Backcountry Hunting Podcast

This episode details the second half of an incredible hunt in Spain. von Benedikt and hunting partner Austin Brown drive halfway across the country, visiting castle ruins and ancient churches and cathedrals and staying in half-millennium-old inns, to hunt giant roebucks.  From botched shots and success on a world-class roebuck, to exploring 2,000-year-old Roman aqueducts and Moorish architecture and gold-encrusted Royal armor, this was an adventure.  Wrapping up, we talk through the process of booking and planning a hunt to Spain, including scheduling travel, sorting out paperwork, and getting your Spanish hunting license and firearm permit. On a worldwide spectrum, Spain is surprisingly easy and very accommodating.  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.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercen

Raw from the field, this episode details the first half of a hunting adventure high in Spain's remote, extremely rugged Pyrenees Mountains. My long-time hunting partner Austin Brown was intent on taking an indigenous, free-range chamois the hard way—by climbing above timberline, glassing up an old male, and climbing within range.  In a surprise bonus, we got to visit a 1,000-year-old church unfathomably deep in the mountains, where an 11th-century Crusader's skeleton is buried—but visible beneath glass.  Guide Juan Pedro "Juan-P" and cigarette-rolling, chain-smoking, mountain-scaling game keeper Oscar took us high above timberline, where we found bands of chamois feeding beneath the snowline. Big old males tend to be loners, but we eventually found just the right one.  This is his story, and Austin's. And it's a must-listen for anyone that's ever dreamed about hunting Europe's high country. After this experience, it's impossible to recommend it highly enough.  Enjoy!   FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Jo

Leupold's long-awaited ranging bino is about to hit your local dealers! It's an awesome optic called the BX-4HD Range, and is initially available in 10x42 for $1,600.  In this episode, I'm joined by friends and hunting partners Skipper and Colton, who both have experience with the new BX-4HD Range, and we hash out the advantages of a combined binocular and rangefinder. Why deal with 2 items, extra weight, extra movement, and the more time needed when using separate optics?  Skipper gives us the tech skinny on the BX-4HD Range, plus a look at the new hunting-appropriate, highly advanced 2-10x Leupold Mark 5 riflescope. We also talk through spotting scope selection; using a spotter with a reticle to calculate antler width on moose in Alaska when a bull must be 50 inches wider to be legal; adequate magnification for long-range shooting, and more. This is just an awesome discussion on all things optical. ENJOY!     FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to

In this episode, we pit the legendary .30-06 against the cutting-edge new 7mm PRC. This may seem like an odd pairing, but considering the fact that one is the all-American standard by which all others are measured, and the other is the hunting world's most popular up-and-comer, it makes good sense.  Plus, there's a surprising amount of give and take in advantages. Even just outlining this episode was a ton of fun. We address:  History Practicality Authority Long-range capability Inherent accuracy Firepower Recoil level Versatility Availability And a whole bunch more. 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.timneytriggers.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.gunwerks.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.leupold.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Extraordinary elk hunts provide extraordinary memories—and provide valuable lessons. In this episode, Joseph von Benedikt tells the stories of his 5 top elk hunts, and unpacks the seasonal conditions, hunt methods, gear (rifle, optic, cartridge, & bullet), and other dynamics that led to success.  Deep analysis after each tale provides insight into make-or-break tactics and techniques, as well as gear adaptability, hunter/shooter skills, weather influences, and more. We talk the importance of local knowledge, a well-tuned shooting setup, persistence and stubbornness, the ability to glass effectively, stalking skills, big-timber woodsman ship, and how to hold it together at the moment of truth.  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 www.timneytriggers.com www.onxmaps.com www.s

Tipi-type shelters are both ancient and modern; traditional and trendy. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the pros and cons of flourless, tipi-type modern tents for backcountry hunting. Ryan Sapena of Seek Outside details how they're superior in high winds, lighter and faster to set up, and offer stove-compatibility and all the benefits that accompany that. (Dry your clothes, stay warm, cook without canister fuels, etc.) Naturally, we talk about bug and moisture control, venomous critters, and "embracing the dirt."  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:  https://javelinbipod.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.gunwerks.com www.siembidacustomknives.com    

