The Hunt Backcountry Podcast

Steve Davis of Hammer Bullets joins us to discuss the history, development, and use of Hammer Bullets for hunting. Hammer is a small bullet manufacturer out of Montana. Brian and Steve started Hammer Bullets when they, as hunters, couldn't find the bullet they were looking for on their market. You'll hear how they started building bullets in their garage, the struggles they went through in testing, and how they ultimately found a unique design that had numerous benefits for hunters and hand-loaders. Hammer makes all-copper, monolithic bullets. In addition to discussing Hammer bullets specifically, we also talk about the benefit of monolithic bullets and why hunters should consider using them — even if they hunt in states where traditional lead bullets are able to be used. Learn more about Hammer Bullets at https://HammerBullets.com/. You can also reach out to Hammer directly via [email protected] or 406-261-0010. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this third episode of the four-part series, we discuss the hunt-specific gear that should be in your pack. We cover everything from the knives and game bags we use, to how we carry our binos, and what weapon-maintenance items we bring into the backcountry. - Learn more & subscribe at: https://exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: [email protected]

Steve filled a bear tag this weekend...and tore up a pair of boots on their maiden voyage. We chat about that, then dive into listener questions on water filters, sandbags and pack weight, packing wood stoves, and more... Share your questions via email: [email protected]

How does a bullet kill? There are different theories, different opinions, and different bullet designs. Today we're speaking with Garett Stoddard from Berger Bullets to understand how Berger bullets are designed and constructed to perform on game. Garett is an engineer that has spent a lot of time studying bullet design and terminal performance, and as a hunter himself, also puts his research to the test in the field. This discussion on Terminal Ballistics (a bullet's performance on game) is a great follow-up to our recent conversation with Bryan Litz in Episode 223, which was all about External Ballistics (a bullet's performance in flight). Check out helpful resources and product offerings from Berger Bullets at https://BergerBullets.com Learn more about this podcast at https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast or contact us directly via email to [email protected]

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this second episode of the four-part series, we discuss the topics of Water, Food, and Cooking. We cover everything from how we filter water, to selecting the best stove for the backcountry, to our favorite meals and snacks for extended adventures. - Backcountry Food Plan: https://exomtngear.com/nutrition - Stove Review & Comparison: Episode 190 - DIY Dehydrated Meals: Episode 126 - Learn more & subscribe at: exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer a listener question about supporting "non-hunting" companies, cold weather gear, and more. Share your question with us: [email protected] Learn more & subscribe for future episodes: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It doesn't take a degree in rocket science to understand bullet performance. Or does it? Bryan Litz is a scientist, shooter, and ballistician. He quite literally "wrote the book" on external ballistics and informed what we know about the flight and performance of bullets. Bryan joins us in this episode to breakdown the concept of BC (Ballistic Coefficient) and what this number on your box of bullets or ammunition means for you as a hunter and shooter. We discuss what BC is, how it is measured, when and why it matters for hunters, and more... To dive even deeper into this topic, visit https://NoBSBC.com. You can also check out Bryan's books and other resources at https://AppliedBallisticsLLC.com/ If you have questions about this topic or anything else you want to hear about on future podcasts, let us know by emailing [email protected] https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this first episode of the four-part series, we discuss the topics of Shelters & Sleep Systems. If you've been wondering about floorless shelters vs double-wall tents, sleeping bags vs quilts, or other related topics, this discussion is for you. - Budget Gear List: https://exomtngear.com/budgetgear - Learn more & subscribe at: https://exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: [email protected]

If you have a limited budget and are looking to extend the effective range of your rifle, should you consider upgrading or replacing your rifle scope? We answer that listener question with the help of Brenton from Leupold Optics. Do you have a question or topic suggestion for a future episode? Let us know... [email protected]

The TSS episodes are coming to an end, but keep your questions coming and we will answer them on upcoming Monday Minute episodes... [email protected]

Brass cases are a critical component of a loaded rifle cartridge, and understanding how to properly work with brass cases is a critical aspect of being a safe and successful reloader. In this episode, we discuss what every reloader should know about brass. We answer the questions... - "What is the difference between loading with new brass and previously-fired brass?" - "Is it better to full-length size or 'neck size' brass before loading?" - "When should I trim, chamfer, and deburr brass cases for loading?" - "What is the best way to clean brass?" - And more... Did you miss Part 1 of our reloading series? Check out Episode 213. Learn more about how to get started hand loading from RCBS at www.rcbs.com/handloading-basics.html. Have questions for future episodes? Please send them to [email protected]

How do you find reliable water sources using maps or Google Earth? How do you make your own dehydrated meals for backpacking at home? How do I balance arrow speed, total arrow weight, and FOC (front-of-center) for my arrows? Will Exo offer more color or camo options on packs in the future? Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

How do you balance hunting for meat (filling tags) vs hunting for adventure, even if adventure means you have a lower chance at filling your tag? We talk about that question, and answer more gear questions in today's episode... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

We discuss Mark's rifle build, which is detailed in a recent article here: https://exomtngear.com/tikka SAVE $100 on the Altitude Stock from Mesa Precision with the code "MESA100" at MesaPrecisionArms.com We also chat about finding a hunting partner, hunting solo, and Exo bag design details. Hunting Solo?... https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/solo-hunting-in-the-backcountry Finding a partner?... https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-choose-a-hunting-partner Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on securely storing gear at the trailhead, what socks we use and recommend, what to look for or consider in tent stakes, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

