Revolutionizing Tactical Training: Conor Donahue, CEO of ACE Virtual Shooting, Joins On The Range Podcast Live from NRA 2025

Connor with ACR Virtual Shooting joins On The Range Podcast during the inaugural Voices of the Second Amendment - Atlanta

Live from the Heart of NRA 2025 Voices of the Second Amendment

In the ever-evolving world of tactical training and firearms proficiency, staying ahead of the curve means embracing cutting-edge technology that enhances skills without the constant need for live ammo or range time. That's exactly what we delved into on a special live episode of the On The Range Podcast, recorded at the 2025 NRA Annual Meeting in Atlanta during the inaugural Voices of the Second Amendment event. As the founder of War HOGG Tactical, I've always prioritized practical, real-world solutions for operators, law enforcement, and everyday defenders. Hosting alongside my co-host Mark Kelley of Kelley Defense, we had the privilege of sitting down with Conor Donahue, CEO and Co-Founder of ACE Virtual Shooting—a Navy SEAL veteran who's revolutionizing how we train with firearms.

The Birth of a Game-Changing Technology

This episode isn't just another chat; it's a deep dive into the future of shooting simulation, blending Conor's combat-honed expertise with innovative VR technology. Drawing from the episode's rich discussion (pulled from descriptions across Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Make Ready TV platforms), Conor shared how ACE Virtual Shooting started as a simple quest for more affordable and convenient sport shooting but quickly evolved into a powerhouse tool for professionals and hobbyists alike. On Apple Podcasts, the episode is highlighted as a must-listen for those seeking "hyper-realistic augmented reality (AR) technology" in training, echoing similar sentiments on YouTube where viewers praise its immersive scenarios. Make Ready TV describes it as part of their premium content lineup, emphasizing the blend of entertainment and expert instruction.

From SEAL Teams to Startup Visionary

Conor kicked things off by recounting his journey from Navy SEAL to entrepreneur. With years of high-stakes operations under his belt, he understood the pain points of traditional training: high costs, limited access to ranges, and the sheer volume of ammo required to maintain peak performance. "Ace began as a way to enjoy sport shooting more conveniently and affordably," Conor explained, as noted in related interviews and episode snippets. But the enthusiastic response from competition shooters, military personnel, and law enforcement at early prototypes turned it into something bigger. Today, ACE offers over 100 shooting stages, mini-games, and customizable VR guns, optics, and accessories—all designed to replicate the thrill and precision of real firearms handling.

Bridging Dry Fire and Live Fire Training

One of the standout moments was discussing how ACE bridges the gap between dry fire drills and live fire sessions. As someone who's spent 29 years in US Army Special Operations with 13 combat deployments, I can attest to the value of simulation in building muscle memory and decision-making under pressure. Conor detailed the handsets that mimic popular models like the Staccato P, SIG SAUER P365-XMACRO COMP, and their proprietary Ace Arctus, which has a grip angle similar to the SIG P320. "We're not just simulating shooting; we're replicating the core aspects that make it immersive," he said, highlighting features like recoil feedback, sight alignment, and scenario-based training that include everything from zombie apocalypses for fun to tactical urban engagements for pros.

Tactical Applications for Operators and Law Enforcement

Mark and I pressed Conor on the tactical applications, especially for operators like myself. He shared how ACE is used by law enforcement for de-escalation drills and by military units for cost-effective marksmanship enhancement. "It reduces ammo costs, boosts safety, and allows for repetitive practice in hyper-realistic environments," Conor noted, aligning with insights from InVeris Training Solutions mentioned in similar podcast episodes. We talked about integrating ACE with real-world gear, like mounting actual optics or using it for night vision training simulations. The live audience at the NRA event chimed in with questions, making it feel like a community forum on Second Amendment rights and responsible gun ownership.

Technology's Role in Second Amendment Advocacy

The conversation naturally flowed into broader topics, like the role of technology in preserving Second Amendment freedoms. As the inaugural Voices of the Second Amendment event, this setting was perfect—surrounded by patriots, exhibitors, and advocates at the NRA Annual Meeting. Conor emphasized how ACE democratizes training, making it accessible for recreational shooters who might not have daily range access. "From plinking with friends to dedicated skill-building, it's for everyone," he said. We even touched on future upgrades, like expanded firearm options and integrations with smart home systems, teasing what's next for virtual shooting.

ACE Virtual Shooting Real Stories from the Field

But it's not all tech talk; we kept it real with stories from the field. Conor shared anecdotes from his SEAL days, drawing parallels to how VR can prepare for the unpredictability of combat. Mark, with his Kelley Defense background, highlighted how such tools complement physical training notebooks—like our own Firearms Training Notebook—for tracking progress. The episode wrapped with actionable advice: start with basic scenarios to build fundamentals, then advance to complex drills. Listeners on YouTube appreciated the visual demos, while Apple Podcasts users noted the high-quality audio for on-the-go learning.

Why This Episode Matters for Tactical Growth

This episode underscores why War HOGG Tactical partners with innovators like ACE—to provide tools that make you 1% better every day. Whether you're prepping for a deployment, honing competition skills, or just enjoying the sport, ACE Virtual Shooting is a game-changer. Head over to ontherangepodcast.com to catch the full episode, and don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or Make Ready TV for more. Join our "CREW" for exclusive bonus content, including behind-the-scenes from NRA 2025.

Capturing the Spirit of Unity and Innovation

In wrapping up, this live recording captured the spirit of the NRA event: unity, innovation, and unwavering support for the Second Amendment. Conor's insights remind us that technology isn't replacing the range—it's enhancing it. As we say on the podcast, be 1% better every day. Grab your VR headset, tune in, and level up your tactical game.