Backcountry Hunting Podcast

Ever wanted to plan and execute a DIY mule deer hunt on public land? Here's how to do it folks, as showcased by Hunter McWaters. Hunter is the host of The Hunter's Quest TV show, podcast, and YouTube channel.  Hunter talks us through getting a tag, the e-scouting process, creating hunt plans A, B, and C, planning and arranging gear, and finally putting boots on the ground and your hunting plans in action.  We also discuss the importance of being ready to shift gears and roll with the unexpected; of preparing to chart and navigage long stalks in big country, and being able to make precise shots at distances most eastern hunters have never encountered.  Naturally, we go over Hunter's choice of rifle, scope, cartridge, and bullet, as well as tent, boots, and more. This one turned into a great hunting story interwoven with fantastic hunting tips and techniques. ENJOY!    FRIENDS!  Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute if you like. Cheers to all our supporters—we couldn't do it without you!  VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

Inspired by all the interest in Federal's ground-breaking new 7mm Backcountry cartridge, we recently held a live Q&A with our Patreon members. Here are the great questions we fielded and discussed:  Is the 7mm Backcountry, with it's 80,000 PSI chamber pressure, safe in traditional bolt-action designs?  I wanted a .280 Ackley. Should I switch and get a 7mm Backcountry instead?  Are 7mm Backcountry steel alloy cases reloadable? If so, how hard is that going to be?  How does the cartridge's 80,000 psi pressure affect barrel life?  Supposedly the 7mm Backcountry kicks a lot less than other 7mm magnums. How can that be?  Is it safe to fire the 80,000 psi 7mm Backcountry through my suppressor?  Will this cartridge be affected by the powder shortage? Should we expect to see a lack of 7mm Backcountry ammo on store shelves?  What's the accuracy potentail of the 7mm Backcountry cartridge?  What 7mm Backcountry rifle should I buy?  Can an existing rifle be rebarreled to 7mm Backcountry?  Are 7mm Backcountry steel cases coated? Or will they rust if exposed to moisture?  What's the best rifling twist rate for a custom 7mm Backcountry?  What are the characteristics of the various bullets being factory-loaded in 7mm Backcountry ammo?  Will we see Federal's steel Peak Alloy case technology bleed over into classic cartridges, enabling high-pressure/high-performance ammo? For example, could a .308 be made to shoot like a traditional .300 Win. Mag. load?  Hopefully this candid episode will help address concerns and clear up some myths about the 7mm Backcountry cartridge. We sure had fun talking about it. ENJOY!    FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

This episode takes us far out into the Aleutian Islands off the west coast of Alaska's mainland, to hunt wild bison. Recorded audio-journal style, we're bringing it to you raw and unedited.  Hunting by invitation with Jack Jaeger, who is designated to hunt buffalo for the tribal elders, we circumnavigate the island on a small fishing boat, landing in a skiff and hunting up from the coast when buffalo are sighted.  With a big cow taken and the quarters packed out and hung to age, we weather howling winds and slashing rain, and then ascend into the Island's high peaks in an attempt to find a big bull.  Thwarted by fog, fierce winds, and relentless rain, we had to pull out and get dry and warm. Then, for days, we hunkered down and waited while the airline canceled flights day after day.  This was type 2 fun at its finest, folks! If you're interested in trying a similar adventure yourself, contact Jack Jaeger. His info is in the show notes below.  ENJOY!    Contact Jack Jaeger on Facebook Call or text Jack: (808) 854-1127 Email Jack: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2025

Leupold just launched a new flagship hunting scope, called the VX-6HD Gen 2.  Friends, I didn't think the first-generation VX-6HD could get any better. But by golly, Leupold has successfully improved my favorite riflescope. The new Gen 2 version has an improved, tool-less turret, a built-in throw lever on the power ring, and most importantly, it's now got the same internal guts and gears as Leupold's legendary Mark 5 line of precision/tactical scopes.  In this episode, I sit down with Tim Lesser, Vice President of product development and marketing  and get an awesome backstage look at the new VX-6HD Gen 2 riflescope. This was an awesome episode to record... ENJOY!    FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

In this episide, Alaskan custom gunsmith Ray Saft and I dig deep into the various characteristics of actions, stocks, barrels, cartridges, and special chambers appropriate for a backcountry rifle build.  To showcase the process of discussing and commissioning a custom rifle, we use a pair of in-process 6.5x55 Swedish Mauser mountain rifles, one with a titanium action and carbon-fiber barrel; the other with a skeletonized steel action and traditional steel barrel.  This is part one of a three-part series we're doing. When completed, we'll discuss the rifles and upcoming test protocols in Part 2. Then in Part 3, we'll share the results and--with some luck, discuss putting the rifles successfully to work in the field. ENJOY!  FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.leupold.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 17 January 2025

