Gunsmiths, Rifles, Warriors, Salvation: The Brownells Story

How an Iowa startup rocketed to a global powerhouse.

Two firearms industry legends meet, as Gun Talk’s Tom Gresham sits down with Pete Brownell, CEO of @brownells, to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the heralded family-owned firearms supply company.

The conversation covers the company’s history, starting with Pete’s grandfather, Bob Brownell, who founded it in 1939. Initially a home gunsmith and NRA writer, Bob responded to a growing demand for firearm parts and tools, significantly impacting the industry with his "Encyclopedia of Modern Firearms."

Brownells has grown from its humble beginnings to become a global leader, adhering to values of quality, customer service, and a deep understanding of gunsmithing needs. Pete emphasizes the company’s culture of collaboration and personal relationships, reflecting their customer-first philosophy. Initiatives like "Back to the Lodge" foster a supportive community among employees.

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Pete also shares his own journey, working in the construction industry and Silicon Valley before joining Brownells. His experiences taught him leadership and modern business practices, which he brought back to the family business. He also talks about his passion for mountain climbing and an upcoming expedition to Kilimanjaro with veterans, aiming to inspire resilience and recovery.

Brownells has expanded into selling complete firearms, with a focus on their acclaimed BRN line. Looking ahead, Pete and his company plan to enhance the customer experience with better information and to explore new markets like preparedness and survival gear.
Throughout the interview, Pete’s respect for his family’s legacy and commitment to innovation and customer service are evident. The conversation highlights Brownells’ evolution while maintaining its foundational values, ensuring its continued success and relevance in the firearms industry.

Learn more about Brownells here: https://snp.link/9fc0ef7a

Tom Gresham is the host of Gun Talk Radio, the original national radio show about guns and gun-related topics, and is celebrating its 29th year. Gun Talk runs on nearly 300 stations weekly across the U.S. and is also available as a podcast – accessible wherever you find your podcasts.

Learn more about Gun Talk Radio here: https://www.guntalk.com/gun-talk-radio

Follow Tom Gresham on X here: https://x.com/guntalk

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Published in Pod Cast, Videos