Independent reviews since 2007
Gear gets used here.
Industry Outsider publishes hands-on reviews of firearms, optics, knives, flashlights, hearing protection, outdoor gear, and shooting accessories. The focus is practical: use the product, learn where it works, find where it does not, and give readers enough information to decide whether it belongs in their own setup.
About Brian
I’m Brian, the owner and editor of Industry Outsider. My first trip to the range was with my father more than 40 years ago, and recreational shooting has remained one of my favorite ways to spend time ever since.
My shooting interests cover rimfire firearms, pistol-caliber carbines, shotguns, and bolt-action centerfire rifles. I enjoy my 6.5 Creedmoor, but I also spend time with .300 BLK, especially because I seem to be increasingly drawn to quieter shooting experiences. The amount of suppressed rimfire coverage on this site probably gives that away.
Beyond firearms, I spend plenty of time with optics, knives, flashlights, hearing protection, and practical upgrades. I’m based in Utah, where I handle most of the testing, photography, writing, editing, and site maintenance.
What Industry Outsider Covers
The site includes product reviews, shooting sports articles, comparison guides, upgrade guides, and technical explainers. Most are written for enthusiasts who want useful information before spending money or changing a firearm, optic, knife, or piece of gear.
How Products Are Tested
There is no single test that fits every product. Firearms and shooting accessories get installed, fired, handled repeatedly, and used across realistic range sessions. Optics get mounted and zeroed. Knives, lights, hearing protection, and outdoor gear get carried and used over time.
The point is not to repeat a spec sheet. A useful review should explain how something 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 and do not 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 enthusiasts testing products and sharing real experiences without working for the companies making them.
The editorial focus has changed, but the basic idea has not: use the gear, pay attention, and publish something more useful than the manufacturer’s marketing copy.
Former Contributors
Industry Outsider has benefited from 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.
Questions, corrections, or a product worth testing?
Readers can send article suggestions and corrections. Companies can reach out about products for testing, media opportunities, or other editorial inquiries.