The Gun Rack

In this episode of The Gun Rack, Christian Sequerra is joined by SDI co-hosts Steve Ross, Jarred McNeely, and Rick Casner to welcome Jim Schlender (Group Publisher) and Luke Hardell (Editor-in-Chief) from Gun Digest. The group dives into the enduring legacy of Gun Digest—which has been a staple in the firearms community since 1944—and discusses how the industry has transitioned from traditional print to a multi-platform digital world. Jim and Luke share their personal career paths, from writing catalogs at Cabela's to managing some of the most influential titles in the industry, including Recoil and Off-Grid. They also explore the critical importance of communication skills for gunsmiths and content creators alike, the rise of "infotainment," and why a physical reference book still beats a digital screen when you're working at a gun bench. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The History of Gun Digest: How a brand started in 1944 remains the "World’s Greatest Gun Book." Career Insights: Tips for aspiring outdoor writers and journalists on how to break into the industry and the importance of integrity over "influencer" perks. The Gunsmith’s Library: Why SDI utilizes Gun Digest’s assembly and disassembly manuals in its curriculum and how these books serve as essential "checkpoints" for professionals. The Future of Media: Why print isn't dead and how events like CanCon are changing how enthusiasts interact with gear. AI in Firearms Content: Why technical accuracy is the "death" of AI-generated gun content and why human expertise is still irreplaceable.

This week Christian sits down with Steve Ross and SDI grads Owen Chambers and Talon Jayne, and we’re joined by Brandon Golob from Freedom Protective Gear and HolsterSupply.com. If you’ve ever walked a gun show and seen a guy making holsters in real time — talking, selling, adjusting retention, and running what looks like a one-man assembly line — that’s Brandon. In this episode we cover: • How he built the business straight out of high school • Running 200+ events a year and what actually makes a show profitable • Making holsters off the customer’s firearm (and why fit matters more than flash) • His template system and how shops or SDI grads can add holsters as a real revenue stream • Wholesale vs. direct-to-consumer strategy • Life on the road — including stolen trailers, blown transmissions, and still showing up There’s a lot in here for SDI students thinking about side income, shop owners looking for margin, or anyone curious what the grind in this industry really looks like. Check out Brandon: www.freedomprotectivegear.com and www.holstersupply.com Learn more about SDI programs: https://www.sdi.edu/ytlearnmore/

Christian and Steve are joined by Rick Casner (Program Director), Bart Miller (Firearms Specialist), and SDI grads Owen Chambers and Talon Jayne to break down industry trends, booth culture, and how SHOT Show continues to function as a meeting point for manufacturers, retailers, educators, and working gunsmiths. The conversation also covers recent updates to SDI’s firearms programs, including expanded hands-on training and the addition of MAC 150: Introduction to Manual Lathe, a course built around practical, gunsmith-specific machining rather than general machinist theory. You’ll also hear insights on suppressor growth, accessory-driven retail trends, supplier showcase innovation, and why relationship-building at events like SHOT Show still plays a major role in hiring and career development—especially for SDI graduates. Learn more about SDI programs: https://www.sdi.edu/ytlearnmore/

