A Break in the Action

In this episode of A Break in the Action, Ryan travels to western Rhode Island to experience one of America’s most unique sporting destinations: The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences. More than simply a luxury resort with outdoor activities, The Preserve is a true sporting-first destination built around driven pheasant shoots, walked-up upland hunting, sporting clays, fly fishing, fine guns, and life outdoors. Ryan shares his firsthand impressions from several days on the property, including a memorable driven shoot, a morning afield for chukar and quail, and time spent exploring the incredible on-site retail experience at The Sporting Shoppe.Ryan is joined by owner Paul Mihailides for an in-depth conversation about the philosophy behind The Preserve, conservation efforts across the property, the importance of thoughtful design and hospitality, and how the sporting lifestyle can be made approachable for families and newcomers alike. The two also dive into fine shotguns, premium sporting brands, and the remarkable gunroom that has made The Sporting Shoppe a destination in its own right.If you enjoy conversations centered around sporting travel, upland hunting, fine guns, and best-in-class outdoor experiences, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.In this episode:The PreserveThe Sporting ShoppeFAMARS USAOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesHouse of BruarB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterGriffin and HoweCastellani USAHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

When people hear the phrase American Best, it’s natural to think of a comparison— specifically to the traditional best guns of the London trade.And in some ways, that comparison makes sense. The British defined the term. They built the guns that set the standard, and their influence still shapes how we think about fine sporting arms today.But the more time you spend studying American doubles, the more you realize that comparison only goes so far.American gunmakers weren’t working in the same world.  They built for different customers, different markets, and different expectations. Their guns came from factories, not small London shops. They were sold from catalogs, not fitting rooms. And they were designed to be used hard in the field—not just admired for their craftsmanship.And yet, when those same makers set out to build their very best—when they pushed their designs, their materials, and their workmanship to the highest level—they produced shotguns that stand with anything made in their time.Not copies of London best guns or substitutes for them, but distinctly American answers to the same challenge.In this episode, we explore what American Best really means through the lens of five legendary makers: L.C. Smith, Parker Brothers, A.H. Fox, Ithaca, and Lefever—and the different paths each one took to define excellence in their own way.Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesHouse of BruarB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterGriffin and HoweCastellani USAHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

In this episode of A Break in the Action, I sit down with Simon Reinhold of Holt’s Auctioneers for a deep dive into the history of the British gun trade and the remarkable craftsmen whose names have faded from common conversation. While makers like Purdey, Holland & Holland, and Boss are widely recognized today, the development of the modern sporting shotgun was shaped by dozens of inventors, provincial makers, and trade specialists whose work laid the foundation for everything that followed. Together, Simon and I discuss the extraordinary burst of innovation that took place in the second half of the nineteenth century.Along the way, the conversation turns to the enduring appeal of these lesser-known guns, how to recognize quality craftsmanship even when the name on the rib isn’t familiar, and why many of these makers deserve a second look from modern shooters and collectors. This episode is both a historical overview and a reminder that the story of fine gunmaking is far bigger than the handful of famous names most of us know.In this episode:Holt's AuctioneersOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesHouse of BruarB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterGriffin and HoweCastellani USAHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

In this episode, I sit down with Bradley Davis of The London Gun Company to explore the legacy and revival of Frederick Beesley—one of the most influential yet often overlooked figures in British gunmaking. From Beesley’s groundbreaking self-opening action to the careful resurrection of his name in a new line of bespoke shotguns, this conversation examines heritage, craftsmanship, and what it means to carry a historic London gunmaking tradition forward today. In this episode:Frederick BeesleyOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterGriffin and HoweCastellani USAHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

I’ve been reading Shooting Sportsman for more than twenty years. For a long time, I assumed the magazine was the product of careful planning by fully staffed departments and committees responsible for long-range strategies mapped decades into the future. But the more I’ve learned about the people behind it, the more I’ve realized something else entirely.What exists between the covers of Shooting Sportsman today is the result of good judgment and of restraint. Of primarily two individuals willing to move slowly, trust their instincts, and protect a standard—even when faster, louder options were available.Today, I’m joined by those two individuals: Ralph Stuart and Thierry Bombeke. Between them, they’ve seen the magazine grow, thrive, struggle as the digital age emerged, recover, and then hold its ground and grow again while nearly everything around it changed.This episode won’t be a highlight reel but instead a rare look behind the curtain. A conversation about how decisions get made when taste and business might not always agree. About what it means to care for something long enough that it becomes less about ownership—and more about stewardship.In this episode:Shooting SportsmanOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterGriffin and HoweCastellani USAHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

