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Eye on the Target - TARGETHING - Talking Guns

Eye on the Target - TARGETHING - Talking Guns

[email protected] (Rob Campbell & Amanda Suffecool) · Rob Campbell & Amanda Suffecool

511 episodesEN-US

Show overview

Eye on the Target - TARGETHING - Talking Guns has been publishing since 2019, and across the 7 years since has built a catalogue of 511 episodes. That works out to roughly 450 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 54 min and 54 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-US-language Education show.

The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 3 days ago, with 38 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2024, with 110 episodes published. Published by Rob Campbell & Amanda Suffecool.

Episodes
511
Running
2019–2026 · 7y
Median length
54 min
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

Live over the airwaves Salem Radio that is a Q&A related to personal protection, the 2nd amendment, guns, the shooting sports industry. Recorded live on SALEM at 5:00 pm est. Listen to the Podcasts, catch us live, or email in your questions to be covered on the next show. [email protected]. Our discussions include guns, pepper spray, defensive techniques, concealed carry, NRA, firearms, safety and a variety of others as the show is led by the originating topic and the questions asked by our listeners. Amanda Suffecool, Rob Campbell work to make the show lively and topical. Enjoy - Amanda

Latest Episodes

View all 511 episodes

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May 11, 202653 min

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May 11, 202653 min

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May 4, 202653 min

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May 4, 202653 min

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Apr 27, 202653 min

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Apr 13, 202653 min

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This segment focuses on ongoing legal battles, regulatory changes, and political developments affecting Second Amendment rights. The hosts begin by discussing recent court cases, including one involving Susanna Kipke that narrowly missed Supreme Court review, and another case, Hansen v. Washington, D.C., centered on magazine capacity limits. In that case, Tyler Isgary remains the sole plaintiff after others lost standing, highlighting how lengthy legal processes and changing circumstances can weaken challenges. His attempt to register a firearm with a 12-round magazine—common elsewhere—was denied under D.C.'s 10-round limit, keeping the case alive in appellate courts. The conversation then shifts to evolving ATF rules regarding firearm components and so-called "ghost gun" kits. A key issue is whether unfinished gun parts are considered firearms depending on whether instructions are included. The hosts criticize the inconsistency of regulations, arguing that shifting interpretations have harmed businesses like Polymer80 and others in the firearms industry. They also note how regulatory uncertainty can shut down companies even before courts fully resolve the legality of such rules. Political leadership and federal agency direction are another major theme. The hosts speculate about potential leadership changes in the Department of Justice, mentioning figures like Ken Paxton and Lee Zeldin, and debate how interim leadership affects policy enforcement. They express concern about government bureaucracy, suggesting that political appointments, internal alliances, and delays in confirmations can stall policy changes and undermine elected leadership's agenda. The discussion broadens into cultural and structural issues, including hiring practices, nepotism, and how networking influences opportunities in both government and private sectors. They note that while personal connections have always played a role, the internet has expanded access to jobs, information, and niche markets—changing how people connect, learn, and conduct business. Later, the hosts touch on military policy, particularly a shift allowing base commanders more discretion in permitting personal firearm carry on military installations. They argue this could improve safety but acknowledge that cultural resistance within leadership may slow adoption. They also compare this to broader debates about who is trusted to carry firearms, pointing out contradictions in policies affecting service members and civilians. Finally, the segment explores larger economic and geopolitical themes, including domestic manufacturing, environmental regulations, and reliance on foreign production. The hosts argue that outsourcing has weakened U.S. industrial capacity, including in firearms-related materials like gunpowder and metals. They suggest that tariffs and policy changes may aim to rebuild domestic production, while also speculating about future technological shifts in weaponry. Overall, they frame Second Amendment issues as deeply interconnected with economics, politics, and national security.