The Gun Rack | Innovation, FRTs, and the Fight That Shaped a Case This week Christian and Steve sit down with SDI’s Chief Academic Officer, Jarred McNeely, and Lawrence DeMonico of Rare Breed Triggers. We cover the origin of forced reset triggers, why Rare Breed planned for a legal fight from day one, what the court ruling actually requires for an FRT to be lawful, and hard-won lessons for innovators in the firearms industry. Not legal advice, informational only. Chapters 00:15 Intro and guest lineup 01:09 Rare Breed backstory and prep for the fight 05:17 Litigation realities and venue strategy 16:58 Settlement basics and what changed 23:22 Product development mindset and due diligence 31:24 What the Texas ruling requires for an FRT 39:23 OEM interest and what may be next 43:58 Manufacturing scale, quality, and MIM vs machining 49:59 Advice to students, finding your niche, market fit 52:49 Availability, impostor sites, where to buy 55:01 Wrap Guest Rare Breed Triggers — official site: rarebreedtriggers.com Mentioned Learn more about SDI’s programs: https://www.sdi.edu/ytlearnmore/ Sonoran Desert Institute homepage: sdi.edu Key takeaways Innovation needs legal and engineering rigor, not just a cool idea Read the ruling, understand mechanical requirements, test for reliability Find a niche, protect IP, and build for the long game Disclaimer Views are those of the guest. This episode is for education and discussion. Nothing here is legal advice. Hashtags #TheGunRack #SDI #RareBreedTriggers #ForcedResetTrigger #FirearmsEducation #Gunsmithing #2A #AR15 #Manufacturing #Innovation

In this episode of The Gun Rack, SDI’s Rick Casner and Bart Miller join Christian and Steve to talk all things hunting prep—from a gunsmith’s perspective and a retailer’s. Whether you're helping clients get their gear field-ready or stocking up your store before the seasonal rush, this episode covers: • Common mistakes hunters make (and how to help them avoid disaster) • How to prep your gunsmithing shop for the wave of walk-ins • Retail strategies to keep your shelves stocked and customers coming back • Real-world stories of lost rifles, elk revenge, and rusty regrets • The value of communication, workflow, and setting expectations Get insight, advice, and a few laughs while gearing up for the busiest time of the year. Learn more about SDI's gunsmithing programs: https://www.sdi.edu/ytlearnmore/  Here you go Lonnie! Sorry for the wait!

Everyone starts somewhere. Whether it was a rusty old .410 passed down from family or a brand-new High Point off the shelf, your first firearm says a lot about your journey. On this episode of The Gun Rack, Christian and Steve are joined by SDI Firearm Specialist Bart Miller—who brings over 30 years of gunsmithing experience—to dive into stories from the SDI community and share what makes a first gun memorable. We’re talking BB guns, shotgun picks, AR-15s, and everything in between. If you’ve ever wondered what other folks started with—or want some advice on where to begin—this is the episode to watch. Explore SDI’s online firearms programs: https://www.sdi.edu/ytlearnmore/

The Return of SDI’s Official Podcast. Mauser rifles, military stories, and what it really takes to teach gunsmithing online. We cover it all in the debut episode of The Gun Rack. Christian and Steve sit down with SDI’s Chief Academic Officer, Jarred McNeely, for a wide-ranging conversation about firearms education, student success, and why learning online doesn’t mean learning alone. Also in this episode: • What a century-old bolt gun can still teach us • How SDI trains hands-on students from across the country • Why communication and customer service are part of the gunsmithing skill set If you’ve ever wondered how SDI works or what makes it different, this is the episode to start with. YouTube link: https://youtu.be/7xErz61-3Ns?si=JVmUT6gFYu6p3ZIn  

We've made it to 200 episodes of The Gun Rack! On this very special episode, Drew reminisces on some of his favorite moments, Joey shares his essential firearms from his collection, and they share some very important info—all this and so much more on this commemorative edition of The Gun Rack. - Be sure to send your thoughts on the kinds of content you want on The Gun Rack to [email protected].  - The Gun Rack is Sonoran Desert Institute's (SDI) School of Firearms Technology's official podcast. For more information about how you can get your start in the firearms industry, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Last week, we took a look at what Guns.com had as their picks for the ultimate survival guns available. This week, we are talking about the survival guns that you and other websites picked as your ultimate choice. - The Gun Rack is the official podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute's School of Firearms Technology. For more info about how SDI can help you get your career in gunsmithing started, visit our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Say that you're stuck in the unknown wilderness and you could choose any firearm to aid you in hunting and self-defense. What firearm do you choose? That's the question that Alexander Reville of Guns.com is tackling and we're here to talk about it. Be sure to comment on what firearm you would choose in that scenario! - Article source: https://www.guns.com/news/2024/05/29/what-is-ultimate-survival-gun - The Gun Rack is the official podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute's School of Firearms Technology. For more info about SDI, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

