Starting a Gun Company During a Pandemic (ft. Rost Martin) | EP 54

State of the Second

Kailey and John welcome Chris Toomer, co-founder of Rost Martin, to discuss the inception and vision behind their new firearms company. The conversation begins with a personal backstory, revealing how Chris and his wife Stephanie were inspired by their family legacies in the firearms industry. Drawing from their previous experiences at Springfield Armory, they recognized a gap in the market for quality firearms at an affordable price. The duo emphasizes their commitment to the Second Amendment and their aim to provide accessible, feature-rich firearms for both seasoned gun owners and first-time buyers. Chris elaborates on the challenges of launching a firearms company, particularly the regulatory hurdles and the extensive development process required to bring a new pistol to market. He shares insights into the design philosophy behind their introductory pistol, focusing on ergonomics and reliability while keeping manufacturing in the U.S. The duo’s passion for advocacy shines through as they discuss their involvement in community events and their desire to educate new gun owners, especially women, about responsible firearm use and ownership. The episode encapsulates the entrepreneurial spirit of Chris and Stephanie as they navigate the competitive landscape of the firearms industry while staying true to their core values of quality, affordability, and advocacy.

Learn more about Rost Martin: https://www.rostmartin.com

Takeaways:

• Chris Toomer and his wife started Rost Martin to offer high-quality firearms at budget-friendly prices.
• The company aims to support the Second Amendment and provide firearms that are accessible to new gun owners.
• Their first pistol design focuses on essential features without requiring costly aftermarket upgrades.
• Ross Martin emphasizes community involvement, participating in events to advocate for responsible gun ownership.
• Chris and Stephanie's backgrounds in the firearms industry helped them navigate the complexities of starting a new company.
• The duo plans to expand their product line based on customer feedback and market demand.