Apr 6, 202653 min

40526 hr1

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:010d16b3-efd1-4b1b-99a3-63b549e0da5e-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> This episode of Eye on the Target Radio covers recent developments in gun laws, court cases, and political trends surrounding the Second Amendment. The hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell discuss a proposed rule change by the U.S. Postal Service that would allow non-licensed individuals to mail handguns for the first time in nearly a century. This follows a Department of Justice opinion suggesting the long-standing restriction is unconstitutional. They view this as a positive step that could lower costs and expand legal access for gun owners. They also examine ongoing legal battles over the National Firearms Act (NFA), particularly challenges to its registration requirements after certain taxes were removed. Several pro-gun organizations have filed lawsuits arguing the registry is unconstitutional, though the issue may take years to resolve in the courts. Another major topic is the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), which shields gun manufacturers from lawsuits when their products are used in crimes. The hosts explain current challenges to this law, including efforts by states like New York to bypass it through alternative legal strategies. The conversation expands to broader political and legal trends, noting an increase in Second Amendment-related cases and what they see as a shift toward expanding gun rights. They also highlight tensions at the state level, particularly in Ohio and California, where local and state governments continue pushing gun regulations despite legal setbacks. Additionally, the hosts criticize California's legislative tactics, claiming some gun control bills are intentionally vague early on to avoid public scrutiny before being finalized. They contrast this with a growing grassroots pushback, including a student's argument that firearms are important for self-defense, especially for those at a physical disadvantage. The episode concludes with commentary on civic engagement, encouraging listeners to become more involved in politics and advocacy, and includes an announcement that host Amanda Suffecool was elected to the NRA Board of Directors.

Apr 6, 202653 min

032926 hr2

In this segment of Eye on the Target Radio, the hosts shift from practical firearm travel advice into training insights and advocacy efforts, blending personal experience with broader Second Amendment discussions. They begin by reflecting on a concealed carry holster class led by Filster, where the focus was on the mechanics of concealment—how positioning, body shape, and holster design affect comfort, accessibility, and visibility. While Rob remains committed to his long-standing carry habits, he acknowledges improvements from switching to a kydex holster, noting increased speed and efficiency. Amanda, on the other hand, emphasizes the technical lessons from the class, particularly how small adjustments—like shifting position or adding padding—can significantly improve concealment. The discussion highlights how different body types, especially for women, create unique challenges in finding effective carry methods, reinforcing the importance of experimentation and proper fit. They also explore alternative carry techniques, including cross-draw and off-hand use, with Rob explaining how training his non-dominant hand adds an عنصر of unpredictability in self-defense situations. Despite their differing takeaways from the class, both agree that understanding body mechanics—such as how movement and bending affect firearm placement—is critical for safe and effective concealed carry. The segment underscores that training is not one-size-fits-all; instead, it requires adapting techniques to individual needs and physical limitations. The show then transitions into an interview with Diana Muller, founder of Women for Gun Rights. Muller explains that the organization was created to provide a visible, organized counterpoint to gun control groups like Everytown for Gun Safety and its affiliate Moms Demand Action. By encouraging women to publicly support the Second Amendment—often symbolized by their signature teal shirts—the group aims to normalize firearm ownership and demonstrate that many women value the right to self-defense. Muller discusses the organization's growth from a small initiative into a nationwide grassroots movement with representation in all 50 states. A key focus is engaging members at the state level, encouraging them to meet with legislators, testify on policies, and become active participants in the political process. To support this expansion, the group is launching a tiered membership model that provides benefits such as merchandise, discounts, and entry into monthly raffles, while also helping fund operations and staffing. Another major development is the introduction of Women for Gun Safety, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to firearm safety education. This initiative allows for tax-deductible donations and broadens the organization's mission beyond advocacy into public education, emphasizing responsible ownership and personal safety. Muller also outlines plans for a large national conference and fly-in event in Washington, D.C., where members will gather for training, networking, and direct engagement with lawmakers. The event will include a rally at the Capitol, guided tours of government buildings, and opportunities for participants to experience the legislative process firsthand. She stresses that visibility and participation are key to influencing policy and changing public perception. The segment concludes with a call to action: listeners are encouraged to get involved—whether through membership, donations, or direct advocacy—and to recognize that protecting rights requires ongoing effort. Overall, the discussion blends practical firearm training insights with a broader message about responsibility, education, and civic engagement in the context of gun ownership.

