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Rick Olson's path from crafting architectural metalwork for the homes of tech billionaires to revolutionizing firearms manufacturing exemplifies American innovation at its finest. In this candid conversation, Rick pulls back the curtain on the precision engineering that sets his barrels apart from anything else on the market.

With remarkable transparency, Rick shares how he taught himself machining from scratch in 2011, developing a single-point cut rifling process that took two years to perfect but produces pistol barrels with unmatched accuracy. "I can take anybody else's barrel on the planet and cut their group size in half," he states confidently – a bold claim backed by years of meticulous development and testing. His newly patented 12-groove rifling system for 300 Blackout barrels solves the fundamental problem of gas blow-by with subsonic ammunition, achieving sub-MOA accuracy at distances where competitors fall apart.

Beyond the technical innovations, Rick offers invaluable insights into navigating the volatile firearms industry as a business owner. From nearly losing everything during the post-2016 "Trump slump" to building a manufacturing operation that now employs over 40 people and runs 24/7, his journey highlights both the rewards and pitfalls of entrepreneurship in this space. He addresses head-on the economic pressures squeezing firearms manufacturers – rising costs but stagnant prices – while sharing strategies for sustainable growth.

The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Rick discusses the current state of Second Amendment advocacy and the challenging legislative environment in Washington state. His perspective on education-focused approaches to changing public perception offers a refreshing alternative to the often polarized firearms discourse.

Whether you're fascinated by precision manufacturing, considering starting your own business, or simply interested in firearms innovation, this episode delivers insights you won't find anywhere else. Tune in to discover how determination, technical excellence, and a passion for quality have established Rick Olson as a respected innovator in American firearms manufacturing.

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Imagine having a skill that weighs nothing, costs little to learn, and could provide access when you need it most. Pat from Uncensored Tactical reveals the fascinating world of tactical lock picking—a discipline that's simultaneously practical, accessible, and surprisingly ethical.

With over a decade of law enforcement and Coast Guard experience, Pat has developed a curriculum that transforms this niche expertise into an invaluable tool for everyone from soccer moms to special forces operators. "The amount of time it takes to learn: very small. The amount of money to get involved: very small. The weight and price of tools: very small. But what they open: very big."

During this eye-opening conversation, Pat demonstrates how complete beginners can successfully pick their first lock within minutes using just two simple tools. But this skill set goes far beyond tools and techniques—it's about developing a strategic mindset that enhances problem-solving capabilities in unpredictable situations. Unlike linear skills such as marksmanship, lock picking requires you to make a machine accept an input it wasn't designed for, creating a unique cognitive challenge.

Addressing common misconceptions head-on, Pat explains why teaching tactical lock picking doesn't enable criminals (who overwhelmingly prefer breaking windows or kicking doors) and how understanding lock vulnerabilities actually leads to smarter security decisions. As he puts it, "Three-inch screws in your door frame are probably a better investment" than exotic locks for most homeowners.

The conversation explores the differences between hobby lock sport, locksmithing, penetration testing, and tactical applications, highlighting why Pat's approach—which combines practical techniques with operational decision-making—has attracted clients ranging from local law enforcement to international special forces units. Whether you're interested in self-reliance, professional development, or simply fascinated by physical security, this episode offers rare insights into a skill that combines immediate utility with endless depth.

Ready to develop skills that could save the day when traditional options fail? Listen now and discover why tactical lock picking might be the most practical security training you've never considered.

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This candid and humor-filled conversation takes you behind the scenes at Shot Show while delivering practical wisdom every gun owner needs to hear.

We sit down with Craig Summers of Templar Defense https://www.templardefense.com/
and Ben DeWalt from On Sight Firearms training ( https://oftllc.us/) while they share the physical realities of working the massive firearms industry event – from excessive indoor heating to miles of walking required each day. They offer fascinating insights into venue differences and booth traffic patterns that casual attendees never consider.

The conversation shifts to an amusing yet educational story about a student who attempted to implement a supposedly "special forces" technique during force-on-force training. The predictable failure serves as a powerful reminder about critically evaluating tactical advice rather than blindly following recommendations without testing.

Quality gear becomes a central theme as the hosts discuss holster selection, firearm standardization, and parts compatibility. They share personal experiences with proprietary systems that ultimately proved frustrating and impractical. One memorable anecdote details an improvised field repair using an AR-15 trigger spring to fix a broken magazine catch – a hack that's surprisingly continued working for over a year.

Perhaps most valuable is the panel's perspective on the post-COVID firearms market. Drawing from their industry experience, they explain why current conditions represent an opportunity for enthusiasts to stock up before the next inevitable price surge. Their seasonal training insights also provide a window into how professional instructors adapt to regional weather challenges throughout the year.

Whether you're a new gun owner or experienced enthusiast, this episode blends practical advice with entertaining stories from professionals who've seen it all. Subscribe now and join us for more candid conversations at the intersection of firearms, training, and real-world experience.

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Find out more about Big Tex Ordnance at bigtexordnance.com