The Big Tex Ordnance Podcast The BTO Crew

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 that may arise from that change. Jon talks about how he has evolved his class curriculums to better serve students at different skill levels. They also touch on various training aids like the Mantis X and ACE virtual trainer. Both Aaron and Jon share where people can find more information about their classes, gear, and other content.

Episode timeline with highlights:

00:00:00 : Jon shares a story about an officer friend who invested in training after a close call shooting and how it paid off in subsequent incidents
00:17:00 : Discussion on low standards of firearms training and qualification for many law enforcement agencies 
00:25:00 : Aaron's perspective on police departments switching to Staccato 2011 pistols and potential training issues
00:34:00 : Jon's analogy of training and practice being like filling up an "ooze tube" that slowly drains over time if you don't consistently refill it
00:57:00 : How Jon has evolved his class curriculums to better accommodate students at different skill levels and the importance of teaching students how to practice on their own
01:06:00 : Where to find more information on Aaron Cowan / Sage Dynamics classes and content
01:08:00 : Where to find more information on Jon Dufresne / Kinetic Consulting classes, gear, and content
Update 4-19

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 from SHOT Show 2024 such as Eagle Industries' updated Rhodesian Recon Vest and Taurus' new affordable bolt-action rifle. 

Episode Timeline:

00:00:00 : Intro banter 
00:04:00 : Paul discusses starting Tasker Network after buying LightFighter.net forum 
00:16:00 : Gabe talks about his background with Taurus and other companies before joining Cobalt
00:27:00 : Discussion of Cobalt's new titanium suppressor collaboration with CGS Group
00:42:00 : Paul notes more companies offering fully ambidextrous AR-15 lower receivers 
00:53:00 : Paul is excited about Sons of Liberty Gun Works switching to "stoner cut" AR-10 receiver design
00:56:00 : Ike mentions Modlite's new compact weapon light head
01:00:00 : Gabe is impressed by innovations from his former employer Taurus, including a new customizable bolt-action rifle

The group covers a range of topics related to new products and trends seen at SHOT Show 2024, drawing from the hosts' and guests' deep experience in the firearms industry. Key themes include the rapid advancement of suppressor and weapon light technology, movement towards ambidextrous AR controls, and pushing for pro-2A political activism.
Update 4-19

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 medical kit. He also discusses the benefits of red dot optics for law enforcement and the increasing adoption rates among agencies.
Paul and Jim both emphasize the importance of seeking out quality training to develop real skills rather than just passing qualification tests. They highlight how a small student-to-instructor ratio and individualized attention can benefit shooters of all skill levels.
The group also delves into the changing demographics of the civilian training world and the growing passion for firearms training among people from all walks of life. Finally, they encourage listeners to train hard, hydrate, and push themselves to the next level. Tune in for an engaging discussion on training, gear, and the 2A community.
Update 4-19

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 importance of inspecting parts, the evolution of manufacturing technology, and the challenges of outsourcing services like anodizing.
David emphasizes the significance of creating a positive company culture and promoting from within. He takes pride in his team's dedication and the impact their work has on the firearms industry and beyond. Throughout the conversation, he offers insights into the intricacies of machining, from different types of equipment to the nuances of tolerances and coatings.
The discussion also touches on David's experiences in federal contracting, his passion for continuous improvement, and his commitment to creating jobs and supporting small businesses. Despite receiving offers from larger companies, David remains dedicated to maintaining the integrity and culture of his own company.
With a mix of technical knowledge, personal anecdotes, and a genuine enthusiasm for manufacturing, David's story is both informative and inspiring. The episode highlights the challenges and rewards of running a successful manufacturing business in the firearms industry.
Update 4-19

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 finishes and the new Springfield Prodigy magazines. The discussion touches on Duramag's in-house manufacturing processes, thorough quality control, and pride in its OEM partnerships. Justus also teases an upcoming suppressor line and the group banters about everything from gelato to firearms history. Tune in for an insightful conversation with one of the industry's leading magazine manufacturers.
Update 4-19

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, comfortable, and concealable holsters that break away from traditional holster design limitations.

Michael walks through the evolutionary process of developing these new holsters, showcasing prototypes that experiment with unique shapes and features not possible with injection molding or Kydex. He explains how 3D printing allows for holsters that prioritize body contours over firearm contours, resulting in significantly improved concealment and comfort.

The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by this new manufacturing approach, including the ability to offer an unprecedented level of customization to customers, the potential for a more efficient production process, and the exciting possibilities for future holster designs.

Michael also shares insights into the retail side of the firearms industry, discussing inventory management strategies and the importance of providing customers with a unique, value-added experience.

Tune in to hear about the cutting-edge innovations happening at Raven Concealment and to get a glimpse into the future of holster design and manufacturing.

00:00:08 - Michael discusses the need for a wrap-up light during presentations.

00:04:09 - Ike and Michael discuss the importance of having a gun range attached to a gun store.

00:07:23 - Ian informs Michael about the details of his upcoming presentation at SHOT Show University.

00:10:00 - Michael and Ike discuss the challenges of being a gun retailer, including dealing with the federal government and smash-and-grab thefts.

00:18:52 - Ike shares his company's focus on getting media content at SHOT Show to build their YouTube presence and educate their audience.

00:21:28 - Ike and Ian discuss their inventory management strategies, including monitoring turn rates and expanding SKU count.

00:32:39 - Michael introduces Raven Concealment's new holster designs utilizing additive manufacturing (3D printing).

00:37:00 - Michael showcases an early prototype holster designed to mask the gun's angles and edges for improved comfort and concealment.

00:40:00 - Michael presents a holster designed to follow the body's contours rather than the gun's, resulting in better concealment and comfort.

00:43:00 - Michael introduces a holster with an integrated spare magazine carrier, demonstrating the design flexibility offered by 3D printing.

00:45:00 - Michael discusses the benefits of 3D printing, including the ability to offer customizable retention options and accommodate various firearms.

00:51:44 - Michael compares an early prototype holster with an improved, streamlined version designed for the Glock 48.

00:56:51 - Michael showcases an AIWB pistol mag carrier designed using 3D printing, highlighting its comfort and concealability.
Update 4-19