Mar 30, 202653 min

032926 hr1

This episode of Eye on the Target Radio opens with Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell setting a casual, humorous tone while introducing the show and reflecting on their long time in broadcasting. They quickly transition into discussing their recent experience at Tom Givens' Rangemaster TACCON event, where they participated in training designed to simulate stress and prepare individuals for real-world self-defense situations. They explain that while artificial stress can be introduced in training, it never fully replicates the intensity of a true life-threatening encounter. Even so, consistent practice—especially under pressure—helps build familiarity and competence with firearms. A major theme throughout the conversation is the importance of ongoing training and skill development. The hosts emphasize that gun owners should be as comfortable with their firearm as they are with everyday tools, able to operate it instinctively even in difficult conditions. They highlight the value of training with others, noting that learning is not one-directional—students, instructors, and peers all contribute to each other's growth. They also point out that different people bring different strengths and limitations, and sometimes alternative techniques developed by older or less physically mobile shooters can be just as effective, if not better. The discussion also explores motivations behind carrying firearms and teaching others. Amanda and Rob reflect on how individuals have different "whys," whether it's personal protection, helping others learn, or continuing to challenge themselves. They contrast their own teaching preferences—Amanda enjoys working with beginners and seeing foundational understanding click, while Rob prefers more advanced students who are pushing their limits. They share a story about a student who suddenly improved dramatically once a concept finally made sense, illustrating how impactful good instruction can be. Midway through the episode, the tone shifts briefly to historical and industry topics. The hosts discuss the anniversary and development of the 1911 pistol, explaining how it evolved through military trials and became a long-standing, influential firearm. They also talk about the NRA Board of Directors election, encouraging participation and expressing excitement about the outcome, framing it in a lighthearted, competitive way. The show then moves into an interview with Charlie Cook of Riding Shotgun with Charlie. He talks about his unique interview format—conducting conversations in a car—which helps guests relax and speak more naturally. Charlie shares stories from his experiences, including memorable interviews, unexpected moments, and challenges in content creation. He also discusses how his platform has grown and how he distributes his content across multiple channels, including YouTube and podcast platforms. A key focus of the interview is the upcoming NRA Annual Meeting in Houston, particularly the "Voices of the Second Amendment" media row. Charlie and the hosts describe it as a gathering of podcasters, radio hosts, and content creators who will be recording live, interacting with attendees, and sharing perspectives from across the firearms community. They emphasize that the event allows people to discover new voices, engage directly with creators, and participate in conversations about the current state of the Second Amendment and gun ownership. Overall, the episode blends practical training advice, personal experiences, historical insights, and industry discussion. It highlights the importance of continuous learning, community engagement, and responsible firearm ownership, all while maintaining a conversational and often humorous tone.

Mar 30, 202653 min

032226 hr2

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:aa10c299-cff5-4905-9aa1-4ba044f16cce-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> The episode features two main segments from the SHOT Show floor hosted by Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell. First, Brooke and Paul introduce the Range Network, a growing, free nationwide network designed to help gun range owners collaborate and improve their businesses. The network connects ranges to share best practices, solve common problems, and support the overall health of the industry. Through "huddles" (meetings), owners exchange ideas on staffing, operations, and customer experience without competing directly. The goal is to strengthen the shooting community, make ranges more welcoming, and ensure people have safe places to practice. They also promote the My Caliber Card, a paid membership that gives users discounts at participating ranges and helps drive traffic and revenue back to those businesses. The second segment features hunter and TV host Melissa Bachman, who shares her journey from working behind the scenes in television to creating her own hunting show, Winchester Deadly Passion. She emphasizes hard work, persistence, and creating opportunities for herself. Bachman discusses her passion for hunting, the importance of family involvement, and encouraging new hunters—especially women and kids—by making the experience welcoming and not overwhelming. She highlights that hunting is about more than harvesting animals; it's about relationships, experiences, and understanding where food comes from. Overall, the episode focuses on growing and supporting the firearms and hunting community—both through improving industry infrastructure (ranges) and inspiring personal involvement in outdoor activities.