Transcribed - Published: 10 January 2025

In this episode, Ron Spomer joins me to talk about the all-new 7mm Backcountry cartridge just announced by Federal. This new round utilizes premium steel-case tech and operates at 80,000 psi. It's the fastest factory-loaded 7mm cartridge on the market—and the case is smaller than a .30-06! It has fast-twist rifling and is optimized for heavy, high-BC bullets. Plus, it's terrific in short barrels, so it's ideal for use with a suppressor. It's rare to see new innovation change the face of modern cartridges. This technology from Federal is revolutionary, and is likely to shape the future of high-performance hunting cartridges. ENJOY!    FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Published: 10 January 2025

Really good iron sights are surprisingly capable—and according to Utah's new restricted unit regulations, are required. Five historically great mule deer units are now iron-sights only, even for centerfire hunting rifles.  So: What's the best iron-sight setup for hunting Western open country?  In this episode, we're joined by legendary hunter, writer, and YouTube host Ron Spomer to discuss what type of iron sights really work for serious hunting. We talk through appropriate rifles, suitable cartridges, and how to choose and set up the most capable types of iron sights—all liberally sprinkled with hunting stories.  We also touch on the ethical responsibilities of hunting with iron sights, as well as methods of practicing and maximizing your lethal capability.  This was a fun one, friends. ENJOY!    FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 3 January 2025

Ever wonder why you get unexplained fliers when shooting otherwise tiny groups with your ammo? You may be shocked at the common culprit discussed in this episide—as well as how easy it is to prevent. This episode we're joined by Chris Hoffstetter of Nosler, and we talk through the crucial aspects of ammo that provide accuracy and clean-killing effectiveness. ENJOY!    FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024

Outfitter Tate Bradfield and his crew took 56 American Buffalo with clients in 2024. This episode, we sit down and discuss the cartridges, bullets, and shot placement that kills Bison most effectively and efficiently. Tate tells tall tales (say that three times fast) of Buffalo getting shot with everything from .243 Winchester to .45-70 Gov't—and has some emphatic advice to share with prospective Bison hunters. This one was a ton of fun, folks. ENJOY!    FRIENDS! Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2024

This firecracker of an episode shares listener responses to our last episode, "Why Small Calibers are NOT good for Big Game." The inbox blew up with messages after that episode dropped. We've never had such an huge (and grateful) response to a single episode.  This new episode is full of listener anecdotes and opinions—most of them extremely astute—that don't mince words. Holy moly, folks, this was a fun one! ENJOY!    FRIENDS! Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 13 December 2024

When killing is crucial, not just convenient... Choose the right tool for the task.  Folks, I resisted addressing this trendy topic of using small calibers on big game for a long time. But I've had so many requests to do so, I can no longer take the easy road. Here's my blunt, fact- and science-based opinion on the practice of using small calibers loaded with target-type bullets on big game.  ENJOY!    FRIENDS! Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2024

This episode, Weatherby's COO Luke Thorkildsen joins us to talk about backcountry fitness and how the Carnivore diet has revolutionized his backcountry hunting capability. We discuss how to successfully combat middle-age "spare tire" weight gain and increase focus and energy.  Plus, of course, we take a dive into Luke's personal favorite Weatherby cartridges and specific bullets loaded for them, as well as his go-to rifle models from the Weatherby stable. This one was eye-opening and a ton of fun, folks. ENJOY!   FRIENDS! Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2024

This episode takes us back to Kodiak Island, Alaska, where Austin Brown and several of his friends hunt Sitka Blacktail deer, predators, and sea ducks. It's all DIY, and it's the first time in Alaska for several of these hunters.  Host and transporter is our long-time favorite: Alaska Premier Sportfishing's good boat Venturess and her captain Travis Larson and crew.  I asked Austin to run with an audio-journal type record of their adventures. He did a fine job, and the result is this episode. It's all about discovering new adventures in new places, and how real the struggle is on Kodiak Island! ENJOY!  — JvB   FRIENDS! Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com  

