Firearms and Self-Defense: Expert Insights from Trigger Talk Tuesday - Sep 2nd, 2025

The September 2nd edition of Trigger Talk Tuesday, presented by Green Monstah Firearms and Shadowhawk Defense, opened with a lively conversation about everyone’s Labor Day weekend before diving into firearms, training, and store news. The show also welcomed back Randy, who had been away for 100 days on a humanitarian deployment in Gaza. He shared that he was tasked with helping manage food and supply distribution in an active war zone, describing it as extremely challenging and often dangerous. His return brought a sense of relief and gratitude from the hosts, who were glad to have him back safely and back in the studio.

Shadow Hawk instructors highlighted their recent Masters Elite match, an event designed to push competitors to the limit by combining the most difficult stages from throughout the year into one intense competition. The match was demanding, but competitors appreciated the challenge and left both exhausted and satisfied. Looking ahead, Shadow Hawk previewed upcoming classes, including Concealed Carry Level 1 on September 6, Carbine training on September 7, and a two-day Close Quarters Battle (CQB) package on September 13. They explained that CQB training is focused more on problem-solving and tactics than shooting, teaching students how to clear rooms, navigate angles, and think critically in high-pressure environments. Unlike action movies or video games, the instructors emphasized that this training is methodical, structured, and mentally challenging. They also mentioned their Extreme Close Quarters course, which is more advanced and physically demanding, requiring participants to have prior experience. This course focuses on self-defense in real-world ambush scenarios, including shooting from the ground, creating space against an attacker, and engaging threats at extremely close distances.

The discussion then shifted to Shadow Hawk’s regular shooting sports schedule, which runs every weekend. Events include Two Gun, USPSA, PCSL, and Steel Challenge. While some matches, like Two Gun, are geared toward advanced participants, beginners are encouraged to spectate and even try a stage under supervision if they are proficient and safe. The instructors explained that shooting sports not only build skill and confidence but are also a highly enjoyable and stress-relieving hobby. They encouraged new shooters to bring their own eye and ear protection and come out to experience the positive, welcoming atmosphere of the competitions.

On the Green Monstah Firearms side, the team promoted their September suppressor special, where the store is covering the $200 federal tax stamp for most suppressor purchases. They noted that filing early could save customers money and time, as ATF backlogs are expected in the new year. In addition, the shop has received new hunting ammunition from Hornady and SIG, just in time for the fall hunting season, and is running an ammo-can promotion where customers who buy four boxes of ammo can purchase a can for only $5. These offers were presented in a lighthearted exchange, with the hosts joking about putting John on the spot to reveal deals before Richie could rein him in.

Looking ahead, the Green Monstah team shared some exciting business developments. After recently tackling multiple pallets of new products arriving at the store, they announced upcoming trips to expand their custom work offerings. John and Richie will head to Ohio to train with Glitter Guns, learning the process of firearm glitter customization. Later in the month, they will travel to Oregon for advanced Cerakote training, which will allow Green Monstah to offer more specialized and creative finishes for customers. These training opportunities, combined with new inventory, will expand the store’s capabilities and offerings in the months ahead.

The show wrapped with reminders that listeners can find more information on training, shooting sports, and store updates at shadowhawkdefense.com and greenmonstahfirearms.com. Both organizations are active on Facebook and continue to engage with the local community. Overall, the episode blended updates on training, shooting events, and store promotions with stories of service and camaraderie, underscoring the shared mission of safety, education, and the responsible enjoyment of firearms.