The Hornady Podcast

In this episode, we sit down to talk all things stability and why it's the foundation of precision shooting in the field. From real-world hunting scenarios to gear innovation, we break down how the right support system can make or break your shot. We dive into the design philosophy behind Spartan Precision Equipment, what sets them apart in terms of weight, versatility, and performance, and how modern hunters are rethinking the way they approach shooting positions in challenging terrain. Whether you're chasing ounces in the backcountry or looking to tighten your groups at distance, this conversation highlights the critical role stability plays—and how the right equipment helps you execute when it matters most.

Host Seth Swerczek sits down with fan favorite Joe Thielen to break down the build behind his ultralight 6.5 PRC hunting rifle. From barrel and stock to optics and accessories, they dive into the reasoning behind each component—creating a lightweight, versatile setup built to go anywhere and perform in the field.

Host Seth Swerczek and Neil Davies sit down with Pedro Ampuero to explore his background and experiences in hunting around the world. From how he got started to lessons learned in the field, this episode dives into the stories, challenges, and perspectives that have shaped Pedro's journey as a hunter.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Miles Neville and Preston Lentfer to answer a question, that frankly, we get a lot… "Can match bullets be used for hunting?" In this episode the guys dive deep into what really matters when choosing a hunting bullet. Breaking down the key differences between ELD Match bullets and ELD-X hunting bullets. Covering how each is designed, manufactured and tested, and what that ultimately means for terminal performance. Let's find out!

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Jayden Quinlan, Joe Thielen, and Miles Neville for a deep dive into copper expanding bullet design. From how Hornady designs copper bullets to match specific cartridge needs to the latest advancements in the CX line and real-world terminal performance, this episode breaks down the science behind modern copper hunting projectiles.

Host Seth Swerczek sits down with Josh Smith of Montana Knife Company to talk about his journey from bladesmith to building one of the fastest-growing knife brands in America. They dive into what separates a quality hunting knife from a cheap one—covering steel, heat treat, design, and what really matters when it's time to put a blade to work in the field.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Assistant Director of Engineering Joe Thielen to break down the build behind Joe's Tactical Class .308 Win PRS rifle. From barrel and stock to optics, trigger, and muzzle brake, they dive into the component selection process and the reasoning behind each choice for competitive precision rifle shooting and podium finishes.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Senior Ballistician Jayden Quinlan for a deep dive into the brand new Leupold BX-6 Range HD Binoculars featuring onboard Hornady 4DOF. The guys are joined by the Leupold VP of New Products and Marketing, Tim Lesser, and the Product Line Manager, Eric Overstreet. They discuss how these new binoculars deliver real-time ballistic data powered by 4DOF, precision ranging, and unmatched features and glass quality.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer and Matt Ritchie to break down how competitive shooting disciplines like NRL Hunter, PRS, and even pistol matches translate into better hunting skills. From gear familiarity and shooting positions to time pressure and mental prep, the crew explores how competition sharpens the skills that matter most when it's time to take the shot in the field.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by former Hornady Senior Ballistician Dave Emary to tell the story of the 17 Hornet—from concept and cartridge design to testing, ballistics, and field performance. They break down what makes this tiny round so effective and the unique engineering behind its sting.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer and Jayden Quinlan to dive into the extensive cartridge family born from the .308 Winchester. From the classic .243 Win to the hard-hitting .358 Winchester and everything in between, the team compares ballistics, performance, and application—laying out the strengths and trade-offs of each cartridge in the .308 lineage.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Ben Syring, Jayden Quinlan, and special guest Jeff Siewert for a deep dive into headspace. From defining what it is and how it works to controlling it during reloading, this episode covers the science, data, and real-world scenarios that make headspace one of the most critical (and misunderstood) aspects of precision shooting.

Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer break down Seth's brand-new coyote rifle build for the 2026 season. From barrel and optic to trigger and suppressor, they walk through every component choice—and explain how this setup is optimized for fast, accurate daytime predator hunting.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Ben Syring and Preston Lentfer to break down the different methods of case sizing—full-length, neck, bump, and more. They explore the pros, cons, and best applications for each, helping handloaders choose the right approach for accuracy, consistency, and reliability.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Jayden Quinlan, Miles Neville, and Preston Lentfer to discuss how they approach ballistic solutions in real-world hunting scenarios. From ballistic binoculars and Kestrels to drop cards and max point blank range, they break down what actually matters - and what doesn't - when you're in the field. They also highlight Jayden's ultra-efficient dope card system.

Host Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer are joined by renowned predator hunter Geoff Nemnich to break down the tactics, gear, and mindset that lead to more coyotes on the ground. From call setups to shooting tips, this episode is packed with valuable insights and proven techniques for success in the field.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer and Matt Ritchie to explore the history and lasting value of the 257 Roberts cartridge. They discuss its origins, ballistics, versatility, and why this classic still holds its own in the modern era of hunting and shooting.

Host Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer sit down with predator hunting expert Geoff Nemnich to break down his signature GA Precision GAP-15 "Coyotes Fear Me" Edition. From barrel to buttstock, they go deep on the components, the why behind each choice, and what makes this rifle Geoff's ultimate daytime coyote setup.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer, Matt Ritchie, and Judd Jarzynka to talk shop—literally. From reloading setups to custom gunsmithing projects, the crew shares what they've been working on at their benches and the tools and techniques they're loving right now.

Host Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer sit down with special guest Mike "Whitey" Jensen to relive his unforgettable Alaskan adventure—taking a grizzly bear with not one, but two of his custom handguns. From handgun setup to the raw, wild moments in the field, this story is one that won't soon be forgotten.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Miles Neville and Preston Lentfer to explain the concept of max point blank range and why it matters to hunters. They break down how this method of zeroing simplifies shooting in the field, helping you make faster, more confident shots without overthinking holdover or ballistic charts.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Matt Ritchie to break down the build of Seth's 25 Creedmoor—designed specifically for his young sons and small-statured wife. They cover every component choice, the reasoning behind each decision, and how to create a rifle that's comfortable, capable, and confidence-inspiring for smaller shooters.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Jayden Quinlan and Preston Lentfer to dive into the history and performance of the four Creedmoor cartridges—6.5, 6, 22, and 25 Creedmoor. The team breaks down what makes each one unique, where they excel, and which might be the best fit for your next rifle.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Joe Thielen and Preston Lentfer to catch up on what's been happening at their reloading and gunsmithing benches. From new projects and load development to the lessons learned along the way, the trio shares what they've been working on behind the scenes.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Tools General Manager Jason Slinkard and Project Engineers Ben Syring and Dylan Hood to take an in-depth look at Hornady's new reloading tools for 2026. From concept to completion, the team discusses the development, design, and features of the new Versa-Prime Bench Priming Tool and the Classic Pro Press—two innovations built to make precision reloading smoother and more consistent than ever.

Host Seth Swerczek sits down with Joe Thielen and Jayden Quinlan to dive into the development of the 22 Creedmoor cartridge. From early testing and design challenges to performance breakthroughs and where this round truly shines, the team breaks down everything you need to know about Hornady's latest precision cartridge.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Jason Hornady, Neil Davies, and Joe Thielen to break down everything new from Hornady for 2026. From innovative ammunition and bullet designs to reloading tools and awesome security products, the team covers the latest developments shaping the next year of Hornady innovation.

Host Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer dive into every detail of Preston's rifle build, from setup and load development to the challenges faced along the way. They also share insights and data from fireforming brass, offering a detailed look into the process of refining a custom wildcat cartridge.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Ray Heusinkvelt and Aaron Tritsch of Zermatt Arms to talk about the history of Zermatt and Bighorn, the development of their renowned custom actions, and how prefit barrels and precision components are reshaping the rifle world. From innovation to execution, this episode dives deep into what makes Zermatt's actions stand apart.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer and Matt Ritchie to dive into all things antelope hunting. From their picks for the ideal cartridge to bullet selection and which rounds get the job done, the crew shares stories, insights, and plenty of antelope talk in this milestone 200th episode.