There’s a tendency—especially among hunters—to feel a little uncomfortable about the guns we own but don’t use, as if a shotgun that isn’t carried in the field is somehow failing its purpose. Or worse, that we’re failing it.I like to think that January has a way of softening that self-accusation.  Because when the season is over, and the pressure to choose is gone, you realize something important: not every gun is meant to earn its place through miles walked or birds taken. Some earn it by staying exactly where they are.Some shotguns live in the safe because they’re tied to a person rather than a pursuit. A father’s gun. A grandfather’s gun. A piece that carries more memory than practicality. You don’t leave those behind because they don’t work—you leave them behind because they already have... they’ve done their job.Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterGriffin and HoweCastellani USAHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

We can probably all agree that most of what we love about wingshooting doesn’t actually happen when the birds are in the air… it comes in the preparation, in the walking, and in the listening pauses.  In the quiet moments between flushes—when the gun is open, the dog is working, and there’s time to notice where you are and who you’re with.  It happens when the day is finished and, with a tired dog by your side, you reflect.I'm titling this series, Between Flushes, and I plan to add a few episodes to it each year.  The format will be a bit different…  less edited and more raw.  That is intentional; there’s no rush and nothing to brag about - no scorecard. Rather, just stories, perspective, and a chance to listen in on a conversation between two hunters.In this episode:Follow Chris on Instagram @montanasharpie17Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Shotguns usually have the limelight on A Break in the Action, but today’s episode is dedicated to the unsung heroes of the hunter, and not just what you carry into the field, but also the well-made pieces that fit into the rest of your life. The kind of items that earn their place over time: a knife that feels just right in the hand, boots that have stepped off almost as many miles as your dog, hand crafted leather accessories that you won’t find in the big box store, a briar pipe that’s become part of your hunting ritual... how about even the kind of travel luggage that makes packing for the next trip as satisfying as departing for it.In this episode, I’ll share with you a handful of my personal favorites and why I look forward to using them.  Each has earned a permanent place in my kit because they’re well-designed, durable, sometimes beautiful, and most importantly, they perform every single time they’re called on.In this episode:Crispi Upland ProLeChameau ChasseurCourteney SealousPurdey Leather Twin Strap BootsBuck 110Benchmade 940 OsbournFontenille Pataud LaguioleJoin or Die Knives - Blueridge Bird & TroutBlake Jones Designs Leather Game BagPeterson of Dublin Briar PipesWestward Bag Co. Bison DuffleNalpak Tuffpak CaseOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

If you look back through the history of the double-barreled shotgun, nearly every significant step forward — every design change that eventually became a standard — started out as something that at first might have looked or sounded a little odd.  When the first hammerless actions appeared, traditionalists thought they were unsafe. When over/unders began to replace side-by-sides on the gun line and the competition circuit, some swore it was the end of elegance. Even things we take for granted today — like sub gauges, interchangeable choke tubes, or single triggers — once struck people as gimmicks destined to fade away.But the truly significant developments? They might start as new-fangled or trendy, but then prove themselves. They endure not because they’re fashionable, but because they actually make the gun better — stronger, safer, more efficient, more durable, more beautiful, or more effective in the field.And that’s today's topic — Jonny Carter and I will be discussing a few dozen items, separating the genuine advancements from the gimmicks, and thoughtful design from marketing buzz. We’re going to go through some shotgun options and share our opinion on whether they are a Hit or a Miss.In this episode:TGS KitchenHolt's #1554 Edwinson Green & Son triple barrelOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Today, we are discussing grouse hunting —specifically in the Upper Midwest—where a century of wingshooting tradition runs deep.  If you drew a map around America's prime grouse cover, it would definitely include a huge swath stretching from northern Wisconsin across northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula and into the timber country of Minnesota… Finding a good general area to hunt is pretty easy, but how do you dial in on the best spots to spend your time?Joined by Ben Brettingen of OnX and a professional grouse hunting guide - we'll learn how to maximize your chances for success when pursuing the KING of all gamebirds - the ruffed grouse.In this episode:OnXMeemos FarmOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

