Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn's Crystal Ball Predictions - Gun Guys Ep. 52

Published on December 31, 2021
Duration: 30:57

Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn discuss significant shifts in the firearms training market, attributing contraction to COVID-19 and ammo shortages. They observe changing student demographics and critique the trend of adopting military gear for civilian use. The conversation highlights the industry's move towards 9mm polymer pistols and the increasing prevalence of red dot sights, while also touching on impactful models like the SIG P365 and the innovation seen in the Staccato 2011 platform and Laugo Arms Alien.

Quick Summary

The firearms training business is contracting due to COVID-19 and ammo shortages making classes expensive. Key handgun trends include the dominance of 9mm polymer pistols and the rise of red dot sights. Impactful models like the SIG P365 and Staccato 2011 are discussed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Training Market Trends
  2. 01:12COVID Impact & Ammo Shortages
  3. 02:24Changing Student Demographics & YouTube Instructors
  4. 03:32Gear Trends: Blackwater Fever
  5. 05:13Military vs. Civilian Training
  6. 06:40Future of the Training Market
  7. 09:43Handgun Trends: 9mm & Polymer
  8. 11:10Iron Sights vs. Red Dots
  9. 15:51Impactful Pistol Models: P365, Shield, P320
  10. 17:48Staccato & the 2011 Platform
  11. 19:50Laugo Arms Alien Innovation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges facing the firearms training industry today?

The firearms training industry faces challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent ammunition shortages, which increase costs and reduce accessibility for students attending multi-day classes. There's also a critique of 'YouTube instructors' and a shift in student demographics.

What are the key handgun trends discussed by Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn?

The industry has decisively moved towards 9mm polymer-framed pistols. Red dot sights are becoming the standard future trend for handguns, offering potential advantages despite a learning curve and maintenance requirements.

Which pistol models are highlighted as particularly impactful?

The SIG P365 is noted as a game-changer for subcompacts. The Staccato platform successfully adapted the 9mm double-stack 1911 for self-defense. The SIG P320 series is recognized as the new military standard.

What advice do Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn give to new firearms instructors?

Ken Hackathorn advises new instructors not to quit their day jobs, suggesting that the 'Rockstar' instructor career cycle is very short. He predicts the training market will likely contract, emphasizing the need for financial stability outside of instructing.

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