• 52426 hr2
    May 25 2026

    This segment of Eye on the Target Radio covered several major themes in the Second Amendment world, beginning with an interview featuring Holly Sullivan Scali, president of the Connecticut Citizens Defense League and board member of the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms. Sullivan discussed the upcoming New England Firearms Advocacy Conference in Chicopee, describing it as the first major regional effort to unite Second Amendment organizations from across the six New England states. She explained that gun-rights groups often work independently despite facing similar legislative and legal battles, and that the conference is intended to build stronger communication and cooperation between organizations, attorneys, legislators, and activists throughout the region. The event would feature speakers including John Lott and Dick Heller, along with panel discussions involving lawmakers, attorneys, and state-level advocacy groups. Sullivan emphasized making activism more accessible by bringing conferences closer to local communities rather than requiring supporters to travel across the country for national events.

    The conversation also explored the realities of activism and online engagement in the firearms community. Amanda and Rob discussed internet trolling, hostile comment sections, and misinformation spread through social media and forums. Amanda shared examples of being mocked online and reflected on how both anti-gun activists and uncompromising gun-rights extremists often dominate online discussions, while more moderate or practical voices stay silent. The hosts stressed the dangers of bad advice circulating online, especially in areas like firearm reloading where misinformation could potentially cause injury or damage. They concluded that many reasonable gun owners avoid participating in online arguments altogether because of the toxic environment.

    The show then shifted into political discussion surrounding Brandon Herrera, widely known online as "The AK Guy." The hosts discussed his congressional campaign in Texas and highlighted his fundraising success compared to his Democratic opponent. They talked about the growing influence of online content creators in politics and the importance of grassroots fundraising, noting how small donations from many supporters can significantly impact campaigns. The hosts also reflected on the changing popularity of AK-style rifles versus AR-style rifles, attributing some of the shift to rising ammunition costs and differences in accuracy and practicality.

    Later in the program, Amanda and Rob examined current Second Amendment litigation and activity at the Supreme Court of the United States. They discussed why the Court has not yet taken up major cases involving AR-15s or magazine-capacity bans, explaining that the Court hears only a limited number of cases each year across all legal subjects, not just gun rights. They reviewed the continuing influence of the landmark District of Columbia v. Heller and New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen decisions, along with related cases concerning sensitive-place restrictions and marijuana users possessing firearms. The hosts also referenced commentary from Mark Smith of the Four Boxes Diner, who explained how courts are increasingly using historical dictionaries and original-language analysis to interpret constitutional meaning, not only in Second Amendment cases but in First Amendment disputes as well. Amanda and Rob concluded by noting how constitutional interpretation often depends heavily on understanding how words were used and understood at the time the Constitution and Bill of Rights were written.

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    54 mins
  • 52426 hr1
    May 25 2026

    In this episode of Eye on the Target Radio, hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell discussed a wide range of Second Amendment and firearms-related legal developments, focusing heavily on the impact of the Supreme Court's New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen decision. They explained how the "history, text, and tradition" standard established in Bruen is reshaping firearms litigation nationwide, particularly challenges to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives regulations and the National Firearms Act. The hosts argued that many modern gun restrictions lack historical precedent and predicted continued legal challenges involving suppressors, machine guns, bump stocks, forced-reset triggers, and other regulated firearms accessories. They also discussed historical militia expectations from the 1700s and how those are now being revisited in modern constitutional arguments.

    The show also covered lawsuits involving firearm detection technology in schools. Amanda described the case surrounding Omni Alert after a shooting at Antioch High School, where the school's AI gun-detection system allegedly failed to prevent an attack despite being marketed as a safety solution. The hosts debated whether schools and technology companies can be held liable when these systems fail. They connected that discussion to broader debates about school safety policies and responsibility, referencing previous incidents where administrators allegedly ignored warning signs before school shootings.

