Episode 1

Dana White Got THIS Rifle (ft. Stellar Arms)

Published on: 18th February, 2026

In the first episode of Season 3, John and Kailey sit down with Scott Melton of Stellar Arms, a precision AR manufacturer with aerospace roots. From SpaceX-level tolerances to CNC-machined, diamond-cut “Executive” rifles, Stellar Arms builds AR-15 platforms designed for performance, reliability, and legacy.

We cover what sets a precision AR apart, why tight tolerances matter for accuracy, custom coatings and engraved limited editions, collaborations with Dana White and Andrei Arlovski, and the growing renaissance of guns as both tools and art.

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Thanks to Palmetto State Armory for sponsoring our guest gear!

Special thanks to our sponsor for supporting this season!

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Patriot Mobile – Get 1 month free with code “GOA” at checkout on their website!

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About the Podcast

State of the Second
The State of The Second, an interview style podcast focusing on the impact that legislation and activism is having on the firearms industry, and the second amendment community.
"State of the Second isn’t your typical 2A podcast—it’s a backstage pass into the firearms industry.

Hosted by Kailey Nieman and John Fahrner, we sit down with the real people behind the brands, builds, and big ideas shaping the gun world. From shop owners to social media legends, each episode dives into how they got started, what keeps them going, and what it really takes to make it in the firearms industry, plus the battles they face along the way. If you’ve ever wondered how to break into the industry or what it’s like behind the scenes, this is your front-row seat."