Concealed Carry Podcast S13E6: “Keys to Writing #1 Bestsellers w/ John Gilstrap”

At SHOT Show 2026, Riley Bowman sits down in the Heckler & Koch booth with bestselling thriller author John Gilstrap for a wide-ranging conversation that blends storytelling, firearms realism, and the mindset of responsibility that concealed carriers live by.

John talks about where his writing career really started, from childhood stories to the early “practice novels” that never saw daylight, and the shift that helped him find his voice and break through with Nathan’s Run. Riley shares what it’s like discovering the Jonathan Grave series as a newer reader, starting with Zero Sum, and why Gilstrap’s “high-stakes, decisive action” style hooks so many fans.

They also get into the technical side: why John teaches “Bangs and Booms 101” at writers’ conferences (and how often writers mix up bullets vs. cartridges), how he approaches research for weapons and tactics, and why HK platforms became a staple in his books after getting real-world exposure and support from professionals who live the work.

The conversation culminates with Gilstrap’s newest Jonathan Grave novel, Scorched Earth (Book 17), including what readers can expect, the stakes behind the plot, and why it’s available to pre-order now.

Finally, John leaves Concealed Carry listeners with grounded advice that applies to every responsible armed citizen: train, learn from mistakes, know the law, know your limitations, and always have a plan—because carrying isn’t about looking cool; it’s a serious commitment to self-protection and protecting the people you love.

Guest: John Gilstrap
Host: Riley Bowman
Recorded at: SHOT Show 2026 (HK Booth)

👉 Pre-order John Gilstrap’s Scorched Earth now and check out the Jonathan Grave series if you love thrillers with real-world detail and a justice-driven edge.

As always, any questions or suggestions for future episodes can be submitted to podcast@concealedcarry.com!

Safety & Legal Reminder: Laws vary by location. Concealed Carry Podcast and Concealed Carry, Inc. are not attorneys and this content is not legal advice. Seek qualified local legal guidance, follow all firearm safety rules, and stay current on laws where you live and travel. More firearm safety info: ConcealedCarry.com