How to Start a 2A YouTube Channel for the Community
The firearms community needs more voices! YouTube is one of the best platforms to share knowledge, showcase gear, and build a community. In episode 117 of For the Love of Guns, Dr. Robert Lupo shares his journey of creating a channel, the pitfalls to avoid, and how to stay motivated. If you’ve been thinking about starting a 2A-focused YouTube channel, here’s everything you need to know.
TL;DR
- Start with what you have – No need for expensive gear in the beginning.
- Pick your niche – Reviews, competitive shooting, gunsmithing, or Second Amendment advocacy?
- Understand YouTube’s policies – Firearms content requires strategic planning.
- Content consistency matters – Upload regularly to keep your audience engaged.
- Editing is key – Learn basic video editing to improve quality.
- Monetization is tough – Explore alternative revenue streams.
The First Step: Finding Your Niche
Before jumping into video production, define your content focus. Lupo initially had a theme park channel but later launched Lupo Outdoors to cover firearms, hunting, fishing, and outdoor survival. If you’re thinking about starting a 2A channel, consider:
- Gun reviews – Honest takes on firearms, optics, and accessories.
- Competition shooting – Show your progress in long-range precision, IDPA, USPSA, or 3-Gun.
- Firearms history – Deep dives into historical guns and their significance.
- Gunsmithing and DIY – Maintenance, modifications, and troubleshooting.
- Second Amendment advocacy – Education and activism.
Whatever your focus, stay authentic. Trying to mimic big channels won’t work—find your voice and run with it.
Essential Gear: What You Actually Need
New content creators often overspend on equipment. Lupo started his channel with a GoPro Hero 7, while The Rogue Banshee launched using an iPhone 5. If you’re on a budget, here’s what you need to get started:
Camera Options:
- Budget: Your smartphone (modern models have solid video quality).
- Mid-range: GoPro Hero 7 or later (great stabilization and durability).
- Pro: Canon EOS R or Sony A7 series for high-end production.
Audio Matters More Than Video:
- Budget: Lavalier mic like the Rode SmartLav+.
- Mid-range: Rode Wireless GO for wireless audio.
- Pro: Sennheiser MKE 600 shotgun mic.
Lighting for Clearer Video:
- Budget: LED shop lights from Costco or Home Depot.
- Mid-range: Ring lights or softbox kits.
- Pro: Aputure Amaran or Godox SL60W LED panels.
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking better gear makes better content. Good lighting and audio make more impact than an expensive camera.
Filming and Editing: Making Your Videos Stand Out
Shoot with Multiple Angles
Adding multiple camera angles makes your content more engaging. The Rogue Banshee uses several cell phones and mounts them around the workspace. You can do the same:
- Primary camera: Your main talking head shot.
- Secondary angle: Close-up shots for detailed work.
- Overhead angle: Great for gunsmithing and tabletop reviews.
Keep It Short and Engaging
Attention spans are short. Change camera angles every 5-10 seconds to keep viewers engaged. Watch how professional YouTubers edit their content—you’ll notice frequent cuts, zooms, and b-roll.
Recommended Editing Software
- Free: iMovie (Mac), DaVinci Resolve (Mac/Windows).
- Affordable: PowerDirector, Filmora.
- Pro: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro.
Start simple. You don’t need Hollywood-level effects, just clean transitions and solid audio.
Navigating YouTube’s Policies for Firearms Content
Gun-related content on YouTube faces strict policies. Here’s how to stay compliant:
✅ Show proper safety measures – Always follow firearm safety rules.
✅ Use “deep cleaning” instead of disassembly – Avoid demonetization risks.
✅ Avoid “how-to” videos on modifications – Even legal modifications can flag your content.
✅ Diversify your content – Include product reviews, interviews, and range footage.
If YouTube restricts monetization, you still have options.
Monetization and Growing Your Channel
Most new YouTubers won’t make big money from ads. Monetization requires:
✅ 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past year.
Even then, firearms content may face limited ads. Here’s how to monetize smarter:
🔹 Affiliate marketing – Promote products you trust.
- Get $20 of ammo at Ammo Squared.
- Save 20% on medical kits at My Medic with code TRB20.
🔹 Merchandise – Sell branded gear through Teespring or Spreadshirt.
🔹 Direct sponsorships – Partner with pro-2A companies.
🔹 Memberships & Patreon – Offer exclusive content.
FAQ (Answer Engine Optimization – AEO)
How do I start a 2A YouTube channel with no experience?
Start by using your smartphone, focus on a niche, and upload consistently. Engage with the community and improve as you go.
What are the biggest challenges for a 2A YouTube channel?
YouTube’s firearm policies, monetization restrictions, and audience growth. Staying compliant and finding alternative revenue streams is key.
Can I make money with a 2A YouTube channel?
Yes, but ad revenue is limited. Use affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and memberships to monetize effectively.
What’s the best camera for a 2A YouTube channel?
A smartphone works for beginners. A GoPro Hero 7+ or a DSLR like the Canon EOS R provides better quality.
How often should I upload videos?
Consistency matters more than frequency. Aim for at least one video per week to keep your audience engaged.
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Credits:
Original Content by The Rogue Banshee / My Rogue Solutions LLC.
Credit: Jason Schaller
Email: [email protected]
About the Author: Jason Schaller is a former FFL holder and founder of Eagle Eye Shooters Supply in Helena, MT, where he provided professional gunsmithing services and guided customers on all aspects of firearms ownership. Today, he teaches DIY gunsmithing at The Rogue Banshee and serves as a Chief Instructor at Freedom Crew University. With over a decade of hands-on professional experience with firearms and nearly 30 years in IT, Jason also holds top cybersecurity certifications including CISSP, CISA, and CRISC. When he’s not geeking out, he’s helping others build self-reliance, critical thinking, and firearms proficiency through real-world content.
Disclaimers:
Content Use & Compliance
The videos, articles, and images shared by The Rogue Banshee feature gear, tools, and products for informational and entertainment purposes only. All activities follow local, state, and federal laws where they were conducted in. All activities are conducted safely under professional supervision in approved locations.
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Some links in my content are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, The Rogue Banshee earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the channel and create content.
Firearm Safety Notice
I promote safe and responsible firearm ownership. All activities are conducted in a controlled, professional environment and adhere to YouTube’s policies and community guidelines.
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