The Hunt Backcountry Podcast

Join Steve, Tyler, and Dan as they have a planning call for their upcoming Moose Hunt in Alaska. This is an unscripted, "behind the scenes" look at how they are planning their hunt, determining a hunting strategy, selecting gear, and more. Additional Information & Resources: https://the-experience-project.com/listen-planning-our-moose-hunt/ Subscribe by Email to receive future podcasts, videos, articles, and more: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss the best way to carry and access a bugle tube on K3 and K4 packs, how to configure your pack when carrying trekking poles, a rifle, a tripod, and a spotting scope, and then discuss whether investing time and money into do-it-yourself bow tuning is worth it. Resources mentioned in this episode... - Small Caliber Discussions with Form: https://the-experience-project.com/?s=smaller+calibers - K3 Bugle Tube Trick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drwWRte2qcs - Jon Dudley Bow Setup Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKFf1gMGIT4pscxgVuVB98s49ribeqNLX SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Ben Reynolds returns to the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, joining Steve & Mark to discuss the topic of thriving (not just surviving) on difficult hunts. This is an open-ended conversation on the topic of thriving, which includes practical advice, personal experience, and even some philosophical perspective. MORE INFO & RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/thrive-on-difficult-hunts/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Jon Pynch (@jonpynch) is one of the top precision rifle competitors in the country, and a very accomplished mountain hunter. He joins us on the podcast to discuss how we all, as hunters, can become more proficient rifle shooters in a mountain environment. This is a wide-ranging conversation that will cover everything from techniques and practice drills, to the reason hunters should be extremely cautious about "long range hunting". MORE INFO & RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/mountain-rifle-shooting-tips Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Mark is joined by Scott Johnston, author of Training for the Uphill Athlete, owner of Evoke Endurance, and a dedicated outdoorsman and athlete with decades of experience. They discuss the physical demands of backcountry or mountain hunting, what hunters can learn from other outdoor athletes, and the best way to train for extended hunts in difficult terrain. Whether you are coming off the couch and starting a fitness journey, or you are an experienced athlete who already trains seriously, this conversation will help equip you with the knowledge and tools to physically prepare for adventurous hunts in the mountains. MORE INFO & RESOURCES: https://the-experience-project.com/proven-training-for-mountain-hunting Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve & Mark discuss how to effectively use time in the final weeks leading up to a big hunt. They share what they are personally doing, as they find themselves 5 weeks out from their Alaskan Caribou Hunt, and they also provide general guidance for making the best use of the limited time available before any big hunt. If you want advice on finding time, making time, and effectively using time to prepare for any hunt, you will enjoy this episode. MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/final-hunt-preparation Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. The answer to why Exo will not be starting a boot company, if they plan to try barefoot-style boots, their thoughts on Schnee boots, how to select the best length for a rifle barrel, how much ammo to pack on a backcountry hunt, and much more... Resources mentioned in this episode... - Our Footwear Video & Podcast: https://the-experience-project.com/the-best-hunting-boot-is-wrong/ - Schnee Timberline: https://schnees.com/timberline-v2-0g-mens/ - Hanwag Alverstone: https://www.hanwag.com/us/en-us/men/trekking/alverstone-ii-wide-gtx/ - Vivo Barefoot Boots: https://www.vivobarefoot.com/us/tracker-forest-esc-mens-aw22 - Small Caliber Discussions with Form: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ - Form Discusses Barefoot Boots: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7osIjciPdE SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter ASK YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve and Mark as they speak with Thor Tingey of Alpack Raft and talk about using Alpacka Packrafts for their upcoming Alaskan Caribou hunt. They discuss how to select a pack raft for hunting, what to know about using a packraft, the additional gear needed with a raft, how to stay safe on the water, and much more... MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/how-to-use-a-packraft-for-hunting/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Join Steve and Mark as they speak with their pilot, Nick from Nick's Air Service, for their upcoming Caribou Hunt in Alaska. They discuss how to plan a fly-in hunt, how to find a pilot, how to pack for the hunt, what to know about weight limits, and much more... MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/plan-a-fly-in-alaska-hunt/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Do you need the best binoculars on the market, or can you hunt effectively with a budget-friendly bino? Is a 10x42 really the best "do it all" binocular size? What about range-finding or image-stabilizing binoculars for hunting? What is the best way to connect binos to a tripod? What are some common mistakes that hunters make when setting up binoculars for their eyes? We answer these questions, and more, in this episode. VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/how-to-select-the-best-hunting-binocular/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