Mar 23, 202653 min

032226 hr1

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" data-turn-id="a9752f08-5c6d-47a9-b852-a042f0d9b1b5" data-testid="conversation-turn-5" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:a142b703-0e6c-4ecd-8a2b-7690c536c80b-2" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> This episode of Eye on the Target Radio combines personal experiences with firearms and broader discussions about gun laws and policy. The hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell begin by talking about their recent experience registering suppressors using a newer digital system. While the $200 tax stamp has been eliminated, the registration process still exists, though it has become much faster and more streamlined compared to the old paper-based system that could take many months. They also discuss preparing for an upcoming training trip, including decisions about what firearms and gear to bring. A key theme is the importance of training with different instructors and being willing to step outside one's comfort zone. The hosts emphasize that learning from a variety of perspectives can improve skills more than sticking with just one instructor or method. The conversation then shifts to current gun legislation, starting with a proposed Virginia law that would penalize leaving a handgun unsecured in a vehicle. The hosts argue that such laws create contradictions, especially when combined with gun-free zones that prevent carrying firearms into certain locations, leaving people with limited legal options. They believe many of these laws may ultimately be challenged in court. They also highlight a major issue in California, where hundreds of thousands of criminal convictions were not properly reported to the system used for background checks. This, they argue, undermines the effectiveness of those checks and calls into question the reliability of policies that depend on accurate data entry. In Illinois, a proposed law to serialize ammunition and impose a per-round tax is discussed. The hosts criticize the idea as unrealistic and costly, suggesting it would be difficult to implement, easy to circumvent, and likely to drive up prices without significantly impacting crime. Another topic is a legal case involving a truck driver challenging concealed carry permit restrictions across state lines. The case could potentially reach the Supreme Court, with the argument that carry permits should have broader reciprocity, similar to driver's licenses. The episode also includes several real-world incidents, such as a man arrested on a bus with an illegal firearm and the use of drones to smuggle contraband into prisons. These examples are used to illustrate perceived gaps in enforcement and the idea that individuals intent on breaking the law often find ways to do so regardless of regulations. Overall, the episode emphasizes the hosts' view that many gun laws are poorly designed or impractical, while stressing the importance of education, training, and responsible firearm ownership as more effective approaches.

Mar 23, 202653 min

031526 hr2

This episode of Eye on the Target Radio, hosted by Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell, features interviews recorded on the floor of the SHOT Show. The hosts speak with industry guests about new initiatives in the shooting sports community as well as hunting and outdoor television. The first segment features Paul and Brooke from The Range Network, a program designed to help gun range owners collaborate and improve their businesses. Paul explains that the idea grew out of earlier industry "roundtable" meetings he helped organize with the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Those meetings allowed ranges, manufacturers, and retailers to discuss common problems and share solutions. When the program was halted during the COVID period, Paul and his partners created the Range Network as a way to continue helping ranges connect and share best practices. Their focus is on ensuring that gun ranges remain strong because ranges provide the places where people can learn, practice, and stay engaged with shooting sports. The Range Network organizes virtual and in-person "huddles," similar to a team huddle in sports, where range operators discuss issues such as hiring employees, insurance options, operational challenges, and successful business strategies. Members share what works and what fails so others can avoid costly mistakes. The organization now includes more than 120 ranges across 45 states and even some locations in Canada, and it is free for ranges to join. The goal is cooperation rather than competition, encouraging ranges to work together and create better experiences for customers while strengthening the overall firearms community. Paul also describes a related program called MyCaliberCard, which complements the Range Network. For an annual membership fee, shooters can receive discounts at participating ranges and on shooting-related products. The card encourages gun owners to visit different ranges when traveling and helps bring new customers into participating businesses. Some ranges even include the card as a benefit within their own membership programs. The hosts note that this model allows the Range Network to remain free for ranges while the Caliber Card program provides financial support for the broader effort. Later in the show, the hosts interview hunter and television personality Melissa Bachman, host of the outdoor series Winchester Deadly Passion on the Sportsman Channel. Bachman explains how she built a career in the hunting industry after studying television production. Unable to find work initially, she volunteered at the North American Hunting Club and gradually gained experience producing hunting content. Eventually she launched her own production company and television show, allowing her to combine her passion for hunting with media production. Bachman describes the challenges she faced entering a field that had relatively few women when she started more than two decades ago. She emphasizes that persistence, hard work, and willingness to take risks helped her succeed. To get her first season of airtime, she invested everything she had, including risking her home, while working to secure sponsorships. Over time the show grew, and she now hunts around the world while filming authentic experiences that show both the successes and challenges of real hunts. Much of Bachman's message focuses on introducing new people—especially families and women—to hunting. She believes hunting helps families bond and teaches people where their food comes from. She often involves her own children in hunting trips, letting them participate in age-appropriate ways so they feel connected to the experience. Bachman stresses that new hunters should learn gradually, find mentors, and avoid feeling pressured to harvest an animal before they are ready. The episode concludes with Bachman discussing some of the unique hunts featured on her show, including alligator hunting in states like Florida and Louisiana, as well as big-game hunts such as elk and whitetail deer. She explains how much of the harvested meat is processed for her family or donated to people in need when possible. Throughout the interview, she emphasizes that the most important aspect of hunting is not just the harvest but the experiences and relationships built along the way. Overall, the program highlights two key themes within the shooting and hunting community: strengthening the infrastructure of the sport through cooperation among gun ranges, and encouraging new participants to become involved in hunting and outdoor traditions through mentorship, family experiences, and education.

