In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Peter Tilem, Second Amendment attorney and bourbon buddy, to chop it up on the latest legal battles, gun rights issues, and regulatory absurdities coming out of New York and beyond. We cover the implications of the new so-called “Glock ban,” why courts are so slow to tackle assault weapon and magazine bans, and New York’s relentless push for tighter firearm regulations—including a new three-day waiting period. We also dive into free speech rights in schools, the expanding use of AI surveillance in cities, and the dangers of proposed hunting and fishing bans.

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4. Askmikeandkeithanything@gmail.com

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• HSM Ammunition: Trusted ammo for every shooting application. Available at Cabela’s, Bass Pro, Shields, and more. Check them out at hsmammunition.com

• Spartan Armor Systems: Reliable, American-made body armor for armed citizens and law enforcement. Visit spartanarmorsystems.com for your personal protection needs.

• New York’s “Glock ban” is more bark than bite but shows a continued legislative obsession with targeting gun owners.

• Waiting periods and carry insurance bans in NY are likely unconstitutional and face tough legal challenges post-Bruen decision.

• The courts are a slow, inefficient fix for bad laws—winning elections and being active in local politics is more effective.

• Selective law enforcement (both liberal and conservative) is a slippery slope and citizens can’t always rely on prosecutorial discretion for protection.

• Hunting and fishing rights are under political attack in some states—protecting these traditions requires active involvement and coalition-building.

• Surveillance technology and AI in cities continue to advance rapidly—at the expense of personal privacy and freedom.

Peter Tilem

• Founder of New York TAC Defense

• Second Amendment attorney with Tilem & Associates

• Learn more: newyorktacdefense.com

New York gun laws, Glock ban, Second Amendment attorney, New York TAC Defense, firearm waiting period, assault weapon ban, magazine ban, Supreme Court gun cases, law enforcement discretion, AI surveillance, hunting rights, school free speech, gun insurance ban, NY SAFE Act, Spartan Armor, HSM Ammunition, 2A legal defense, gun owner rights, podcast for shooters, gun regulation updates, Peter Tilem

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.

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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

custom knives, knife maker, Levi Walusiak, Lucky Walusiak Creations, artisan blades, knife craftsmanship, Oregon knives, sharpest knives, blade design, knife materials, folding knives, fixed blade, custom kitchen tools, splatter paint knives, knife maintenance, HSM Ammunition, On Site Firearms Training, gun podcast, The Gun Experiment, quality steel, knife sharpening, unique knives, handmade knives, tactical knives, collector knives, hard-use knives

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I team up for another round of Chopping It Up, joined by our returning guest, Todd Meeks, CEO of Spartan Armor Systems. We kick things off with some lighthearted stories before diving deep into the world of body armor, ballistic helmets, and evolving safety solutions for civilians, first responders, and law enforcement. We cover industry trends, product innovations, and relevant 2A news, as well as some wild stories about modern espionage, tech surveillance, and an epic Revolutionary War history lesson. Whether you’re a firearms enthusiast, law enforcement officer, or just want to stay informed on personal protection and news, this episode has something 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 6. 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 show possible.

• HSM Ammunition – Reliable ammo with a broad selection, including defensive and cowboy action rounds.

• Kings River Customs– Hand-built, reliable, and beautiful 1911 pistols from Arkansas, the 1911 capital of the world.

• The prevalence and necessity of body armor isn’t just for the military; civilians and first responders are increasingly recognizing its value.

• New product developments at Spartan Armor include ultra-lightweight ballistic helmets made in the USA, thanks to a partnership with Armor Source.

• Expiration dates on body armor are real, especially for ceramics and composites, particularly under extreme temperature conditions.

• The civilian body armor market is slowing down, with more focus shifting to government, law enforcement, and first responder contracts.

• News on 2A rights: Possible changes in USPS handgun shipping regulations and an active DOJ civil rights campaign for the Second Amendment.

• Concerns about modern surveillance technology, including insect-like drones, highlight the ongoing importance of personal privacy and freedom.

• An intriguing look at Revolutionary War history, including the Hudson River Chain, showcases American ingenuity and defense.

Todd Meeks CEO, Spartan Armor Systems Industry leader in body armor and ballistic protection Focused on solutions for civilians, law enforcement, and first responders. Learn more and see Spartan products at spartanarmorsystems.com

gun podcast, body armor, Spartan Armor Systems, Todd Meeks, ballistic helmet, personal protection, ceramic plates, steel plates, 2A news, Second Amendment, USPS handgun shipping, DOJ assault weapons ban, law enforcement, first responders, civilian safety, Kevlar, tactical gear, made in the USA, Kings River Customs, HSM Ammunition, modern surveillance, China espionage, bug drone, Revolutionary War history, Hudson River Chain, civil unrest, home defense.

