From Addiction to Precision Shooting: Sam Carlson's Journey & Suppressor Industry Insights | Ep 009

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Sam Carlson from Thunder Beast Arms as we explore the critical role suppressors play in precision rifle shooting. Sam shares his personal journey from Army tanker to competitive shooter to working at one of the industry's most respected suppressor manufacturers, plus his experience running the Cheyenne Precision Rifle Hoe Down. We discuss the health implications of overpressure in competition shooting, how to choose the right suppressor for your application, the balance between suppressors and muzzle brakes for target acquisition, and what makes a great match director. Sam also breaks down his advice for new shooters, the importance of proper equipment selection, and why community matters in this sport. Whether you're considering your first suppressor purchase, looking to understand the health benefits of running a can, or interested in match directing — this conversation delivers practical insights from someone who's lived it. Listen to us on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0WhBQn3hUE1XarAFwAd2OU Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cadre-podcast/id1806120803 TRAIN WITH US: https://www.thecadretraining.com DOWNLOAD OUR EQUIPMENT KIT: https://www.thecadretraining.com/kit Download The Cadre DOPE Card: https://www.thecadretraining.com/resources TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Introduction | Sam Carlson from Thunder Beast Arms 2:46 - Sam's Journey into Precision Shooting | From Army Tanker to Competitor 3:03 - Early Match Experiences & Equipment Evolution | Learning the Hard Way 3:20 - Upgrading Gear & Finding What Works | Optics, Chassis & Reloading 3:37 - Transition to Thunder Beast | From Competitor to Industry Professional 3:53 - The Growing Role of Suppressors in Precision Shooting 4:12 - Health & Performance | Overpressure Risks Every Competitor Should Know 4:27 - The Future of Suppressors | Market Demand & Innovation 4:42 - Choosing Your First Suppressor | Research, Testing & Customer Service 5:02 - Sam's Personal Insights | Community, Collaboration & Future Goals 5:19 - What Makes a Great Match Director | Course Design & Fairness 5:42 - Cheyenne Precision Rifle Hoe Down | Building an Inclusive Match 1:21:51 - Match Structure & Community | Loaner Rifles & Supporting New Shooters 1:29:43 - Challenges & Adaptations | Wind Calls, Positioning & Growth Mindset 1:30:30 - Advice for New Shooters | Patience, Positivity & Learning from Experience 1:33:54 - Final Thoughts | Contact Info, Barrel Burner App & Thunder Beast Support CONNECT WITH THE TEAM: Follow Sam Carlson: https://www.instagram.com/dadthesam Follow Phillip: https://www.instagram.com/velayo_0317 Follow Jon: https://www.instagram.com/thecadre.jon Follow The Cadre: https://www.instagram.com/thecadre.training Precision Through Chaos