This is the second half of a conversation that explores how bullets kill and why smaller calibers may be better for big game hunting. Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this conversation (Episode 469) before listening to this 2nd-half of the discussion. In this episode we compare how different types of bullets create different types of wound channels, discuss the relationship between impact velocity and bullet expansion/upset, compare the terminal capabilities of Steve's 6mm Creedmoor and Mark's 7mm SAUM, and more. MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-2/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

This podcast will challenge decades of "common knowledge" about what type of rifle and bullet should be used for big game hunting. In fact, if you can't have an open mind about things you "know" to be true, you probably shouldn't listen to this. We don't say that to be dramatic, but because being willing to accept information that challenges widely-held assumptions is critical to processing this information... When you listen to this conversation you will hear that killing big game animals quickly, cleanly, and consistently doesn't typically require a big caliber and a tough bullet. And why the bigger, heavy-hitting rifles are mostly counter-productive. MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/small-calibers-for-big-game-hunting-part-1/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

After footwear, which is the most important gear item for the backcountry hunter, the next most important thing to have is a comfortable, strong, and durable pack system. We have spent well over a decade obsessing about pack systems for backcountry hunting. But right now we are not talking specifically about our Exo Mtn Gear pack systems; we want to talk about the essential things to consider when looking at any pack for backcountry or mountain hunting... VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/a-backcountry-hunting-pack-must-do-this/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Join Steve, Mark, and Jeff as they have a planning call for their upcoming Caribou Hunt in Alaska. This is an unscripted, "behind the scenes" look at how they are planning their hunt, determining a hunting strategy, selecting gear, and more. More Information: https://the-experience-project.com/planning-our-caribou-hunt/ Subscribe by Email to receive future podcasts, videos, articles, and more: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Ask A Question: [email protected]

Having the right footwear is the most important gear decision you can make as a backcountry hunter. And it is also one of the most difficult pieces of gear to get right. In this in-depth conversation, Steve & Mark discuss what they have learned over the past decade+, as they have hiked and hunted in dozens of footwear brands, models, and styles, over thousands of miles, in many states, and through all seasons and conditions. What they have learned is that much of the common wisdom about ‘the best boot for hunting’ is dead wrong... VIDEO & MORE INFO: https://the-experience-project.com/the-best-hunting-boot-is-wrong/ Subscribe via Email: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Questions / Feedback for The Experience Project: [email protected] Questions / Feedback for the podcast in general: [email protected]

Welcome to The Experience Project. In this episode, Steve & Mark explain the vision for The Experience Project and how it will change the podcast over the next several months. The Hunt Backcountry Podcast isn't changing permanently, and we will continue to include listener stories, industry guests, and more types of episodes in the future, but The Experience Project will take over the podcast as a focused series for the next few months. In addition to the podcast, The Experience Project will include a new website, new video content, new hunt films, and more. Stay tuned for the full launch of The Experience Project. If you want to make sure you don't miss it, sign up at https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Have questions, feedback, or ideas? Send them to: [email protected] Search or browse the podcast archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Steve and Mark for an unscripted discussion about the Experience of Backpack Hunting. Why they do it. What it means to them. And why it is such a valuable pursuit. Although this conversation isn't filled with tangible takeaways, we hope it inspires you to get out and experience an adventure unlike any other. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