We met our guest, Rafe, on Kodiak Island this past fall. Rafe has extensive experience hunting, guiding, and fishing in Alaska for species that include Sitka Blacktail Deer, Kodiak brown bears, mountain goats, and sheep. In this show, we chat with Rafe about his experience as a guide and what lessons he has learned in the field that can help us as hunters. We cover everything from mindset, to shooting, to gear, and much more. With a tremendous amount of time in the field, Rafe has a lot to share. And he'll also tell you some things he has done that you should never do — such as stealing deer meat away from a brown bear. If you're interested in our experience hunting and fishing on Kodiak Island, check out episodes 201 and 202 of this podcast. And contact Foxtail Lodge about future opportunities: http://FoxtailLodge.com

Steve & Mark answer two important listener questions from new elk hunters... How do I get a tag? And how do I pick a spot and find elk? Elk Tag Strategy — https://exomtngear.com/elktags Online Elk Course (Use "EXO20" to save $20) — https://elk101.com/onlinecourse Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on gear and also discuss why gear isn't everything. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve and Mark answer your questions on their preferred method of bow tuning (paper tuning, french tuning, broadhead tuning, etc), what are the pros/cons of hunting with a handheld release compared to a wrist strap release, how to make the most of limited hunting time, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark cover budget backpacking gear recommendations. Answer questions about having fires in the backcountry while bowhunting. And discuss how they track and analyze their hiking performance data. Budget Gear List & Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/budget-backpacking-gear-for-your-next-hunt Live Q&A TONIGHT (4/16/20 @ 7p Mtn) on the Born & Raised YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCubQp7PzYsUKV5K4J-f9mig/ Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Origins: the point or place where something begins, arises, or is derived. Ethos: the characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or community as manifested in its beliefs and aspirations. Exo Mtn Gear Co-Founder, Lenny Nelson, joins Steve & Mark to discuss Exo's origins and ethos. At your request, we are diving into the backstory of Exo Mtn Gear and sharing the reason Exo exist today. “For us, it has always been... take care of the product, take care of the customer, and everything else will take care of itself.” —Steve Speck https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your questions on camping with your family, when to use trail cameras, hammocks for the backcountry, tips on using quilts, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer questions on soreness after packing heavy loads, the best binocular magnification for western hunting, whether to be quiet or loud in the elk woods, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on shed hunting, burning preference points, pack choice and size for elk vs mule deer, floorless shelters vs traditional tents, and quilts vs mummy sleeping bags. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark discuss the tips & tricks shared in the Backpacker Magazine Article, "100 Essential Skills Every Backpacker Should Know" https://www.backpacker.com/skills/100-pro-level-hiking-skills-everyone-should-know Have a "pro tip" to share? Email it to us: [email protected]

This episode features a listener story that many of you can relate to, and all of us can learn from. Corey joins us to share his journey of learning to become an elk hunter as an adult from Iowa. Along with his own "hunting renaissance", he also shares some of the stories and lessons from getting his daughter into hunting during her teen years. How are you using your time and knowledge to share what you know as a hunter? https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener questions about Copper vs Load bullets, Spot-and-Stalk Spring Bear Hunting, the Ideal Pack Weight for Pre-Season Training, and also discuss Steve's latest boot research and theory. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

What are the best budget clothing options? How do you pick the best spotting scope (balancing weight and magnification) for high country mule deer hunting? Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

We answer listener questions about bow sights, bugling bulls, and bivy selection. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer pack-related questions... "Will I damage my pack by training with it year-round?" "What is your advice for packing out a whole buck, camp, and weapon in one trip?" "What should I look for when it comes to selecting a pack for a teenager?" Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Kody & Trent from Born & Raised Outdoors join us to discuss the different styles and approaches of camping for elk hunts. We discuss the pros and cons of hunting from a roadside base camp, packing in for a backcountry spike camp, or hunting with camp on our back for a bivy-style hunt. As we discuss in the show, there is no one "right" way to approach an elk hunt. Rather, you should understand the pros and cons of each style, and understand when and where each approach makes the most sense for your goals. Catch up with Born & Raised at https://BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com/ Connect with us and send us your listener questions or feedback to [email protected]

Co-Founder of Exo Mtn Gear, Lenny Nelson, joins Steve & Mark to talk about parenting during COVID, raising kids in the mountains, and to answer listener questions on elk tag applications and points, power supply in the backcountry, and his take on the topic of boots. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on arrow and broadhead setups for deer vs elk, adapting sleeping gear for warm weather, and answer follow-up questions from topics discussed on previous TSS episodes... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on... Hunting in Kodiak, Late-Season Gear Choices and Pack Weight, and Tripod Selection. (No boots!) Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on... Shelters & Condensation, Camp Site Selection, Bear Prevention, AK Caribou Gear Lists, and yes, they talk about boots... AGAIN. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Navy SEAL, Ultrarunner, and Hunter — Chadd Wright (@chadwright278) — joins us on the latest #HuntBackcountry podcast to talk about adventure and adversity. Chadd shares how the lessons he has learned as a SEAL and Ultrarunner can help YOU as a backcountry hunter... "True adventure is when you embark on a journey where the most likely outcome is failure. If you want to experience true adventure in your life, you have to let go of the fear of failure — because failure will happen. If you fear failure, you will remain stagnant for the rest of your life." —Chadd Wright Learn more about Chadd and the 3-of-7 Project at http://3of7project.com/

As requested, Steve & Mark share the stories of their first bow kills. Let's just say that, for each of them, their first bow kills were good experiences to learn from... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing [email protected]. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.