The Ultimate Firearms Destination for the Gun Lifestyle

Easy Day: Costa’s new “mini-movie commercial”



At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More
Find out more about how we test products.

Chris Costa of Costa Ludus and Costa Media has completed a new sort of advertisement for his “strategic partners.” It's 3 1/2 minute “mini-movie” intended to showcase the weapons and gear the Syndicate designs, builds and/or sells. In this episode (there will be more), Costa plays narcotics deputy Vincent Rocco. Rocco must pursue a fleeing fugitive into a warehouse after the man catches them off guard by interrupting them on the way to serve a warrant at his residence; he shoots Rocco's partner Mia when confronted on the side of the road. Liam, the third member of their team, remains to render aid and joins Rocco later.

Among the “props” used are a Knight's Armament (blank upper) with a URX3 rail, Aimpoint T1, Surefire Mini Scout Light; ambi safeties from BAD ASS and various pieces of Magpul furniture. Another weapon in the mini-movie is a War Sport LVOA with assorted cool accessories and features (including a Geissele trigger); the video features accessories too, like Raven Concealment Holsters.

Chris Costa in Easy Day 2

“These won't be limited to our Syndicate partners,” Chris advises. “If someone wanted to advertise with us, we'd do it. This is not supposed to be anything more than a good marketing video–it's a commercial, our first video. We started at 8am, finished up at 10:30pm…there was a lot of work involved. I hope people see that it's a creative way to advertise.”

One thing this is not is a training film. There's nothing political about it, no intended message, it's just a good way to show off good gear. Costa acknowledges that a one-man entry will be questioned, that the “reality” and “verisimilitude” of the mini-move will no doubt be derided by some, but in the end he says, “..it's a commercialIf they lock it down and wait for backup to arrive, that would not make much of a commercial would it? Of course there is going to be some ‘entertainment value.'”

Costa and Costa Ludus worked with Shawn Nelson and Isaac Marchionna in this first effort by the new-formed ‘Costa Media Group' in order take their syndicate partners to the next level in the “evolution of brand awareness.”  Shawn Nelson is responsible for the Into the Breach Memorial Day video for Crye Precision; Isaac Marchionna is the man behind the AAC video that premiered at the NRA expo this year.

Depending on how well this video is received we may see more of Rocco in action.

Chris Costa in Easy Day 3

Chris Costa in Easy Day 4

Why you can trust RECOIL


Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. 

Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. 

At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. 

Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products.


Enter Your E-Mail to Receieve a Free 50-Target Pack from RECOIL!

NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOIL

For years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included).

Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.

You want this. Trust Us.

Add a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to the Free
Newsletter
×