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.

SEO Keywords: AceTac Gear, Rob Godek, The Gun Experiment, tactical gear review, modular tactical gear, affordable plate carrier, law enforcement equipment, EDC gear, gear innovation, customer feedback tactical, veteran owned gear brand, lifetime warranty tactical, SHOT Show, HSM Ammunition, Onsite Firearms Training, New York Tac Defense, 2A community, plate carrier review, skeleton placard, cummerbund review, Gun Podcast, gear for everyday Americans, product development tactical gear, training for gun owners

In this episode, we are joined by Zeke Stout. We dive into everything from the Nashville food scene and trade shows, to the serious side of firearms marketing, Second Amendment culture, and current events impacting gun owners. Zeke Stout brings a wealth of experience in the firearms industry, offering insights on marketing best practices, gun industry trends, and the impact of innovation versus tradition. We also discuss controversial legislation in Virginia, the future of gun culture, and the intersection of AI and health. We finish things off with some fun—talking cars, rapid-fire questions, and some thoughtful debate on "who are the people?" protected by the Second Amendment.

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: InstagramYoutube 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.

Show Sponsors

• HSM Ammunition – Reliable, quality-made ammunition for training, hunting, and self-defense.

• Flatline Fiber Co – American-made, simple, effective, and warranty-backed shooting gear. Use code TGE10 for 10% off your order at FlatlineFiberCo.com.

• Marketing vs. Sales: Zeke Stout emphasizes the crucial difference between marketing and sales and why trust-building (not just immediate sales) is vital in the gun industry (10:01–13:21).

• Print Media vs. Digital: Print ads are less effective than podcasts, YouTube, and social media, especially for gun culture. The audience values authenticity and real voices over marketed hype (14:41–15:30).

• Current Trends: Innovation is finally happening with magnetic recoil reduction via Frytech, and Zeke Stout sees appetite for real technical advancement (21:13–23:11).

• Gun Culture Authenticity: The community wants genuine, passionate representation—not corporations pretending tactical experience they don’t have (16:25–18:40).

• Second Amendment Culture: The fight for gun rights is being lost due to infighting and politicization—the community needs unity across political lines (24:08–25:20).

• Education over Legislation: We agree that education about firearms safety beats new restrictive laws—and that knowledge, not fear, saves lives (34:01–38:36).

• AI in Healthcare: Medical AI tools can be helpful, but they're also dangerous if used as a substitute for professional advice—nothing replaces a real expert (59:48–01:04:20).

Zeke Stout

• Firearms industry veteran, consultant, and long-time marketer

• Well-known for marketing expertise, industry advocacy, and passion for innovation

Nashville gun trade show, Zeke Stout, firearms marketing, gun industry trends, Flatline Fiber, HSM Ammunition, recoil innovation, Frytech, magnetic recoil, AR-15 upgrades, Second Amendment culture, gun legislation Virginia, educational firearm safety, gun podcast, digital marketing for gun companies, print media vs. digital, authenticity in gun industry, social media for firearms, mental health and AI, pro-gun unity, rapid fire gun questions, car investments, Porsche, Corvette value, podcast summary, The Gun Experiment

Don’t forget to leave a review and share The Gun Experiment with your friends—see you next week!

"Freedom must be taught, protected, and passed on to the next generation—it’s not inherited, it’s earned."

Episode Summary In this jam-packed episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I sit down with Keith Davis, better known as “2A Dad,” to dive deep into passing down freedom, responsibility, and gun safety through our families. We explore the evolution of the 2A Family and how the journey started with simple trips to the range and became a mission to inspire and equip the next generation. If you’ve been thinking about how to get your kids interested in firearms, raise responsible citizens, or just want to learn more about the intersection of parenting, homeschooling, and the Second Amendment, this one’s for you. Plus, we talk about overcoming haters, handling the social media spotlight, and juggling family, training, and business.

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: InstagramYoutube 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: American-made reliability, accuracy, and performance for every shooter.

• Onsite Firearms Training: The go-to place to level up your gun skills responsibly and effectively.

• Swig Protein: Not a show sponsor today, but a personal favorite—reach out for samples or use code TGE20 for 20% off.

Key Takeaways

• The importance of demystifying firearms for kids starts at home with education and respect, not fear.

• Homeschooling provides flexibility for life skills—from shooting sports to running a small egg business.

• The real dangers our kids face are ignorance and indoctrination—not responsible gun training.

• Social media can be a tool for positive change, and it’s okay to control what your kids see.

• Sometimes you need to be louder and more direct as a conservative parent—don’t shy away from teaching your values clearly.

• It’s bigger than guns: it’s about raising capable, resilient citizens who preserve freedom for all of us.

Guest Information Keith Davis—known as the “2A Dad”—is the father and mentor behind the “2A Family,” as well as the driving force in the growth of the 2A Boys and Girls. The family's passion for responsible firearm ownership, training, and the outdoors was born out of their desire to raise strong, knowledgeable defenders of freedom. Based in Florida and powered by faith and the homeschooling spirit, you’ll find them on Instagram @the2aboys,@the2agirls and at the2aboys.com

Keywords Gun safety, family training, 2A community, homeschooling and firearms, youth shooting sports, parental responsibility, conservative parenting, social media and kids, raising responsible children, freedom, Second Amendment, Keith Davis, HSM Ammunition, Onsite Firearms Training, Swig Protein, self-sufficiency, outdoor life, US gun influencers, teaching kids to shoot, passing down freedom.

"Purpose-driven choices lead to better gear and growth in the sport."

In this episode, we chop it up with Roy Hill, Senior Editor and Brand Copy Manager at Magpul Industries. We talk about shooting sports for kids, new innovations from Magpul, the importance of modularity, and how to approach building your AR-15. We also dig into the recent news involving Second Amendment rights, military carry, birthright citizenship, and a little space travel. Roy shares personal stories from his career, including his move to Texas, and gives us insider perspective on gun industry trends.

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: InstagramYoutube 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: Official ammo sponsor, providing precision performance and dependability.

• Kings River Customs: Makers of functional and beautiful 1911 pistols.

• Roy Hill’s journey back into the gun industry and move to Texas with Magpul.

• The importance of not just owning guns but actively shooting and training—especially for new owners.

• Magpul’s DAKA Grid system: a modular solution for gun case organization.

• The Ruger RXM and Magpul’s enhanced handgun grips for modular firearms.

• Mistakes people make when buying their first AR: purpose-driven builds matter.

• News updates: military base carry rights, restoration of Second Amendment rights for nonviolent felons, and Supreme Court arguments on citizenship.

• Kid Rock’s Apache flyover and opinions about government waste versus patriotic moments.

• Lunar missions, privatized space travel, and the future of space exploration.

Roy Hill Senior Editor & Brand Copy Manager Magpul Industries based in Austin, Texas

Magpul, Roy Hill, AR-15, modularity, DAKA grid, Ruger RXM, shooting sports, gun industry, firearm training, Texas move, Second Amendment, HSM ammunition, Kings River Custom, military carry, birthright citizenship, gun case innovation, NRA show, open carry, gun accessory, space exploration, Kid Rock, Supreme Court, podcast, gun culture, firearm news, the gun experiment

"Be a man of your word, don’t be a hypocrite."

Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we chopped it up with Frank Riess, owner of Wallkill River Small Arms and our favorite recurring guest co-host. We dove into the current state of the firearms industry, the surprising resurgence of first-time buyers, and the ever-persistent confusion around New York gun laws. We also tackled the ammo supply crunch, the great red dot vs. iron sight debate, and the looming legal impacts of new rules—straight from gun shop trenches.

From the history of pre- and post-'64 Winchester rifles to the ridiculous proposals of serialized ammo and government overreach, Frank didn’t hold back. We got frank (pun intended) about how quality, craftsmanship, and common sense regulations all play into being a responsible, well-informed gun owner—and citizen. The episode wraps up with some laughs about New York politics, government hypocrisy, and the most unbelievable quadriplegic cornhole story you'll ever hear.

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 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.

Show Sponsors

• HSM Ammunition: Trusted, American-made ammo for training, hunting, and self-defense. Visit hsmammunition.com for confidence in every shot.

• Flatline Fiberco: Top-quality, American-made gear with a lifetime warranty. Use code TGE10 at flatlinefiberco.com for 10% off.

Key Takeaways

• Frank has seen a return of first-time gun buyers lately, especially new transplants from the city, preppers, and those looking for added security.

• Despite industry assumptions, most 2020 "COVID gun owners" kept their firearms instead of selling them back.

• The great ammo shortage is back: 9mm is nearly impossible to keep in stock, echoing the "toilet paper effect" from the pandemic.

• New gun owners are better informed than expected, but still trip up on New York's confusing rifle endorsement laws.

• The fit and finish in older firearms (pre-'64 Winchesters) far surpass mass-produced models—know what you’re buying!

• A balance of quality, function, and budget is key in gun buying; sometimes a Glock 19 really is the best bang for your buck.

• The team debates the pitfalls of government overreach, the necessity of cash, and the fine line between law and common sense.

• Fun rapid-fire questions, candid debates, and a jaw-dropping cornhole quadriplegic story wrap things up.

Guest Information Frank Riess – Owner of Wallkill River Small Arms, firearms history buff, and fan-favorite co-host. Frank is your go-to for gun shop insights, historical gun wisdom, and blunt, real-talk advice for both new and seasoned gun owners.

Keywords firearms podcast, gun industry trends, first-time gun buyers, New York gun laws, Walk Hill River Small Arms, gun shop stories, ammo shortage, 9mm ammunition, pre-64 Winchester, firearms history, FPC lawsuits, serialized ammo law, pistol brace rule, self-defense, concealed carry, gun ownership, rapid-fire questions, HSM Ammunition, Flatline Fiberco, gun rights, Second Amendment, gun experiment podcast

Ready to hear more straight talk and real-world stories from the shop floor to the courtroom? Subscribe, share, and join The Gun Experiment community!

Episode Summary On this episode of The Gun Experiment, Keith and I dive deep into the world of executive protection with veteran and security expert Ashton Dickey. We explore how Ashton transitioned from combat medic and nurse to running his own executive protection company. Ashton gives us a no-nonsense look at what the job really entails versus Hollywood glamor, the critical soft skills needed, how medical training gives you an edge in the field, and even how drones are being integrated into security operations. Plus, Ashton shares stories from the field and reveals how to build trust with high-profile clients. We round things out by talking about Ashton's experience competing on American Airgunner.

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: InstagramYoutube 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: Look for the orange HSM logo next time you pick up ammo. More info at hsmammunition.com.

• Onsite Firearms Training: Train with industry-leading instructors who truly support the firearms community. Find classes at OFTLLC.US.

Key Takeaways

• Executive protection is mostly about concierge/hospitality, not just “meat shield” tactics you see in movies.

• Medical and soft skills (critical thinking, communication) set great agents apart from the crowd.

• There is little regulation—it’s a “good buddy” system where reputation matters more than a certificate.

• Drones are now a powerful, affordable tool for security teams, allowing safe route prep and surveillance.

• Most clients are regular people; building trust is key, and sometimes you become part of their family.

• Medical emergencies (not gunfight wounds!) are the most common issues agents need to handle.

• Discipline and honest self-assessment are more important than flashy techniques.

Guest Information Ashton Dickey

• Veteran, former combat medic, and nurse

• Co-owner and operator of Paratus Group

• TECC medical instructor for civilians and police

• Season 5 contestant on American Airgunner

  Find Ashton on Instagram and follow his work with Paratus Group.

Keywords Executive protection, security work, concierge, critical thinking, soft skills, medical training, TECC, TCCC, drones, security technology, Paratus Group, American Airgunner, gun podcast, Second Amendment, HSM Ammunition, Onsite Firearms Training, firearms, podcast, tactical training, discipline, reputation, private security, bodyguard, trauma care, lifestyle, Arizona, drone surveillance, airgun competition

Episode Summary On this episode of The Gun Experiment, I sit down with Matt Riker, CEO of Kings River Custom, to celebrate our 100th Chopping It Up episode! We dig into what makes Kings River Custom 1911s stand out from industry giants, the value of employee ownership, and that sweet spot between form, function, and firepower. We dive deeper into the world of custom 1911 builds, nerd out over Damascus frames and cutting-edge features, debate the place of optics on pistols, and trade honest thoughts on the future of gun legislation and industry consolidation. Plus, we break down the latest in 2A news, including landmark magazine ban rulings and West Virginia’s bold machine gun plan. This one’s packed with insight, laughs, and hot takes on all things guns, business, and the ever-evolving Second Amendment landscape.

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 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.

Show Sponsors

• HSM Ammunition: The official ammo sponsor of The Gun Experiment. Look for the orange HSM logo at your local shop or visit hsmammunition.com.

• Second Amendment Foundation: Defending your gun rights for over 50 years. Become a member at saf.org.

Key Takeaways

• Kings River Custom stands alongside giants like Wilson Combat and Nighthawk, but with a unique, employee-owned twist that prioritizes craftsmanship and collaboration.

• The company specializes in turning customer ideas into “Rolex-level” custom 1911s—highly functional, aesthetically stunning, and truly personal.

• Employee ownership means every team member has a stake, encouraging thoughtful, innovative design and top-tier quality.

• Aesthetics matter: From Damascus frames to custom engraving and clever color contrasts, a custom 1911 should be practical, reliable, and beautiful.

• Modern shooters are increasingly opting for optics and 9mm caliber custom 1911s, though the debate between classic and contemporary rages on.

• The episode covers breaking 2A news, like the recent court ruling on DC’s magazine ban and West Virginia’s creative approach to civilian machine gun ownership.

• Industry consolidation (like Beretta potentially acquiring Ruger) prompts big questions about culture, innovation, and legacy.

• Dry fire practice and smart training tech like Mantis X are invaluable—even for high-end custom pistols.

Guest Information Matt Riker

• CEO, Kings River Custom

• Website: kingsrivercustom.com

• Instagram/Facebook/YouTube

• Kings River Custom: Employee-owned, producing some of the industry’s most unique and finely built 1911s, with 20+ years of collective gunsmithing experience.

Keywords Custom 1911s, Matt Riker, Kings River Custom, high-end pistols, employee ownership, gun innovation, Damascus frame, 2A news, Second Amendment, HSM Ammunition, firearm industry consolidation, Beretta, Ruger, magazine ban, West Virginia machine guns, optics-ready pistols, Mantis X, dry fire training, collector firearms, gun podcast, gun rights, The Gun Experiment

Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, We sit down with Kris Hasenauer, a retired Special Forces Green Beret and current CEO of Emerald Medical. We dive deep into the world of tactical medicine, trauma care, mental health, and the cutting-edge therapies available for veterans and first responders. Kris shares his journey from military medic to running a veteran-focused medical clinic, opening up about his personal struggles with PTSD and addiction, and how therapies like ketamine and hormone replacement are helping people reclaim their lives. We talk about the importance of stress inoculation, training for trauma care, and why civilians should prioritize medical skills—especially for gun owners. Plus, we get real about the evolution of military medicine, the shortcomings of big government systems like the VA, and practical tips for everyday medical preparedness.

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 are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

• HSM Ammunition – Official ammo sponsor of The Gun Experiment, made in the USA, nearly 60 years of manufacturing excellence.

• On Site Firearms Training – Real-world firearms training with an emphasis on accountability, accuracy, and safety.

Key Takeaways

• Tactical medicine for gun owners is a must—you're more likely to use a tourniquet than your firearm.

• Military medics receive intense, hands-on training that far surpasses civilian courses, blending physical skills and mental resilience.

• Stress inoculation is only the first step—learning how to handle the aftermath of trauma is just as vital.

• Therapies like ketamine and hormone replacement are proving to be game-changers for mental health, especially for veterans and first responders.

• Individualized, evidence-based medicine is the future—don’t be afraid to ask your doctor about advanced treatments, compounding pharmacies, or personalized bloodwork.

• Veterans and first responders face unique challenges with PTSD and injury recovery; organizations like Emerald Medical and service dog programs play a crucial role in helping them reclaim their quality of life.

Guest Information Kris Hasenauer: Retired Green Beret Medic, and CEO of Emerald Medical in Vero Beach, Florida.

• His clinic specializes in primary care, human performance, behavioral health, hormone balancing, and innovative therapies like ketamine.

• Kris is an advocate for veterans, a product developer and collaborates with service organizations like Dogs for Life and Operation Field Trip, offering free care for veterans and first responders.

• You can get more information at Emerald Medical

Keywords

Special Forces medic, Trauma care, Ketamine therapy, Hormone replacement therapy, PTSD, Tactical medicine, Veteran mental health, Emerald Medical, Compounding pharmacy, Evidence-based treatments, Gun owner first aid, Stress inoculation, Service dog programs, Personalized medicine, On Site Firearms Training, HSM Ammunition, Joint pain solutions, PRP, Peptides, Mental resilience, Behavioral health, Medical training for civilians

If you’d like to learn more or connect with our guest, check out the links in the show notes or reach out to us directly. Thanks for listening, and stay safe, stay trained!