The Tactical Wire

Thursday, October 1, 2026  ■  Publishing

Bleecker Street Publications Hires Karen Hunter to Lead Gun University Editorial

Bleecker Street Publications is putting a new face behind Gun University. They announced that Karen Hunter has joined Bleecker Street Publications as Editorial Lead for Gun University and Contributing Editor across the Athlon Outdoors portfolio, bringing more than a decade of firearms-industry experience, extensive instructional expertise and hundreds of published articles to one of the company's fastest-growing editorial platforms.

This isn't simply another byline. Hunter brings the combination Bleecker Street Publications looks for when building editorial leadership: real-world experience, deep subject-matter expertise, an educator's mindset and the ability to turn complicated information into content people can actually use.

As the founder of The Hunter Academy, Hunter develops and delivers practical personal-protection training programs combining physical skills, mental resilience and real-world strategies. Her proprietary programs include Women's Defensive Handgun, F.I.R.E., Accessing Personal Defense Weapons, EmpowerHER and Fast Access Training. She is also a certified instructor in defensive handgun, carbine and shotgun, with training credentials from institutions including Gunsite Academy and Force Options USA.

Hunter's editorial experience is equally substantial. She has authored hundreds of published articles covering firearm reviews, safety, self-defense and industry topics, combining practical instruction with accessible storytelling. Her work has appeared across major print and digital publications, establishing her as a familiar and trusted voice within the firearms community.

At Gun University, Hunter will help shape the editorial direction of the platform as Bleecker Street Publications continues expanding its educational resources, buyer's guides, training content and practical information for firearms owners.

That mission builds directly on Gun University's original foundation. Bleecker Street Publications acquired Gun University in 2025 with plans to expand its editorial reach, training resources and digital infrastructure while maintaining its focus on clear, responsible firearms education.

"Karen brings something incredibly valuable to Gun University: she understands the subject because she actually teaches it," said Emily E. Long, Chair of the Board and Chief Legal Counsel for Bleecker Street Publications. "Her experience as an instructor, writer and educator gives her a unique perspective on what firearms owners need to know and, just as importantly, how they need to be taught. We're building Gun University to be a serious educational resource, and Karen is exactly the kind of editorial leader we want driving that mission forward."

Hunter's responsibilities will also extend beyond Gun University. As a Contributing Editor for Athlon Outdoors titles, she will bring her expertise in firearms, personal protection, training and responsible ownership to additional audiences throughout the Bleecker Street Publications portfolio.

"We're not interested in filling pages just to fill pages," Long added. "We want people who know their subjects, know their audiences and aren't afraid to bring something substantial to the table. Karen has spent years doing exactly that. She knows firearms. She knows training. She knows education. And she knows how to communicate with people who are trying to become better, more informed and more responsible gun owners."

For Bleecker Street Publications, the message is simple: Gun University is leveling up its editorial leadership. With Karen Hunter at the helm, Gun University gets decades of publishing experience, industry insights, and a proven storyteller who knows how to turn expertise into content that commands attention.

About Bleecker Street Publications: Bleecker Street Publications is a media company specializing in digital content across firearms, survival, tactical gear, and outdoor living. Since acquiring Athlon Outdoors in 2023, Bleecker Street Publications has expanded its portfolio, producing engaging, expert-driven content for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Their popular titles include Athlon Untamed, RottenGunReviews.com, Ballistic, Tactical Life, Personal Defense World, Combat Handguns, Gun University and GAT Daily. Covering everything from expert reviews and training guides to industry news and beginner resources.

To learn more follow Athlon Outdoors and Bleecker Street Publications on Facebook, Instagram, and Open Air Media.