Backcountry Hunting Podcast

Last year, deep in Alaska's Chugach Mountains, guide Jordan Voigt experienced a catastrophic boot failure that left his feet unusable for weeks. This episode, we dig deep into injury recovery and maintaining fitness as we age.  "Old man yoga," daily miles, packing weight, and knowing your own body are critical ingredients to maintaining a backcountry-capable level of fitness into your 60's and 70's. Voigt tells his story, and walks us through the process he used to come back. Need a teaser? Wearing Crocs and riding horses while hunting played a big part. Passionate hunter that he is, Voigt refused to lay on the couch during hunting season, instead finding alternate ways to hunt and achieve great success in rugged country.  Mental toughness, humility, and patience also play a huge part in successfully hunting the backcountry through middle age and into your later years. Horses—and perhaps even more, Llamas—can be come important assets.  Before wrapping up, we talk sheep and brown bear rifles and cartridges, ju

Spring is here, and bear season is right around the corner. Alaskan bear-killing expert Tyler Freel joins us to talk about how to properly shoot and cleanly kill bears. Freel details bear anatomy, vitals location and shot placement, tracking and recovering bears, cartridges and bullets for bears, arrows and broadheads for bears, and much more.  Freel hosts the Tundra Talk podcast and is a staff writer for Outdoor Life. An outdoorsman of vast and varied interests, he's shot grizzlies with longbows and recurve bows and stone points—one at just 6 yards. Blackpowder and patched round balls, too. He's guided and hunted much of Alaska, from the Peninsula to the Arctic circle, and has taken many grizzlies and stacks of black bears.  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.leupold.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomkni

7mm-caliber cartridges are capable of taking any hooved, non-dangerous game in the world—as long as they're paired with the right bullet. This episode takes a deep dive into the 7mm world, from the historic 7x57 Mauser that started it all up through the cutting-edge modern "sevens." Focus is on how to get the best-possible performance out of your 7mm cartridge, whatever it might be. We use the following criteria:  Intended use (game type and anticipated shot distance) Big game. Elk up through moose & bison Deer-size game Short shots in timber (tough, deep penetrators) Long shots (accurate, highly aerodynamic projectiles) Cartridge capacity (propellant, which equals velocity) Three categories of cartridge 28 Nosler 7mm Rem Mag .280 Ackley 7mm SAUM 7x57 Mauser 7mm-08 Rem Rifling twist rate 1:9.5, 1:9, and the oh-so-useful 1:8/1:8.5s Barrel length For maximum velocity For use with a suppressor Accuracy in short vs. long barrels Rifle weight Pros & cons of rifle weight Shooter recoil sensi

This episode we welcome back Chris Ellis, trigger savant and self-styled hillbilly bullet tester. We discuss what really makes a great trigger, and why Timney Triggers achieve what the do. Chris walks us through a bit of the history and inspiration behind Timney, details manufacturing processes and dedication to quality, and talks about the vast variety of Timney triggers available for everything from cutting-edge bolt-action hunting rifles to Glocks to Remington 870s.  Chris is a student of bullet performance from way back, so we transition to talking about particularly capable bullets for whitetail deer. Naturally, that leads to bear bullets, elk bullets, and even bullets for American bison.  We wrap up with a discussion of industry trends and Timney's focus on providing the best triggers available for shooters and hunters. 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

This episode explores what characteristics are paramount in a versatile self-defense firearm for survival situations. Based on a worst-case, apocalyptic scenario, it discusses rifles, shotguns, handguns, cartridges, and appropriate ammunition.  SHOW NOTES:  Characteristics of a great survival gun Reliability Portable and handy Firepower Accuracy Long-range capability Cartridge authority Appropriate bullets Specific recommended cartridges Crossover hunting tools Recommended firearm types and models Optimism... "Let not your heart be troubled" Preparedness is peace of mind 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.leupold.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Survival guns! What could be more fun to talk about. This episode focuses on hardware, situations, and skills. It's not a prophecy. Outdoor people all have a little Boy Scout in them (motto: Be Prepared). We like to be ready for anything, and that's what this discussion is all about.  First, let's throw out that one word that suggests extreme survival: Apocalypse. All the really gnarly stuff. Super volcano. Solar flare. Gigantic earthquakes. Nuclear war. Foreign invasion. Runaway asteroid. Truly deadly disease.  Whatever your favorite fear is, it ain't a bad idea to prepare for it so you can sleep well at night.   Characteristics of a good survival/hunting gun:  Reliable and easy to fix Well suited for locally available game Versatile for a broad spectrum of uses Capable of making challenging shots Is just one gun enough?  Popular survival-gun types and models:  Ruger 10/22 Pump-action shotgun Bolt-action rifle chambered in either:  .30-06 6.5 Creedmoor (Here's why) Lever-action rifle in .30-30 Combinat

