The Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast

In a great on-site chat, Reid sits down with his friend Doug Duren. Since their last chat, Doug has formalized Sharing the Land, an effort to connect access seekers with landowners in a collaborative stewardship effort. The two discuss conservation, hunting, land use, and life in general while sitting down at the Duren farmhouse in Wisconsin. Learn more at www.sharingtheland.com

Reid chats with his good friend Chad Love, editor of the Quail Forever Journal. Chad speaks about his native Oklahoma, the hunter·s progress, writing his way through a career, and the QF initiative Bird Dogs for Habitat. A wonderful chat with one of the most thoughtful guys in the game.

Reid shares some introspection, thoughts on seasonality and turkey hunting, and his recent travels. With May just around the corner, he leans into his reliance on the things that don't change, and his understanding that all things invariably change. The story he shares reflects his own evolution and education as a turkey hunter, and provides some levity.

Another installment in partnership with Purina ProPlan, Reid is again joined by Dr. RuthAnn Lobos in a discussion about canine dental care. Dr. RuthAnn discusses the way in which dental health impacts the overall health and function of a dog, and the way that a dog's teeth/mouth can be an indicator of underlying health issues. Great tips on at-home dental care, and a great chat as always with Dr. RuthAnn. More info at www.merrickpetcare.com

Reid joins Glen Blackwood, Director of Regional Development for the Ruffed Grouse Society / American Woodcock Society in a discussion about books, collectibles, and ephemera. As a noted authority on sporting books and writing, Glen speaks to his experience, what writing resonates with him, and what the future of sporting literature holds.

Del Whitman of DC Whitman Custom Gunsmithing joins Reid to discuss an article that the duo collaborated on for the March/April issue of Shooting Sportsman Magazine. The podcast discusses springs, their function and fabrication as it pertains to fine guns. A bit granular in detail, listeners may benefit from a video reference, this one by our friend Jonny Carter at TGS Outdoors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G281KNk2Zt8 Interesting content from a truly masterful gunsmith

Abel and Remy Labelle, a father/son duo from North Haven Island off the Maine coast, join Reid to explore how kids get involved with hunting. At 9, Remy is a passionate and accomplished hunter and outdoorsman who hopes to follow his father and grandfather into the work of a Registered Maine Guide. Abel and Remy discuss his unique childhood, island life, how to make hunting accessible and exciting to kids, and what a year off the Maine Coast looks like. A great one for those who thought the days when a kid could tumble out the back door to hunt and fish were gone.

Rehan Nana of Garmin and Phil Bourjailly of Field & Stream lean into the attributes and drawbacks of Bill Ruger's iconic Red Label Shotgun, and his short lived Gold Label as well. These two guests have hunted and shot both guns extensively, but come to slightly different conclusions about the quality of design, fit, and finish represented by Ruger doubles. A great conversation: two dedicated midwestern shotgunners weighing in on a topic which can be argued indefinitely.

In a long-overdue podcast Reid joins Jonny Carter of TGS Outdoors. For several years Jonny has been using the Youtube channel TGS Outdoors to share a wealth of information about guns, shooting, and the sporting lifestyle in the UK. Jonny is an incredible guy with a great story and a unique perspective about hunting and shooting in Britain.

Wade Truong of Elevated Wild joins Reid for an hour discussing food. Wade and his partner Rachel Owen built Elevated Wild as a platform to discuss hunting, fishing, foraging, mentorship, and game cooking. Wade, a Virginia native, describes his career in commercial kitchens and his journey into the outdoors, using the natural landscape as a means of sourcing food. He also provides unique insights into food culture, why Americans eat the way they do, and how wild food informs both a dietary regime and a way of life. Learn more about Wade and Rachel·s work at https://elevatedwild.com/

The legendary Ben O. Williams joins Reid from his home in Livingston, Montana. Ben is an icon: a writer, photographer, naturalist, conservationist, artist, and bird dog trainer. He discusses a life in the uplands, his love for Hungarian partridge, and his many experiences with noteworthy outdoors people. A great conversation with a legendary bird hunter.