My guest today is Wes Lang, President of Caesar Guerini.  I am excited to bring you this fascinating story of Wes’s background, some of his philosophy, and ultimately what led to the creation of such an impactful and popular brand.Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Hank is a great ambassador for wild food and his books serve as a good reminder that from field care to flavor, cooking wild game can be just as thoughtful, meaningful, and rewarding as the pursuit itself.  If you haven't already, check out all of his great books.  A perfect gift to yourself or your hunting buddies.Find Hank's books here:www.honest-food.netAmazon.comOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

You may have heard me mention Guyette and Deeter as a sponsor throughout the year. Today, I am joined by Jon Deeter and Josh Loewensteiner to guide us through the auction buying and selling process. We’ll learn how they settle on lots that will be included, the inspection and description process, and the guaranteed accuracy they offer.  By the way, this is a particularly timely episode, as Guyette and Deeter will be holding their second Fine Sporting Arms auction of the year on September 11 and 12.In this episode:Guyette and Deeter Fine Sporting Arms Auction, Sept 11 + 12Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Will Primos is an icon in the outdoors industry, but as you’ll hear, it didn’t come without a massive amount of hard work, focus, and a solid work ethic.  Will did more than build a brand - he educated, outfitted, and entertained.  Today, Will is enjoying the fruits of his labor - but he hasn’t stopped giving back.  His mind is on conservation and awareness today—and with the same high level of focus.    I got to spend the weekend with Will where we shot together and sat down to hear how shotguns have influenced his life.  I hope you enjoy this next installment in our Shotgun Stories series - Mr. Will Primos.In this episode:The Truth About ConservationOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Whether you’re new to bird hunting or have been chasing birds for decades, there’s no denying the timeless appeal of a side-by-side shotgun.  This episode covers six of what I believe are the most interesting, mid-priced, modern side-by-side shotguns available today.  Our lineup includes guns from Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing (CSMC), Fausti, Rizzini, Chapuis, FABARM, and Beretta.  My goal is simply to introduce you to these guns, highlight what makes each special, and hopefully give you some valuable details to consider if you’re in the market for a side-by-side.In this episode:Fausti Dea SLXCSMC RBLChapuis Chasseur ArtisanBeretta 486 ParalleloRizzini BR552Fabarm AutumnNordic Clays TrapMasterOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

We are right at the front edge of summer, and whether you’ve already got your summer travel plans set or are looking for a new idea, I think you will like this episode.  This is now the third time that I have brought you a destination where you can break out your shotgun and shoot challenging targets on a beautiful course - but also fill the rest of your itinerary with endless enjoyable activities and exquisite dining, all while enjoying top-level accommodations.  In this episode, we’re heading back to the lush Allegheny Mountains, this time to southeastern West Virginia to explore a true American landmark: The Greenbrier Resort.In this episode:The Greenbrier ResortOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

I am excited to be outside of my home studio for this episode.  A few weeks back, we heard all about the Southern Side by Side at Deep River Sporting Clays in Sanford, NC.  I am hoping that you made it a point to be there - if not, you are really missing out.  A Break in the Action tried something new at the Southern this year - we were all set up, and we had our own physical space.  Join me as we sit down with a dozen or so manufacturers, retailers, outfitters and friends to recap and get their thoughts on the 2025 Southern Side by Side Championship and Exhibition.In this episode:Delaney & SonsJohn Dickson and SonsChetola ResortChris BathaDogs and DoublesAtkin, Grant and LangWestley RichardsKevin's Fine Outdoor Gear and ApparelFine Shooting AccessoriesFoxtrot, Francis LombardiOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

A listener requested an episode about the origins of common shotshell gauges, and I thought it was a fantastic idea. However, did you know that there are also several lost gauges? In this episode, we will explore the shotshell gauges we are familiar with and discover others that have been lost to history.Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

This next installment in our Shotgun Stories series features Reid Bryant.  Reid is the director of wingshooting services at Orvis and hosts the Orvis Hunting and Shooting podcast. He has contributed numerous articles to popular magazines such as Shooting Sportsman, Gray's Sporting Journal, and CoveyRise. Additionally, Reid has authored, edited, and contributed to several books.Despite his celebrity status in the wing-shooting community, he remains one of the most humble and appreciative people you'll ever meet. It was truly a pleasure to include this conversation with Reid in our Shotgun Stories series.In this episode:ReidBryant.comOrvis Guide to Upland HuntingOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

