We Like Shooting 648 – Crack Merkin

This episode of We Like Shooting is brought to you by:

• C&G Holsters (Code: WLSISLIFE)
• Gideon Optics (Code: WLSISLIFE)
• Primary Arms
• Flatline Fiber Co (Code: WLS15)
• Bowers Group (Code: WLS)
• Mitchell Defense (Code: WLS10)

Guests: Chris from C&G Holsters https://www.candgholsters.com/

GEAR CHAT

• Shooting Times’ Most Interesting Pistols: Engineering Marvels Spotlighted (Shawn)Shooting Times highlights a curated selection of the most intriguing pistols, emphasizing their unique mechanical innovations and engineering prowess. These firearms stand out for rarity and technical features that push design boundaries. The article showcases models blending historical significance with modern rarity.
• Walker’s Shot 2026: Shake-Awake Ear Pro Revolution (Shawn)Walker’s unveils innovative electronic ear protection at SHOT 2026 with a shake-awake activation feature that powers on instantly upon movement, eliminating battery drain from constant readiness. This engineering marvel combines rarity in motion-sensing tech with superior noise suppression for shooters. Designed for reliability in dynamic environments, it’s a game-changer for hearing safety.
• Shot Show’s Most Intriguing Suppressors: Engineering Marvels Unveiled (Shawn)Shooting Times highlights standout suppressors from Shot Show, emphasizing innovative designs and rare mechanical features from top manufacturers. These models push boundaries in sound suppression, durability, and modularity for firearms enthusiasts. Focus is on technical specs and unique engineering that sets them apart in a crowded market.

BULLET POINTS

• Zero Tool: Compact Brass Rod for Zeroing Red Dots on Pistols (Nick)The Zero Tool is a precision-engineered brass rod designed specifically for zeroing red dot sights on pistols without removing the optic. It features a hardened steel tip for durability and fits snugly into the optic’s mounting screw hole to adjust windage and elevation accurately. Ideal for gunsmiths and enthusiasts seeking a reliable, non-marring zeroing solution.
• Shadow Systems Unleashes Axio: The 2011 Killer Redefining Striker-Fired Pistols (Shawn)Shadow Systems has debuted the Axio, a groundbreaking striker-fired pistol designed to challenge the 2011 platform with superior ergonomics and modularity. Featuring an aluminum frame, interchangeable grip modules, and optics-ready slide, it aims to deliver 2011-style performance in a lighter, more versatile package. The Axio is positioned as a game-changer for serious shooters seeking customization without the complexity of traditional 2011s.
• Coreleader Biotech HEM Hemp Bandage: Revolutionary Bleeding Control Shot for 2026 (Shawn)Coreleader Biotech introduces the HEM Hemp Bandage, a tourniquet-style bleeding control device designed as a single-use ‘shot’ for rapid hemorrhage management. Made from industrial hemp fibers, it expands upon contact with blood to form a clot-promoting seal, ideal for tactical and medical emergencies. The product aims to outperform traditional gauze by providing faster, more effective hemostasis in high-stakes scenarios.
• Hydration Goop: Game-Changing Electrolyte Paste at SHOT Show 2026 (Shawn)At SHOT Show 2026, a innovative hydration product called ‘Hydration Goop’ was showcased, offering a thick, paste-like electrolyte solution for rapid rehydration during intense activities. Unlike traditional drinks or powders, this goop is designed for quick consumption without spilling or needing water mixing. It’s positioned as essential gear for shooters, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts facing dehydration in the field.
• Backdraft Suppressors: Cutting-Edge Suppressors for Peak Performance (Shawn)Backdraft Suppressors specializes in high-performance firearm suppressors designed for superior sound reduction and durability. Their products emphasize innovative baffle designs and materials for reliable field use across various calibers. Ideal for shooters seeking practical, battle-tested suppression without compromise.
• Drone Round: The Shot Rifle Cartridge That Takes Down UAVs (Shawn)The Drone Round is a specialized 12-gauge shotgun cartridge designed to neutralize small drones by dispersing a cloud of projectiles. Developed for counter-UAS defense, it launches from standard shotguns and creates a wide impact zone to shred drone rotors and electronics. Ideal for security teams facing aerial threats in urban or perimeter settings.
• Lyman Enters Suppressor Game with Affordable Sonicore Line (Shawn)Lyman, the iconic reloading and gunsmithing brand, has launched the Sonicore suppressor line targeting budget-conscious shooters. These direct-thread suppressors are designed for .22LR rifles and pistols, emphasizing ease of use and affordability without compromising on sound reduction. Available in multiple thread pitches, they aim to make suppressed plinking accessible to a wider audience.
• HiViz Expands FastDot H3 Sight Sets at SHOT Show (Shawn)HiViz Shooting Systems announced expansions to their FastDot H3 green fiber optic sight sets at SHOT Show, targeting rifles, shotguns, and handguns. New models include sets for popular platforms like AR-15s, 1911s, and pump shotguns, featuring the H3 green fiber optic for quick target acquisition. These sights emphasize durability and visibility in various lighting conditions.
• CMP Revives Vintage Firearms at SHOT 2026 with New-Old Stock Gems (Shawn)The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) showcased a lineup of new-old-stock (NOS) firearms at SHOT 2026, including rare M1 Garands, carbines, and other military surplus classics. These untouched pieces from decades past are now available for civilian purchase through CMP’s sales program. The display highlighted their pristine condition and historical significance for collectors and shooters.
• Spyrt Worldwide’s 3-Liter Ukrainian Spirit Limited Howitzer Edition Vodka from Refurbished Powder Tubes (Shawn)Spyrt Worldwide unveiled a limited-edition 3-liter vodka bottle shaped like a Ukrainian howitzer powder charge tube, crafted from refurbished artillery casings. The design honors Ukrainian resilience, with each bottle made from actual refurbished powder charge tubes sourced from Ukraine. It’s positioned as a collector’s item blending military heritage with premium Ukrainian grain spirit.