Reid and his old friend Jeremy Hatch go deep in exploring the mysteries of buying (and selling) guns at auction. Jeremy comes at the topic after a career in wingshooting and firearms which has culminated in his current position as firearms consultant for Morphy Auction House. Morphy's is one of the premier auction houses for exceptional and collectible sporting arms in the US, and Jeremy's daily work includes assessing individual guns and collections, assisting would-be buyers, and supporting consignors. In this episode he deciphers the firearms auction process, and clarifies both the pitfalls and potential opportunities of buying guns at auction. See https://www.morphyauctions.com/

In this episode, Reid spends some time housekeeping, and answering a smattering of listener questions that are long overdue. He also digs into some critical recommendations and reminders about gun safety in and out of the field. Finally, he provides some great resources for shooting enthusiasts, namely TGS. To cap it all off, Reid announces the launch of his updated website at www.reidbryant.com"

Reid joins Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello for another deep dive into guns. In this episode Reid and Greg discuss the realities of gun resale, aftermarket upgrades/customization, and the managing of expectations around pricing a gun for sale.

In early November Reid reflects on what his fall has looked like and what remains. He shares a reflection about food, hunting, land, and childhood. With hunting seasons in full swing, it is a time to appreciate the gifts that hunting gives us!

Reid joins Tyla Kuhn of Sunsage Sporting Dogs to discuss the health and genetic testing criteria and standards that should accompany a new puppy. Tyla, a longtime breeder of both English Cocker Spaniels and German Shorthair Pointers explores how puppy buyers can best educate themselves, and so doing maintain the integrity and health of the breed. Some great resources and comments included in this discussion.

In this episode, Reid welcomes Lee Kjos, noted outdoor photographer, brand guru, and creative force behind BOSS Shotshells https://bossshotshells.com/ . Kjos discusses his origin story, his views on woodsmanship, and the necessity of acknowledging that in being a hunter it is vital to be intentional, restrained, and knowledgeable about the limits of both equipment and personal ability. Kjos further shares his views on the hunting landscape and its participants through the lens of an artist, and one who has spent a career composing and capturing moments.

In this installment of the Podcast, Reid again collaborates with Purina Pro Plan to explore the topic of supplementation and nutritional support for both physical and psychological wellbeing in dogs. Reid is joined by two esteemed experts, Dr. Kurt Venator DVM, PhD Chief Veterinary Officer at Purina and Dr. Joe Wakshlag DVM, PhD, renowned veterinary nutritionist, founding member of the American College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, and Chief Medical Officer for Ellevet, the leading CBD company in the pet space. The trio go deep on the ways in which particular supplements can impact performance, cognition, and joint health in dogs, and address a specific question about supplementing to alleviate stress in traveling gundogs

In reflecting on the passing of Leigh H. Perkins, Sr., Reid shares a story he wrote about the legacy of the Perkins family, and the history of Orvis under their ownership. This story, first published in Covey Rise Magazine, Dec/Jan 2017 was the result of several interviews and conversations with three generations of Perkins family members. It describes their genuine love of adventure, dogs, outdoor pursuits, and family, and discusses the legacy of which LHP was justifiably proud.

In a podcast that is LONG overdue, Reid chats with his close friend and collaborator Brian Grossenbacher. Brian, who is widely regarded as among the finest photographers in the outdoor space, has shot extensively for brands such as Orvis, Simms, Case Knives, Gordy & Sons, and is a regular contributor to Field & Stream, Covey Rise, Gray's Sporting Journal, and Shooting Sportsman Magazine. Brian discusses his travels, the unique demands of photography in the field, and his non-typical journey into the world of photography. He is also good for a few funny stories about Reid which are worth a listen. More about Grossenbacher and his work at www.grossenbacherphoto.com and in the pages of The Orvis Guide to Upland Hunting, Training Bird Dogs with Ronnie Smith Kennels, and in the upcoming Trout with Tom Rosenbauer.