This episode takes a deep dive into the mechanics of various types of hunting bullets. We define: On-impact performance characteristics Shot angles, and what it takes to successfully destroy vitals Broadside Quartering to Quartering away Facing straight on "Texas heart shots" (facing away) Bullet types Cup-and-lead-core Bonded-lead core, partition, and hybrid Monometal Big game sizes and bullet requirements: Deer & pronghorn Mid-size game such as caribou and elk Big-bodied game such as moose and bison African game Types of wound channels, and which most bullets most effectively create: Hydrodynamic affect Temporary wound cavities Permanent wound channels Frontal diameter and cavitation Weight retention and penetration How to pick the most versatile bullet type for your purposes Game size considerations Caliber and acceptable shot angles ENJOY!    FRIENDS, SUPPORT THE PODCAST AND GAIN ACCESS TO OUR BONUS CONTENT!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus m

Straight from the experts... Mark and Steve of EXO MTN Gear detail how to pick, fit, and load a backpack. Whether you're a fast-and-light overnight solo hunter or heading out on an expedition-level hunt, these tips will make your pack in and load out easier.  Also, we get a first look at EXO's terrific new K4 pack system. I used a final-stage prototype on my DIY, drop-camp Alaska moose hunt last fall and was super impressed.  Because we can, we also talk mountain rifles and cartridges, scope failures and solutions, and how to comfortably and protectively strap your rifle to your pack or carry it in your hands.  We also touch on archery, and how to properly strap a compound bow to a backpack. This episode's got a bit of something awesome for everybody.  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.siembidacusto

This episode I'm joined by engineer Mike Ballard and long-time hunting partner Chris Ellis to talk Timney Triggers, and how to pick the right trigger and get the best out of it.  We discuss:  Trigger terminology How triggers are designed Choosing the right trigger Single-stage vs. two-stage triggers Trigger pull weights appropriate for hunting The refined aspects: Trigger shoe shape & width, competition weights & designs vs. hunting, etc.  Trigger reliability The future of triggers 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.gunwerks.com www.siembidacustomknives.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com https://javelinbipod.com

Some of the most adventurous DIY backcountry hunts out West are spring bear hunts. This episode digs deep into planning and executing a fun, safe, successful hunt for black bears in big public-land country.  We discuss:  Destination States Necessary gear E-Scouting and actual scouting Hunting methods How to recognize a bear hotspot Bear rifles, cartridges, and bullets How to shoot and kill a bear cleanly How to field dress, break down, and pack out a bear Safety considerations 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.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com https://javelinbipod.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.gunwerks.com www.siembidacustomknives.com  

This episode we're joined by Stone Glacier founder and lead product designer Kurt Racicot, who's a passionate backcountry hunter. A past Alaska resident for a dozen years, Kurt hunted and shot several mountain goats and dall sheep on solo adventures, as well as moose and bear and caribou, before moving home to Montana and launching Stone Glacier.  Here, Kurt shares stories and lessons learned during his gnarliest hunts, and gives us an inside look at Stone Glacier, a company that's become synonymous with ultra-light, mountaineering-quality hunting packs, sleeping bags, tents, and apparel.  A fellow eccentric cartridge enthusiast, Kurt also tells us about his two go-to cartridges and the rifle setups he currently uses for backcountry sheep and goat hunting and for Montana elk.  We also talk through functional optics, glassing techniques, and how to cover country with boots and optics.  ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus mat

What's all the froth and fervor over modern cartridges? Should we really discard the old tried-and-true classics? Sometimes, perhaps. Often, absolutely not.  This episode takes a deep dive into the pros & cons of modern, cutting-edge cartridges versus classic, proven cartridges.  We discuss: Cutting-edge bullets Ammo availability Proven terminal performance vs. prototype projectiles What happens if the airline loses your ammo Modern chamber & cartridge case design Ballistic advantages Efficiency & accuracy Recoil, barrel life, & downrange authority Wide-open country vs. big timber hunting Rifle availability & selection Survivor mentality & appropriate cartridges Handloading components & resources Turn-key solutions to cutting-edge performance This was a fun one... 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.barnesbul

Ever hunted in negative 25 degree (C) temps, on 11-foot cross-country skis? Rob Gearing, founder of Spartan Precision Equipment has, and in this episode he shares his most recent adventures. Frostbitten fingertips were the least of the damage; Rob actually experienced frostbite in his shooting eye. Several times he had to personally re-insert a troublesome hernia that popped out while straining to recover and get back upright after a crash in deep, deep powder snow. Yes, Rob's an animal and thrives on type-2 fun.  In this episode, Rob shares survival tips, cold-weather hunting methods, advice for staying mentally focused and having fun even against astronomical odds, and more.  Before closing, we discuss Spartan's new partnership with Primos, and Spartan's new line of precision-shooting products ideal for NRL Hunter competition and front-country hunting, which live under the new Spartan Defense branch of the company.  One other cool thing about this episode: I'm tremendously excited to introduce—in partnershi