As a trained engineer and experienced outdoorsman, Rydell Reinbold often modified the gear he used for hunting. Then he started designing and producing his own gear, for his own needs. And, eventually, he founded Aziak Equipment to share his work with other hunters. Today, Rydell is the owner, designer, and sole operator at Aziak. We speak with Rydell about the Aziak backstory, his current products, and the future of Aziak. We discuss his current ultralight tripod and head, the limitations of ultralight tripods, the balance of weight vs features, and much more. Connect with Aziak: - https://www.aziakequipment.com/ - https://www.instagram.com/aziakequipment/ - https://www.facebook.com/aziakequipment Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss choosing ultralight vs choosing comfort, the best (and worst) ways to save pack weight, how to spend money on gear upgrades, selecting a quilt, and some deeper or more philosophical thoughts on the debatable importance of gear in general. NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We welcome John Barklow back to the Hunt Backcountry Podcast. This is a wide-ranging conversation that answers some of your listener questions and goes into some unexpected topics. We discuss... - Bowhunting Cape Buffalo in Africa. - Recovering from injury and surgery and injury as an aging mountain hunter. - Where has innovation in technical hunting apparel slowed or stalled? And where is it advancing? - How environmental regulation and legislation will change the performance of rain gear. - How technology is being used to improve the performance of natural down fibers. - How to prioritize your budget to get the most for your money on high-end hunting clothing. - Gear vs Capabilities, and knowing how to use gear to its fullest potential. - Why you shouldn’t believe marketing, or John Barklow, and should test gear for yourself. - Why asking for the “best” gear recommendation isn’t the most helpful question. - Embracing what you don’t know and enjoying the process of learning. - John’s tentless sleep system for archery season. - John’s upcoming course and eventual book on “Survival for the Modern Hunter” John's Previous Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/395 Connect with John: - https://knowledgefromstorms.com - https://www.instagram.com/jbarklow/ - https://sitkagear.com Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss the upcoming Experience Project, Mark's headlamp, tools to fix issues with a rifle in the backcountry, and using "clean" food to fuel performance on long hikes. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Fenix HM50R v2.0: https://amzn.to/4dJGbag - 16340 USB-C Battery: https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-arb-l16-800up-built-in-usb-c-rechargeable-battery - Death Hike Food: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/2024-death-hike EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Ryan Jordan is a backpacker, hunter, engineer, researcher, and the Founder & Owner of Backpacking Light. We speak with Ryan about the benefits of a lighter total pack weight for backcountry hunting, the barriers and misconceptions about "going light", the differences between gear for a lightweight backpacker and the backcountry hunter, and a whole lot more. FREE RESOURCES FROM BACKPACKING LIGHT: https://backpackinglight.com/hunt/ Ryan and his team put together some free resources specifically for our podcast audience, which you can find at the link above. If you sign up, you will receive those free resources, a discount on BPL membership and courses, and future BPL emails with articles on gear, skills, technology, and more. Of course, you can unsubscribe from BPL at any time if you do not find their information helpful. Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss "when to stay and when to go" on difficult hunts, how to keep your pillow in place when using a quilt instead of a sleeping bag, what is going on with hunting clothing brands changing their gear so often, and which clothing brands would be recommended to try. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Serious mountain pursuits are demanding. Physically, mentally, and even emotionally. And as you gain experience and build confidence, you can push to new levels of adventure. Experienced mountain hunter and all-around adventurer, Ben Reynolds joins us on today's podcast to talk about 5 attributes that he feels are critical for the mountain hunter... - Mental Preparation - Confidence - Optimization - Choices - Decisive Action These are attributes that Ben has developed over a decade of high-level activity in the mountains. In this conversation, we discuss each of these attributes, interwoven with examples from Ben's last hunting season, which included successful do-it-yourself solo sheep hunts for both Dall Sheep and Rocky Mountain Bighorn. Ben's Previous Podcast Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/408 Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b_reynolds_ak/ Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Instead of answering listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute, we get a listener of the show on to today's podcast and ask them some questions. Patrick joins us to tell us about his recent experience putting together and completing his own version of a Death Hike. You'll hear about how he made his route, how he trained, how the hike went, what he learned, and what he hopes to accomplish in the future. DIY Electrolyte Mix — https://www.v2pnutrition.com/single-post/diy-electrolyte-mix-for-training-in-the-backcountry EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss when steep slopes are too steep, how to select a camp location when hunting near the top of the mountain, more follow-up on footwear from the Death Hike (and the use of trail running shoes for hunting), and how bear scouting and hunting is affected by the presence of elk and deer. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION — [email protected] LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"I won the hunting lottery yesterday and saw I was a sole tag winner for a ram tag in a unit here in Colorado. I never thought it would happen!" That is part of an email that we received from a podcast listener, Joe. Now, after the hunt, Joe joins us on the show to discuss how he prepared for this hunt. What he learned during the hunt. And how the ultimate success of harvesting his ram came to be. This episode is both entertaining, and also informational for anyone who is planning a hunt that is for a new species, or in a new place. Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve, Mark, & Jakey share some exciting announcements on upcoming Exo-related events, and also answer your listener questions about Death Hike gear, in-person events, getting sponsored in the hunting industry, create comfort gear items for the backcountry, and more. Links mentioned in this episode: - Golf Tournament: jake(at)exomtngear.com - Exo Warehouse Sale: https://forms.gle/x35kpJTVnMsmNNdy6 - Voltaren Pain Gel: https://amzn.to/3UoqJst - HydroFlask Trail Series Bottle: https://amzn.to/3Uq9pU3