    Another major topic involved ongoing political and legal fights over firearms laws in states like Virginia and Florida. The hosts discussed new Virginia gun-control measures and the resulting lawsuits filed by groups including the National Rifle Association, Second Amendment Foundation, Gun Owners of America, and National Shooting Sports Foundation. They also highlighted actions by Florida's pro-Second Amendment attorney general against a homeowners association that attempted to ban firearms in shared community spaces. Throughout the program, Amanda and Rob framed these cases as examples of expanding legal resistance to firearm restrictions across the country.

    The episode concluded with discussion of proposed federal legislation, including efforts by Lauren Boebert to remove remaining tax provisions tied to the National Firearms Act and a proposal from Jimmy Patronis to repeal the Hughes Amendment restrictions on newly manufactured machine guns. The hosts debated how these changes could affect collectors, firearms values, and future gun ownership rights. Alongside the political discussion, the show featured advertisements and promotional spots for firearms training organizations, gun safety programs, books, and shooting-related products.

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    54 mins
  • 51726 hr2
    May 18 2026
    In this segment of Eye on the Target Radio, host Amanda Suffecool interviews bestselling author Jack Carr at SHOT Show, discussing his background, writing process, and upcoming projects. Carr talks about returning to SHOT Show for the first time since 2020 and describes the event as a reunion filled with energy, creativity, and support from fans. Amanda shares how excited listeners were when they learned she would be interviewing him, with many sending questions and praising his books. Carr explains that he knew from the age of seven that he wanted to become a Navy SEAL. Growing up with a librarian mother, he developed a deep love for reading and storytelling. Influenced by thriller authors such as Tom Clancy, Nelson DeMille, and David Morrell, he unknowingly built a foundation in storytelling while also studying nonfiction books on terrorism, insurgencies, and military leadership. Carr explains that his combat experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan allow him to write fiction that feels emotionally authentic because the emotions and reactions in his stories are drawn from real-life experiences. Amanda describes reading Carr's novel Cry Havoc as an intense and emotional experience, saying she frequently had to stop reading and walk around because of the suspense. Carr reveals that much of the novel was inspired by interviews with MACV-SOG veterans from the Vietnam War. He explains the extensive historical research required to accurately portray 1968-era weapons, gear, and mindsets without accidentally introducing modern perspectives or technology. To immerse himself in the era, he surrounded himself with authentic Vietnam-era equipment, including watches, knives, and firearms while writing. The discussion then shifts to Carr's larger fictional universe and the multigenerational storylines woven throughout his books. Fans had asked whether he planned to continue exploring earlier generations of his characters, possibly even further back in history. Carr says he enjoys building family legacies into his stories, inspired in part by author Stephen Hunter and his Swagger series. While he does not currently plan to go as far back as ancient history, he hints that additional historical stories are possible. Carr also discusses his writing pace, explaining that he aims to publish at least one book per year and recently added nonfiction to his portfolio. He mentions his nonfiction work Targeted Beirut, focused on the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing, which earned recognition on the Marine Corps Commandant's reading list. Amanda asks whether Carr's publishers ever challenge the detailed firearm and tactical realism in his books. Carr says he has been fortunate to maintain complete creative control and that his editors and agent encourage him to continue emphasizing authenticity because readers deeply value accuracy, especially gun owners and military enthusiasts who immediately notice mistakes in other novels. Finally, Carr introduces his upcoming novel The Fourth Option, releasing in May. Unlike his previous books, this novel launches an entirely new series with new characters and a new universe. He describes it as a modern interpretation of the classic western-style "stranger comes to town" story inspired by the television series Have Gun – Will Travel. Carr explains that he begins every novel by outlining the ending and overall direction before allowing the story to evolve naturally as he writes. In this continuation of Eye on the Target Radio, host Amanda Suffecool continues her conversation with bestselling author Jack Carr before transitioning into an in-depth interview with firearms trainer and entrepreneur Kevin Dixie of "No Other Choice" firearms training. Carr discusses his creative process in greater detail, explaining that before committing to a book, he writes what amounts to a back-cover summary for himself. He then evaluates whether the idea is compelling enough to devote a year or more of his life to writing. If it passes that test, he develops an outline while always keeping the ending in mind. Carr says