Mar 16, 202653 min

031526 hr1

This episode of Eye on the Target Radio hosted by Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell opens with updates on their upcoming travel and speaking schedule as they continue covering firearms policy and industry events around the country. They announce plans to attend several major Second Amendment gatherings, including the New England Firearms Advocacy Conference organized by the Second Amendment Foundation in Chicopee, Massachusetts, as well as appearances in Texas and at other national gun-rights conferences later in the year. The hosts explain that attending these events allows them to connect with activists, industry professionals, and lawmakers while gathering information about how firearm laws and advocacy efforts differ from state to state. The conversation shifts briefly to international news when they discuss images of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visiting a shooting range with his daughter. The hosts speculate that the event may have been staged for propaganda purposes, possibly to present her as a strong future successor. They note the irony that while firearms are tightly controlled for ordinary citizens in North Korea, the ruling family is shown publicly handling weapons as symbols of authority and power. From there, the discussion turns toward firearms design and industry trends. The hosts talk about unusual firearm innovations, including a lightweight .380 pistol design from Kel-Tec that uses unconventional loading methods. They debate whether such designs are practical, noting that while some components may appear fragile or inexpensive, they can still perform well in terms of accuracy and function. The conversation highlights how firearm manufacturers often experiment with new approaches to address changing regulations or consumer preferences. A significant portion of the program focuses on the ongoing challenge of building and maintaining shooting ranges. The hosts describe a situation in Iowa where neighbors are opposing the construction of a private shooting range, demonstrating what they call a "not in my backyard" attitude. They argue that while many people support the right to own firearms, they often resist having shooting facilities nearby. This creates practical problems for gun owners, since regular practice and training are necessary for responsible firearm use but zoning laws frequently limit where ranges can be built. The hosts then review legislative developments in Wyoming, where Governor Mark Gordon signed a bill lowering the age for obtaining a concealed carry permit from 21 to 18. They view this change as a step toward expanding Second Amendment rights while still encouraging training and licensing for young adults who wish to carry concealed firearms. However, they also discuss Gordon's decision to veto a proposed Second Amendment Preservation Act because parts of the bill could have created conflicts between local law enforcement and federal agencies during certain investigations. The discussion expands to other states where gun legislation is being debated. In Minnesota, lawmakers are advancing proposals to ban certain semi-automatic rifles and standard-capacity magazines. The hosts criticize the legislative process after pro-gun groups were reportedly allowed to submit written testimony but not speak during hearings, while anti-gun organizations were given time slots to testify. They argue that this imbalance limits meaningful public debate about firearm policy. They also examine new legislation in Virginia that would classify many semi-automatic rifles as "assault weapons" based on features such as threaded barrels, pistol grips, or collapsible stocks. According to the hosts, these regulations focus on cosmetic characteristics rather than the functional operation of firearms. They suggest that many such proposals will ultimately face legal challenges under recent Supreme Court rulings that have reshaped the legal framework for gun regulation. Finally, the show touches on a federal lawsuit filed in Texas challenging restrictions on civilian ownership of newly manufactured machine guns. The plaintiffs argue that regulations enforced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives effectively prevent law-abiding citizens from registering or legally owning post-1986 automatic firearms. The hosts note that cases like this may eventually reach higher courts and could play a role in shaping future interpretations of the Second Amendment. Overall, the episode blends news commentary, firearms industry discussion, and legal analysis, emphasizing the hosts' belief that education, training, and continued legal challenges are key to protecting gun rights while navigating an increasingly complex patchwork of state and federal firearm regulations.