This episode dives into the often-daunting task of preparing to hunt Out West. For folks coming from low-elevation flatland, here's a guide on the whole shootin' match:  Mental prep Physical prep Handling high altitudes Differences from hunting whitetails How to handle hunter pressure How to find and hunt wary, pressured game How to hunt overwhelmingly big country How to stay safe in dangerous terrain Are bears, mountain lions, and wolves a concern?  Crossing rivers and climbing mountains The importance of staying hydrated Staying focused when against challenging odds Packing meat Gear selection: Camping gear, hunting gear, and killing gear How to become a minimalist (mountain hunter) Binocular, rangefinder, and spotting scope selection Crucial characteristics of a western hunting rifle Selecting ammo Choosing and buying a backpack How to dress for (backcountry hunting) success Species to start with, and states to hunt Maximizing e-scouting Western DIY hunting is a campaign, not a battle This was a fun one.

This episode dives into the cutting-edge 7mm PRC and the legendary .280 Ackley Improved. We compare accuracy potential, long-range capability, recoil levels, efficiency and barrel life, versatility with various bullets, downrange potency, appropriate rifle actions, magazine capacity and follow-up shots, ammunition and rifle availability, and more.  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.siembidacustomknives.com www.browning.com www.barnesbullets.com www.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.gunwerks.com https://javelinbipod.com

What does it take to cleanly kill an elk? This episode, we sit down with professional western guide Colton Heward, who has seen hundreds of elk shot. Colton shares his opinion on the useful minimum energy required to kill big bulls quickly, and details the cartridges and bullets that work best.  We also swap stories about hunting anomalies; experiences that just shouldn't happen—but did. Antelope that shrug off perfect shots, giant bull elk that drop stone dead when shot with tiny bullets, and other true but disconcerting tales.  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.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.gunwerks.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

Browning knocked my socks off with two surprise introductions at SHOT 2023! First is an X-Bolt chambered in .270 Winchester—with a fast rifling twist rate in the barrel! You can shoot all traditional .270 ammo in it, plus handloaders can use all the modern, heavy-for-caliber, high-BC bullets. It's terrific.  Second is a whole line of X-Bolt rifles chambered in 7mm PRC. I thought Browning wouldn't come to market with a 7mm PRC until 2024. I was wrong—and how! Long barrels, medium barrels, short suppressor-ready barrels, various stocks and finishes... pick your poison.  This 5-minute episode with Rifle Product Manager Aaron Cummins details the new lines. Check it out! 

This brief new-product segment is a first look at Remington's new Premier Long Range ammo. This ammo is loaded with heavy-for-caliber, high-BC bullets, built by Speer, using the same molecular plating/bonding construction used in Federal's excellent Fusion bullets.  As a result, it's a tough, deep-penetrating bullet that will open reliably at distance, and if it's anything like the Fusion bullet, will be very accurate. A composite "Slip-stream" tip and boat tail help aerodynamics.  Please excuse the background noise and the hum of energy... It's the electrifying hum of a SHOT Show in full swing!  Enjoy. 

Thanks to a listener's request, we're bringing the grand old .270 Winchester some love. This episode dives into how to get the best ballistic and terminal performance out of the cartridge.  We talk rifle accuracy, factory load options and selection, handloading the .270, and some bullets that have provided top-tier performance over the years.  This is a BONUS episode, and it's also the 2023 SHOT Show kickoff! We'll have new-product introductions and reviews in upcoming episodes—and are going to be posting short "first look" segments on www.patreon.com/backcountry. Sign up for access to that bonus content, and to join our community there.  ENJOY!    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.gunwerks.com www.siembidacustomknives.com https://javelinbipod.com

This episode we're joined by Brandon Maddox, head man at Silencer Central and the suppressor world's leading genius. We talk rough-country hunting, and unpack the all-new 7.8-oz. titanium Banish Backcountry suppressor. Next, Brandon gives us a "state of the ATF" address outlining the current status of the eForm system and what purchasers can expect. For first-time buyers, we lay out how to keep it simple when buying your first suppressor, and then dig into the (relatively simple) process of traveling internationally with your suppressor.  Naturally, the entire conversation is liberally dosed with hunting stories and experiences.  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.timneytriggers.com www.leupold.com www.onxmaps.com www.silencercentral.com https://www.portersfirearms.com/ www.gunwerks.com www.siembidacustomknives.com