Join Mark & Steve as they interview four participants of this year's Death Hike, to find out what each of them took away from the experience. Be sure to also listen to Episode 457 where Steve & Mark recap the plan for the 2024 Death Hike in the Grand Canyon, how they prepared, and ultimately, how the adventure unfolded. Video, Photo, Gear Links, & More: exomtngear.com/2024-death-hike Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Join Mark & Steve as they recap their 2024 Death Hike in the Grand Canyon. Hear about the plan for the hike, how they prepared, and ultimately, how the adventure unfolded. Be sure to listen to Episode 458 to hear from 4 other participants of this year's Death Hike, and what they took away from the experience. Video, Photo, Gear Links, & More: https://exomtngear.com/2024-death-hike Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark are back from the Death Hike and resume answering your listener questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss the ethics of electronic rangefinder and scope systems, advice on skinning black bears, and how to toughen up your feet for the backcountry. Links mentioned in this episode: - Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter - Bear Skinning Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Or0VwjDIr1A - Ethical Dilemma of a Bad Hit: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/the-hunting-ethics-of-a-bad-hit SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Can you imagine taking snowmobiles hundreds of miles into the Alaskan wilderness and hunting bison? That would be the adventure of a lifetime! And that's the story that we get to hear about today. Kris and Mark join us to tell the story of their recent do-it-yourself Bison hunt in Alaska, which they completed with their friend Hunter. Mark's Previous Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/335 Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

John Zombro of The Lifetime Athlete returns to the show, to answer your listener-submitted questions about Hunting with Health for a Lifetime. We discuss building good habits, balancing joint health with training progression, how to develop a strategy to train throughout the year without getting burned out or injured, the best way to train when you only have 30 minutes a day, and more... John's Previous Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/411 Lifetime Athlete: https://thelifetimeathlete.com/ Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Our guest on this episode, Dr. Andy Galpin, is a Human Performance scientist with a PhD in Human Bioenergetics, the Co-Director of the Center for Sport Performance, a tenured full Professor at California State University, and he has worked with elite athletes across the UFC, MLB, NBA, PGA, NFL, Boxing, Olympics, and Military/Special Forces... ...AND HE IS A HUNTER. We speak with Andy to answer listener-submitted questions that combine his professional research with his practical experience as a hunter. Topics include... - The health benefits of extended trips into the backcountry - Training, nutrition, and supplementation strategies for hunting at higher elevations - The absolute importance of your daily habits - Why increasing your VO2 Max is one of the best things you can do for both performance and longevity - How to know if the metrics from wearable devices (such as smartwatches) are reliable and beneficial - Why exercise science is continually changing - How to prioritize endurance vs strength - And more... RESOURCES - https://www.andygalpin.com/ - https://www.instagram.com/drandygalpin/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe3R2e3zYxWwIhMKV36Qhkw Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In the final podcast before their annual Death Hike, Steve and Mark chat briefly about the last-minute forecast, the decisions they are making, and how they are feeling. They then answer listener-submitted questions about upcoming spring bear hunts, including game bags for bears, cross-contamination of trichinosis, timing to hunt spring bears for peak activity, and more... SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

"What questions do you have about selecting, purchasing, owning, and hunting with a suppressor?" That is what we asked our followers on Instagram. And we answer those listener-submitted questions today with Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central. We discuss current ATF wait times, including why some suppressors have been getting approvals in just a few days. We explain the pros and cons of using a Trust to purchase your suppressor. We explore if caliber-specific suppressors perform better than others, and a whole lot more... Helpful Links... - What Mark Learned About Suppressors for Hunting: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/hunting-with-a-suppressor-lessons-learned - Brandon's Previous Podcast Appearance: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/333 - SilencerCentral: https://www.silencercentral.com/ - ATF Wait Times: https://www.silencercentral.com/nfa-status/ Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