This episode we're joined by Adam Weatherby to discuss the new .338 Weatherby RPM cartridge, the Gen 2 version of the sub-5-pound Mark V Backcountry 2.0 rifle, and more including:  Never before revealed ballistics and info on the .338 WBY RPM Ammo shortages, supplies, and availability forecast New lightest-ever Peak 44 carbon fiber stocks on Weatherby rifles Backcountry 2.0 features, design, and variations including the awesome Titanium, carbon-barrel rifle Bear and moose hunt stories with the .338 RPM New sponsor! Spartan Precision Equipment joins the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe. Check out Spartan's lightest-in-the-world mountaineering quality bipods here.  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.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Silencers, suppressors, and the new E-Form application process have the shooting world on point. Brandon Maddox, founder and owner of Silencer Central, joins us as a special guest. His insider perspective clears up misconceptions, provides solid, data-backed info on processes and wait times and what purchasers should expect, and generally throws a ton of light on the subject of purchasing a suppressor. Additionally, we talk through current trends in suppressors and the growing contingent of hunters using them. Mr. Maddox gives us an inside look at Silencer Central's new products, including the exceptionally compact, highly effective 338 Banish, and the versatile, modular 46 Banish.  For our Backcountry Bounty segment, we announce a new limited-edition run of custom Northern Shrike backcountry hunting knives by Siembida Custom Knives.  Wrap: No time like the present to start your suppressor application.  ENJOY!  FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and access weekly

When it comes to gear for deep backcountry hunting, failure is not an option. Warrantees do you no good if a critical piece of kit breaks when you're several days away from any resources. This episode we're joined by Rob Gearing: rock climber, mountaineer, fly-fishing addict, and the genius behind Spartan Precision Equipment. We talk about multi-purpose tripods and ultralight bipods for hard use in unforgiving country, swap hunting stories, and get Rob's take on the ultimate fly-fishing rig for backcountry waters. ENJOY!  Links:  Spartan Precision Equipment Javelin bipods Valhalla bipod Sentinel tripod Ascent tripod Loop Tackle fly rods Winston fly rods FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to weekly bonus material on www.patreon.com/backcountry VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.leupold.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com

The .30-06 still stands as one of the best choices for all-around use on big game—particularly with modern projectiles and propellants. From close up to 400 yards, it's superb. From little southern whitetails and pronghorn antelope to Alaska/Yukon moose, it's outstanding.  This episode takes a deep look into how to get the best performance your .30-06 is capable of.  Why the .30-06 became so popular in the first place What traditional cup-and-core bullets do so well out of the .30-06 How it is still relevant today How it kills with so much authority Where it's at it's best (out to 400 yards) and why Capability, shootability and recoil Factory ammo: broad-spectrum use Barrel life Picking modern loads with modern bullets Handloading tips for the .30-06 Classic bullets for use inside 300 yards Modern bullets for maximizing capability past 300 yards Best bullets for use on big elk, moose, and bear Rifle actions, barrel lengths, stock types, and scopes for use with .30-06  Final thought: It's not just about what

Hornady technician, ballastician, and communications guru Seth Swerczek joins us this episode, for an in-depth look at the new CX monometal bullet. We discuss Hornady's old GMX bullet, and what makes the new CX different. Top terminal performance, increased aerodynamics, and a high accuracy standard set the CX apart. Initial cartridge offerings and component bullets are detailed, along with tips for handloading the CX for best accuracy.  Additionally, we examine the meteoric rise of the recently introduced 6.5 PRC and the .300 PRC, discussing what it is about those cartridges that resonates with hunters.  Finally, Seth talks through Hornady's flagship ELD-X hunting bullet as well as traditional classics such as the Interlock and SST, defining what each is particularly good for.  Bonus: Check out The Hornady Podcast, just launched!  ENJOY! FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE BACKCOUNTRY HUNTING PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry Contribute via PayPal using joseph@backco