In this episode, we sit down once again with our friend Ben DeWalt from On Sight Firearms Training. We dive deep into the ongoing challenges every shooter faces—grip, sights, and trigger control—and why diagnosing your own problems on the range is so critical. Ben talks through the difference between trends and fundamentals in the firearms world, why optics and weapon lights are here to stay, and shares his candid takes on what needs to die a bloody death in training circles. We also break down the most recent 2A news, from Tennessee’s deadly force expansion to body armor bans and other firearm's news. And of course, rapid-fire Q&A and some personal stories about moving south, bad travel etiquette, and whether or not we’re really about that running-with-the-bulls life.

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 6. 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 show possible.

• HSM Ammunition – Reliable, accurate, and trusted for training, hunting or self defense. Find them at hsmunnition.com

• Spartan Armor Systems – Comfortable, NIJ certified body armor for those who never want to leave their defense to chance. Visit spartanarmorsystems.com

• Fundamentals like grip, sights, and trigger control remain essential regardless of equipment or trends (16:13)

• Quality instruction means ongoing education—for both students and instructors (18:18)

• Trends like putting optics on everything and white lights on home defense guns are positive for the shooting community, while bad terminology around triggers needs to go

• Legal changes around self-defense and firearms laws create confusion but rarely stop bad actors—they mostly impact law-abiding citizens (45:09)

• Testing and vetting instructors is a must, as not all certifications indicate great teaching

• The importance of humility—good trainers demo every skill, and aren’t afraid to admit mistakes (21:01)

• Real-world scenarios (like teaching through stress or odd situations) matter more than just theory

Ben DeWalt Founder and lead instructor at On Sight Firearms Training. Ben specializes in defensive shooting, safety education, and continuous personal development for shooters of all experience levels. Find classes and more at: oftllc.us

• Firearms training, Defensive shooting, Gun safety, Gun laws, Body armor ban, Fundamentals of marksmanship, Optics on pistols, Self-defense law Tennessee, Firearms instructors, Striker-fired vs DA/SA pistols, Rapid-fire Q&A, 2A news, Second Amendment, Shooting drills, On Sight Firearms Training, HSM Ammunition, Spartan Armor Systems, Concealed carry, Home defense

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Gun Experiment, I sit down with Big Keith and our special guest, Rob Godek, the Director of AceTac Gear. We dive deep into the origins of AceTac, from its humble roots in a garage to becoming a respected name in modular and adaptable tactical gear. Rob opens up about the importance of balancing affordability, reliability, and innovation for everyday Americans and professionals alike. We also share stories, review some killer gear (like the low-profile plate carrier and skeleton placard), and unpack the realities of starting and growing a gear company in today’s competitive landscape. Expect laughs, honest feedback, and plenty of behind-the-scenes wisdom for both new shooters and seasoned operators.

Call to Action: 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.

Show Sponsors:

• HSM Ammunition: Official ammo sponsor, tested and recommended by us for reliability and performance.

• Onsite Firearms Training (OFT): Our go-to for responsible gun ownership and hands-on, real-world defensive training.

• New York Tac Defense: Offering prepaid legal plans for self-defense—peace of mind when you need it most.

Key Takeaways:

• AceTac Gear is about making purpose-driven, affordable tactical equipment without sacrificing function or quality.

• Rob Godek’s journey illustrates the power of persistence, honest customer feedback, and staying true to the roots—especially supporting everyday Americans and first responders.

• Not every innovation means reinventing the wheel; often, it means listening to users and perfecting what works.

• The firearms and tactical gear community thrives on transparency, supporting new shooters, and embracing the “climb” rather than just chasing high-end gear.

• Modularity, affordability, and durability are at the heart of great EDC and tactical gear.

• The customer experience at AceTac goes beyond just sales—offering a genuine lifetime warranty and community engagement.

• Balance your gear needs with honest self-assessment; sometimes a good “middle ground” product outperforms luxury when it comes to real-world use.

Guest Information: Rob Godek is the Director and CEO of AceTac Gear. With a background in law enforcement, NASCAR engine building, and a passion for hands-on innovation, Rob brings a no-nonsense, customer-focused approach to tactical gear. AceTac is dedicated to empowering users with modular, reliable kits—ensuring “Gucci” quality is accessible to all, not just the elite. Find AceTac at AceTacGear.com and on Instagram for the latest updates.

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