If you are interested in hunting big game in Colorado in 2024, or beyond, this episode is for you. We speak with John and Brandon from Colorado Parks & Wildlife. In this conversation, we answer your listener-submitted questions about CO's application season, the future of over-the-counter (OTC) hunting opportunities, the reintroduction of wolves in CO, and more. Helpful CPW Links... - https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/hunt.aspx - https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/BigGame.aspx - https://cpw.state.co.us/aboutus/pages/commission.aspx - https://www.youtube.com/@ColoradoParksandWildlife/videos Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute episode, Steve & Mark answer listener questions about footwear for the Death Hike, their boot choice for early season archery elk hunting, how to find a quality used bow, and where to spend your budget on a rifle and optic combination... Links for items/resources mentioned in this episode... - Altra Timp: https://www.altrarunning.com/shop/men/mens-timp-5-al0a85pe - Topo Mtn Racer: https://www.topoathletic.com/mens-mtn-racer-3 - SuperFeet Hike Cushion: https://amzn.to/3PDhEt3 - SuperFeet Hike Support: https://amzn.to/4ctqwLI - Injinji Liner Sock: https://www.injinji.com/shop/liner.html - Mark's Tikka Build, Part 1 (2020): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/diy-custom-tikka-rifle - Mark's Tikka Build, Part 2 (2020): https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/suppressed-tikka-update SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Our friend, Nolan Cook, is a hunting and fishing guide based on Kodiak Island, Alaska. He joins us on the podcast to answer some listener-submitted questions about hunting Kodiak brown bears, but we also chat about other topics in this informal bonus episode. Connect with Nolan: https://www.instagram.com/nolancook13 SHARE A PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Will shooting an NRL Hunter match help you become a more effective hunter? Or are these matches all about competition that doesn't replicate hunting? We answer these questions, and many more, with the founder of the NRL Hunter series, Travis Ishida. Travis explains what it is like to attend and participate in an NRL Hunter match, discusses the rules for the competition, and also explains that you don't have to follow all of the regulations if you don't want to shoot competitively at an NRL Hunter match. Whether you want to compete in NRL Hunter, or are interested in using a match as non-competitive practice to learn about yourself as a shooter and hunter, you will hear how participating in an NRL Hunter event can benefit you. https://nrlhunter.org/ https://www.instagram.com/nrlhunter/ https://www.youtube.com/@NationalRifleLeague Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute episode, Steve & Mark answer listener questions about the warmth and performance of sleeping pads, making your own dehydrated meals for the backcountry, and more... Links mentioned in this episode: - The Experience Project: https://forms.gle/LAGVLqKauPv8hrKz7 - DIY Dehydrated Meals Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/126 - DIY Dehydrated Guide: https://www.v2pnutrition.com/dehydration-guide - Backpacking Chef: https://backpackingchef.com/ - Mark's Chili Mac: https://www.southyourmouth.com/2014/08/chili-mac.html - Sleeping Pad Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/405 - "Behind the Gear" from Therm-a-Rest: https://www.thermarest.com/blog/behind-the-gear-xlite-xtherm-nxt/ - How Thermal Insulation Works: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/stay-warm-with-thermal-insulation/ SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Any opportunity to hunt mountain goats is unique. They are fascinating animals that live in amazing terrain. For today's guest, Colter, the idea of drawing a mountain goat tag in his home state of Montana was a dream. And that dream came true. Colter joins us to share the story of his hunt, how he prepared for it, what he learned about mountain goats throughout the process, and some of the unique details that made this hunt so special. Whether you are passionate about mountain goats in particular, want to hear a cool story about big game conservation, or just take away some knowledge that can help you on any mountain hunt — there is something in this story for you. Photos from Colter's Hunt: https://www.instagram.com/p/CySLcquMKfQ/ Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We are launching something NEW! Tune in to hear Steve and Mark share their vision for The Experience Project. Help us make The Experience Project the best that it can be. Share your feedback and ideas with us... https://forms.gle/YB6zDTDBKJa3ESwD9 To get more insight into the name for this project, read this article that Mark wrote many years ago, about being an "Experience Hunter"... https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/experience-hunter Email Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/exomountaingear Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this episode, Mark runs solo to answer your questions about gear from his Dall Sheep hunt in Alaska. In addition to answering those specific listener questions, Mark has also published a "What's In My Pack?" video for all of the gear he took on this hunt. You can find that video, the full gear list spreadsheet, and more at the links below. QUESTIONS answered on this podcast... - What did you think of the Sitka Dewpoint rain gear that you used on your sheep hunt, compared to the First Lite Omen rain gear that you used on your mountain goat hunt? - What spotting scope did you use for the sheep hunt and would you recommend it? - What were the details of the sleep system used on your sheep hunt? - I heard you talk about "glacier travel" when I listened to your sheep hunt story. Is that common for sheep hunts? Can you talk more about what that is like? - Overall, how would you compare your sheep hunt and your mountain goat hunt in terms of terrain, difficulty, etc. - How were the water sources on your sheep hunt? What filtration system did you use? - What was your rifle setup? Caliber, scope, etc? - What model of Hilleberg tent were you using that got taken out by the wind? Looks like maybe the Niak? RESOURCES mentioned in this episode... - Sheep Hunting Gear List & Video: https://exomtngear.com/sheep-gear - Sheep Hunt Story: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/424 - Mark's Rifle Build: https://exomtngear.com/perfect-rifle - Hilleberg Tips for High Winds: https://youtu.be/3eFAyKMz314 Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute episode, Steve & Mark answer listener questions about sleeping yourself dry in a down sleeping bag, thoughts on new center-zip sleeping bag/quilt hybrid designs, a new rifle scope from Maven Optics, how to assess new gear, the value of buying used gear, the intentionality and sacrifices required for training, the value of "mini-events", and much more... Links mentioned in this episode: - Maven RS 1.2 Rifle Scope: https://mavenbuilt.com/products/rs1-2-2-5-15x44-ffp - "Don't Die Cold & Wet" by John Barklow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUjR3VSEFOg - PEAX Solace Sleeping Bag: https://www.peaxequipment.com/products/solace-15-sleeping-bag - Exo Mtn Gear YouTube: https://youtube.com/exomountaingear - Email Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We continue the "Before & After the Hunt" podcast series with people just like YOU... listeners of the podcast. Throughout this series, we will be speaking with everyday hunters as they plan and prepare for a specific hunt, and then we will have a follow-up episode after their hunt to hear how the hunt unfolded, the lessons they learned, and more. Today, we are speaking Zak, who completed a guided elk hunt in Montana, which was a family trip with his father and uncle. As an adult-onset hunter from the east coast, this was Zak's first western hunt — it was a fulfilling experience where he learned a lot and found success. We discuss the story, the lessons, and the takeaways. Zak's "Before the Hunt" Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/419 Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute episode, Steve & Mark answer listener questions about choosing to prioritize your hunting focus on specific species (in this case, elk vs deer) versus trying to 'do it all' at once. They also answer a listener's question about using the 6.5 Creedmoor for elk hunting. Additionally, they chat about changes to the podcast, updates on this year's Death Hike, and some new things coming from Exo Mtn Gear. Links mentioned in this episode: - Backwards Thinking & Ballistics: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/393 - Exo Mtn Gear on YouTube: https://youtube.com/exomountaingear - Email Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: exomtngear.com/podcast