Backcountry Q&A This fun episode responds to a dozen fascinating questions from listeners, including: • Bear deterrent • 6.8 Western vs. .280 Ackley vs. .30-06 cartridge comparison • Rifling twist rates • Traditional bows & muzzleloaders • Wild Bison success • Precision scopes for .22s • Upcoming live Podcast Q&A on Zoom • Troubling memories of unrecovered game • One-shot drops & escapes • Backcountry hunter's "essential book list" • More DIY Alaska tips & tricks • "Popper" loads for .35 Whelen •  ENJOY! FRIENDS, WE'RE PLANNING LIVE Q&A SESSIONS ON www.patreon.com/backcountry! Please sign up to support the show, and unlock all the bonus material on Patreon and join us on Zoom.  VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com Contribute via PayPal using joseph@backcountrypodcast.com Contribute via VENMO: @Joseph-vonBenedikt

SHOW NOTES Main topic: New and intriguing gear and trends.  SHOT Show 2022 had an interesting vibe and dynamic. Joseph and Colton discuss subtle trends in rifles, optics, ammo, and other gear, as well as manufacturing challenges and processes. Most interesting new products include GA Precision's new ultra-small backcountry-appropriate suppressor, Leica's new compact rangefinding binocular, Browning's new X-Bolt Speed SR (suppressor ready), and some smaller items.  ENJOY! FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry Contribute via PayPal using joseph@backcountrypodcast.com Contribute via VENMO: @Joseph-vonBenedikt VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com

SHOW NOTES Main topic: Planning and building the ultimate all-purpose rifle for hunting Alaska WINNER Announced: 150th episode custom knife winner revealed Q&A:  Starter .22s for left-handed kids Aoudad hunting (heat, humidity, and big rams) Utah's bonus point-creep dilemma Best .270 bullets for elk Ultimate Alaska Rifle CRITERIA Capable of cleanly killing anything you want to hunt Capable of reaching way out Capable of not just killing a grizzly, but stopping a charging bear Absolute reliability Familiar, intuitive function Ultimate Scope for the Ultimate Alaska Rifle CRITERIA Wide magnification range, starting low (2x) Superb quality to handle heavy recoil and adverse weather Good dial-up turret with zero stop and zero lock Ideally, parallax adjustment Ultimate Gunsmith to build the Ultimate Alaska Rifle Expert with chosen action Legendary for building reliable, accurate rifles Great human with a character as big as Alaska Lex Webernick of Rifle's Inc.  The Final Build & Accessories

SHOW NOTES Intro: If you want the ultimate backcountry DIY challenge, hunt moose in Alaska.  Up Front Q&A section:  To Buy or Not To Buy: high-tech clothing and pack vs. a new backcountry hunting rifle Patreon update. Things to come, including live Zoom Q&A sessions for Patreon members, as well as a Backcountry Hunting companion book for the podcast.  Primary Topic: Planning A DIY Alaska Moose Hunt Research, planning, and booking a transporter Air Taxis vs. Outfitters Travel to Alaska, and within Alaska Gear. Everything from packs and boots and raingear to rifles, cartridges, and bullets for moose Freeze-dried food, and excruciatingly low max weight allowances  Traversing challenging terrain Safety in Alaska's backcountry How to hunt, shoot, field dress, and pack a moose What about bears?  Picking a hunting partner The importance of mental toughness Logistics of getting meat and antlers home Final thoughts: There's no time like the present, and you're not getting any younger. Plan it now.  ENJOY! 

SHOW NOTES Main Topic: Predator Cartridges & Bullets "Up Front" Q&A section:  Undergunned for Aoudad "Recoil" is Right Characteristics of a great coyote cartridge: Fast & Flat Accurate Tiny grenade-like terminal performance If fur collecting, minimal bullet hole damage If competition calling, coyote-walloping authority Spectrum of suitable cartridges: What is too big? (deer cartridges?) What is too small? (.22 LR for coyotes?) Ideal rounds from .17 Rem. and .204 Ruger to .243 Win. and 6mm Creedmoor Top pick for a fur-collecting cartridge Favorite predator-thumping cartridge .22 Creedmoor: Unique, with potential Most practical all-around predator cartridge Favorite predator cartridge  Best bullets for predators: Polymer-tipped, boat-tailed designs Nosler's Ballistic Tip: Most proven  Sierra Tipped MatchKing: Great for reaching out FMJs & controlled-expansion bullets need not apply.   Winter clothing vs. heated blinds Bipods, tripods, & shooting sticks Ranging & shooting ENJOY! F