Mar 16, 202653 min

030826 hr2

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "261b1f7a-b9bf-43a3-ab76-31433e6f6c04" data-testid= "conversation-turn-7" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:2d7f19d9-e79e-4343-a209-5a086d3f1efe-3" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of Eye on the Target Radio, hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell broadcast from the floor of the SHOT Show, interviewing guests about new ideas, businesses, and experiences within the firearms and outdoor industries. The first segment features Brooke and Paul from The Range Network, a growing collaboration of gun ranges designed to help range owners share ideas, solve business challenges, and strengthen the shooting industry. Paul explains that the concept grew out of a program he previously developed with the National Shooting Sports Foundation, where industry leaders gathered in roundtable discussions to talk openly about issues affecting ranges, retailers, and manufacturers. When the program ended during the COVID pandemic, Paul and his partners decided to rebuild the idea independently, focusing specifically on gun ranges. The goal is to create a supportive network where operators can exchange "pre-competitive" information—practical advice about staffing, insurance, operations, and best practices—without giving away competitive business strategies. The Range Network organizes regular "huddles," which are virtual meetings where range owners can discuss problems, ask questions, and learn from one another's experiences. In some areas with many participating ranges, the meetings are held in person. The network emphasizes cooperation rather than competition, encouraging ranges to work together and refer customers to one another when appropriate. Brooke explains that the network already includes more than 120 ranges across 45 states and even some in Canada, and it continues to expand as more operators discover the benefits of collaboration. Importantly, membership in the network is free for ranges, and the meetings are closed to outside vendors so participants can focus solely on operational issues rather than sales pitches. Paul also discusses how different types of customers tend to gravitate toward different types of ranges. Some shooters prefer tactical environments centered on defensive firearms and modern sporting rifles, while others treat shooting as a social or recreational activity similar to golf. Recognizing these different customer groups helps ranges tailor their offerings and even partner with nearby facilities that specialize in different shooting disciplines, such as sporting clays or long-distance rifle shooting. By encouraging cooperation rather than rivalry, the network aims to strengthen the entire shooting sports ecosystem. Connected to this effort is another initiative called MyCalibreCard, a membership program that provides discounts at participating ranges and firearms-related businesses. For an annual fee, cardholders receive reduced prices on range visits and certain products while also gaining access to a broader shooting community. The program encourages shooters to visit different ranges—especially while traveling—and helps drive new customers to participating businesses. Some ranges even include the card as part of their own membership packages, creating a nationwide benefit for their members. Later in the broadcast, the hosts interview outdoor television personality Melissa Bachman, host of the hunting show Winchester Deadly Passion. Bachman shares her personal story of turning a lifelong love of hunting into a career. After graduating with degrees in television production and Spanish, she struggled to find work in the industry and initially volunteered at the North American Hunting Club to gain experience. After years working behind the camera filming other hunters, she eventually launched her own production company and television show, building a career through persistence and a willingness to take financial risks. Bachman explains that the show focuses on authentic hunting experiences rather than scripted stories. She films real hunts as they happen—the successes, the failures, and the unexpected moments—because she believes audiences appreciate authenticity. Over the years she has traveled extensively, sometimes hunting more than 300 days a year, pursuing game such as whitetail deer, elk, mule deer, and even alligators. She also describes the unique experiences of different types of hunts, including nighttime alligator hunts where hunters can call gators by mimicking the sound of baby alligators. A major theme of Bachman's work is encouraging families and newcomers—especially women—to participate in hunting. She emphasizes that hunting is about far more than harvesting animals; it's abou