the villains are often the most interesting part of the process because each new book requires entirely new antagonists after the previous ones have been eliminated by protagonist James Reece. Amanda and Carr also discuss the importance of authenticity and reader engagement. Carr shares stories about secretly signing copies of his books in airport bookstores and posting clues for fans on social media. He says one of the most meaningful aspects of his career is hearing from readers who connect deeply with his work or rediscover reading because of his novels. Carr emphasizes that readers are trusting him with their limited time, which motivates him to approach every page with care and purpose. The conversation turns philosophical as Carr explains how fiction helps build empathy by allowing readers to experience the world through someone else's perspective. He argues that reading books develops emotional...
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    54 mins
  • 51726 hr1
    May 18 2026
    This episode of Eye on the Target Radio focused heavily on the excitement and innovation surrounding the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, where hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell discussed the evolution of the firearms industry, new products, and the changing culture within the Second Amendment community. They reflected on how SHOT Show has grown over the years, from a place where they knew very few people to an event where they now regularly reconnect with industry figures, media personalities, and firearm innovators. They highlighted the networking atmosphere, the constant buzz of activity, and the broad range of attendees involved in firearms rights, manufacturing, and training. The conversation explored how the firearms industry has changed over time, particularly with the growing inclusion of women and newcomers. Amanda noted that women were once largely ignored at trade shows but now play a much more significant role in both the consumer market and the industry itself. They also discussed how ammunition and firearm design continue to evolve, especially with trends toward subsonic calibers, short-barreled rifles, suppressors, and defensive shooting platforms. Amanda described her fascination with ballistic gel demonstrations, which visually show how different ammunition performs on impact, while Rob explained how modern bullet design is adapting to newer firearm platforms and shooting applications. A substantial part of the show centered on firearm ergonomics, optics, and defensive shooting philosophy. Amanda and Rob talked about various sight systems, red dots, and fast-acquisition defensive sights, emphasizing that under stress many people rely more on muscle memory than perfect sight alignment. Amanda admitted that while she enjoys firearms, highly technical discussions about ballistics and rifle engineering are not her strongest area, preferring instead to handle and test firearms directly before forming opinions. They also discussed trends in firearm popularity, noting how the 9mm cartridge has become dominant in the self-defense market, surpassing older revolver calibers such as .38 Special. The hosts gave listeners a behind-the-scenes look at SHOT Show itself, describing the enormous convention layout spanning multiple expo centers connected by walkways over city streets. They explained how "Radio Row" operates as a hub for firearms media outlets and content creators, with numerous radio programs, podcasts, and video teams conducting live interviews throughout the event. Amanda highlighted the energy and chaos of broadcasting live from the show floor, where constant background noise and crowds make production both exciting and challenging. Later in the episode, Amanda and Rob interviewed Chris from Detroit Gun Works, discussing the company's history and manufacturing philosophy. Chris explained that the company began as a producer of affordable, reliable AR-platform rifles aimed at working-class shooters. Over time, especially during the COVID-era firearms surge, the company shifted focus toward engineering improvements, in-house manufacturing, and precision machining. Detroit Gun Works now emphasizes billet-machined components, Midwest sourcing, suppressors, bolt-action rifles, and custom AR platforms tailored for law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. Chris also discussed current market trends, particularly the growing popularity of suppressors and short-barreled rifles following changes to federal tax stamp rules. The interview covered the company's new compact bolt-action "Mini" rifle platform designed for precision shooting and hunting applications. Amanda and Rob praised the company's support for law enforcement and first responders while also joking about firearm collecting habits, gun purchases, and the challenge of hiding new firearms purchases from spouses. Throughout the broadcast, the hosts repeatedly emphasized firearms safety, constitutional rights, responsible ownership, and training. Numerous sponsor segments promoted gun safety education, women's firearms training, self-defense instruction, shooting accessories, and Second Amendment advocacy organizations. The overall tone of the episode combined industry commentary, humor, technical discussion, and enthusiasm for the firearms community gathered at SHOT Show.
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    54 mins
  • 51026 hr2
    May 11 2026

