  • Cooper's Cast Coffee – Premium single-origin and spirit-infused blends. Perfect for gifting or fueling your next early-morning range run.
  • Flatline Fiber Co. – Proven slings, gear wraps, and made-in-America range essentials. Use code TGE10 for 10% off!
  • Kings River Customs – Custom 1911s and firearms that blend artistry, accuracy, and hard-use reliability.

Key Takeaways

  • Craftsmanship Matters: Whether it’s German precision or American ingenuity, quality gear stands out—and investing in craftsmanship pays off.
  • Knife Innovation: Lucky Wolusiak’s knives go way beyond the basic—expect wild colors, creative designs, and serious defensive potential.
  • Firearms Trends: The rise of tactical lever actions, new holster solutions, and the promise (and hurdles) of the 2011 platform.
  • Gun Rights & Legislation: Real talk on Second Amendment curricula, DOJ’s new 2A enforcement section, and the struggle for practical reform.
  • Culture & Mindset: How upbringing affects our approach to guns, why exposure matters, and the difference between value and values in gun culture.
  • AI & Future Tech: The intersection of robotics, shooting sports, and the cautionary tales around emerging tech.
  • Community Connection: The importance of honest reviews, hands-on testing, and a network of trusted creators, makers, and gun shops.

Guest Information

Mitch Eckler

  • Writer, gear reviewer, and industry insider featured at Athlon Outdoors, Tactical Knives Magazine, and more.
  • Enthusiast for practical gear, innovative design, and telling authentic stories from firearm trainers, knife makers, and the gun industry.
  • Connect with Mitch for his latest articles, reviews, and adventures in gear testing.

Keywords

Gun podcast, The Gun Experiment, Mitch Eckler, Kings River Customs, knife maker, Lucky Wolusiak, German precision, American gun culture, Second Amendment, pro-2A news, tactical lever action, shot show, gun legislation, concealed carry, custom 1911, gear reviews, Flatline Fiber Co, Cooper's Cast Coffee, firearm innovation, gun industry trends, knife review, gun rights, bourbon and guns, AI robotics, self-defense tools


Want more? Drop a review, follow us, and let us know what gear, topics, or guests you want to hear next!

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Betrayal: Weekly

Betrayal: Weekly

Betrayal Weekly is back for a brand new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack. And make sure to check out Seasons 1-4 of Betrayal, along with Betrayal Weekly Season 1.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.