JULIE GOLOB SHOOTS SPRINGFIELD!

Published on November 4, 2025
Duration: 40:14

This episode features a discussion with competitive shooter Julie Golob and Guns & Ammo editor Jim Tar, covering Golob's transition to Springfield Armory, her career in shooting sports, and technical insights into various firearms. They discuss shooting techniques, the viability of .380 ACP, the benefits of compensated firearms like the Echelon, and the importance of backup iron sights. Golob shares her experiences with the US Army Marksmanship Unit and her early influences in shooting.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory Echelon's integrated compensator effectively reduces muzzle rise by about 25% without compromising reliability. This design utilizes a roll cut in the slide and barrel, with a flat surface on the slide acting as a blast baffle, offering a more reliable solution than traditional barrel-mounted compensators.

Chapters

  1. 00:16Introduction: Guns & Ammo Buzz Podcast
  2. 00:22Julie Golob Joins Springfield Armory
  3. 01:04Early Shooting Career & AMU Entry
  4. 03:19Military Police Training & M9 Qualification
  5. 04:05The Heyday of the AMU
  6. 05:05First Female on AMU Action Shooting Team
  7. 06:03Memorable Competition Moments
  8. 06:52Trigger Finger Placement Technique
  9. 07:32Two-Handed Grip Technique
  10. 08:06Iron Sights vs. Optics
  11. 08:34Upstate New York Shooting Culture
  12. 10:26Year-Round Shooting in Upstate NY
  13. 10:53Making a Career in Shooting Sports
  14. 12:122012 World Action Pistol Championships
  15. 13:15Camaraderie in Practical Shooting
  16. 16:16Experience Shooting Springfield Pistols
  17. 17:34Transition to Springfield Armory
  18. 19:15The Armory Life Magazine Cover
  19. 20:25Interview Reflections & Hellcat 380
  20. 20:40Hellcat 380 Capabilities
  21. 22:31Viability of .380 ACP for Self-Defense
  22. 25:03Springfield Echelon 9mm & Compensator
  23. 26:48Trijicon Optics & Backup Sights
  24. 27:48Backup Iron Sights on Red Dot Systems
  25. 29:02Echelon Compensator Design & Performance
  26. 30:27Echelon for Competition vs. Self-Defense
  27. 32:33Classic Pistols: 1911 & Hi-Power
  28. 34:34Springfield Armory's Classic Designs
  29. 36:01Introducing Kids to Shooting Sports
  30. 36:39Springfield Armory & Hillsdale College
  31. 37:04Collegiate Action Pistol Competition
  32. 39:09Hillsdale Shooting Center Investment
  33. 39:49Closing Remarks & Future Championships

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of the Springfield Armory Echelon's compensator?

The Springfield Armory Echelon features an integrated single-port compensator that effectively reduces muzzle rise by approximately 25%. This design works like a compensator due to a roll cut in the slide and barrel, with a flat surface on the slide acting as a blast baffle, all without negatively impacting reliability.

Is the .380 ACP cartridge still viable for self-defense?

Yes, modern .380 ACP ammunition performs significantly better than in the past, thanks to advancements like FBI testing protocols. It offers sufficient penetration and expansion, making it a viable self-defense cartridge with the advantages of less recoil and potentially higher capacity than 9mm.

What makes the Springfield Armory Hellcat 380 a good concealed carry option?

The Hellcat 380 provides all the desired features of a concealed carry pistol, such as red dot capability and good ergonomics, in a smaller caliber. It's designed for those sensitive to recoil, offering a softer shooting experience without compromising on essential features or concealability.

Why are backup iron sights important on firearms with red dot sights?

Backup iron sights are crucial because any electronic component, including red dot sights, can fail. Having iron sights provides a reliable aiming solution if the red dot's battery dies or the optic malfunctions, ensuring you can still effectively engage targets.

What was Julie Golob's experience joining the US Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU)?

Julie Golob was recruited to the AMU after excelling as a junior shooter. She entered as a Military Police officer, her MOS, to be stationed near Fort Benning. She had a one-year guarantee to prove her worth, earn her 'black hat,' and start traveling with the team.

Related News

All News →

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from Guns & Ammo

View all →