    This episode of Eye on the Target Radio featured two very different but compelling conversations. The first half focused on the NRA Whittington Center and its role as one of the premier shooting and outdoor recreation facilities in the country. Host Amanda Suffecool interviewed Nate Brown about his journey from Wyoming and the oil and gas industry into nonprofit conservation work and eventually into the NRA. Brown explained that his passion for preserving Second Amendment freedoms and America's outdoor heritage led him into fundraising and nonprofit work before relocating to New Mexico to work at the Whittington Center.

    Brown described the immense scale of the Whittington Center, which spans roughly 33,000 acres, with only a small portion developed into shooting ranges and facilities. The center includes pistol bays, silhouette ranges, law enforcement training areas, long-range shooting facilities, cabins, camping areas, and extensive wilderness. He emphasized that the property blends shooting sports with wildlife conservation, noting the abundance of mule deer, bears, mountain lions, and other wildlife that coexist around the ranges. Amanda discussed her own experiences attending the Women's Wilderness Escape at the center and highlighted how overwhelming—but exciting—the facility can feel for first-time visitors.

    The conversation also focused heavily on accessibility and encouraging newcomers. Brown explained that visitors can attend structured classes and events or simply purchase a day pass or annual membership to use the ranges independently. He acknowledged that the size of the facility can be intimidating and encouraged new visitors to stop at the visitor center, ask questions, and request tours or guidance. The discussion covered lodging options ranging from cabins to dispersed camping and emphasized the center's desire to become more user-friendly through improved online booking and visitor resources. Throughout the segment, both hosts stressed the importance of introducing more people to shooting sports and responsible firearms culture in a welcoming environment.

    The second half of the program shifted to an interview with author Liz Lazarus, discussing her upcoming thriller novel Dawn Before Darkness. Lazarus explained that the novel combines elements of stalking, guardianship abuse, and psychological suspense. Inspired partly by real stories from women who experienced stalking and by her own difficult legal battle involving guardianship of her mother, Lazarus crafted a story that blends entertainment with cautionary legal and personal safety lessons.

    Lazarus described how she interviewed numerous women about their stalking experiences and incorporated those accounts into the novel's antagonist. She also detailed her own experience fighting through probate and guardianship court after family disputes over her mother's care led to a third-party guardian being appointed. The discussion explored how vulnerable families can become when legal paperwork, wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives are not properly prepared or accessible. Amanda shared a personal story about the importance of having medical power-of-attorney documents readily available during emergencies, reinforcing one of the book's central messages about preparedness.

    The interview also explored Lazarus's writing process and publishing journey. She discussed her earlier novels, including Free of Malice, which was inspired by her own experience surviving an attack in college. Lazarus explained the distinctions between suspense novels, thrillers, and psychological thrillers, noting that her books often blend all three genres while incorporating themes of firearms safety, self-protection, and legal realities. She spoke about the challenges of researching difficult topics, including interviewing people about stalking and even researching what it feels like to be shot in order to realistically portray scenes in the book.

    Toward the end of the segment, Lazarus described the realities of modern publishing, explaining that writing the book itself is often easier than marketing it. She talked about working with public relations teams, using social media influencers, attending conferences, and building connections with readers to gain visibility in a crowded publishing world. The hosts closed by encouraging listeners to preorder Dawn Before Darkness and explore Lazarus's earlier standalone novels.