The Southern Side by Side Championship and Exhibition is undoubtedly a must-attend event for shotgun enthusiasts. Now entering its 26th year, this event has become not just a regional but a national success. In this episode, I am joined by Bill Kempffer and Ed Strickland. Bill was instrumental in bringing this event to life back in 2000, and Ed is committed to ensuring it remains the can't-miss gathering for side-by-side shooters and double gun enthusiasts.In this episode:The Southern Side by Side Championship and ExhibitionJohn Woolley Shooting, Inc. Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

It has been a dream of mine to shoot driven birds in the UK for years.  Last year, I checked that off the bucket list (twice actually)!  In this episode I recount my December visit to the wonderful Branches Park Estate in Suffolk, England and the full week of shotgun sights and experiences that I had with three traveling friends.Joining the discussion is Jake Woolf (Kudu River Gundogs/GunsOnPegs podcast) and Peter Bailer (Branches Park Estate) - two new friends who introduced me to a whole new way to look at shooting in England.  I hope you too dream of shooting in the UK and I want to encourage you to make that dream a reality someday. In this episode:Kudu River GundogsBranches Park EstateBeretta SL3Longthorne ShotgunsBettinsoli :)Our Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Beretta first released their over and under shotgun design in 1933 named in the catalog as Mod. S1 Fucile da Caccia Sovrapposta.  Sovrapposta is Italian for "overlapped" and refers to the barrel arrangement, think over/under or superposed.  The newly released S1 featured a true sidelock design with premium specifications. Beretta immediately went head-to-head with Browning, openly criticizing their Superposed shotgun as "very high, heavy, and ugly," a chiding that would be echoed by the Italian trade for the next 70 years.In the 90 years since, Beretta has continued to refine and expand its over-and-under models. The S models evolved into the SO models, which remain some of the finest hand-built shotguns available today.  Each year, Beretta releases a "Gun of the Year" to showcase the pinnacle of the company's craftsmanship. Recently, I sat down with Travis Haglin, Beretta's Director of Premium Sales, to discuss the magnificent SO6 EELL Sparviere Marco Polo - this year's Gun of the Year and why special projects like this are important. In this episode:Beretta SO6 EELL Sparviere Marco PoloOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Rich Cole joins me to announce a unique new shotgun project!Rich Cole is a key figure in fine shotguns and precision gunsmithing. From his early days at Beretta to establishing himself as an authority in the field, Rich has devoted his life to repairing, building and customizing exceptional firearms. His journey reflects an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.  Well over a year in the making - I'm excited introduce the Cole Special Beretta 687 Double Selective to you. It is a bird hunter's dream over and under. In this episode:Cole Special Beretta 687 DSOur Sponsors:The Beretta GalleriesB&P ShotshellsDelaney & SonsNegrini CasesGuyette and DeeterCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

In this episode, we get to know popular YouTuber Jonny Carter of TGS Outdoors.  I've known Jonny for a few years now. I am an enormous fan of his content, where he shares information about shotguns and shooting in an approachable, informative, and interesting way.  Jonny is modest about his vast knowledge of shotguns and his shooting ability, friendly, and even self-deprecating.  Of course, he admires best quality shotguns, but he also finds things to appreciate about modest shotguns.  In this Shotgun Stories episode, we pull the curtain back a bit and hear how Jonny first became interested in shotguns and what led to the creation of his channel. We also ask him a few listener-submitted questions.In this episode:TGS Outdoors on YouTubeOur Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

John Buchan’s 1925 adventure novel, John MacNab is the story of three friends who have lost the zest for life.  They hatch a plan to, under the collective pen name of 'John Macnab', write three landowning neighbors informing them of their intention to kill a stag or catch a salmon on their land without permission between two specified dates (keep in mind poaching in England at this time was a very serious offense). If ‘John MacNab’ fails he will pay the landowner £100, and if he succeeds, he will deliver the animal in person to the landowner and pay £50 to charity.This great story is a classic and if you haven't yet, I suggest you read it.  Its popularity created something known as the "MacNab Challenge" where the goal is to stalk a red stag, bag a brace of grouse, and catch a salmon on the fly - all in the course of one Scottish Highland day.  Many attempt it each year and a few are successful.  My guests today recount their experiences completing the MacNab Challenge and describe the planning and logistics that can improve one's chances at success.  In this episode:Delaney and Sons OutfittersOur Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