Transcribed - Published: 22 November 2024

This episode we talk through several new suppressor models and the innovative manufacturing techniques that make them special. We also discuss various materials such as Inconel and Titanium, outlining their pros and cons.  And how about the speed of the current e-form process? Suppressor dealers are even seeing same-day approvals in some cases, and even the "long" approvals are only a few weeks. Silencer expert Brandon Maddox provides perspective on how and why that's become possible.  Plus, we talk about the Hearing Protection Act and whether suppressors will ever be delisted and become commonly available.  This was a fun one, folks. ENJOY!   Links to some specific products discussed:  BOGO (Buy one get one free) Inconel Speed K silencer $1,199, 14 oz.  Titanium Speed K silencer $1,399, 8 oz.  Meateater by Banish $1,299, 10.3 oz.    FRIENDS!  Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars.   VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2024

Gnarly questions make us dig deep for good answers... In this episode, we unpack a bunch of awesome questions and stories from listeners, including the following:  .308 Win. vs. 6.5 RPM for elk .475 Turnbull and 9.3x62 for Cape Buffalo 6mm ARC as a deer cartridge Short vs. long barrels on .308 Handloads for 20" 7mm PRC barrels Is .280 Rem. to .280 Ackley conversion worth the squeeze?  Characteristics of Weatherby 307 Alpine CT Do bonded bullets kill faster than monometals?  .338 ARC for moose Precision vs. power: The ethics of hunting big game with small cartridges Thanks for tuning in, folks! A special request: Please get on YouTube and subscribe to our YouTube channel, to help my son William (a.k.a. the Backcountry Apprentice) grow the show. It's his baby; he does nearly all the work there. Here's a link to our YouTube video on the Weatherby 307 Alpine CT.  ENJOY!    FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to carry on producing it. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars.   VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com           https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmNpWsWKQ0I

Transcribed - Published: 8 November 2024

How does putting a suppressor on your hunting rifle affect accuracy? Good? Bad? Ugly? This episode details what normally happens—which is an increase in precision and a decrease in recoil.  We give several real-life examples and explore why accuracy increases. Plus we detail several of our favorite suppressor makes and models that nearly always provide a significant increase accuracy, discussing weight, material, size, and so forth.  ENJOY!   FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 1 November 2024

Are hotrod .22 centerfire cartridges adequate for hunting big game? In this episode Seth Swerczek from Hornady joins us to discuss the small-caliber for big-game trend. Recently returned from a safari in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, Seth details what worked—and what didn't—while using the .22 ARC and .22 Creedmoor on African game ranging from warthogs to kudu. The results may surprise you. We also take a deep dive into the usefulness of hotrod .22 centerfires for use on North American big game, and discuss what and where practical limitations lie.  Seth talks through the bullets most useful for hunting with such cartridges, and details the differences between the .22 Creedmoor and the .22 ARC to help hunters make an informed choice.  This was a fun one, folks. ENJOY!   FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 25 October 2024

What's it like to hunt along ancient hedgerows and stone fences older than America? This episode fellow writer Phil Massaro and I share stories about hunting wild, free-range Fallow deer, Roe Deer, and Muntjac through medieval forests in England.  In the UK on assignment with Savage Arms, we had the opportunity to hunt with and share meals with legendary hunter, wild game chef and restaraunteur Mike Robinson, host of Farming The Wild on MOTV, and his exceptional crew. Savage just rolled out a new rifle model, and we put it through it's paces and discuss it's characteristics, along with the 6.5 Creedmooor and 6.5 PRC's performance on Fallow deer.  This was an adventure for the ages, folks! ENJOY!   FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material on www.patreon.com/backcountry  VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 18 October 2024

This episide we sit down with custom gunsmith Justin Linenbach, of Kinport Peak Rifles. Justin outlines what he consideres the three most important elements to achieving accuracy: Barrel quality Chamber quality Action bedding We take a deep dive into each of those characteristics, and then discuss the cartridges that Justin recommends for three categories of shooters and hunters:  Factory ammo only Handloaders Obsessive handloaders and wildcatters Plus, Justin shares some of this go-to action types, barrel makers, and preferred stocks. This episode was a ton of fun folks—ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material on www.patreon.com/backcountry     VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 11 October 2024

Is there a cartridge that will reliably knock a deer or elk or bear over? Not unless it's named Ford, Chevy, or Dodge. Or maybe Freight Train. This episode takes a candid look at the idea of "knock-down power," mythbusting the notion and detailing how to determine a cartridge with real authority.  We define and explore kinetic energy, the TKO formula, momentum, and of course compare the numbers generated by popular cartridges such as the .30-06, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .375 Magnum.  Next we detail common visible impact reactions and explain what they say about the bullet used and the impact location of the shot. True stories of mule deer, elk, caribou, moose, whitetails, and more are told to showcase each situation... Including lung shots, heart shots, gut shots, and spine/nervous system impacts.  There's no such thing as knock-down power, folks. But there's SOMETHING. This episode digs deep into just what it is. ENJOY!      FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material on www.patreon.com/backcountry   VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com  