SHOW NOTES Intro: Second half of 2021 Kodiak Alaska audio journal.  Hunters: Colton & Gary Heward, Austin Brown, Shawn Skipper, Andrew Smith, Brent Neidig, and Joseph von Benedikt. Transporter: Travis Larson, Captain of the Venturess, and crew Susan, JJ, and Garrett of Alaska Premier Sportfishing.  Audio Journal entries:  Day three: Four big bucks down, and a late-night packout in fierce wind.  Day four: 100-mph winds, a bucking boat, and life on the edge. Some duck hunting and an "angry Irish fish."  Day five: A never-to-be-forgotten hunt. Seven mature bucks for seven hunters. Long, one-shot kills in high winds in steep country. Close, spur-of-the-moment shots in sheltered pockets. And a great big velvet "stag" buck.  Interview with Travis & Susan Larson: How to prepare for Kodiak Island. What a transporter does. The difference a warm boat, comfortable bunk, and gourmet-quality food makes when hunting hard in gnarly conditions and terrain. Local knowledge, savvy, and experience. Make-it-or-break-it

SHOW NOTES Main Topic: Recoil. How and why to master it and shoot authoritative cartridges accurately.  150th Episode Giveaway!  Custom Northern Shrike hunting knife To enter, post your favorite episode on Instagram or Facebook, and tag the Backcountry Hunting Podcast.  Q&A:  Barrel break-in, average velocities, and custom turrets Gransfors Bruks Hunters Axe A very short (18-inch) suppressed .30-06 Main topic:  Bad side-effects of recoil:  Flinching FIX: Man up, practice, mental toughness, discipline, fundamental instruction, & dry-fire practice. Dummy rounds and taking control.  Fear (causing poor cartridge selection) Examples: 6.5 & .243  for elk. .243 for mule deer.  FIX: Recoil is a small price to pay to send a bigger hammer downrange. Fear (causing use of muzzle brakes) Breaks good for: Spotting own impacts Breaks bad for: Hearing, and all companion  Best FIX of all: Suppressors Second-best FIX: Pick tough, controlled-expansion bullets that punch above their weight/diameter/

Intro: On the boat, under way around Kodiak Island Participants: Colton & Gary Heward, Brent Neidig, Shawn Skipper, Austin Brown, Andrew Smith, Travis, Susan, & JJ Larson, and Garrett Lambert.  Plans: Hunt sitka blacktail deer & sea ducks, fish Forecast: Troubled. Cold, wind, & snow A lot of firsts: First bucks, first Alaskan hunts  Gear time: Rifles, optics, & ammo picked for the hunt First three days: Hunt stories & adventures Under way again: South Kodiak & big deer ahead Teaser: Big deer, big winds, and big danger ahead in Part 2! ENJOY!  FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe on www.patreon.com/backcountry Contribute via PayPal using joseph@backcountrypodcast.com Contribute via VENMO: @Joseph-vonBenedikt VISIT OUR SPONSORS HERE:  www.browning.com www.silencercentral.com www.timneytriggers.com www.siembidacustomknives.com

SHOW NOTES Intro: For all you hunters sniffing around the 6.8 Western, here's an in-depth look at the cartridge with A Man Who Knows: Browning's own Rafe Nielson.  6.8 Western cartridge discussion: Genesis of the 6.8 Western Significant differences from the .270 WSM Short shots & long shots with the 6.8 Western Hunt stories: Caribou, whitetails, and Roosevelt elk  Cartridge comparisons: 6.8 Western vs. 7mm Rem. Mag., 6.5 PRC, and .280 Ackley Improved High-performance 6.8 Western loads in detail:  175-grain Long Range Pro bullet 165-grain AccuBond Long Range bullet 162-grain Copper Impact bullet Rifles chambered in 6.8 Western Browning's standard-line X-Bolt versions Browning's Pro series X-Bolts Browning's base model X-Bolts Winchester's Model 70  Winchester's XPR Here to stay: Current sales and future promise of the 6.8 Western Wrap: Is the 6.8 Western a candidate for an ultimate Western rifle for the one-gun hunter?    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tr