State of the Second

Gun Owners of America

The State of The Second, an interview-style podcast focusing on the impact that legislation and activism are having on the firearms industry, and the Second Amendment community. Our Hosts, Kailey Nieman and John Fahrner, each bring years of experience and expertise in the firearms industry and Second Amendment advocacy. Episodes will feature interviews with a wide variety of companies and individuals from across the firearms industry and community. The goal is to discuss the effects of policy from multiple industry perspectives and give insight into how the community can move forward in defending and restoring the Second Amendment. read less
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Episodes

Traveling with NFA Items, SUSH Act, Suppressor Myths, and OSHA Regulations.
Oct 16 2024
Traveling with NFA Items, SUSH Act, Suppressor Myths, and OSHA Regulations.
Join John and Kailey as they dive deep into the world of suppressors with Robert from Tennessee Silencer, exploring the intricacies of the SUSH Act and its implications for gun owners. They discuss the growing popularity of suppressors, the ease of traveling with NFA items, and the myths surrounding ownership and usage. Robert shares valuable insights about the process of moving with NFA items and clarifies the requirements for maintaining and repairing suppressors. The conversation also touches on OSHA regulations that advocate for the use of suppressors to protect hearing, highlighting the increasing recognition of their benefits. Whether you're a seasoned gun owner or new to the world of suppressors, this episode is packed with essential information and expert advice.Learn more about Tennessee Silencer: https://www.tennesseesilencer.com/Takeaways: Tennessee Silencer offers a unique experience allowing customers to test silencers before purchase. The National Firearms Act regulates suppressors, making them class three items requiring special paperwork. Recent changes in eForms processing have significantly reduced wait times for NFA items. The myth that owning a silencer gives the government the right to inspect your home is false. Traveling with a silencer is straightforward in states where they are legal, with minimal requirements. Silencers are inheritable tax-free, and proper estate planning can ease the transfer process. Links referenced in this episode:www.tennesseesilencer.com
Humanizing Firearms: How Guns Out TV is Changing the Narrative
Oct 2 2024
Humanizing Firearms: How Guns Out TV is Changing the Narrative
John Keys, a Marine Corps veteran and the founder of Guns Out TV, shares his transformative journey into gun ownership, emphasizing the importance of responsible firearm use and education. The conversation dives into how societal perceptions of gun culture often create barriers for individuals considering firearms, particularly in underserved communities. Keys reflects on his initial hesitance to own guns due to negative examples he witnessed but highlights how the pandemic prompted a shift in his mindset towards self-sufficiency and responsible ownership. The discussion also touches on the significance of community engagement and mentorship in breaking down misconceptions and fostering a more inclusive firearms culture. As the episode unfolds, listeners gain insight into the various initiatives Guns Out TV is undertaking to humanize firearms culture and empower new gun owners through education and positive representation.Learn more about GunsOut TV: https://www.gunsouttv.comThe conversation with John Keys from Guns Out TV unveils a rich tapestry of experiences that shape the current narrative around gun ownership in America. Keys, a Marine Corps veteran, initially approached firearms with caution, influenced by negative perceptions and examples from his past. However, the onset of the pandemic prompted a transformative journey where he embraced self-sufficiency and the necessity of responsible gun ownership. This episode captures Keys' evolution from a hesitant novice to a passionate advocate for firearms education, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's rights and responsibilities as a gun owner. His story highlights a crucial theme: the need for positive representation and education within the gun community to foster a culture of safety and responsibility.The podcast dives into the mission of Guns Out TV, which aims to humanize firearms culture and create a welcoming community for gun owners of all backgrounds. Keys discusses the significance of range days as a platform for engagement, where individuals can come together and share their experiences in a safe and inclusive environment. These events not only promote camaraderie among seasoned enthusiasts but also serve as an entry point for those new to gun ownership. Keys advocates for the importance of creating 'off-ramps' for individuals who may have previously identified as anti-gun, allowing for a shift in perspective through education and open dialogue. The discussion emphasizes that the goal is not merely to increase gun ownership but to cultivate a community grounded in responsibility and informed decision-making.Moreover, the conversation addresses the broader political landscape impacting gun ownership, with a focus on the challenges posed by restrictive policies and societal perceptions. Keys and the host explore how advocates can effectively counter negative narratives by sharing their own stories and experiences, thereby reshaping the public perception of gun owners. The episode underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting Second Amendment rights, as well as the need for community engagement to bridge divides. Ultimately, Keys' insights inspire listeners to take an active role in promoting responsible gun ownership and fostering a more inclusive and informed gun culture, paving the way for a future where firearms are seen as tools for empowerment rather than fear.Takeaways: John Keys emphasizes the importance of responsible gun ownership, advocating for education and training. The pandemic prompted many people, including John, to reconsider firearms ownership for personal safety. Guns Out TV aims to humanize firearms culture and make it accessible to everyone. John discusses the challenges of negative perceptions surrounding gun ownership in underserved communities....