If you are a small business owner, you know that to sell in the online marketplace effectively, it is crucial you use solid photographs of your product. That is why we've brought Chris Beller, SVP of PVS Studios to discuss ways that you can improve your photography, no matter your budget! All this and more on this edition of The Gun Rack! - Learn more about PVS Studios here: https://www.pvsstudios.com/ - The Gun Rack is Sonoran Desert Institute's (SDI) School of Firearms Technology's official podcast. To learn more about SDI, please visit our website at www.sdi.edu.   

This week, we're taking another behind-the-scenes look into some of the operations at SDI to see how FFL Coordinator Tadeo Garza assures that students receive what they need to succeed in their firearms courses. We talk about this and more on this episode of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute's School of Firearms Technology. To find out more about what SDI offers, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week on the pod, Drew sits down with SDI graduate and Owner of Tyro Firearms, Josh Jenkins as they discuss his time at SDI, the joy he finds in restoring firearms, and even a little espionage. All this and more on this episode of The Gun Rack! - Keep up with Josh on the Tyro Firearms YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4bVaOFtuYikVMUPf68cQ8g/videos  - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu.

We're finishing up the story of the Saratoga Campaign this week on The Gun Rack. Learn how Benedict Arnold and the Continental Army defeated John Burgoyne's Brits in a decisive battle in the first half of the American Revolution. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). To learn more about SDI, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week, Drew tackles one of the most important campaigns during the early days of the American Revolution, the Saratoga Campaign. From discussing the prelude to the campaign to each side's strategies, and even how much of a bum they believe Horatio Gates is, there's plenty to dig into on this episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official podcast of the Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) School of Firearm Technology. For more info about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week, Drew goes into the history of the firearms that helped the Prussians become a world power. We're talking about, of course, the Dreyse! All this in the week's educational episode of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). Learn more about SDI by checking out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

It's that time of year once again, folks...Firearms Draft Season!! Join the Gun Rack guys for over 90 minutes of pure firearms talk on this 3rd annual SDI Firearms Draft. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). For more info about how you can get started at SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

We have a very special episode of The Gun Rack in store for you guys today! SDI's Chief Academic Officer and Dean of the School of Firearms Technology, Jarred McNeely, joins us on the pod to discuss how SDI selects the firearms they send to their students. An insightful look into the behind-the-scenes of SDI! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To find out more, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Essential for the survival of American pilgrims, the Fowler played a pivotal (albeit, somewhat forgotten) role in the early history of our nation. Today, Joey sheds some light on this relic from the colonial frontier. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). To find out more, please head to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

We're back again with another firearms history episode and this week, we're taking a quick look at the Russian rifle that helped win The Battle of Stalingrad, the Mosin-Nagant.  - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Insitute (SDI). For more info about how SDI can help you build your firearms foundation, visit our website at www.sdi.edu. 

For the first in, well, forever, the boys are embracing March Madness with a little madness of their own. We're pitting 8 handguns against each other in a bracket-style tournament to see which one comes out on top! All this and more on this week's episode of The Gun Rack! (*Keep an eye out on SDI's social media channels for the bracket, so that you can take part in the madness too) - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week, we had the privilege of sitting down with Owen Chambers, who was recently named SDI's Outstanding Graduate of 2023. We had a great time discussing his SDI journey, his role in creating an unofficial SDI student Discord, and much more. All this on this week's episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Insitute. For more info about how SDI can help you get started in the world of firearms. check out our website here: www.sdi.edu. - (unofficial) SDI Student and Grad Discord: https://discord.gg/sonoran-desert-institute 

