Episode #314
Episode 314: Hunters HD Gold Behind the Lens with Jake Martin and Christian Sailer, USPSA National Champion
Brian and Jake sit down with Christian Sailer fresh off his seventh USPSA Open Nationals title. Christian walked through his approach to the match despite only having about 2,000 rounds through his open gun since the last World Shoot and only five practice sessions leading in, explaining how he balances a full-time job with elite-level competition. He broke down his mistake on the first stage, his recovery strategy across the following days, and the four-stage push he needed at the end to seal the win. Christian detailed his training philosophy, splitting focus between fundamentals and specific stage execution drills built from a running document of mistakes he reviews after every match. The conversation shifted to IPSC Nationals, where Christian confirmed he'll be shooting Limited Optics on Squad 301 alongside Eric Grauffel, JJ Racaza, Aaron Adams, and others, setting up the long-awaited head-to-head matchup he's been calling for since 2019. He shared his frustration with the equipment failure at Carry Optics Nationals 2024 that cost him that first showdown, and his respect for Grauffel's accomplishments alongside confidence in his own preparation. Other topics included the shift in super squad culture from chirpy and cutthroat to collaborative and honest, his gratitude for John Bliger's second-place finish while simultaneously vending JV Training Accessories in the Hunters HD Gold tent, feedback on stage design (no gimmicks, no fixed time, no Virginia count), and strong advocacy for enforced super squad policies with defined criteria. Christian closed by sharing what really drives him now: training American military and law enforcement, which he considers as meaningful as his own competition, with his next big goal being October 2-4 at IPSC Nationals. Elevate your game with our trusted partners: Right To Bear Use Code HuntersHD10 When you sign up part of your contribution will go back to the Shooting Sports. Get Carry Insurance with a Company that Supports the Shooting Sports. IWI Use Code HDG15 for 15% off your order RealAvid Use Code RAHHDG for 10% off your order Ghost HolsterUSA Use Code HuntersHD 15% off Jessie James JJFU Coffee Use Code HuntersHD for 5% off ACE Virtual Shooting Use Code HHDG for 10% off your subscription and physical handset. Imperium Roots Use Code HuntersHD for 20% off Speed Beez Use Code HuntersHD for 10% off Discover the world of competitive shooting sports through the eyes of industry leaders, top athletes, and match directors in the Behind the Lens Podcast, hosted by Brian Conley of Hunters HD Gold. Delve into captivating conversations that reveal the passion, dedication, and skill that define the shooting sports community. Brian, a steadfast supporter of the shooting sports, brings unique insights and expertise to each episode. Uncover the latest trends, techniques, and stories from the people who shape the shooting sports landscape. Join us as we explore the dynamic world of competitive shooting, the shooting industry, and the remarkable individuals who make it all possible. Hunters HD Gold Links: Website: https://huntershdgold.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/huntershdgold/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HuntersHDGold YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBWH4kOqaX-x34uYOviQ-tg United States Practical Shooting Association Official Eyewear: https://uspsa.org Steel Challenge Shooting Association Official Eyewear: https://scsa.org Metal Madness Official Eyewear: https://...