Transcribed - Published: 4 October 2024

Transcribed - Published: 27 September 2024

How good is the .30-06 for use on elk? This episode takes a deep dive into the grand old cartridge's ballistics, characteristics, and real-world performance on elk. We tell stories of a bunch of bulls killed with various .30-06s, and talk through several excellent .30-06 rifle models that we wholeheartedly recommend, as well as list three top factory ammo types ideal for elk. ENJOY! FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material on www.patreon.com/backcountry VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com https://javelinbipod.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com

Transcribed - Published: 20 September 2024

This episode we take a deep dive into how to properly set up a kid rifle. We address appropriate cartridges, good rifles, and capable scopes, then discuss how to put the setup together so it really works. Some specific points we cover: Reliability Kid-friendly ergonomics Accuracy Quality trigger Crucial scope features Packable weight Necessary accessories Bare muzzles, muzzle brakes, & suppressors Fundamental skills The importance of setting your youth or beginning hunter friend up for success if vital... Yet so often given little attention. If you want to shape your young'un into your favorite hunting partner, take a listen to this episode. There are pointers here than can make all the difference! ENJOY! FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material on www.patreon.com/backcountry VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 13 September 2024

This fun episode we dig in and answer a buck of listener's questions... Topics are elk cartridges, bear defense guns, .280 Ackley rifles, best first Western hunts, .270 Win. for moose, best predator rifles, copper bullets for deer, best .308 hunting load, and tons more. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 6 September 2024

You've just shot an elk. Now what? This episode covers it all, from blood tracking and locating your elk, to navigating cross-canyon recoveries, to taking good photographs, to meat processing, care, and packing. What a terrific conversation, recorded with extremely savvy, experienced elk hunters! ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com https://javelinbipod.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com

Transcribed - Published: 30 August 2024

Transcribed - Published: 23 August 2024

What's the best, most practical deer-hunting cartridge of them all? We're joined by our friend Ron Spomer—who is consistently the show's most popular guest—to try our hand at picking one cartridge to rule them all. Because it's fun, we also take a deep dive into our personal favorite deer-hunting cartridges—practicality thrown out the window—and share just why those particular rounds are so special. This was tremendous fun, folks. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2024

This episode covers the ABC's of flying with guns. From what type of case is best, to how to pack your firearms and ammo, to how to check in with your airline, we detail the process. We cover domestic flights compared to international travel, discuss the legality of flying with a suppressor, suggest research and prep documentation, and so forth. Flying with a firearm is quite a simple process, but can seem daunting to first-timers. It doesn't need to be, though! This guide should provide the information you need to fly with confidence. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 9 August 2024

Ever wonder which of the new PRC cartridges to pick for your new hunting rifle? The 6.5 PRC, 7mm PRC, and .300 PRC each have their strengths... and few weaknesses. So how do you know which will fit your needs best? Hornady engineer and cartridge savant Seth Swerczek guest stars on this episode, and we talk through the various characteristics of each cartridge. Of course we regularly get sidetracked and tell hunting stories to support our points. This deep dive into what each Precision Rifle Cartridge is particularly good at should help you make that ultimate choice. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 2 August 2024

Remember that old saying, "One Shot, One Kill?" How about eight shots, eight kills! This episode we're joined by Shaundi Campbell, senior marketing manager at Browning, who recently took her bucket-list animal in Africa (and seven others) with a single shot each using her favorite 6.8 Western. Shaundi tells a little of the 6.8 Western's back story, shares her significant hunting successes using it on western deer and elk, and tells her African safari stories in this episode. Naturally, we get off in the weeds a bit talking 6.8 Western bullet options, ballistic performance, and terminal results. Plus Shaundi shares a peek behind the curtain of the 6.8 Western's future. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.leupold.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2024

This episode explains how knowing fundamental ballistics help us make clean, ethical kills in the field. Jayden Quinlan (ballistic mastermind at Hornady) shines the light on how to compensate for steep angles, for wind, and for bullet drop in various air density and temperatures. We talk hunting bullets and the evolution of projectiles and how to choose the right modern hunting bullet for your hunting tasks. What a terrific, informative, entertaining discussion... Hope you all enjoy this as much as I did! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.timneytriggers.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.leupold.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 19 July 2024