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    54 mins
  • 51026 hr1
    May 11 2026
    In this episode of Eye on the Target Radio, hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell discussed a wide range of Second Amendment issues, focusing heavily on recent developments involving the ATF, federal firearms regulations, and ongoing constitutional battles over gun rights. Broadcasting from different parts of the country, the hosts opened with commentary about the appointment of a new permanent ATF director and what that could mean for gun owners. Rob joked about the ATF director acting like a "scapegoat," while Amanda explored the broader role of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and how firearms issues often feel especially targeted compared to alcohol or tobacco regulation. The conversation shifted into the history of gun control in America, beginning with the National Firearms Act of 1934 and subsequent federal regulations. Rob and Amanda argued that many gun restrictions historically emerged in response to gang violence and sensationalized media coverage, but over time expanded to affect ordinary gun owners. They reflected on decades of activism by organizations like the NRA, noting that many gun owners remember legislative losses more than victories or successful efforts to "hold the line" against additional restrictions. A major portion of the discussion centered on recent legal developments involving the Supreme Court and the impact of the 2022 Bruen decision, which established the "history, text, and tradition" standard for evaluating gun laws. Amanda praised Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon for aggressively supporting Second Amendment cases and highlighted comments by Supreme Court justices suggesting that AR-15-style rifles are likely protected because they are in "common use." The hosts discussed how even dissenting opinions from liberal justices, including Elena Kagan, acknowledged that AR-15s are commonly owned, which they believe weakens arguments for bans on such firearms. The show also focused heavily on Colorado's restrictions on standard-capacity magazines. Amanda described attending a large women's shooting conference in Colorado where participants had to carefully check state laws and in some cases purchase lower-capacity magazines to remain compliant. She applauded the Justice Department's lawsuit challenging Colorado's magazine ban, arguing that the state criminalized magazines commonly sold with popular firearms. Rob expanded the discussion into the broader issue of the "patchwork quilt" of state gun laws that complicates interstate travel for gun owners, especially those flying through restrictive states like New York. The hosts also criticized newer proposals in states like New York and California that target BB guns, toy gun markings, and youth firearm-related activities. They argued these efforts are part of a broader cultural strategy to discourage younger generations from becoming interested in shooting sports, hunting, or firearms ownership. Later in the episode, Rob reviewed several proposed ATF rule changes being considered under the new leadership. One major topic involved the Supreme Court's Cargill decision regarding bump stocks. The hosts discussed how the federal government had previously ordered owners and manufacturers to destroy or surrender bump stocks after classifying them as machine guns. They questioned whether the government should compensate manufacturers and gun owners for confiscated property and speculated about possible future lawsuits seeking damages. The conversation then turned to National Firearms Act regulations. Rob explained that proposed changes may simplify interstate travel with NFA-regulated items such as suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns by removing the requirement to obtain prior ATF permission for temporary travel across state lines. Another proposal would allow married couples to jointly register NFA items without requiring a trust, potentially simplifying inheritance and possession issues after the death of one spouse. Amanda and Rob also examined proposed changes to ATF paperwork and recordkeeping requirements. They discussed updates to the Form 4473 background check process, including the possibility of expanded electronic filing systems for firearm dealers. While acknowledging that digital records could improve efficiency, both expressed concern that centralized electronic systems might eventually enable illegal firearm registries. They also described the complicated and inconsistent ways gun dealers currently maintain paper records, making firearm tracing difficult and labor-intensive. Throughout the broadcast, the hosts repeatedly emphasized concerns about government overreach, inconsistent state laws, and the long-term cultural fight surrounding firearm ownership and Second Amendment rights. Interspersed throughout the program were advertisements and public service announcements promoting firearm safety, training organizations, gun-related products, educational groups, and ...
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    54 mins
  • 50326 hr2
    May 4 2026

