Whiskey and Windage

This week on Whiskey and Windage, we sit down with the team from Troy Industries for an in-depth conversation covering where the company is today and where it’s headed next. Known for their long history of rugged, duty-driven equipment, Troy walks us through their current rifle lineup and how their design philosophy prioritizes reliability, durability, and real-world performance. We also dig into Troy’s approach to suppressors, dis...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Cameron Tapler from Palmetto State Armory for an exclusive conversation about what’s ahead for PSA in 2026. Recorded prior to the company’s public announcements at SHOT Show 2026, this episode offers a rare early look at the direction Palmetto State Armory is taking across its expanding product lineup. Cameron walks us through twelve new platforms currently in development, ...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by JB from EOTECH for a detailed conversation about the company’s newest product releases and what’s ahead for 2026. Known for its strong presence in the optics and technology space, EOTECH continues to expand its lineup while staying focused on quality, consistency, and long-term performance. JB walks us through several key products, including the DCBL suppressor, the civilian...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Mike O’Dell from CMMG for a deep dive into the products and innovation that have helped define CMMG’s place in the modern firearms industry. Known for their forward-thinking designs and modular platforms, CMMG continues to push boundaries while maintaining a strong focus on consistency and quality. Mike breaks down CMMG’s current product lineup, sharing insight into how thei...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Josh Hood from LayerX Suppression for a deep dive into modern suppressor design, real-world performance, and the manufacturing decisions that separate good products from great ones. As suppressor technology continues to evolve, LayerX has carved out a name by focusing on engineering, materials, and consistency at scale.

Josh breaks down the LayerX product lineup, with a detai...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Steve Morgan from Primary Arms Optics for a deep dive into one of the most recognizable optics brands in the industry. We break down the full Primary Arms lineup, including the SLx, GLx, and PLx series, and discuss how each optic line is designed to meet the needs of different shooters, from entry-level enthusiasts to experienced professionals.

Steve explains what goes into o...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Mark and Paul Foster of Fostech Inc. for a deep dive into firearms innovation, engineering, and what it takes to bring new ideas to market in today’s firearms industry.

Fostech has built a strong reputation for pushing boundaries through smart mechanical design and outside-the-box thinking. Mark and Paul share the story of how Fostech Inc. got its start, how their background ...

On this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Joe Farewell, a competitive shooter, instructor, and the driving force behind Farewell Firearms Training. Joe breaks down what it really takes to excel in competitive shooting, from mastering the fundamentals to developing the mindset, discipline, and training habits that separate top performers from the rest.

We explore Joe’s journey through the shooting sports, how he built...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Todd Neice from Jacob Grey Firearms to talk about the company’s newest releases and the story behind their rapid growth in the industry. Todd walks us through the development of the NOX9, a ported and compensated 2011-style handgun designed for shooters who want smooth performance, modern construction, and attention to detail. He explains how the idea came together, what the...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Caleb Savant to talk about his recent trip to the Hat Creek Training Facility, where he spent time learning the fundamentals of long-range shooting and getting a first look at upcoming gear from SureFire. Caleb shares what the experience was like, the lessons that surprised him, and the essential equipment new shooters should consider when stepping into the long-range world...

Join us for a deep dive into innovation with Travis Merkin, founder of Icarus Precision, as we explore one of the most influential companies in the performance-upgrade space. In this episode, Travis walks us through the design and development of the brand-new 311 grip module, a highly anticipated addition to the Icarus lineup. We discuss what inspired the 311, how its improved ergonomics and aluminum construction enhance shooter co...

This week on Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Derek LeBlanc, founder of the Kids SAFE Foundation, to talk about his mission to educate kids and families about real firearm safety - not fear, not politics - just responsibility. Derek’s program has reached tens of thousands of young shooters and parents across the country, helping them understand the fundamentals of safe handling, proper unloading, range discipline, and respec...

On this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Vinny DeYarmon, the founder and mastermind behind Monsoon Tactical, one of the most innovative names in performance firearms machining. Known for precision cuts, elite slide work, accuracy-driven barrel systems, and custom firearm enhancements, Monsoon Tactical has earned a reputation for pushing platforms to their highest potential.

Vinny breaks down what true performance w...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Jim Fuller, the legendary craftsman behind Fuller Phoenix and one of the most respected AK builders in the world. Jim has spent decades mastering the art of the AK rifle, earning a reputation for precision, reliability, and purpose-built design that defines the Fuller Phoenix brand.

We dive deep into the philosophy of building rifles that last a lifetime — rifles made to be ...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Mike Pappas, the legendary co-founder of Dead Air Silencers— a company that’s changed the way shooters think about sound suppression, reliability, and design.

Mike opens up about what drove him to start Dead Air, the early days of innovation, and the mindset that built one of the most trusted names in the gun world. We get into his love for firearms, his obsession with doin...

Dustin breaks down how JP rifles have become a benchmark for accuracy, reliability, and innovation, from their legendary JP-15 and JP-5 platforms to their groundbreaking low-mass operating systems and tuned recoil management. We dive into the mechanics behind competition success—trigger control, barrel design, gas systems, and precision craftsmanship—and how JP’s commitment to engineering perfection has earned them a loyal followin...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Adam Litke from Holosun to dive deep into the world of cutting-edge optics and firearm technology. Holosun has become one of the most trusted names in the industry, known for pushing the limits of red dot and reflex sight performance. Adam gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the design philosophy, engineering, and innovation that power Holosun’s most popular optics—includi...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we welcome Scott Emerick, of Guardian Defense Manufacturing, to talk about the company’s mission to design and build world-class firearms, suppressors, and premium shooting accessories. Scott shares the story of how Guardian Defense started, the challenges of growing a manufacturing brand in today’s firearms market, and the craftsmanship that goes into every rifle, pistol, and precision par...

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, host Mike Perkins welcomes Buck Pierson, Co-CEO of Staccato 2011, for an unfiltered, in-depth conversation about the company’s latest chapter. Buck shares how Staccato has evolved since their last visit, outlining new product releases, updates to their legendary Staccato 2011 line, and how the team continues to raise the bar in design, precision, and performance.

The discussion dives into th...