What's the BEST elk cartridge? Or should we ask, what's your FAVORITE elk cartridge? This fun episode with Ron Spomer and Tate Bradfield takes a humorous and deep dive into most practical elk cartridges and favorite elk cartridges—and how they're rarely the same! Plus, we talk one-shot drops on elk, marginal cartridges versus marginal shots, how to master heavy recoil, and more. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.timneytriggers.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 12 July 2024

Few men know whether they'll have the courage to stand their ground and fight an irate Kodiak brown bear—or whether their defense gun will be adequate. Backcountry hunter Tyce Erickson knows the answer to both, having recently proven himself when a wounded bear his group was tracking attacked at close quarters in thick alder brush. In this episode, Tyce joins the podcast to tell his story. He gives a candid account of what went wrong, of the pressured last-minute decisions that led to the situation, and the solid decisions and actions that allowed him and his guide to both survive. And for the gear junkies amongst us, Tyce details his hunting and fighting tools. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.timneytriggers.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 9 July 2024

Few men know whether they'll have the courage to stand their ground and fight an attacking Kodiak brown bear—or whether their defense gun will be adequate. Passionate backcountry hunter Tyce Erickson knows the answer to both, having recently proven himself when a wounded bear he was tracking attacked at close quarters in thick alder brush. In this episode, Tyce joins the podcast to tell his story. He gives a candid account of what went wrong, of the pressured last-minute decisions that led to the situation, and the solid decisions and actions that allowed him and his guide to both survive. And for the gear junkies amongst us, Tyce details his hunting and fighting tools. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.timneytriggers.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2024

In one of the most exciting product announcements of the year, Springfield recently brought out a long-action version of it's superb Model 2020 Waypoint precision hunting rifle. Previously only available in short-action cartridges, it's now available in 7mm PRC, 7mm Rem Mag, .300 Win Mag, .300 PRC, .270 Win, and .30-06! What a star-studded lineup of long-action cartridges. Now, if I can just convince Springfield to add the .280 Ackley Improved... This brief episode details the rifle: concept, components, ergonomics, accuracy probability and guarantee, and so forth. If you want to put eyeballs on it as we examine and review it, we'll have a YouTube video up shortly. ENJOY! https://www.youtube.com/@BackcountryHuntingPodcast

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2024

Cape Kudu are slightly smaller, more colorful, and "better dressed" than their Southern Greater cousins—and are enchanting and addictive to hunt. This episode, we sit down by a midnight acacia-wood fire in the Eastern Cape area of South Africa with PH Ed Everton of Rosedale Safaris, to share hunting stories and discuss the incredible Cape Kudu. We talk through Cape Kudu characteristics, hunting methods, habits and habitat, and proper tools (rifle, cartridge, & bullet) for hunting them. This is an awesome episode, recorded in the field and published raw and unedited. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 28 June 2024

Is your rifle fully set up and ready for hunting season? That's a question all too many hunters don't ask until it's nearly go-time. This episide addresses rifle choice and scope selection, how to mount your scope for best performance, crucial accessories like an anti-cant scope level, rifle sling, and bipod, and how to set the complete system up properly. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 21 June 2024

What causes some cold-bore shots to go astray? And can a good rifleman eliminate them? This episode discusses bore condition, barrel quality, clean-bore shots, and the human element, debunking myths and providing practical solutions to overcome unexplained first-shot misses. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com www.leupold.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.browning.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 14 June 2024

Folks, I've fielded a lot of questions about this rifle—so here's a 15-minute bonus rifle review for you. This is the build project I did last year to create my ultimate .280 Ackley Improved custom mountain rifle. It was built by my old friend Steve Pratt of Elk Meadow Performance, using the following components: Defiance Anti-X action Proof Research 22" 1:8-twist Sendero profile carbon-fiber barrel Timney Elite Hunter trigger Hawkins Precision "Hunter" bottom metal Proof Mountain Hunter stock Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44 scope It turned out wonderfully... Weighs right around 7.5 pounds ready to go up the moutain!

