Travis Wilson, a retired Green Beret and founder of Alpha Elite Performance, joins the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast to discuss his work with the Green Beret Foundation and his supplement company. Travis shares his journey from Special Forces to entrepreneurship, details the Foundation's crucial support for Green Berets and their families, and discusses…

Episode 104: Competitive Shooting and Training with Santiago Lopez Join us as we sit down with Santiago Lopez of Coast to Coast Tactical to discuss his journey from casual shooter to competitive shooter and firearms instructor. Santi shares his experiences in USPSA competition, his approach to teaching, and his passion for helping others improve th…

In this special Veterans Day episode, the BTO Podcast hosts sit down with Dr. Tony Brooks, former Army Ranger and author of "Leave No Man Behind." Dr. Brooks shares his powerful firsthand account of Operation Red Wings and the recovery mission following the tragic Chinook crash in Afghanistan. From his post-9/11 decision to join the military to his…

Episode 102 - Hunter Freeland & Matt McGuire join the BTO Podcast to discuss training philosophy, industry changes, and their new venture with Onus Group. Hunter announces his transition to Hunter Freeland Shooting in 2025, while Matt shares his experiences as Director of Training for Green Ops in Texas. The duo also unveils their new mounting plat…

Join us for Episode 101 of the Big Tex Ordnance podcast featuring Douglas Greig of Greig Performance Shooting, a 24-year military veteran turned firearms instructor. Doug shares his journey from military service to becoming a "gateway instructor," focusing on teaching fundamental skills to new shooters and church security teams. The conversation ex…

Episode 100 of the Big Tex Ordnance podcast features Kerry Davis from Dark Angel Medical, returning as the first-ever guest to discuss the latest in tactical medicine, training, and gear. Kerry shares insights on the importance of medical training, everyday preparedness, and the evolution of medical technology. The conversation ranges from the dang…

Episode 99 of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast features Kenneth Stretz of Stretz Tactical, a mobile firearms training company. Kenneth, a veteran law enforcement officer with over 27 years of experience, shares insights on police training, the evolution of firearms technology, and the challenges facing modern law enforcement. The conversation covers to…

Join us for an in-depth discussion about Quantified Performance (QP) shooting matches with special guests Ash Hess, Lloyd, and Preacher. Learn about the philosophy behind QP, upcoming changes for 2025, and get insider tips for your first match. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights …

Join hosts Chris and Ike as they sit down with Kawa Mawlayee from 2Alpha Training Group to discuss his remarkable journey from Afghanistan to the U.S. Special Forces. Kawa shares insights on tactical training, his experiences in the military, and his current ventures in the firearms industry. Timeline: 00:00:00 - Introduction and casual conversatio…

Episode 96: From Iguanas to Night Vision - A Wide-Ranging Chat with Jon Dufresne Join the Big Tex Ordnance team as they sit down with Jon Dufresne of Kinetic Consulting for a wide-ranging discussion covering everything from hunting iguanas in Florida to the latest in night vision technology. Detailed Timeline: 00:00:00 - Introduction and casual con…

In Episode 95 of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Ike and Chris welcome special guests Mike Barker, founder of Intrepid Care, and Bo Sandoval from Texas A&M Athletics. Join us for an inspiring conversation about supporting veterans through outdoor activities, sports, and community events. Learn about Intrepid Care's mission, upcoming fundraising…

In this episode, the Big Tex Ordnance team sits down with Christopher Clay, author of "Renegade Immortality." Clay discusses his journey from military service to law enforcement and writing, sharing insights into his creative process and the inspiration behind his characters. He also talks about his experience with hybrid publishing and his love fo…

Episode 93 of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast features special guest Brent Trucker, founder of First Responder's Coffee & Cigars (FRCC) and co-host of The Antihero Podcast. Brent, a former Green Beret and Delta Force operator, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and podcasting. He discusses the challenges of starting FRCC, his…

Join us for an engaging conversation with Brennan Brennecke of Gateway Defense as we dive deep into the world of competitive shooting, training, and firearms instruction. Brennan shares his journey from novice shooter to lead pistol instructor at Vortex Optics, and now running his own training company. We discuss the benefits of competitive shootin…

In this episode, Chris and Ike from Big Tex Ordnance sit down with Scott Howell, owner of Red Dot Fitness gym and host of the Iron Sights Podcast. Scott shares his fitness and business background, how he pivoted his gym during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his journey into firearms training and the 2A community. The guys discuss building customer rela…

Episode 90 of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast features guests Mike Mihalski from Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) and Brandon Hernandez from the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA). Mike and Brandon discuss SOLGW's role as the title sponsor for the TTPOA conference, the importance of their partnership, and how both organizations have g…

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts speak with Ben DeWalt and Rachel Maloney from OnSight Firearms Training based out of upstate New York. Ben and Rachel discuss their journey into the firearms training world, the challenges of being traveling instructors, and the logistics behind scheduling over 300 classes a year across the cou…