We are further exploring best guns in this episode and today we highlight Holland and Holland, where craftsmanship, heritage, and passion come together to create some of the finest shotguns and rifles in the world. In this episode, we’ll explore the remarkable rise of the gunmaker, from its humble beginnings in 1835 to its status as a luxury brand synonymous with quality and prestige. I’ll delve into the company’s innovative designs, renowned clientele, and how it continues leading in today’s shooting sports landscape.Gregg Elliott joins me to discuss why the H&H Royal model is regarded as the benchmark of a best gun.  In this episode:Holland and HollandGregg Elliott, Dogs and DoublesJake Woolf, Kudu River GundogsSubmit your questions for our upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' episode with Jonny Carter.  Email your question to [email protected] Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Anthony, one of the world's best competitive shooters, and Will, one of the most famous hunters in the US share their secrets to finding more success in the field.  Straight Shooting for Hunters is a comprehensive reference for hunters of all skill levels.  From practical advice to true stories from the field, this book is a must for every hunter's bookshelf. In this episode:Straight Shooting for HuntersM & M Hunting and Sporting ClaysSubmit your questions for our upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' episode with Jonny Carter.  Email your question to [email protected] Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

By far what I love and look forward to the most when dove season comes in is the time in the field that I spend with my dad, my daughters, my wife, and good friends.  We hunt near and often.  It’s an informal affair and each hunter can be as serious or as social as they choose.  It is also a perfect opportunity to introduce someone to wing shooting.  A few weeks ago, I got the chance to travel south to shoot doves with my daughter, Lydia.  She and I have shot doves together for almost 15 years.  This trip had us staying at the wonderful Hollywood Farms in Jeffersonville, Georgia and I wanted to bring on owner Chuck Duggan to tell you about his wonderful property, beautiful lodging, and of course, fantastic wingshooting opportunities.Lydia will provide a shooting review of the Rizzini Venus, one of the current shotgun options that is designed from the ground up for the lady shooter.In this episode:Hollywood Farms, GeorgiaRizzini VenusSubmit your questions for our upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' episode with Jonny Carter.  Email your question to [email protected] Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

How do we define a BEST shotgun maker?  Obviously, they need to be capable of producing best guns but the definition doesn’t stop there…  They need to only produce best guns.  Their lineup of models shouldn't include entry level or mid-tier models, these aren’t in the DNA of a BEST gun maker.  Without concern for how long it will take or how much it will cost, they are committed to only producing the very best - period.Without doubt or debate, there are just three in the world today - and each is in London.  Purdey, Holland & Holland and Boss.  In this episode we will look at the history and design achievements of the James Purdey and Sons company.In this episode:James Purdey and SonsMake sure you are entered to win our annual giveaway - a beautiful Saddleback Leather Company shotgun slip case!  Entering is easy, just make sure you are following us on INSTAGRAM and 'like' the Saddleback Giveaway post.  More ways to enter are listed in the post caption.  We will be drawing the winner randomly at the end of September - Good Luck! Submit your questions for our upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' episode with Jonny Carter.  Email your question to [email protected] Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

There is a place in the Allegheny Mountains outside of Pittsburgh that began as a private grouse hunting and fishing retreat but over the past 35+ years has transformed into a world-class resort.  Nemacolin Resort has a list of activities and amenities too long to list here - but of special note, it is home to the Nemacolin Rod and Range Club.  My youngest daughter, Liza joined me for a weekend of shooting fun as we took part in their 'Dine and Blast' event. In this episode:NemacolinRod and Range ClubMake sure you are entered to win our annual giveaway - a beautiful Saddleback Leather Company shotgun slip case!  Entering is easy, just make sure you are following us on INSTAGRAM and 'like' the Saddleback Giveaway post.  More ways to enter are listed in the post caption.  We will be drawing the winner randomly at the end of September - Good Luck!  Submit your questions for our upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' episode with Jonny Carter.  Email your question to [email protected] Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

This next installment of Shotgun Stories is a very special one.  I knew Larry Potterfield was a 'gun guy' but was delighted to discover how deep his appreciation for shotguns and wing-shooting was.   In this episode we learn about the early shotguns in Larry's life, some of the shotguns he shoots with currently, and what shotgun he has in his sights.Larry launched Midway USA almost 50 years ago.  Today, the company is a giant but still prioritizes and values each customer.  Larry and his family are doing more for shooting sports and for introducing youth to shooting sports than any entity I can name.  In this episode:Midway USAMidway USA FoundationOur Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