Jay Nichol of Mindful Hunter returns to the podcast to discuss his 2023 season, and the lessons he has learned about confidence, consistency, and choices in gear. We also discuss his expanded hunting gear review platform, his new apparel company, and a whole lot more. - Jay's Prior Podcast Appearance: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/349 - Independent Pack Review, Part 1: https://youtu.be/FdkN_rAeSx0 - Independent Pack Review, Part 2: https://youtu.be/ZuTKzIr8kS0 - Mindful Hunter: https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ - Mindful Reviews: https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ - Forged In The Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ - Jay's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/ Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

After drawing a once-in-a-lifetime Bighorn Sheep tag in Idaho, and having an amazing experience on the hunt, Jason joins us on the podcast to tell the whole story, the lessons learned, and what this experience meant to him. When you combine a place as epic as the Frank Church Wilderness with an animal as majestic as sheep, and get to experience both of those things with the closest people in your life, you have a recipe for an amazing adventure. Hunt Photos & Video — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/frank-church-big-horn-sheep-hunt Contact Us: [email protected] Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We are back from Hunt Expo and are answering your listener questions, including questions about what we experienced at Hunt Expo, the best new products we saw there, our thoughts on bow length and stability, and more... Links mentioned in this episode: - Wiser Precision Bino Clamp: https://www.wiserprecision.com/products/ba-7-sparrow-bino-adapter - Wiser Precision Ball Head (Sneak Peek): https://www.instagram.com/p/C3a_owRPpVA/ - Rokstok Rifle Stock: https://www.unknownmunitions.com/product-category/rifle-parts/stock-chassis/rokstok/ - Handheld Archery Release Holster: https://ivoryholsters.com/product/robin-hood-release-holster/ - Forged In The Backcountry Apparel: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ - First Hunt Foundation: https://firsthuntfoundation.org/ SHARE PODCAST QUESTION — [email protected] or https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast