Trigger Talk Tuesday – February 17th, 2025: Trigger Talk Tuesday: Winter Skills and Everyday Carry Essentials

The February 17 episode of Trigger Talk Tuesday featured a more relaxed, two-person conversation between host Clint Gage and John from Green Monster Firearms, creating an informal and conversational tone while still covering practical firearm topics and industry updates. With winter weather limiting range time for many shooters, the discussion opened with a focus on maintaining shooting proficiency during cold months. John highlighted the importance of recognizing that shooting is a diminishing skill and introduced tools like the Mantis dry-fire training system as an effective way to practice at home. He explained how the system uses sensors and a laser to evaluate trigger control, grip pressure, draw time, and movement, providing real-time feedback and scoring to help shooters correct bad habits and improve consistency. The emphasis was on reinforcing proper fundamentals even when live-fire practice isn’t possible, while still encouraging shooters to return to the range as soon as conditions allow.

The conversation then shifted to cold-weather challenges, particularly hand dexterity and grip control. John discussed specialized shooting gloves designed to maintain warmth while allowing proper trigger feel and manipulation of controls, recommending snug-fitting options that preserve tactile feedback. He stressed the importance of training with whatever gear you plan to use, reinforcing that muscle memory and familiarity are critical components of safe and effective shooting.

Clint and John also discussed a recent trade show trip to Oklahoma City, where Green Monster explored new product lines and placed orders for upcoming inventory. Unlike SHOT Show, this event allowed for direct purchasing, and John highlighted potential additions such as Maxim Defense PDWs and integrally suppressed platforms. The broader takeaway was Green Monster’s ongoing effort to bring in innovative, high-quality products while staying responsive to customer interest.

In the second half of the show, the focus turned to everyday carry (EDC). John emphasized that concealed carry is highly personal, depending on body type, carry method, and comfort level. He outlined several of the most popular slimline carry options—including the Glock 43X, SIG P365, Springfield Hellcat Pro, and FN Reflex—explaining differences in grip length, capacity, and control. A key theme was fit and feel: if a firearm does not feel right in the hand, shooters should not force it. The discussion also touched on extended magazines, balance concerns, and the importance of practice when adjusting to modifications.

Finally, the episode addressed rising ammunition prices and industry-wide cost pressures driven by materials and tariffs. John explained that Green Monster is working to keep case pricing competitive, noting current bulk pricing options and encouraging shooters to plan efficient range sessions of about 90 minutes to avoid fatigue and reinforce good habits. The show closed with reminders to follow Green Monster on Facebook and Instagram for promotions and updates, wrapping up an episode that combined practical advice, product insight, and approachable industry discussion.