In this episode, we sit down with Gage Moulding, the Vice President of HSM Ammunition, to talk about all things ammo. We dig deep into the science and consistency required to build truly reliable ammunition, the importance of family culture in a manufacturing business, and how real-world feedback from shooters shapes the products HSM produces. We also explore how the industry reacts to supply chain challenges, changing regulations, and technological advances. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or a casual range enthusiast, this episode delivers the kind of insider perspective you’ve always wanted on what it takes to put the highest quality rounds in your magazine.

1. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify 2. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Youtube 3. Grab some cool TGE merch 4. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com 5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They’re a big part of making the show possible.

• HSM Ammunition: Proudly made in the USA with tight quality control. Check them out at hsmammunition.com or your local sporting goods store.

• OnSight Firearms Training (OFT): Real-world defensive shooting instruction by pros who walk the walk. Find a course that meets your needs at OFTLLC.us

• Modern factory ammo can rival handloads in consistency and performance due to advanced quality control systems.

• HSM’s company culture is built around family values and customer service, ensuring your concerns are addressed by real experts.

• Longevity among employees (loaders with 17+ years at HSM) brings unmatched institutional knowledge and consistent manufacturing processes.

• Supply chain disruptions (especially for powder and primers) remain the industry's biggest challenge. Preparedness (safety stock) is essential.

• Real-world feedback from hunters, competitors, and law enforcement directly influences new product development at HSM.

• Ammunition price increases reflect rising costs across the board, not higher profits for manufacturers.

• Not all calibers are created equal—find out why .44 Magnum is underrated and the myth behind "just fill it to the top" when reloading.

• Name: Gage Moulding

• Position: Vice President, HSM Ammunition

• Background: Former Army Officer, extensive experience in manufacturing and distribution, passionate about hunting, fishing, and shooting sports.

ammunition manufacturing, HSM Ammunition, ammo quality control, factory ammo vs handloads, competitive shooting, hunting ammo, family business, American-made ammo, ammo supply chain, powder shortage, shooting sports, reloading myths, gun industry trends, best rifle ammo, premium projectiles, .44 Magnum, subsonic ammunition

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Diedrich, the content director for Recoil Off Grid and a true outdoors and survival enthusiast. We chop it up about everything from homesteading inspiration and turning failures into learning opportunities, to behind-the-scenes stories from big events like Can-con, Amazonian adventures, and the quirkiest things we've eaten (including my encounter with balut!). We also weigh in on some hot 2A news, the ongoing cost-of-living debate, and our takes on DEI in the workplace. Plus, we tackle listener questions and debate the best places in the U.S. to homestead (tornadoes, ticks, and all).

1. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify 2. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Youtube 3. Grab some cool TGE merch 4. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com 5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the

• HSM Ammunition – Trusted by hunters, competitors, and everyday shooters alike. Check out their offerings for superior reliability and ballistic performance at hsmammunition.com

• Second Amendment Foundation – Defending your right to keep and bear arms for over 50 years. Support their cause at saf.org

• Real-world experience and embracing failure are essential to mastering survival and preparedness.

• The gun community can learn a lot from discussing both our successes and shortcomings.

• The Can-con event featured not just guns, but off-grid skills like field dressing and chicken processing—sometimes requiring last-minute improvisation!

• Laws and regulations may influence firearm sales, but cultural and market forces play a huge part.

• Survival doesn’t have to mean “hardcore only”—don’t ignore modern tools and comforts when they make sense.

• DEI policies, hiring practices, and accountability in leadership sparked some spirited debate.

• The best place to homestead isn't just about price—natural disasters and local culture matter, too.

• Exotic foods like freshwater stingray and balut make for wild stories and lasting bonds!

Patrick Diedrich

• Content Director at Recoil Off Grid

• Survival skills adventurer and journalist

• Follow his adventures and insights at offgridweb.com and on social media

Gun experiment, podcast, Patrick Diedrich, Recoil Off Grid, survival, preparedness, Cancon, firearm news, machine gun laws, gun regulations, DEI, Second Amendment, HSM Ammunition, off-grid skills, homesteading, tornado alley, cheapest places to live, Ballute, exotic foods, Amazon adventure, field dressing, outdoor skills, tactical training, self-reliance, gun sales trends, modern survival, 2A news, concealed carry

In this episode, we sit down with Oregon-based artisan knife maker Levi Walusiak, owner of Lucky Walusiak Creations. We dive into the world of custom knife making, exploring the importance of quality craftsmanship, design philosophy, and what truly sets a great blade apart from the rest. We geek out over his most unique products (from blood straws to badass pizza cutters), geek out about materials and steel choices, and even swap classic family knife stories. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into building a reliable, functional, and beautiful blade—or you’re just a fan of cool gear—this episode is for you.

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Youtube

4. Grab some cool TGE merch

5. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com

6. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They’re a big part of making the show possible.

• HSM Ammunition: Serious ammo for serious shooters. Made in the USA, trusted by real shooters. Check them out at hsmammunition.com

• On Site Firearms Training: OFT has experienced instructors offering high-quality firearms training across the country. Visit OFTLLC.us for their course lineup.

• The difference between a good and a great knife often comes down to durability, edge retention, and thoughtful design tailored to real-world use.

• Custom knives are a labor of love—making one can take several days and involve intricate processes from material selection to heat treatment and handle shaping.

• Levi Walusiak balances both artistry and usability, frequently experimenting with new materials, splatter paint designs, and even wild kitchen tools (like pizza cutters and ice cream scoops).

• Regular knife maintenance—including proper sharpening and stropping—is crucial, and even high-end blades need TLC to perform at their best.

• The custom knife market has a thriving mix of collector and hard-use pieces, and Levi Walusiak's philosophy is to make his blades to be used, offering a lifetime warranty and free sharpening.

Levi Walusiak Owner, Lucky Walusiak Creations Oregon-based custom knife maker known for unique, high-performance blades and innovative kitchen tools.

• Instagram

• Website

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