"THE GUN THAT WON 2 WORLD WARS!"...What else is there to say about the M1911? This week, Drew shares a brief history of how this iconic firearm came into being. - Did you know that SDI offers 1911 Advanced Armorer as an elective option? To find out more about this course, you can read our article here: https://sdi.edu/sonoran-desert-institute-brings-back-their-1911-course/  - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

We've been teasing this episode for a hot second and it is finally here! This week, Joey goes over some commonly suggested CC handguns for women and gives his thoughts on which firearms he thinks are the best. All this and more on this episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Insitute (SDI). To find out more about how SDI can help you get started in the firearms industry, click on the link here: www.sdi.edu 

Inspired by his recent trip to the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA, Drew attempts to break down the entire build-up, conflict, and fall-out of one of the most important events in American history...should be easy to do, right? - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about how SDI can help you get started in the world of firearms technology, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This year's SHOT Show gave us some cool announcements in the firearms world and The Gun Rack is here to talk about them! From the return of some classics to the latest trends, we have plenty to discuss. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). For more info about SDI, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu.   

We teased it last week, but couldn't wait any longer...This week, the boys look at the snubnose revolver and ask, "What relevancy does it still have in 2024,". It should be an interesting one, that's for sure. That and more on this episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. The views expressed in this episode are not official SDI opinions and solely reflect those of our two ridiculous hosts. For more info about SDI, check us out at www.sdi.edu. 

Last week, we took a look at guns.com's top new handguns from last year. This week, Joey gives his take on his favorite new handguns from 2023. All this and more on this episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). For more info about how you can take your firearms game to the next level with SDI, you can check out our website at www.sdi.edu.  

It's time to look back at some of the best handguns that came out last year! 🔫 This week, Drew reviews an article listing their "Best New Handguns of 2023" and gives his thoughts on this episode of The Gun Rack. - Read the actual article here: https://www.guns.com/news/2023/12/18/best-new-handguns-of-2023  - Do you love handguns? Why not dig deeper into them with SDI's newest program, the Certificate in Firearms Technology - Handgun Specialist? Click the link to learn more: https://www.sdi.edu/programs/certificate-handgun-specialist/ 

Recently, Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) announced its brand new program, the Certificate in Firearms Technology - Handgun Specialist (CFT-HS). Today on The Gun Rack, the boys sit down with the Program Chair of the School of Firearms Technology, Rick Casner, to talk all about this exciting new offering from the school. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Insitute. For more info about SDI, head to our website at www.sdi.edu. For more information about the new CFT-HS, you can click the link here: https://www.sdi.edu/programs/certificate-handgun-specialist/ 

It's Christmas Eve, so it's time to sit by the fire and enjoy what's sure to be the next great "Christmas Classic". Written by ChatGPT and narrated by Drew, this tale of two people bonding at a gun range will surely fill your heart with holiday cheer...or at least give you a good laugh in the process.  - Music used in this episode "Holy Night" by Tomomi_Kato "Silent Night" by Grand_Project - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To find out more about SDI, head to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

It's almost that time of year, so the boys are busting out some more stocking stuffers for that firearms lover in your life (even if that firearms lover is you)! All this and more in this week's episode of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check us out at www.sdi.edu. 

We've reached what feels like the culmination of our Southern Battles of the American Revolution podcast series as we take a look at the famous Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Learn about the Race to the Dan River, Peter Francisco, and more on this week's episode of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check us out at our website. 

Thanksgiving weekend is one of the best times for firearms enthusiasts to get their hands on a ton of great products. Today, Drew quickly shares some of the places you need to have your eyes on this Black Friday. You don't want to miss it! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). To learn more about how you can build your firearms foundation, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

"On-the-mend" Joey Upper is back with us this week, folks! This week, the boys catch up and Joey shares about his continued firearms training with Recondo Operations Group (based out of Fayetteville, NC). All this and more on this week's episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). For more info about how SDI can help you build your firearms foundation, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Part 6 of our Southern Battles of the American Revolution series is here! This week, we tackle the 'Swamp Fox' himself, . 🦊 If you are not aware of his exploits or want to learn more, be sure to give this week's episode a listen! All this and more on this week's episode of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

🎃👻 Lock and Load with Spooky Stories for Firearm Owners! This week, Drew delves into a couple of tales from the range that are sure to leave you chilled to the bone...or at least, concerned for the people involved. Are you brave enough to tune in to this haunting episode of The Gun Rack? -  The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check us out at www.sdi.edu. 