This feature episode begins by tracing the company's origin and its nearly 50-year association with Abercrombie & Fitch.  The Griffin and Howe company's story didn't end with the closure of A&F - instead, it allowed them to add volumes to it.  Griffin and Howe at the Hudson Farm Club in New Jersey is an amazing place for the shotgun and rifle enthusiast.  Listen along as I describe all that there is to see and do there.  As is typically the case, we will also describe and shoot an interesting shotgun... the Victory Sporter from Longthorne Gunmakers of England. Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

My guest today is champion skeet shooter, Dania Vizzi.  In just a few weeks, she will represent the United States Olympic shooting team in Paris.  Shooting sports of one variety or another have been part of almost every Summer Olympic Games since 1896, with the current shotgun events being Olympic (or International) trap and Olympic skeet.  Dania shares how she got started shooting and the shotguns that have joined her on her journey.Follow Dania on InstagramStream every Olympic event this summer and cheer on Dania on Peacock.Things to do this summer:Nemacolin Resort "Dine & Blast" - sign up and shoot with me August 8th!The Homestead Golf & Sporting Clays Classic    August 22, 2024 - August 25, 2024Support the project:PatreonOur Excellent Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

The Beretta DT11 is a serious, built-for-purpose competition shotgun.  In this episode, we will look at its features and heritage and I share my DT11L shooting experiences now six months in. In the second half of this episode, we will recap our first ever A Break in the Action Listener's Event - a Downton Day simulated shoot.  Put simply the day was epic and I was lucky to have my wife and one of my daughters along to participate.  Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

This episode is going to be my attempt to check off another repeat listener request - Do an episode on your favorite books and favorite authors.  Steve Smith is an accomplished outdoor writer, editor, publisher, TV host, and hunter.  Over the years he has worked with and called friends many of the legendary authors in my library.  Steve joins the show to tell stories, offer suggestions and overall great conversation on this episode of A Break in the Action.Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

The clay target shooting sports are generally very linear games.  Targets leave the machine and, for the most part, follow a set trajectory to the ground.  There are variations of course, trap introduces an oscillator or wobble, skeet has the shooter move to vary the angle and necessary lead, a chandel target in a round of sporting clays changes speed as it falls from the peak of its arc, and the occasional rabbit surprises with a bounce.  Generally, though, targets follow a known and reliable path. Trap, skeet, sporting clays, and their varieties are civilized and academic… helice, on the other hand, is more like the wild, wild west.In this episode we are going to take a look at the origins of helice and how it is shot.  We will also focus on the amazing Prairie Wildlife in West Point, Mississippi.  This incredible property is a real sportsman's paradise. Prairie WildlifeOur Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Listener requested!  An overdue sequel to the 'Best Shotguns <$1,000' from a few years back - in this episode I have pulled in two pros from the Orvis Gunroom, Greg Carpiniello and Connor Carson.  The three of us offer up 20-30 new and used shotgun models that you should be sure to check out if you are buying in this range.  Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Here are two things you might not know about the legendary shotgun and rifle maker John Rigby and Co.  The company is actually older than the United States of America and originally hailed Dublin, Ireland.  My guest today is Marc Newton.  Marc has been the managing director for John Rigby since 2013.  He graciously accepted an invitation to discuss the company’s enduring legacy since its founding in the 18th century!Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Getting away to hunt can be as easy as hitting the other side of your state, maybe a road trip or, flying to the other side of our country or beyond it’s borders.We are going to spend some time on this last version today.  Experienced travelers develop special skills when they are frequently in and out of airports.  I fly several times a year and have developed, or copied, some time saving practices and habits that significantly lower the stresses that can come along with air travel.  One nuance of air travel that I am completely unfamiliar with is traveling with my shotgun.  This year has several opportunities on the calendar for fly in hunting/shooting trips.  As I have begun researching flying with my shotgun – I thought it might make for an interesting and informative episode for listeners planning their own adventures.  So today we are going to dig in to what you need to consider when you decide to bring your shotgun along.Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

