TFB Behind the Gun Podcast

The AK might be one of the most recognizable rifles on the planet, but that does not mean it has to stay stuck in the past. On this New Year's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we are talking about what a modern, lightweight, competition-ready AK can look like when you throw tradition out the window and start thinking in carbon fiber. My guest is "Penny," the lone designer and driving force behind Raiders Arms. Drawing on years of hands-on experience with AKs in the United States and Eastern Europe, Penny has built a product line that reimagines the platform from the ground up. Raiders Arms offers ultra-light carbon fiber handguards, rigid yet featherweight dust covers, minimalist fixed and folding stocks, and slimline grip panels designed to cut ounces without sacrificing durability. The catalog also includes tuned gas tube assemblies and accessories that help manage heat, keep optics stable, and improve overall balance. In this episode, Penny breaks down how he approaches the AK's biggest pain points—weight, heat, and ergonomics—and explains how strategic use of carbon fiber can make a 70-year-old design feel like a truly modern rifle. Whether you are running an AK in competition or just want a lighter, more responsive rifle for training, this conversation should give you some new ideas about what is possible with the platform. Raiders Arms Website Raiders Arms on Instagram Raiders Arms YouTube Channel  

Merry Christmas from all of us here at TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast! In our fifth year, we're grateful to have you both as an audience and as our direct supporters. Today, I've brought on TFB Editor in Chief Josh Centers and long-time TFB writer Rusty S. for a fun but pointed discussion on a few important topics to close out 2025. First and foremost is TFB's ongoing Christmas movie debate — which film will come out on top as the quintessential "Gun Guy Christmas Movie"? We also take some time to talk about the new Gun Rights Office being added to the Department of Justice and what that means. Of course, we share what we'd like to see happen in our own pursuits and across the wider gun industry for our Christmas wishes, then close out the year by previewing what we're looking forward to bringing you from SHOT Show 2026, just around the corner. Thanks as always for listening, and Merry Christmas from all of us here at The Firearm Blog!

Today, I'm pleased to bring on a fellow content creator I met at a recent trip out to the nice new Smith & Wesson facility out in Tennessee. Ben Webb is the owner of the GoldenWebb YouTube channel, which specializes in exactly my kind of firearms tomfoolery (or redneck science). In addition to his rather fun-oriented YouTube channel, Ben is also an active duty law enforcement officer and weapons instructor/armorer based in London, Kentucky. He combines his professional law enforcement experience with his firearm channel, where he tests and reviews guns and gear. This professional background informs his content and expertise, making him a respected figure both in his law enforcement career and his role as a family-friendly firearms YouTuber. Today, we'll be talking all about his process and how he got into doing this right here on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. GoldenWebb on YouTube GoldenWebb on Instagram GoldenWebb Reviews Website  

In today's episode, I've brought on Jason B, the owner of Bakcup Tactical. While Backup Tactical started its life off as an aftermarket parts manufactuer for glocks and Sigs, Jason quickly expanded his product profile from simple magazine extensions and release to now having his own line of high quality aftermarket threaded barrels, compensators that follow the contours of the host gun, and even a new line of OTF pocket knives through a recent partnership with Andre De Villiers, of ADV Tactical knives. Today, Jason and I will talk shop, from his beginnings as a shooter and a New Yorker to his new adventures and life as a Florida Man and Purveyor of great, forward-thinking aftermarket pistol parts and knives. Check out a full listing of Jason's parts below, along with his new line of OTF knives, including the Stinger and Fat Butcher.  Backup Tactical Website Backup Tactical on Instagram

On today's episode, we're welcoming back our good friend Dave from Hi-Point Firearms to talk about upcoming competitions, fun season-appropriate movies, and what Hi-Point has planned for the weeks leading up to and including SHOT Show 2026. Dave has been with the company for years and is deeply involved in marketing while staying closely connected to the rest of the team in Mansfield, Ohio, which makes him a great source for what's new behind the scenes.​ Even though he works for a brand known for budget-friendly firearms, Dave's personal tastes could not be more different from his day job, so we'll also dig into what one of Hi-Point's finest is actually running at matches and on range days. By the end of the episode, you'll have a better look at both Hi-Point's upcoming offerings and the gear that keeps Dave excited when he steps up to the line. http://livefire-media.com/ - Dave's Podcast @livefirem @hipointfirearms @fullforgegear