GUN FIGHTS

• No one stepped into the arena this week.

WLS IS LIFESTYLE

GOING BALLISTIC

• Anti-Gunners Pivot to New Narrative on Pretti Shooting to Push Gun Control (Savage)Anti-gun activists are attempting to reframe the fatal shooting of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman—initially dubbed the ‘Pretti shooting’—by emphasizing the shooter’s legally owned firearms rather than his criminal history or prior threats. The article critiques this shift as a desperate tactic amid failures in states like Virginia and Minnesota to pass sweeping gun bans. It highlights how gun control groups ignore facts that don’t fit their agenda, such as the shooter’s AR-15 being grandfathered under existing laws.
• Atrius Development Group Calls on Industry to Unite Against ATF Pistol Brace Rule (Savage)Atrius Development Group has issued an urgent call to action for the firearms industry to join a consolidated lawsuit challenging the ATF’s pistol brace rule. The group aims to streamline legal challenges by centralizing efforts, reducing fragmentation and costs for manufacturers and users. This move seeks to efficiently contest the rule’s overreach on pistol braces and stabilizing devices.
• Hawaii Democrats Escalate Carry Restrictions Ahead of Supreme Court Pistol Permit Ruling (Savage)Hawaiian Democrats are advancing legislation to impose additional restrictions on concealed carry permits just before a pivotal Supreme Court decision on the state’s draconian pistol licensing process. The bills would require applicants to demonstrate a ‘special need’ for self-defense and mandate annual renewals with ongoing justification. This move aims to fortify Hawaii’s restrictive gun regime amid looming federal scrutiny.
• Media Ignores Study: More Guns, Less Crime Across America (Savage)A recent study confirms John Lott’s ‘More Guns, Less Crime’ thesis, showing states with higher concealed carry rates experience lower violent crime. Despite robust data from 1990-2022 covering all 50 states, mainstream media has largely overlooked the findings. The research highlights permitless carry states leading in gun ownership while posting the lowest murder rates.
• Giffords Org Admits 2nd Amendment Rights Are Fundamental While Slamming ICE Agent Shooting (Shawn)The Giffords Law Center acknowledged that Second Amendment rights are fundamental but criticized ICE agent Alex Pretti for allegedly violating gun laws during a fatal shooting. The organization highlighted Pretti’s prior legal troubles and pushed for stricter enforcement amid the incident’s political fallout. This comes as debates intensify over federal agents’ gun rights and accountability.

REVIEWS

• Review: Jesse k from WI (krista)Jesse k asks:
  Did you gentlemen see that the next DCC audio book has a release date on audible?? May 12th 2026. Possibly you are reading this right b4 then. While Discount Dan’s, Salvage System, and Mage Tank was quite good, in my quest to find the next best thing to DCC I think I finally found it. Narrated by the voice of Carl, also by soundbooth theater….go listen to Riftside and tell me that Rock the violence loving bloodthirsty talking hammer isn’t Jeremy….
• Review: Josh from TX (krista)5 squares. Long time listener, first time reviewer. What is there to say? Its like hanging out with all your autist friends. Great times.

  Josh

•  by Listener (krista)Peter J – 5 squares, with everything crazy going on in the gun industry and the US politics, it’s nice to hear the hard things with a dark comedic twist. With that said Jeremy is right. “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing” love the show and even miss A-A ron, mostly just when Jeremy yells at him. Keep up the good work. No notes