Sean Utley - Precision Shooter, Hunter, and Published Writer

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when passion meets perseverance—and then gets wrapped in humility—look no further than Sean Utley. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Sean on the latest episode of the podcast, and what unfolded was a conversation that spanned decades, disciplines, and the kind of lessons you only learn from diving deep into both success and struggle. 

A MIDWEST KID WITH A CREATIVE STREAK 

Sean grew up in Indiana, a kid fascinated by just about everything. If he picked something up, he had to go all the way with it. Whether it was motorcycles or photography or guns, he didn’t just dabble—he chased pro-level skill. That same drive has shaped his journey into one of the most respected creators in the firearms space. His love for guns started young. We’re talking BB guns at 14, experimenting with his best friend’s stash of real firearms at 13, and making VHS gun videos that were essentially teenage versions of Miami Vice. It might have looked like a hobby at the time, but as Sean put it: “I’m doing what I did when I was 13 years old, but now I make a living at it.” 

THE CREATIVE PATH THAT ALMOST WASN’T 

Sean originally went to college as an art major, gifted in drawing—especially portraiture—but eventually pivoted to business, majoring in insurance and minoring in criminology. That led to a solid career in corporate sales, first in pharmaceuticals, then medical devices. But that artistic fire never went out. While working in the corporate world, he spent his evenings and weekends building a second full-time career in photography. He opened a studio in his home, took classes, studied visuals, and always—always—kept a camera in hand. Even then, he knew he didn’t want to just take photos; he wanted to take magazine-quality photos. Eventually, a connection led to a conversation, which led to a phone interview with Harris Publications, and just like that, Sean’s journey in the gun media world began. 

CORPORATE AMERICA TO FULL-TIME CREATIVE 

In 2013, corporate made the decision for him. After a bad lateral move and a rough year, he was let go. But instead of panic, he felt freedom. He called his editors and said, “I’m full time now. Send me everything you’ve got.” It was a powerful leap—and one that had been a long time coming. His wife had been encouraging him to follow his passion for years. He didn’t quit. He waited until the timing was right. And when the moment came, he didn’t hesitate. 

WRITER. PHOTOGRAPHER. VIDEOGRAPHER. CONSULTANT. STORYTELLER. 

It’s hard to define what Sean does because he does so much. He’s not just a photographer. He’s not just a writer. He’s not just a content creator. He’s all of it—and more. But at the heart of it all is one thing: storytelling. “I just do everything I was doing when I was 13 years old, but at a higher level,” he told us. Sean doesn’t do anything halfway. His work isn’t just about creating—it’s about helping people make smart decisions. He wants you to understand a product before you spend your money on it. He wants you to feel something when you look at a photo. He wants you to remember what it’s like to read again. 

NAVIGATING THE SOCIAL MEDIA MACHINE 

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation came when Sean opened up about his two-year break from social media. It wasn’t just burnout—it was a spiritual reset. “I wanted to make sure that if I was going to do this, I was doing it for the right reasons,” he said. Sean’s not afraid to talk about how platforms can change people. He’s experienced it himself. And after two years off, he’s re-entering social media with caution, purpose, and clarity. He’s not chasing likes—he’s focused on authenticity, on telling stories, and on staying grounded in his faith. That foundation of faith runs deep. During the pandemic, while many were overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, Sean found strength in his walk with God. “I don’t want [God] to ever think that He’s not enough,” he said. That kind of humility is rare in any industry—let alone one built on gear, image, and ego. 

THE GUNDY NOMINATION AND WHAT IT MEANS 

This year, Sean was nominated for a Gundy Award in the new “Best 2A Writer” category. It’s a big moment—and well-deserved. Not only has he been shaping the conversation around firearms and the Second Amendment for over a decade, but he’s done it with consistency, depth, and a relentless pursuit of quality. It’s a powerful recognition of a guy who’s never stopped grinding, never stopped learning, and never stopped caring about the work. 

THE FUTURE OF THE 2A SPACE 

As we wrapped up the conversation, we talked about where the Second Amendment world is heading. Sean doesn’t pretend to have all the answers—but he does believe people are waking up. They’re learning. They’re paying attention. Whether it’s through training, content, or conversation, he sees a growing hunger for truth and self-reliance. “People want their 2A rights. On both sides. Maybe not for the same reasons, but they’re realizing it matters,” he said. He’s right. And voices like his are more important than ever. Final Thoughts Sean Utley is the kind of guy you want in this space—not just because of his talent, but because of his heart. He’s thoughtful, disciplined, creative, and grounded. Whether he’s behind a camera or behind a keyboard, you can trust that what you’re seeing is real. He’s been preparing for this since he was 13. And he’s just getting started.