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Ike and Chris are joined by special guests Steve Fisher from Sentinel Concepts and Cain Frey, a dedicated shooting enthusiast. The conversation kicks off with a lighthearted discussion about bourbon preferences and the importance of proper storage. Cain shares his experience competing in steel …

Join Chris and Ike from Big Tex Ordnance as they sit down with Alex Hartmann from Ridgeline Defense and Jared Reston to discuss the exciting new Ridgeline LPR rifle. Alex dives deep into the design process and features of this innovative small-frame AR built for precision and reliability. Podcast Timeline 00:03:50 - Overview of the Ridgeline facili…

We are resharing a favorite episode, number 26, featuring Jack Clemons and Keith Finch. As we listen, we remember our dear friend Jack and the laughter and stories he brought to our lives. For over ten years, Jack was a constant presence in our corner of the industry. With his sense of humor, supportive nature, and knack for both wise and questiona…

Rusty Firmin discusses his life and career in the British Special Air Service (SAS). He was forced to join the army at age 15 and initially hated it. Over time, he grew to enjoy the military lifestyle and joined the SAS in 1977 after serving in various units. Rusty details the grueling selection process for the SAS, which includes physical and ment…

In this episode, Ike and Ian interview Robyn Sandoval, President of A Girl & A Gun, a nationwide women's shooting organization founded in 2011. Robyn shares how A Girl & A Gun started as a way to get more women involved in shooting sports through "Girls Night Out" events at ranges. The organization has since grown to have chapters in all 50 states,…

In this episode, Chris and Ike from Big Tex Ordnance chat with Aaron Cowan and Jon Dufresne about training and gear. They discuss the importance of consistent practice and training, even for law enforcement officers. Aaron shares his perspective on why some police departments are switching to Staccato 2011 pistols and the potential training issues …

In this episode, hosts Ike, Chris, and Ian talk with guests Gabe Cabrera from Cobalt Kinetics and Frank Woods from the Tasker Network. They discuss their backgrounds in the firearms industry, new products from Cobalt Kinetics including a suppressor collaboration with CGS Group, ambidextrous AR-15 controls becoming more common, and other highlights …

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, Ike, Ian, and Chris sit down with special guests Jim Dexter from Walther Defense/Tactically Sound and Paul Dugan from Kinetic Fundamentals. Jim shares his experiences working with Walther on the Defense Division and his role in developing training programs and products like the Defense Division medic…

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, David Warner of Next Level Manufacturing shares his fascinating journey in the manufacturing industry. Starting from humble beginnings as a street scrub kid, David worked his way up through various roles in machine shops, eventually founding his own successful manufacturing company. He discusses the …

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast recorded at SHOT Show 2024, Chris, Ike, and Ian sit down with Justus Hall, Vice President of Sales for C Products Defense / Duramag. Justus shares the history of the company, their commitment to quality and innovation in magazines, and some of the unique projects they've worked on like custom anodized…

In this episode of The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, Ike and Ian sit down with Michael Goerlich, the man behind Raven Concealment, at SHOT Show 2024. Michael reveals the groundbreaking new direction Raven Concealment is taking with their holster designs, leveraging the power of additive manufacturing (3D printing) to create highly customizable, comfort…

In this episode of The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Ike and Ian sit down with Don Edwards and Sam Houston from Greenline Tactical to discuss all things night vision and tactical training. Don and Sam share their extensive experience in the night vision industry, having worked with companies like TNVC and teaching countless classes on the subject…

In this hilarious and insightful episode of the Big Tex Ordnance podcast, Chris and Ike sit down with Kurt, Jesse, and Stephen from Blue Alpha Gear at SHOT Show 2024. The Blue Alpha guys discuss the origins of their company, which started with a used sewing machine bought off eBay in 2016. Though now known primarily for their exceptional belts and …

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance podcast, hosts Ike and Ian speak with Jared and Edgar from Edgar Sherman Design, a U.S. manufacturer of tactical rifle slings and accessories. Edgar discusses founding the company while studying industrial design and pursuing his passion for serving in the military. After being medically disqualified from ser…

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Ike and Ian speak with Jack Leuba and Ash Hess, the founders of Quantified Performance. Quantified Performance runs high-speed rifle matches focused on gas guns that test critical rifleman skills beyond typical pistol distances. Jack and Ash explain how they started Quantified Performance in 20…

In this knife-filled episode, Ian, Ike, and Chris from Big Tex Ordnance chat with Zach and Chris from custom knife maker Dauntless Manufacturing. Zach and Chris give the background on how they started Dauntless and transitioned from making weapons to focusing solely on knives. They discuss their manufacturing process, including how they collaborate…

