The Proof House – Episode 3: Mike Loder

Published on August 13, 2025
Duration: 79:15

This episode of The Proof House features an in-depth interview with Mike Loder, detailing his extensive career in the firearms industry. Loder shares his journey from a childhood fascination with guns to becoming a gun buyer, gunsmith apprentice, and eventually a key figure at Wilson Combat. The discussion covers his experiences with gun collecting, estate sales, the evolution of the firearms market, and the importance of innovation within companies like Wilson Combat. Loder also recounts personal hunting stories and his ideal firearm for modern use.

Quick Summary

Mike Loder's career in firearms spans from childhood interest to a key role at Wilson Combat. He was instrumental in developing the 'Fine Gun Room' at Bass Pro Shops and emphasizes continuous innovation and customer focus as the future for Wilson Combat.

Chapters

  1. 00:00:00Introduction and Early Life
  2. 00:12:00Youthful Pursuits and First Firearms
  3. 00:36:00High School and Outdoor Activities
  4. 01:07:00College and Handloading Ammunition
  5. 01:39:00Apprenticeship and Gunsmithing Career
  6. 02:04:00Ranch Life and Running a Gunsmith Shop
  7. 02:45:00Transition to Bass Pro Shops
  8. 03:14:00Establishing the Fine Gun Room
  9. 04:44:00Moving to Wilson Combat
  10. 05:43:00Corporate vs. Gun Dealer Business
  11. 07:30:00Collecting and Estate Sales
  12. 11:13:00Notable Finds and Collections
  13. 13:11:00Transitioning to Wilson Combat Sales
  14. 15:43:00Day-to-Day at Wilson Combat
  15. 17:40:00The Business of Selling Firearms
  16. 19:20:00Evolution of Communication in the Industry
  17. 21:04:00The Future of Wilson Combat
  18. 23:06:00Innovation and Product Development
  19. 25:43:00The Next Big Thing in Firearms
  20. 28:45:00Storytelling and Foundational Experiences
  21. 32:04:00A Memorable Hunting Trip
  22. 35:51:00Building the Ideal Firearm
  23. 37:51:00Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Mike Loder get started in the firearms industry?

Mike Loder's interest in firearms began in elementary school, reading gun magazines. He progressed to building a black powder pistol kit at age eight and later worked as an apprentice gunsmith, eventually moving into sales and purchasing roles within major sporting goods companies before joining Wilson Combat.

What was Mike Loder's role in establishing the 'Fine Gun Room' at Bass Pro Shops?

Around 2003-2004, Mike Loder was instrumental in creating and implementing the 'Fine Gun Room' concept at Bass Pro Shops. This involved managing the acquisition, appraisal, and sale of higher-grade firearms, collections, and used guns.

What does Mike Loder see as the future of Wilson Combat?

Loder believes Wilson Combat's future is driven by continuous innovation, adapting to customer needs, and maintaining exceptional craftsmanship. He highlights the company's culture of innovation, exemplified by products like the Project One, as key to its long-term success.

What is Mike Loder's ideal firearm for modern use?

For modern use, Mike Loder prefers a lightweight, high-quality bolt-action rifle, similar to those made by NULA. He would have it chambered in .308 Winchester, citing its widespread ammunition availability and effectiveness, particularly in Midwest hunting scenarios.

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