Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell continue their discussion on Second Amendment developments. They highlight the Department of Justice’s plan to restore gun rights to non-violent former convicts, emphasizing its potential to boost hunting participation by allowing individuals with old felonies to legally own firearms. They note that online hunter safety courses simplify access, though hands-on mentoring programs are emerging to teach practical skills. Campbell shares a childhood anecdote about acting as a “human hunting dog” to flush out squirrels, underscoring the need for real-world training.

The hosts address a Los Angeles incident where police fatally shot a man waving an airsoft rifle, mistaken for a real firearm due to its removed orange tip. They stress that brandishing any gun-like object in public can be treated as a real threat, citing Ohio’s concealed carry laws that prioritize perceived intent. In Raleigh, they discuss a student expelled for possessing a handgun near a high school after visiting a marijuana shop, debating the school’s authority versus parental objections, and questioning how the underage student acquired the firearm.

Suffecool and Campbell explore a Seventh Circuit ruling denying Second Amendment rights to illegal aliens, referencing a case involving a Mexican citizen arrested during the 2020 Chicago riots. The court clarified that constitutional protections apply only to those who swear allegiance to the U.S., aligning with historical disarmament practices. They also discuss a proposed Gun Safety Incentive Act offering a 10% tax credit for firearms and storage devices, suggesting Republicans could expand it to boost safe ownership. Finally, they note North Carolina’s push for permitless carry, vetoed by Governor Josh Stein, and South Dakota University’s reluctant policy change allowing concealed carry with enhanced permits, alongside Las Vegas’s 25% homicide drop attributed to increased defensive gun use.

Suffecool and Campbell tackle a range of Second Amendment developments. They discuss California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent podcast appearance where he was gifted a SIG Sauer P365 XMacro, humorously questioning his newfound pro-gun stance as a political move. The hosts delve into issues with the SIG P320, noting reports of “unauthorized discharges” potentially due to tolerance stack-up in manufacturing, prompting some organizations to switch to Glocks. They highlight SIG’s manual update advising against carrying the P320 with a chambered round, impacting its use for concealed carry.

The conversation shifts to legislative changes, including the “Big Beautiful Bill” eliminating the $200 tax stamp for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and shotguns, effective January 1, 2026. Gun rights groups, including the NRA and Second Amendment Foundation, are challenging the National Firearms Act’s constitutionality, arguing the tax’s removal undermines its paperwork justification. Suffecool notes a Silencer Central promotion covering the tax stamp until January. Internationally, they discuss the UK’s potential deregulation of “sound moderators” after a 2024 consultation showed 94% public support.

In Oregon, Suffecool and Campbell express concern over new restrictive gun laws, including Senate Bill 243 and Ballot Measure 114, which impose magazine limits, permits, and sensitive place restrictions, complicating compliance for residents. They also highlight a Fifth Circuit victory allowing 18-20 year-olds to buy pistols in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, though enforcement varies elsewhere. Finally, they discuss a Department of Justice proposal to restore gun rights to certain non-violent former convicts, excluding unlawful aliens from Second Amendment protections, signaling a nuanced shift in federal policy.

Broadcast live from the NRA Annual Meeting in Atlanta, Amanda Suffecool hosts with guest author Lizz Lazarus. Lazarus, a former engineer, discusses her thriller novels that blend Second Amendment education with entertainment. Her first book, Free of Malice, explores the line between self-defense and vigilantism, inspired by her own college attack. Her second, Plea for Justice, weaves in her concealed carry permit process, following a paralegal aiding a friend in prison. Her third, Shades of Silence (2021), set in Florida, involves a restaurant owner and a detective investigating a murder, incorporating Lazarus’ shotgun training. A forthcoming fourth book addresses stalking and elder abuse. Lazarus' books, available on Amazon and at LizzLazarus.com, combine factual firearms and legal details with twist-filled plots, resonating with groups like Armed Women of America.