'What friends I have, what days I treasure most, what places I think about and smile…  they are because shotguns are.  Without them I would have been empty.  They have made my life full.'-Gene HillShotguns are woven into almost every aspect of my life.  They have connected me with some of my dearest friends, they offer a shared pastime of shooting and hunting with my wife and daughters and have looked on during many successful and unsuccessful days in the field with my dad.  The dogs I have owned snap to attention when I so much as handle one and become fully electrified when they notice me sleeving a shotgun. For many, this steel and wood tool has transcended its original intended purpose.My guest today is AJ DeRosa, creator of Project Upland.  AJ is the first guest in what I hope will be an interesting and recurring series that I am calling “shotgun stories” where we will hear from my guests about the guns that they have owned and shot with and hear some of the memories that they have made with them.  Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

There is one question that I get asked more often than any other.  Listeners want help or advice on buying used shotguns…   Is it smart to buy a shotgun online?  Is it safe to buy from an individual?  What should I look for in determining a used shotgun's condition and what red flags should I be aware of?  These are just a few of the general questions that are worth considering buying a new bird gun for next season or upgrading your sporting clays shotgun.  Gregg Elliott and Phil Bourjaily join the show to discuss a few points important points to consider.  Both have been on the podcast before and each of them spends tons of time investigating, using, and writing about shotguns - new and pre-owned.Our Sponsors:B&P ShotshellsNegrini CasesDubarry of IrelandCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingSupport the project:PatreonHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

In this episode, I lay out what gear I take for a day shooting.  Two bags and a case filled with everything I need for a day shooting sporting clays, skeet, or maybe some new adventures trying out FITSC or helice.   Making sure that I have everything I need ensures I have a good time and can stay out as long as I am able.As is usually the case, seeing and not just hearing about these items will be helpful so I encourage you to check out our Instagram and Facebook pages.Here is a full list (with links) of everything mentioned in this episode.Filson Heritage Sportsman BagHeavy Felt OrganizerBaschieri and Pellagri (B&P) shotshellsESP ApexLaksen Sporting ShotmasterNegrini Shotgun Luggage CaseLaksen Sporting VestCastellani Rio ProDents GlovesCole Fine Guns and GunsmithingBeretta ToteDubarry Kildare BootsSimms Big Sky ShirtHowler Bros. Gaucho ShirtJoin our Patreon!Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Part 2 of our full review of the annual Christmas Grand Battue shoot at Green Acres Sportsman's Club in Roberts, Illinois.  Join us as Shoot Captain, Keith Coyle walks us through the full 'Christmas Grand Battue' experience - from breakfast and high pheasant shooting to flighted mallard and the 5-course gala dinner.   As we take part in this epic shoot day, we will also be reviewing and shooting two premium English-style game guns... the Beretta SL3 and the Christian Hunter O/U from Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing.Mentioned in this episode:Green Acres Sportsman's ClubChristian Hunter by Connectictut Shotgun Mfg.Beretta SL3Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Do you dream of one day shooting high, driven pheasants in England or someday experiencing a European-flighted mallard shoot?  While these experiences wait on your bucket list I want to tell you about an amazing shoot that you participate in right here in the States.  Green Acres Sportsman's Club in Roberts, Illinois offers a full menu of authentic British-style shooting events throughout the year.  Join us as Shoot Captain, Keith Coyle walks us through the full 'Christmas Grand Battue' experience - from breakfast and high pheasant shooting to flighted mallard and the 5-course gala dinner.   As we take part in this epic shoot day, we will also be reviewing and shooting two premium English-style game guns... the Beretta SL3 and the Christian Hunter O/U from Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing.Settle in for PART 1 of this in-depth review!Mentioned in this episode:Green Acres Sportsman's ClubBeretta SL3 Croots of EnglandField and Moor bootsHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Many argue that there are Scottish shotguns that bested the London guns in innovation, matched them in quality and were produced in far fewer numbers - making them, in my mind truly special.  In this episode my guest, J-P Daeschler discusses the legendary John Dickson and Son Round Action shotgun along with other noteworthy models from MacNaughton and Alex Martin.   John Dickson and Son If you are enjoying the podcast and would like support what we are doing - consider becoming a member of our Patreon.  Members will be entered to win quarterly gear giveaways!  Find out more here: patreon.com/abreakintheactionHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

