Fresh Air Fresh Air

The forces that shape gun culture

Jul 28, 2026 · 45m

Summary

New York Times reporter Mike McIntyre discusses his book *Ricochet*, exploring the evolution of gun rights and the NRA’s shift toward aggressive lobbying. He details how Congressman John Dingell Jr. helped redefine the Second Amendment as an individual right and reveals the NRA’s strategies to market guns to children and associate them with masculinity. The conversation also covers the Supreme Court’s “common use” test for gun legality and McIntyre’s personal experiences with firearms.

Topics discussed

Intro: Mike McIntyre's book and recent reporting Supreme Court case on 'common use' gun test Original intent of the Second Amendment and militia John Dingell Jr.'s role in shaping NRA strategy Sponsors: Whole Foods and Jerry Insurance Harlon Carter's dark history and NRA leadership NRA marketing to youth and video game placement Sponsors: Whole Foods and Capital One Gun tourism, masculinity, and changing demographics Sponsors: Whole Foods and Charles Schwab McIntyre's childhood gun experiences and safety Investigative process and closing remarks
Listen ad-free on Castria