Suffecool then interviews Dean Weingarten, a prolific AmmoLand writer with over 5,000 articles since 2013. Weingarten, also a co-host on The Russ Clark Show (KBLU 560, Yuma), shares his research debunking claims that pistols are ineffective against bears, citing 200 documented cases showing their efficacy due to accessibility. He recounts the 1953 story of Bella Twin, a Cree woman who killed a world-record grizzly in Alberta with a .22 single-shot rifle, highlighting her precision and the bear’s proximity. Weingarten’s upcoming book will compile bear defense stories.

Rob Campbell joins to discuss the NRA show, describing his role judging historical firearm collections and the challenge of ranking them. Suffecool shares her excitement over bidding on a commemorative shotgun at the Women’s Leadership auction, noting a $25,000 bidding war. They explore new firearms like Mossberg’s 990 and a CZ 50-caliber rifle with innovative recoil control. The episode emphasizes the vibrant NRA crowd as a sign of strong industry and Second Amendment support, promoting groups like the Realize Firearms Awareness Coalition.

Broadcast live from the NRA Annual Meeting, Amanda Suffecool hosts with guest Mike Ochsner, author of Red Dot Mastery, while Rob is judging collections. The episode focuses on firearms training and Second Amendment advocacy. Ochsner discusses his book, which outlines a method to transition from iron sights to red dot optics efficiently, emphasizing four key principles: mounting the dot low, maintaining a consistent grip, stabilizing eye dominance, and correcting natural pointing inaccuracies. He shares how he competed successfully with a red dot the day after installation, relying on these techniques.

The conversation explores the importance of diverse training, with Ochsner advocating for learning from multiple instructors and even other industries to enhance skills. He recounts a humbling experience in a basic carbine class that reshaped his perspective. Suffecool shares her own story of inadvertently joining a master-level USPSA class in New Mexico, learning to move and shoot despite being out of her depth.

Ochsner also addresses coaching struggling shooters, particularly for FBI qualification, tackling issues like gun fit and flinching. He introduces a drill to calm the amygdala, reducing flinch by tracking a finger side-to-side, and discusses eye dominance challenges in shotgun shooting, offering a practical pointing correction exercise. The episode highlights responsible gun ownership, promoting groups like the Realize Firearms Awareness Coalition, and mentions the Women’s Leadership auction, where Suffecool bids on a shotgun.

Amanda delves into criminal justice and Second Amendment issues, starting with a case in Indianapolis where a 19-year-old was arrested twice in 48 hours for possessing a machine gun and threatening others. The discussion critiques the judicial system’s leniency, noting the suspect’s quick release due to initial lack of evidence, highlighting a disconnect in holding criminals accountable. This segues into a contrast with the McCloskey case in St. Louis, where homeowners faced prosecution for defending their property against a mob, yet are still denied their firearms despite a gubernatorial pardon. The hosts argue this reflects inconsistent application of justice, penalizing law-abiding citizens while criminals face lighter consequences.

The conversation shifts to concealed carry advancements, with Amanda predicting national reciprocity as the next major milestone. California’s recent mandate to allow nonresidents to apply for concealed carry permits is cited as progress, though stringent requirements may persist. Challenges with local authorities’ misinterpretations of laws, as experienced in Ohio, underscore the need for clear, standardized regulations. The episode also explores restoring gun rights for nonviolent felons, noting Attorney General Pam Bondi’s move to reclaim this authority from the ATF, potentially streamlining the process.

A news story from Atlanta illustrates the value of responsible concealed carry, where permit holders stopped an active shooter at a fraternity event, saving lives. Suffecool critiques the use of weapon-mounted flashlights, arguing they compromise concealment and safety, advocating for selective adoption of training techniques that align with practical needs.