Starting a Gun Company During a Pandemic (ft. Rost Martin) | EP 54
Sep 25 2024
Starting a Gun Company During a Pandemic (ft. Rost Martin) | EP 54
Kailey and John welcome Chris Toomer, co-founder of Rost Martin, to discuss the inception and vision behind their new firearms company. The conversation begins with a personal backstory, revealing how Chris and his wife Stephanie were inspired by their family legacies in the firearms industry. Drawing from their previous experiences at Springfield Armory, they recognized a gap in the market for quality firearms at an affordable price. The duo emphasizes their commitment to the Second Amendment and their aim to provide accessible, feature-rich firearms for both seasoned gun owners and first-time buyers. Chris elaborates on the challenges of launching a firearms company, particularly the regulatory hurdles and the extensive development process required to bring a new pistol to market. He shares insights into the design philosophy behind their introductory pistol, focusing on ergonomics and reliability while keeping manufacturing in the U.S. The duo’s passion for advocacy shines through as they discuss their involvement in community events and their desire to educate new gun owners, especially women, about responsible firearm use and ownership. The episode encapsulates the entrepreneurial spirit of Chris and Stephanie as they navigate the competitive landscape of the firearms industry while staying true to their core values of quality, affordability, and advocacy.Learn more about Rost Martin: https://www.rostmartin.comTakeaways: Chris Toomer and his wife started Rost Martin to offer high-quality firearms at budget-friendly prices. The company aims to support the Second Amendment and provide firearms that are accessible to new gun owners. Their first pistol design focuses on essential features without requiring costly aftermarket upgrades. Ross Martin emphasizes community involvement, participating in events to advocate for responsible gun ownership. Chris and Stephanie's backgrounds in the firearms industry helped them navigate the complexities of starting a new company. The duo plans to expand their product line based on customer feedback and market demand.
From Aircraft Mechanics to EDC Innovators: The Blue Alpha Story
Sep 18 2024
From Aircraft Mechanics to EDC Innovators: The Blue Alpha Story
Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Kurt from Blue Alpha Gear, a company that has revolutionized concealed carry and everyday carry (EDC) gear since its inception in 2016. Kurt shares the story of how he and his business partner transitioned from aircraft mechanics to entrepreneurs, driven by a desire to create high-quality, affordable, and customer-friendly products. The discussion highlights the importance of innovative customer service practices, such as free sizing exchanges and returns, which have fostered a loyal customer base. As the conversation unfolds, Kurt emphasizes the growing trend of off-body carry options, particularly the rise of stylish and functional fanny packs designed for concealed carry. The episode also touches on the broader implications of the Second Amendment, urging listeners to stay engaged at both local and national levels to advocate for their rights and foster a supportive community.Join John and Kailey this week as they chat with Kurt Sills of Blue Alpha Gear about the company's garage origins, their belt designs, policies, and a new approach to concealed carry.Learn more about Blue Alpha Gear: https://www.bluealphabelts.com/Show Notes:Kurt's captivating narrative about the inception of Blue Alpha Gear illustrates the entrepreneurial journey's challenges and triumphs within the concealed carry and EDC gear market. Starting as aircraft mechanics, Kurt and his partner Jesse identified a gap in the market after experiencing frustration with overpriced belts. This dissatisfaction ignited their passion, leading them to create their own high-quality concealed carry belts, which has since evolved into a successful brand renowned for its innovative products and exceptional customer service. Their hybrid EDC belt set a new standard in the industry, showcasing their commitment to solving real customer problems through thoughtful design.During the podcast, Kurt emphasizes the importance of customer service in the firearms industry, where many companies may neglect this crucial aspect. He describes how Blue Alpha Gear’s customer-centric policies—such as free shipping and hassle-free exchanges—have fostered loyalty and repeat business. This focus on customer experience has not only distinguished their brand but has also addressed the common pitfalls in the industry, where quality can sometimes be overshadowed by profit. The discussion also highlights the collaborative spirit of the firearms community, showcasing how Kurt actively engages with other industry players and content creators, promoting a culture of support rather than competition.As the conversation shifts towards the evolving landscape of concealed carry, Kurt shares insights into the growing acceptance of off-body carry methods, particularly fanny packs. He advocates for the practicality and comfort these options provide, especially during everyday activities like road trips. By discussing the advantages of fanny packs for concealed carry, Kurt underscores the importance of adapting to changing societal norms and preferences. His enthusiasm for innovation in concealed carry methods reflects a broader trend towards inclusivity and flexibility in the firearms community, encouraging listeners to explore diverse carrying options that suit their lifestyles. Ultimately, this episode highlights not only Kurt's personal and professional journey but also serves as a thoughtful exploration of the future of concealed carry.Takeaways: Kurt and Jesse started Blue Alpha Gear in 2016, driven by a desire to improve concealed carry products like belts. They focused on exceptional customer service, offering free shipping, sizing exchanges, and returns to enhance customer satisfaction. The transition from a garage operation to a successful company involved several moves...