It's officially spooky season, so we wanted to blend our love of firearms with the season's most fearsome slashers. Today, we answer the question of "if horror movie icons had firearm equivalents".  From Freddy to Ghostface, we're bringing a new twist to your favorite villains.  - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about how SDI can help you get started in the world of firearms technology, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Hunting season is basically here! This week, Joey explains why the 7.62x39 is his go-to hunting cartridge. Plus, the boys talk about Little Caesars, Halloween, and more on this episode of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check us out at www.sdi.edu. 

We're back with another episode in our series on Southern Battles of the American Revolution. This week, Drew tackles the Battle of Blackstock's Plantation and he also gives his hot take on a staple of southern cuisine. Should be a fun one this week on The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To learn how SDI can help you get started in the field of firearms technology, visit our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week, the boys recruit the help of ChatGPT to find out what it thinks the best handguns for beginners are...or at least, that's the plan (Zoom might have a word to say about that). All this and more on this episode of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). To find out more about how SDI can help you get started in the field of firearms technology, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

In honor of the occasion, the boys talk about the history of how the United States Constitution came into existence. There might also be some mentions of the Roman Empire...All this and more on this week's edition of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To find out more about how SDI can help you get started in the field of firearms technology, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Continuing on our way with our Southern Battles of the American Revolution, Joey and Drew wrap up Kings Mountain this week. We talk about Benjamin Cleveland, some of the firearms used at the battle, and more on this edition of The Gun Rack. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about how SDI can help you get started in the field of firearms technology, head over to our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Got a bit of a quick-hitter this week. Drew shares an article by guns.com talking about the pros and cons of using a weapon-mounted light (WML) on your concealed carry handgun.  - Article link: https://www.guns.com/news/pros-cons-weapon-mounted-lights  - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu.   

This week, we dive into the story of Patrick Ferguson, the commander of the British force that threatened he would “march over the mountains, hang their leaders, and lay their country to waste with fire and sword.” Spoiler: he would not. All this and more on this week's edition of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To learn more about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week, Joey and Drew sit down with the owner of Ullman Precision Products, Michael Ullman where they chat about his business, his favorite philosophers, and how you can get started checkering. All this and more on this week's edition of The Gun Rack! - Ullman Precision website: https://www.ullmanprecision.com/  Follow Ullman Precision on X: https://twitter.com/UllmanPrecision  - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI). To learn how SDI can help you get started in the field of firearms technology, visit our website at www.sdi.edu. 

This week, Drew and Joey continue their series on Southern Battles of the American Revolution by tackling Daniel Morgan's triumph, The Battle of Cowpens. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To learn more about SDI, visit our website at www.sdi.edu. 

Who doesn't enjoy a good listicle episode? This week on The Gun Rack, Drew gives you 5 different "Top 5's" ranging from Favorite (and Least Favorite) Gun Rack Episodes, to Summer Concealed Carry Tips, and more. All this and more on this week's edition of The Gun Rack! - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. To learn more about SDI, check out our website at www.sdi.edu. 

We're starting a new series on The Gun Rack about the southern theater of the Revolutionary War. This week, Joey and Drew give you a little background into why the fighting moved south, some major players of the campaign, and early American defeats. 

In the week's episode, Drew shares the story of James J. Andrews, his band of raiders, and their involvement in one of the most daring missions of the Civil War. - The Gun Rack is the official firearms podcast of Sonoran Desert Institute. For more info about SDI, check them out at www.sdi.edu.