Amanda discusses significant developments in Second Amendment advocacy, focusing on the potential relaxation of regulations surrounding suppressors and short-barreled firearms. Recent legislative efforts, notably influenced by the NRA's involvement, have pushed for including these items in a House bill, though met with resistance. The conversation highlights the strategic importance of the NRA's direct engagement in negotiations, contrasting with other groups' less effective lobbying. This shift could expand the firearms industry, benefiting enthusiasts seeking items like suppressors for muzzleloaders or short-barreled rifles.

A key legal victory in the Fifth Circuit Court is examined, declaring restrictions on handgun sales to 18 to 20 year-olds unconstitutional in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. This ruling, unchallenged by the Department of Justice, signals a Second Amendment-friendly stance under the current administration, potentially setting a precedent for further challenges. Suffecool notes the broader implications, emphasizing the need for consistent national laws to avoid fragmented state regulations.

The episode also addresses Ohio’s consideration of a Second Amendment Preservation Act, modeled after Missouri’s, which aims to limit state assistance to federal law enforcement in firearms cases. Concerns arise about its constitutionality and timing, with Amanda suggesting revisions to strengthen its legal standing. Criticism is leveled at some advocacy groups that prioritize fundraising over effective legislation, underscoring the importance of strategic, collaborative efforts.

Throughout, the discussion emphasizes responsible gun ownership and education, spotlighting organizations like the Realize Firearms Awareness Coalition and the DC Project, which promote constitutional awareness and firearms training, particularly for women. The episode underscores the evolving landscape of gun rights, driven by legal victories and persistent advocacy.

Rob and Amanda dive into their recent GunCon experience in Cleveland.
The two-day event, held at a range and downtown, drew a lively crowd. Vendors showcased new products like the High Point AR with a lifetime warranty. Panels featured Second Amendment heavyweights like Adam Kraut and Eric Pratt.

Conversations with attendees, including NRA board candidates, offered rare access.
Ashley Hlebinsky from the Cody Firearms Museum added historical flair. The event’s organization, with meal tickets and food trucks, impressed the hosts. Amanda urges listeners to attend future GunCons for networking and insights.

Rob reflects on his NRA Gun Collectors Committee role. Judging collections involves assessing historical significance over aesthetics. Rare items, like a smashed Smith & Wesson or a Colt Python prototype, stand out. Collectors value unique pieces, such as Lewis and Clark’s knife, for their stories.

A debate rages over whether illegal immigrants have Second Amendment rights. The Fifth Circuit denies these rights, while the Seventh Circuit supports legal non-citizens. Heller’s focus on “citizens” fuels the argument, with a potential Supreme Court clash looming.

Range practice closes the hour. Rob shares his success with a replica 1860 Army black powder pistol. An AmmoLand article inspires discussion on beginner drills. Proper holster draw techniques and Kydex holsters’ speed advantages spark enthusiasm.

Fresh from Washington, D.C., Amanda recounts her multi-day advocacy trip, lobbying senators on the National Firearms Act and the “Big Beautiful Bill. This bill seeks to remove suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and shotguns from NFA restrictions.

Despite Senate pushback via the Byrd Rule, a compromise keeps paperwork but may eliminate the $200 tax stamp.

At GunCon, a Second Amendment panel with groups like the NRA views this as progress worth accepting. Advocates plan to push for more gains later. Amanda describes a powerful moment with Women for Gun Rights. Her group, representing all 50 states, met a White House aide to discuss Second Amendment policy.

A church attack in Wayne, Michigan, grabs attention. Armed parishioners stopped a gunman, highlighting the need to protect soft targets like churches.

Restoring gun rights for nonviolent felons sparks debate. Trump’s review opened a comment period, with 16 Democratic attorneys general supporting restoration, while senators like Patty Murray oppose it, despite their states’ backing.

The Fourth Circuit’s ban on handgun sales to those under 21, upheld despite Bruen, sets the stage for a Supreme Court showdown. Second Amendment Foundation champions this issue, eyeing a future ruling. History resonates as Amanda reflects on D.C.’s worn marble staircases. These enduring structures symbolize the weight of decisions shaping the nation’s future.