This week on “Two Guys One Gun,” Alexander is joined by an American icon, Chef Andre Rush, to discuss iconic battle rifles that have served throughout U.S. military history. As Americans prepare to celebrate independence this week, it’s a perfect time to learn about the uniquely American firearms used to secure our freedoms. Buckle up for thrills as our hosts take to the shooting range and even some chills as they are awed by the experience of handling these historical guns.

Starting with a rare, fully original 1903 Springfield rifle, we’ll dive into the bolt-action rifle’s service during World War I. Common military practice at the time involved opposing troops facing each other on the battlefield, single-loading .30-06 cartridges, and firing upon command before activating the magazine when given the order to fire at will. 

As firearms technology evolved, so did battlefield techniques. With the advent of the semi-automatic rifle, ways of doing battle changed quickly. In 1936, the United States military officially adopted the M1 Garand as its standard-issue battle rifle. 

Besides being described by General George Patton as “one of the greatest battle devices ever implemented,” the M1 Garand also happens to be Chef’s favorite cooking rifle. (You’ll just have to watch and find out.) He and Alexander have differing opinions on the kick of the Garand, though, a fact we attribute to Chef Rush’s daily pushup routine.

As the guys travel through the decades, the guns get lighter, faster – and stronger, like Chef Rush. Our hosts highlight the classics from the M14 all the way up to the Army’s latest next-generation battle rifle: the SIG Sauer MCX Spear (aka the XM7, aka the Bronze Bandit, as dubbed by Chef).
 

Related Review: Testing The Army’s New Battle Rifle – SIG MCX Spear

Before wrapping up the discussion of military service rifles, Chef obliges us by ranking the guns in order of his least favorite to his top pick. You might be surprised which rifle he most enjoyed shooting. Of course, Chef couldn't resist busting out his own "guns" to challenge Alex to an arm wrestling match before it's all said and done.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a voyage through American military firearms history as the guys reflect on the rifles – and American men and women – that have defended liberty over the past century and more.