Ike from Big Tex Ordnance sits down with Jack Leuba and Ash Hess from Knight's Armament Company for an inside look at their latest product innovations. Jack shares his background as a Marine grunt and competitive shooter which led him to a career at Knights in 2012. Ash outlines his 22 years in the Army including multiple combat tours before joinin…

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Ike, Ian, and Chris speak with Tom Victa from Palmetto State Armory about his background and experience in the firearms industry. Tom shares how he got his start in the industry with small companies like Adam's Arms and later worked for larger manufacturers like Beretta, FN, and Staccato. He di…

Flashback to Episode #18 Past, Present, & Future - Mike & Kyle- Sons of Liberty Gun Works! On this episode of The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast Ike and Chris travel to San Antonio to chat with Mike & Kyle about how SOLGW came about and became the company we know today. This interview was conducted on site at what Sons affectionally call "The Green Drago…

Flash Back To Episode 001 Kerry Davis Dark Angel Medical: The BTO crew talks with Kerry Davis of Dark Angel Medical to discuss advancements in tactical medicine and first aid over the past couple of years. They explore how the landscape around medical preparedness has changed, including supply chain issues, new gear and training options, and increa…

In the latest episode of The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, the hosts sit down with prominent gun rights advocate Yehuda Remer, known as the "Pew Pew Jew." Yehuda shares his journey getting into gun ownership and advocacy despite initial pushback from his Jewish community and family. He discusses the cultural divide around guns in Judaism, and his effor…

Join us for an illuminating conversation with Nick Young of Modlite and Velox Training Group. Nick shares insights on Modlite's latest products including the multimode heads and upcoming USB-C switches. We get the inside scoop on his favorite pistol optic, the Holosun 507Comp, and his go-to rifle, the Hodge 14.5. Nick also discusses his high-round-…

In this holiday edition of The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Chris and Ian sit down with guests Jordan and Christian from Badger Ordnance to discuss various topics related to optics mounts, product development, and running a manufacturing business. Jordan and Christian provide an inside look at Badger's product design philosophy which focuses on …

In this episode of The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, Hunter Freeland shares his journey to becoming a firearms instructor. Hunter has dedicated himself to mastering shooting skills and teaching others. He's trained under top industry names and is now an MSP Endorsed Instructor. Hunter discusses what makes a complete instructor - shooting ability, commu…

In this episode, Scott Jedlinski and Bryan Veliz join the Big Tex Ordnance podcast to discuss topics ranging from teaching philosophies to new products and life updates. They share insights on helping students progress, travel challenges, maintaining work-life balance and health, representing minority cultures in shooting sports, and more. Scott de…

In this episode, we are joined by Aaron Wright from SureFire to provide an insider's perspective on new products like the RC3, manufacturing processes, sales trends, and future innovations coming down the pipeline. They dive into the engineering behind increasing lumen output, priorities in the product roadmap, and how SureFire approaches decisions…

In this episode, we are joined by Michael from Gideon Optics to have an in-depth conversation about optics. We discuss how etched reticles work, the magic behind red dots, and the differences between second focal plane and first focal plane scopes. Michael shares his passion for making quality optics accessible and affordable so more people can exe…

In this episode, Chris and Ike interview Adam Kraut, Executive Director of the Second Amendment Foundation. They discuss Adam's background and path to gun rights advocacy. Adam provides an overview of the Second Amendment Foundation, which was founded in 1974 and has been involved in over 250 legal cases defending the right to keep and bear arms. H…

This Veterans Day episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast features a conversation with hosts Chris, Justin, Josh, and Ian( all veterans) along with Ike. They share stories and experiences from their time in the military, including reminiscing about basic training, weapons they used, and deployments. The hosts also discuss upcoming events like the B…

In this episode of the Big Tex Ordnance Podcast, hosts Ike, Chris and Ian interview Trent and Ben from Unity Tactical. Trent discusses founding Unity Tactical in 2011 to design innovative shooting accessories. He shares how Unity focuses on building high-quality products and attracting talented people. Topics include Unity's upcoming release of the…

Dave from VKTR Industries joins the Big Tex Ordnance podcast to discuss his background in manufacturing and engineering, the development of VKTR's new short-stroke piston AR rifle, and the technology behind their innovative bolt carrier group. Dave provides an in-depth look at VKTR's manufacturing processes, including their use of robotics and auto…

Ben and Arrius, co-founders of companies: Flux Defense, Snakestaff Systems, and Antimatter Industries, join the Big Tex Ordnance team to discuss their innovative firearm accessories. Topics include the challenges of launching popular products like the Flux Raider, stories behind inventions like the Scope Switch, and details on Snakestaff's life-sav…

Ike and the crew are joined by Ben from Onsight Firearms Training to discuss running a training business on the East Coast. Ben shares how he got his start by realizing after his first class that he still had much to learn. Ben talks about the challenges of the restricted states, but also how demand is strong there since guns are less accessible. H…