In this episode, Reid chats with Ronnie Boehme (The Hunting Dog Podcast) and Justin McGrail (Black Creek Dog Training) about the launch of their shared venture, The Upland Institute, which uses a series of short videos to provide a linear, comprehensive dog training program. Coupling Ronnie's experience around dogs and video and Justin's unique skill as a communicator and teacher, the program focuses on incremental tools that can make training a gun dog successful, enjoyable, and logical. With signature humor, Ronnie and Justin describe their approach to the project and to dog training, and they discuss the problems that their program set out to solve. Learn more at https://www.uplandinstitute.com/

On this episode of the Podcast, Reid chats with Charlie Jordan of the website and social media platform Missing Sucks. Charlie grew up hunting internationally, and has retained a passion for incorporating bird hunting and shooting into his travels to this day. He is a gourmand, oenophile, and one who appreciates old-world style gundogs. He and Reid discuss the ways in which our hunting and interest in game cooking can make the travel experience more immersive.

In this installment of the podcast, Reid and Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello seek answers to a listener question, namely about available options for new/contemporary entry-level side-by-sides. Greg and Reid dive into specific option from Orvis and elsewhere, discussing guns of current manufacture as well as guns that have come and gone over the past half century. A great resource for the shooter in the market for a first side-by-side gun.

In this podcast, Reid and Del Whitman of D.C. Whitman Custom Gunsmithing go deep on the firing pins, discussing function, failures, and the related fixes. This podcast fleshes out a collaborative article the duo wrote for an upcoming issue of Shooting Sportsman Magazine, and Del lends his technical know-how to explain the inner workings of firing pins. For those double-gun enthusiasts interested in gaining a better understanding of how these beautiful machines work, this podcast walks through the sequence of hammer fall, impact, and detonation, making matters a bit more clear.

In this episode, Reid again sits down with Durrell Smith of The Gundog Notebook to discuss the complex role that race has played, and continues to play, in the bird hunting culture of the American Southeast. Recognizing the sensitivity of the subject and a history that has indeed included racial stratification, Reid and Durrell lean into some tough questions. The duo take an honest look at the roles relegated to African American men in southern quail hunting, the value of that heritage, and how to learn from and celebrate beautiful aspects of a nuanced culture while acknowledging elements that are ripe for change. They also discuss the common ground that a love of hunting and dogs can cultivate.

In the second collaborative effort between Orvis and Purina Pro Plan, Reid chats with Veterinarian RuthAnn Lobos about the myths and misconceptions that surround the pet food industry. RuthAnn is a dog owner, upland hunter, and Lead Veterinarian for Merrick Pet Care. Prior to her role at Merrick she spent 15 years with Purina Pro Plan, working closely with veterinary and scientific thought leaders to promote research into canine and feline nutritional science. Dr. Lobos calls addresses a list of common ideas about pet food, some true and some misguided. She also provides the following resources for additional reading: o https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Selecting-a-pet-food-for-your-pet-updated-2021_WSAVA-Global-Nutrition-Toolkit.pdf o https://acvn.org/ o https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/petfoodology/ o https://www.petdiets.com/ o https://secure.balanceit.com/index.php o https://www.merrickpetcare.com/blog/getting-to-know-dr-ruthann-lobos/

Reid and Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello engage in a "State of the Union" conversation, reviewing the trends in the firearms and shooting industries over the past year. Central to the conversation is a look at increased demand and decreased supply that arose as a result of the pandemic, followed by some assessment of what the future holds. Reid and Greg also dig into their thoughts on what the future might hold with regard to firearm and ammunition availability.

