Industry Outsider publishes hands-on reviews of firearms, optics, knives, flashlights, hearing protection, outdoor gear, and shooting accessories. The site was founded in 2007 and now includes more than 2,300 published articles. Today, the main focus is recreational shooting, practical upgrades, and gear evaluated through real use rather than a summary of manufacturer claims.
About Brian Menin
I’m Brian Menin, the owner and editor of Industry Outsider. My first trip to the range was with my father more than 40 years ago. Since then, shooting has remained one of my favorite recreational activities.
I have personally written more than 1,700 articles for this site. My interests include rimfire firearms, pistol-caliber carbines, shotguns, optics, knives, flashlights, hearing protection, and practical upgrades. I am based in Utah, where I handle most of the testing, photography, writing, editing, and site maintenance.
You can see more of my work in Brian’s article archive.
What Industry Outsider Covers
The site includes product reviews, comparison guides, upgrade guides, and technical explainers. Most articles are written for recreational shooters who want useful information before spending money or changing a firearm or piece of gear.
Current coverage includes product reviews, shooting sports articles, optics, knives, flashlights, hearing protection, and outdoor equipment.
How Products Are Tested
There is no single test that fits every product. Firearms and shooting accessories are evaluated through installation, live fire, repeated handling, reliability checks, and practical use. Optics are mounted, zeroed, and used in the field or at the range. Knives, lights, hearing protection, and outdoor gear are carried and used over time.
The goal is not to repeat specifications. Reviews should explain how a product works, where it performs well, what could be improved, and who is most likely to benefit from it.
Product Samples, Affiliate Links, and Editorial Independence
Some products are provided by manufacturers for testing and evaluation. When that happens, the article says so. Some links are affiliate links, which may earn a commission at no extra cost to the reader.
A product sample or affiliate relationship does not guarantee positive coverage. Companies do not control the conclusions or approve the final article before publication. More details are available on the Deals, Coupon Codes, and Affiliate Disclosure page.
How Industry Outsider Started
Industry Outsider began as a cycling blog in 2007. Over time, it expanded into outdoor gear, travel, photography, and recreational shooting. The name came from a group of enthusiasts who enjoyed testing gear and sharing their experiences, even though they did not work for the companies making the products.
The editorial focus has changed, but the basic goal has not. Industry Outsider connects readers with useful products and the information needed to make better decisions. We also appreciate companies that build durable products, support their employees, and manufacture responsibly.
Former Contributors
Industry Outsider benefited from the work of many contributors and testers over the years. Special thanks go to Mark, Alex, Ryan, Alex Dos, Luis, Tamara, Carley, and Rob. Their work remains part of the site’s history and archive.
Contact Industry Outsider
Readers can share questions, corrections, and article suggestions through the contact page. Companies may also use that page to discuss products for testing, media opportunities, or other editorial inquiries.