    In this episode of Eye on the Target Radio, the hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell broadcast from the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits and focus on both internal changes within the National Rifle Association and the broader culture surrounding it. A major portion of the discussion centers on Ron Andring, a retired member who launched the Facebook group "Members Take Back Our NRA." After reviewing court records tied to the NRA's legal troubles in New York, Andring became frustrated with what he saw as long-standing mismanagement and lack of accountability. His page grew quickly into a hub where members could openly share concerns, exchange information, and organize around reform efforts. The hosts and Andring argue that this kind of grassroots communication has helped energize members, influence board elections, and contribute to a wave of resignations among long-time leadership figures, signaling a shift away from what they describe as an entrenched "old guard."

    The conversation also highlights how the organization is attempting to rebuild. Following the resignation of former CEO Wayne LaPierre and findings from legal proceedings, the NRA has introduced more oversight measures, including compliance roles and stronger audit practices. The hosts describe recent member meetings as unusually transparent, with leadership inviting direct questions and feedback—something they say had not happened in decades. While acknowledging past misconduct, they emphasize that many members still see the NRA as essential and are focused on reform rather than abandonment. There is also discussion about structural challenges, such as the difficulty of attracting younger board members due to the unpaid, time-intensive nature of the role, which tends to favor retirees or those with flexible finances.

    The second half of the episode shifts to the convention floor itself, where the hosts explore collector exhibits that showcase firearms history. They interview collectors from the Ruger Collectors Association who created an elaborate display featuring early Sturm, Ruger & Co. firearms and catalogs from 1949 to 1963. The exhibit includes dozens of rare pieces, from well-worn "working guns" to extremely scarce prototypes that never entered full production. A particularly interesting topic is the concept of "bucket of parts" guns—firearms assembled from leftover components during manufacturing transitions—which are often overlooked by casual owners but prized by knowledgeable collectors. These pieces highlight how manufacturing practices and historical quirks can create unexpected rarity and value.

    Beyond the firearms themselves, the segment explores the craftsmanship and effort required to build such displays. The collectors describe the process as a partnership—one focusing on acquiring historically significant items, the other on designing and constructing a visually compelling exhibit that can safely showcase them in a temporary convention space. The hosts emphasize that these displays are often one-time opportunities; many collections are shown once and then never publicly assembled again. The discussion also touches on early company history, including co-founder Alexander Sturm, whose artistic background and financial backing helped launch Ruger but is less widely recognized than his partner.

    Overall, the episode blends two themes: institutional reform and historical appreciation. On one hand, it presents a picture of an organization undergoing internal change driven by member activism and increased transparency. On the other, it highlights the deep enthusiasm within the firearms community for preserving history, craftsmanship, and unique artifacts. Together, these threads paint a broader picture of a community that is both looking inward to fix its institutions and outward to celebrate its heritage.

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    54 mins
  • 50326 hr1
    May 4 2026

    This episode of Eye on the Target Radio is broadcast from the NRA convention floor, capturing the energy and activity of the event. The hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell discuss the Gun Collectors Committee, explaining how collector groups display rare and historical firearms and memorabilia, and how judges evaluate exhibits for awards. Highlights include unique collector pieces like antique Colt firearms, historically preserved items, and a D-Day paratrooper display, emphasizing both the guns and their historical context.

    The show also features interviews and discussions on broader Second Amendment topics. A criminal defense attorney from Attorneys on Retainer explains the importance of immediate legal support after self-defense incidents and stresses that people should avoid speaking to police without counsel, as statements can harm their case.

    Another major segment focuses on Walk the Talk America, an organization working to bridge the gap between the firearms community and mental health professionals. The discussion highlights efforts to reduce stigma, promote mental health resources for gun owners, and encourage proactive solutions to prevent tragedies, while maintaining support for Second Amendment rights.

    Throughout the episode, recurring themes include responsible gun ownership, education, safety, legal awareness, and the importance of open dialogue—both within the firearms community and with those who hold different perspectives.

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    54 mins