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2024

Recorded raw in the field off coastal Alaska, this episode takes place hunting from the Venturess, a fishing/hunting boat operated by Alaska Premier Sportfishing. Even though we experienced constant rain, wind, and cold, our group of 7 hunters managed to take 4 great bears, plus our limit of halibut, rockfish, king salmon, and several yelloweye. My daughter Sophie turned 12 on the boat, right after taking the biggest bear anyone in our family has ever shot! She dropped it with a perfect 251-yard shot after stalking up the Alaska coastline. Color me proud. This is a long episode full of great stories and details of planning, gear selection, hunt methods, unexpected challenges, and of course rifle, cartridge, bullet, and optic selections. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 7 June 2024

How do you pick the right hunting mentor? And how do you distil what gear you really down to a practical setup? This episode is all about being a practical hunter with solid (but not expensive) gear, and about learning from real-deal hunters rather than popular, trendy influencers. Guest is Tate Bradfield, owner of Process Based Hunter. He's a young but savvy hunter with a world of experience. ENJOY! Sign up for the 3-day Elk Hunting Boot Camp, co-hosted by Joseph von Benedikt on-site in southeastern Idaho. FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com

Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2024

RIFLE REVIEW! For the first time ever, Weatherby's excellent new Model 307 action is available with a carbon-fiber stock and a carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel. It's called the Alpine CT, and is a wonderful lightweight hunting rifle. I took one chambered in 7mm PRC to New Zealand this spring, and was real impressed. It's reliable, accurate, ergonomic, and has all the features I like in a backcountry hunting rifle. And for what you get (custom-level action & trigger; high-end carbon-fiber stock; carbon-wrapped barrel) it just might be the best value on the market. ENJOY!

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2024

How good are modern monometal hunting bullets? All-copper and copper-alloy designs have undergone a lot of evolution in the past couple decades, and are becoming more and more popular. This episode takes a deep dive into the primary performance characteristics of the type, focusing on: Killing effectiveness Accuracy potential Different expansion mechanisms Long-range capability Barrel fouling and how to manage it How to choose the right bullet for your specific hunts We talk through the specific performance features of bullets by Barnes, Hornady, Hammer, Nosler, Federal and others, and detail what each is particularly good for. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.leupold.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com www.onxmaps.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.silencercentral.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2024

Are the .308 and .30-06 similar in performance? Or are they actually quite different? This episode takes a deep dive into the performance and characteristics of each cartridge, in an effort to determine which is the better hunting cartridge. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.timneytriggers.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://javelinbipod.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.leupold.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.siembidacustomknives.com

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2024

Browning's new X-Bolt 2 Speed SR may be the best hunting rifle on the market in it's price bracket. This video takes a deep dive into just why that is. Showcased is a 6.8 Western version, along with the factory ammo it shoots best. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute to help keep the podcast living!

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2024

This episode covers the gear we take for spring bear hunting on Alaska's rugged coastlines, and details exactly why each specific item is chosen. From game bags to rifles, we cover it all! We filmed as we discussed each item in the pile of gear, so if you want to put eyeballs on them, head on over to our new Backcountry Hunting Podcast YouTube channel and give us a like and subscribe! ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024

Recorded LIVE with our loyal listeners on Patreon! This Q&A is full of great info... Rifle setup, cartridge selection, pre-hunt shooting practice, how to build a stable field position, best bullets for elk, NRL Hunter competitions as a training tool, thermal scopes and how to use them, and a whole bunch more! ENJOY! Join the next Live Q&A by becoming a member on www.patreon.com/backcountry

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2024

Here's the second half of our recent adventure in New Zealand... DIY on public land, in pursuit of chamois in the Southern Alps. Steep country, incessant rain, and low visiblity all were against us but hard hunting paid off and we each brought home a great chamois buck. Recorded on a small portable mic, hunkered in or beside a tent in alpine country, this episode is about as raw and real as they come... We tell our hunt stories, talk about what gear did and didn't work, and about the backcountry hunting skills and techniques learned hunting public land in America's West that helped us succeed. Plus, of course, our Weatherby cartridges, bullets, tents, boots, raingear and optics of choice. ENJOY! FRIENDS! We're at a crucial time in the growth of the show, and need all the support we can get to take it to the next level. Please join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry where you'll get access to all our bonus material and can contribute a few dollars. VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE: www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2024

Leupold's new RX-5000 rangefinder ranges to FIVE THOUSAND yards (or even a tad more!) and has the ability to project waypoints to onX Maps! This interview with Leupold's Eric Overstreet details the features and characteristics of this awesome new optic. ENJOY! For those of you that would like to see the new rangefinder in hand, check out the video of this episode on YouTube. Here's a link: https://youtu.be/1QWYeVQCqfg Please subscribe on YouTube!

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2024