I live in a part of the US with much opportunity to wing-shoot close to home - I usually have to travel to hunt. This being the case  - my hunting is usually done in multi-day blocks. Besides the logistics and added cost, I have to say that I do love getting away on a hunting trip.  Exploring new towns, comparing fields and covers from one year to the next, staying in quaint houses, cottages, and hotels and just getting to spend extended time with buddies and dogs - what’s not to love?  Most often, the destination changes for me but for some, there is a consistent and familiar place that calls them back year after year.  Whether the accommodations are more primitive or high-brow, the concept of a hunting camp, or specifically for this episode a bird camp, is one that I have been familiar with for years but hadn’t experienced firsthand.  Recently, I got an opportunity to change that.  Joe Schwenke hosts the aptly named podcast 'Bird Camp'.  Joe's podcast focuses heavily on grouse and woodcock hunting and conservation in his home state of  Michigan.  After spending a few days with Joe at his camp and in a few of the grouse and woodcock covers in his area - I wanted to bring him on to discuss what their camp experience is like and to discuss how Joe focuses on protecting and giving back through local, I am going to call it micro- conservation throughout the year.  It is always rewarding to see the money you give to large, national organizations being used for good conservation work but that isn't the only way to make an impact with your time, talents, and resources.Required listening for every grouse/woodcock hunter:Bird Camp podcast, 'A Bird Camp editorial' on Apple PodcastsBird Camp podcast, 'A Bird Camp editorial' on SpotifyHave a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

In part two of this series, Jonny Carter of TGS Outdoors and I will finish stitching together our versions of Dr. Frankenstein's shotgun.  Engraving, stock, forend, forend iron, wood characteristics, recoil pads, and even the cases we will tote these creations in.  Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Dr. Frankenstein’s monster was stitched together components that formed a man.  What if we could do the same and cobble together the components of a shotgun?  Would the end result be greater than the sum of its individual parts - or would the sight of it scare children and civilized shotgun enthusiasts?Now, we all know that with regards to shotguns, it has always been the case that with deep enough pockets, you could go to any manufacturer and have them build you a bespoke gun with any feature they offer…. that isn't what we are doing today.  Today, I am joined by my friend Jonny Carter from TGS Outdoors. We are going to cherry-pick components, features, options, and embellishments from any and ALL manufacturers and from all eras to each build up a Frankenstein’s monster shotgun.  This fictitious shotgun could end up being an absolute dream gun, or it could just be something odd and interesting that we would love to see built.  Jonny has handled, shot, and taken apart shotguns from most manufacturers, both modern and vintage. I couldn’t think of anyone better.  So as you are always instructed to do in the intro - pour yourself a drink, sit back, and relax while we each create an enthusiast's dream shotgun, or possibly a steel and wood monstrosity.Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Have you ever wondered why we don’t see more variety in the type of wood found on shotgun stocks?  With over 200 species of hardwoods alone - why is walnut so prevalent?  In this two-part episode, we will first hear from Dan Ziegler, owner of Luxus Walnut.  Dan breaks down why walnut is the predominant choice for shotgun (and rifle) stocks, and what terms like figure, feather, marble-cake, and burl mean.  My second guest is Art Isaacson who for 40 years has owned and operated Art's Gun Shop, a full-service Browning repair facility.  Art has seen, handled, and repaired thousands of stocks affected by the Browning 'salt wood' fiasco in the 1960s.  Art explains what it was, how to identify a gun with a 'salt wood' stock, and what repair options are available.I wrap up with a quick comment on the new release of Upland Game Classic 2.5" shotshells from B&P.  Finally, more options for your vintage shotgun with 2.5" chambers.Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show

Something a little different in this new episode.  While building content, I often have interviews and topics that don’t need a full 30-40 minute dedicated episode.  I have decided to take these ‘shorts’ and pool them together plus offer you an update on what is in the works with the A Break in the Action podcast.Gamebird taxidermy with Meadow Kouffeld Review of the Zoli Pernice, 20g O/UMouthful of Feathers, Upland in America with Tom ReedA Hunter’s PrayerFor the cunning of the foxand the obsession of the hound;The majesty of the whitetail deerand the frost upon the ground.For humbling shots at dove and tealand their acrobatics on the wing;The exhilaration of bringing trout to handand the satisfaction that it brings.For the patience spent with stalking glasso’er thistled hills for stag;The hard-earned hare, the cock, the squirrel…a simple man's mixed bag.For the explosion of colors in the springand winter’s steely greys;The rusts of autumn, harvest goldsand summer’s steamy haze.For calming evenings spent by campfireand the intoxicating walks that fill our days;There are no greater gifts than these -Almighty Father, we give You praise.Ryan Doughty, 2010Have a comment or suggestion? Text Ryan now! (please note: this messenger does not allow for replies)Support the show