Owen "Buz" Mills, Gunsite Academy | GUNS Magazine Podcast #10

This podcast features an in-depth interview with Owen "Buzz" Mills, owner of Gunsite Academy and NRA board member. Mills discusses his journey from the Marine Corps to building a successful business career, ultimately purchasing Gunsite Academy. He highlights the academy's evolution, its focus on practical defensive shooting, and its expansion of programs, including those for women and youth. Mills also shares his perspective on the NRA's current challenges and his commitment to its preservation.

Quick Summary

Buzz Mills, owner of Gunsite Academy and NRA board member, discusses his journey revitalizing the renowned firearms training facility and his commitment to preserving the NRA's mission amidst current challenges. He emphasizes practical defensive shooting, expanded training for women and youth, and the importance of experienced instructors.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Guns Magazine Podcast
  2. 00:31Interview with Buzz Mills
  3. 01:45Buzz Mills: Owner of Gunsite Academy
  4. 02:50From Marine to Business Mogul
  5. 05:51Why Buy Gunsite?
  6. 06:08Competitive Shooting Roots
  7. 07:19Meeting Jeff Cooper
  8. 09:25Purchasing Gunsite Academy
  9. 11:11Revitalizing Gunsite Academy
  10. 13:36Expanding Training for Women
  11. 19:06Youth Programs at Gunsite
  12. 21:13Legacy for Gunsite & Industry
  13. 22:00New Career as EMT
  14. 23:27Challenges of Business Succession
  15. 24:22Future Plans for Gunsite
  16. 26:48Gunsite's Adjunct Instructors
  17. 29:30Gunsite Instructor Program Rigor
  18. 32:00NRA Board Member Perspective
  19. 32:29Early NRA Membership Memories
  20. 34:25Historical NRA Controversies
  21. 36:22NRA Challenges in 2019
  22. 37:38Adversaries and Incrementalism
  23. 38:32PR Campaigns Against Gun Rights
  24. 39:45NRA's Business Practices Audit
  25. 41:14NRA Lawsuits and Future
  26. 42:30Preserving the NRA's Mission
  27. 43:30Commendation for Buzz Mills
  28. 44:17Outro: Buzz Mills & NRA
  29. 44:29Housekeeping & Listener Notes
  30. 45:53End of Episode

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Buzz Mills and what is his role in the firearms industry?

Buzz Mills is the owner of Gunsite Academy, a renowned firearms training facility, and a board member of the National Rifle Association (NRA). He is recognized for revitalizing Gunsite Academy after purchasing it in 1999 and has been instrumental in expanding its training programs.

What is the philosophy behind Gunsite Academy's training?

Gunsite Academy focuses on practical, defensive firearms training, emphasizing that real-world encounters can occur in challenging conditions like rain or snow. The training aims to equip individuals with the skills and mindset to handle firearms effectively and safely in any situation.

What are Buzz Mills' views on the NRA's current situation?

As an NRA board member, Buzz Mills acknowledges the organization faces significant internal and external challenges, including lawsuits and public scrutiny. However, he remains committed to its preservation, believing the NRA has a long history of doing good work and is vital for advocating Second Amendment rights.

What has been Buzz Mills' impact on Gunsite Academy?

Since acquiring Gunsite Academy in 1999, Buzz Mills has overseen significant infrastructure improvements, diversified training offerings to include women and youth, and maintained its reputation as a leading firearms training institution, ensuring its continued relevance and success.

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