The Gun Experiment

Mike and Big Keith vs The Ghost

“Showing up is important, whether it's on the range or behind the mic.”Episode SummaryHey everyone—Mike here, alongside my co-host Big Keith! In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we faced a podcasting curveball: our scheduled guest ghosted us…for the second week in a row. Instead of letting it get us down, we embraced the theme and delivered a raw, gear-focused conversation between the two of us. We took a deep dive into plate carrier setups, home defensive mindset, rimfire PRS shooting, and the challenges and rewards in our ongoing firearms training journey.Join us as we break down the pros and cons of different armor systems, dig into practical range drills that help sharpen your skills (even with just 50 rounds), and talk about family range days and training consistency. Whether you’re new to plate carriers, curious about competitive rimfire shooting, or just want to hear some honest takeaways from our real-world training experiences, this episode’s for you!Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com7. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSpartan Armor Systems: American-made, battle-ready body armor for real-world protection. Check them out at spartanarmorsystems.com.On Site Firearms Training (OFT): Realistic firearms training for all skill levels in the Hudson Valley and beyond. Check out classes at oftllc.us.Key TakeawaysSometimes guests ghost you, but showing up and adapting is part of the journey—in the studio and on the range.Plate carrier setup doesn't have to break the bank. Focus on real-world application, gradual upgrades, and knowing your own needs.Training with purpose: even a 50-round range session can be highly productive if you focus on drills—speed, accuracy, movement, strong/support hand, and note-taking.Having a ritual before you shoot (stance, grip, mindset) is huge for consistency and skill transfer.Finding the right training cadence—like weekly or bi-weekly range sessions—accelerates progress more than high round counts alone.Honest conversations between buddies sometimes deliver the most relatable firearms insights.Even if you’re not a competition shooter, learning from those environments (like PRS rimfire stages) sharpens your own skillset.Family range days can get everyone involved and help reinforce safe, responsible gun ownership.Guest InformationThis episode did not feature a scheduled guest because, well, they ghosted us! But you still got Mike and Big Keith—your trusted hosts—bringing experience, humor, and no-nonsense gun talk.Keywordsgun podcast, The Gun Experiment, firearms training, plate carrier setup, Spartan Armor, home defense, rimfire PRS, practical drills, shooting accuracy, training consistency, range day, On Site Firearms Training, OFT LLC, body armor, Second Amendment, gun gear reviews, pistol training, family shooting, shooting ritual, podcasting, training tips, competitive shooting, 22 caliber, American made, home protection, concealed carry trainingMissed an episode? Subscribe now and leave us a review—it means the world to us!

Reflecting on Charlie Kirk’s Legacy and Uniting America with Matt Riker

"Success in business now, in my opinion, is creativity."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, hosts Mike and Big Keith sit down with Tom Kubiniec, the CEO of Securit Gun Storage. Tom delves into his journey from a rock guitarist to a prominent figure in the gun storage industry, highlighting the inception and growth of his company. The discussion covers innovative gun storage solutions, the importance of modularity, and how to build a dream gun room that combines both style and security. Tom also shares his insights on creative conflict in business and the role of creativity in fostering innovation.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com7. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are an integral part of making the show possible.Key TakeawaysEntrepreneurial Spirit: Tom's journey from musician to businessman and CEO of Securit Gun Storage.Gun Storage Innovation: The importance of modularity and decentralized storage in modern gun safes.Creative Conflict: How encouraging creativity within a team can lead to groundbreaking solutions.Building a Dream Gun Room: Ideas and tips for designing a secure and impressive gun storage area.Industry Challenges: Navigating the gun safe industry amidst regulation and competition.Guest InformationName: Tom KubiniecTitle: CEO of Securit Gun StorageWebsite: securitgunstorage.comShow SponsorsKings River Customs: Experts in 1911 customization. Check out their beautiful craftsmanship on Instagram or contact Matt at Matt@KingsRiverCustoms.com.On-site Firearm: Providing top-notch firearm training classes. Visit oftllc.us to find a class in your area.Thank you for tuning in! We hope you found this episode insightful and inspiring. Stay safe and keep your guns secure!

Building Your Firearms Career: Mitch Eckler on Writing, YouTube, and Content Creation

"Every journey into the firearms space is fueled by passion, persistence, and a relentless commitment to quality—no shortcuts."Episode SummaryIn this episode, Big Keith and I sit down in the studio with Mitch Eckler, the mastermind behind Hangfire TV and a prolific contributor to Athlon Outdoors. We get into the nitty gritty of content creation in the firearms world, tackling everything from overcoming social media algorithm hurdles to the impact of AI on writing and photography, and why building a genuine voice matters more than ever. Mitch shares his journey from music to guns, his take on revolvers and 1911s, and the realities of trying to make it behind enemy lines here in New York. We also dive into advocacy, staying motivated despite challenges, and tips for anyone wanting to get involved in the 2A community.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsModern Gun Trade School: Turn your passion for firearms into a career with hands-on, at-your-own-pace online gunsmithing courses. Visit mgs.edu or call 1-800-493-4114—tell them The Gun Experiment sent you!Spartan Armor Systems: Stay ready and protected with premier, made-in-the-USA body armor. Visit spartanarmorsystems.com for civilian and professional defensive gear.Key TakeawaysPersistence and authenticity are key to success in firearms content creation.Building a portfolio (even starting a YouTube channel) can open doors in the industry.AI and large language models (LLMs) are here to stay; use them to bolster your writing, but don’t lose your unique voice.Social media platforms can be tough for gun content—follow the rules, create original photos, and stay “middle of the road.”New York gun owners face unique challenges, but local and national organizations work behind the scenes to protect 2A rights. Donating to any is better than none!The importance of supporting local gun shops and continuing your firearms education.Authenticity in content—whether written, photographed, or filmed—will always stand out, no matter how advanced technology becomes.Getting started is about doing the hard work first and being willing to take risks and show up, even when it’s tough.Guest InformationMitch EcklerHost & Creator of Hangfire TV (YouTube)Contributing author at Athlon Outdoors (Read Mitch's work here)Instagram: @thebadgunsmithFocus: Real-world firearms education, product reviews, and 2A advocacyKeywords firearms podcast, gun industry, 2A content creator, gun rights advocacy, Mitch Eckler, Hangfire TV, Athlon Outdoors, SUNY Oneonta, AI in writing, gun marketing, YouTube firearms content, gun community New York, Second Amendment, concealed carry tips, social media gun censorship, Spartan Armor, Modern Gun Trade School, firearms training, gun merch, best revolvers, New York gun laws, content creation tips, firearm photography, writing with AIFor more, be sure to check the links in our show notes or connect with us across social media! Thanks for tuning in to The Gun Experiment!

Medical Training, Manhattan Cocktails, and 2A News with Kerry Davis of Dark Angel Medical

"Success in business now, in my opinion, is creativity."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, hosts Mike and Big Keith sit down with Tom Kubiniec, the CEO of Securit Gun Storage. Tom delves into his journey from a rock guitarist to a prominent figure in the gun storage industry, highlighting the inception and growth of his company. The discussion covers innovative gun storage solutions, the importance of modularity, and how to build a dream gun room that combines both style and security. Tom also shares his insights on creative conflict in business and the role of creativity in fostering innovation.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com7. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are an integral part of making the show possible.Key TakeawaysEntrepreneurial Spirit: Tom's journey from musician to businessman and CEO of Securit Gun Storage.Gun Storage Innovation: The importance of modularity and decentralized storage in modern gun safes.Creative Conflict: How encouraging creativity within a team can lead to groundbreaking solutions.Building a Dream Gun Room: Ideas and tips for designing a secure and impressive gun storage area.Industry Challenges: Navigating the gun safe industry amidst regulation and competition.Guest InformationName: Tom KubiniecTitle: CEO of Securit Gun StorageWebsite: securitgunstorage.comShow SponsorsKings River Customs: Experts in 1911 customization. Check out their beautiful craftsmanship on Instagram or contact Matt at Matt@KingsRiverCustoms.com.On-site Firearm: Providing top-notch firearm training classes. Visit oftllc.us to find a class in your area.Thank you for tuning in! We hope you found this episode insightful and inspiring. Stay safe and keep your guns secure!

From Navy SEAL to Virtual Training: Conor Donahue and the ACE VR Revolution

"When you are struggling to take action, break big goals into small, actionable steps.Persistence isn’t about giant leaps, but about steady, continual progress—however small."Episode SummaryIn this episode, Big Keith and I welcomed Conor Donahue, a former Navy SEAL and CEO/co-founder of Ace Virtual Shooting, to The Gun Experiment. We dove into Conor’s transition from military service to the tech-entrepreneurial world, exploring how his experiences shaped both his character and the innovative product he's helping bring to the firearm training community. Conor shared personal insights into the importance of mentorship, faith, adaptability, teamwork, and the drive behind Ace XR’s industry-leading virtual reality shooting simulator.We discussed the benefits and practicalities of virtual gun training, the challenges (and surprising fun) of dry fire practice, and how community and technology are reshaping the shooting sports landscape. Plus, Conor joined us for a live review and behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing innovation happening at Ace Virtual Shooting—and yes, we also put him through our Run and Gun lightning round.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They're a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSpecial thanks to OnSite Firearms Training—our longest-standing sponsor. They bring world-class firearms instruction in a safe, challenging environment, with incredible guest instructors like Jared Reston. Whether you're new or seeking to perfect your skills, check them out!Shout-out to Ace Virtual Shooting for providing us with cutting-edge gear and an immersive, fun, and skill-building training tool.Key TakeawaysMentorship shapes our trajectory: Conor credits mentors from Scouting, the military, and his faith community for guiding his career and values.Faith and adversity build character: Hurdles in Conor’s youth and experience in the SEALs forged grit, humility, and perseverance.The transition from service to entrepreneurship isn’t always easy: Identity and purpose beyond the uniform are topics every veteran (and leader) faces.Adaptability and teamwork are as essential in business as in the Teams.Supplement, don’t substitute: Tools like Ace VR are powerful supplements but no replacement for live fire training.Community matters: The Ace XR platform isn’t just a training tool—it’s a supportive, competitive, and fun international community.User feedback drives innovation: Many of Ace's features and updates are directly from user suggestions—your voice is heard, and it shapes the product!Guest InformationConor DonahueFormer United States Navy SEALMBA: Stanford UniversityCofounder & CEO: Ace Virtual ShootingConnect on Instagram: @acevirtualshootingJoin their Discord and Facebook groups for community discussion, Q&As, and product updates.KeywordsNavy SEAL, Conor Donahue, Ace Virtual Shooting, Ace XR, VR gun training, shooting simulator, virtual reality firearms training, dry fire practice, shooting community, firearms technology, shooting gear, competitive shooting, gun experiment podcast, gun training tools, firearms entrepreneur, gun safety, shooting innovation, supplemental firearms training, OnSite Firearms Training, shooting simulation, gun range alternative, shooting sports, shooter community, virtual competition, mental toughness, mentorship in military, firearms podcast, firearms industry, 2A communityI hope this episode inspires everyone to train more and helps connect everyone with a new passionate firearms community!