Mar 9, 202653 min

030826 hr1

In this episode of Eye on the Target Radio, hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell return to the studio and begin with a lighthearted discussion about firearms and recent range experiences. They talk about the controversy surrounding the SIG Sauer P320 pistol, noting that negative publicity has caused some gun owners and shooting ranges to avoid the firearm even if individuals have never personally experienced problems with it. Rob also describes testing a new handgun at the range and comments on its weight and performance. The hosts compare firearm designs, highlighting the simplicity of Glock pistols versus the more complex internal components of Amanda's FN 509. Amanda explains that she was advised to clean and maintain the striker assembly carefully to improve the trigger performance, illustrating how modern firearms sometimes require more maintenance than older designs. Amanda also shares a humorous story about buying a shotgun for her husband and attempting to assemble it while traveling in Florida. The process turned into a frustrating experience due to overly tight factory assembly and a confusing instruction manual that seemed poorly translated. After struggling to figure out how the parts fit together, she ended up calling Rob for help and sending him photos so he could walk her through the process step by step. The conversation turns into a broader discussion about how modern firearms—and modern products in general—often contain more complex mechanisms than older equipment, which can make maintenance and assembly more complicated. Later in the program, Amanda talks about attending a presentation by author Ed Monk about his book The First 30 Seconds, which analyzes the early moments of mass shooting events. She explains that most people are initially shocked and confused when an attack begins, which delays their response. By the time someone calls 911, provides an address, and dispatch notifies police, several minutes may already have passed before officers arrive. The hosts note that in many cases the first 30 seconds of an attack determine the outcome, because people who respond quickly can dramatically reduce casualties. Research discussed by Amanda, including work from John Lott and the Crime Prevention Research Center, suggests that armed citizens sometimes stop attacks more quickly than law enforcement simply because they are already present when the incident begins. According to the data cited, intervention by armed citizens can significantly reduce the number of people injured or killed. The hosts also discuss the psychological realities of violent encounters. They note that even trained law-enforcement officers can experience confusion, adrenaline, and delayed reactions during their first real shooting incident. Rob recounts a story from a police officer who described the surreal experience of hearing his own gunshots and initially believing someone else was shooting at him. The discussion highlights how unpredictable real-world confrontations can be and why training and preparation are important. Another segment focuses on parental responsibility and recent criminal cases involving parents whose children committed violent acts. Amanda argues that parents should be held accountable when they knowingly give dangerous tools—such as firearms or vehicles—to children who clearly demonstrate warning signs of instability or irresponsibility. She compares it to cases where parents are prosecuted for allowing unlicensed teenagers to drive, emphasizing that society expects adults to exercise judgment and responsibility when supervising minors. The hosts acknowledge that holding parents accountable may be controversial but argue that responsible parenting is essential for preventing tragedies. The show then shifts to firearm legislation across the United States. The hosts discuss several proposed laws and political developments affecting gun owners. In Michigan, lawmakers are considering a constitutional carry bill that would allow adults to carry firearms without a permit, though the governor could veto the measure. In Wyoming, legislators are working on a Second Amendment Preservation Act that would limit cooperation between state authorities and federal agencies enforcing certain gun regulations. Meanwhile, a proposal in Florida to lower the age to purchase firearms from 21 to 18 has stalled in a Senate committee despite support from gun-rights advocates. On the other hand, the hosts highlight several states pursuing stricter gun control policies. In Minnesota, lawmakers are considering legislation that would ban certain semi-automatic firearms, require registration, impose storage requirements, and potentially allow inspections of firearm storage practices. In Rhode Island, officials are exploring expanded restrictions on "modern sporting rifles," possibly removing grandfather clauses and adding training requirements for firearm ownership. Similarly, legislators in Virginia are debating bills a

Mar 9, 202653 min