This episode of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast is the first in an ongoing series of shows delivered in collaboration with Purina Pro Plan. Pro Plan is an institution in the sporting dog world, and Purina's network of veterinarians, researchers, behaviorists, trainers, and handlers is without parallel in that space. In this series Reid will welcome a range of these professionals to discuss topics such as nutrition for sporting dogs, myths and misconceptions regarding dog food, emergency veterinary medicine for field application, sports injuries, and more. In this inaugural episode, Reid is joined by Keith Schopp, retired VP of Corporate Public Relations for Purina, and Karl Gunzer, former pro trainer and Purina's Director of the Sporting Dog Group. The trio pulls back the curtain a bit, discussing the Purina origin story, how Pro Plan evolved to focus on sporting dogs specifically, and the standards to which the brand holds itself accountable. The first in the series, this conversation should provide a backdrop for what is to come. Learn more at www.purina.com

Reid explores a question posed by listener Steve Harris about non-toxic alternatives for vintage guns. Reid is joined by Phil Bourjailly, who sheds some light on the evolution of non-toxic ammunition options for upland and waterfowl, and why certain shot types are ill-advised for use in older guns. Phil is a font of knowledge, and he draws from personal experience with a broad spectrum of ammunition and shot types to arrive at some clear solutions for shooters like Steve who wish to safely shoot their classic guns.

Reid sits down with Karen Syron and Nance Ceccarelli to discuss the unique opportunities and challenges encountered by women in the hunting space. Karen serves as Marketing Manager and Nance serves as a wingshooting guide at Idaho's Flying B Ranch. Both Nance and Karen describe their pathway into hunting and the role it plays in their lives. They also discuss the way in which great mentorship can help bring more women into the shooting sports, and the wonderful community that can be cultivated by women in the field. Enjoy!

In this episode of the Podcast, Reid is joined by his friend Mike Neiduski, Director of Regional Development – Southeast for the Ruffed Grouse Society / American Woodcock Society. Mike and Reid share much in common: New England childhoods, previous work in education, and a love of grouse and woodcock. They discuss the aims of RGS under recent leadership changes, the necessity of a dynamic forest ecosystem, and the way in which diversity, both from a human and an ecologic standpoint, is vital to our collective future in the uplands. Enjoy!

In this episode of the podcast, Reid is joined by Ryan O'Shaughnessy of West Texas Quail Outfitters. A regular on the podcast, Ryan brings a strong science background to his guiding and hunting. Ryan and Reid explore some sensitive questions, most notably how hunting pressure can impact limited populations of Mearns quail during challenging weather events, the pros and cons of hunting pressure on public lands, and how social media can impact the decisions we make in the field. It's a conversation that is sure to elicit some opinions. Enjoy!

With an eye on Turkey season, Reid joins Phil Bourjailly, Shooting Editor for Field & Stream Magazine and Ducks Unlimited. Phil, an Iowa native, shares his thoughts on hunting spring gobblers. He discusses preferred guns and chokes, sight options, decoys, and calls. He even delves into the ammunition options currently on the market, and the advances in shot composition that have drastically enhanced the efficacy of modern turkey loads. Enjoy!

In this final installment of the Hunt, Hike, Hook series, Reid is joined again by Michael Vargas and Chuck Coolidge. With the Arizona quail season officially wrapped, the trio discusses Mike and Chuck's last few forays down to southern Arizona to chase the trifecta of Mearns, Scaled, and Gambel's quail. Discussion wanders from the differing characteristics between the species, their descriptive habits and habitats, and the reason that Mearns have become the "it" upland bird species of the day. Enjoy!

In this episode, Reid delves into his personal history buying and selling guns, and the reasons why some guns stick with us, and others don't. He shares an old article on the subject that describes the process of acquisition, and then the process of letting go. He further discusses how tastes in guns can change over time as our shooting ability, and identity, evolves. Enjoy!

Reid is joined by friend and fellow bird hunter Pat Berry to discuss late season grouse habitat. Pat is the former Commissioner of Fish & Wildlife for the state of Vermont. He is an avid grouse and woodcock hunter, and an active trainer and handler of flushing spaniels. Pat is also incredibly well-versed in the seasonal changes that face New England grouse, and therefore face New England Grouse Hunters. He and Reid discuss the best tactics for finding grouse throughout the season as the available food and cover types change.

Reid and podcast regular, Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello, sit down to address a couple of questions posed by listeners. Specifically, the duo address, or perhaps defend, the cost of a decent double gun. With the hope of shedding some light on why and how to get what you pay for, Greg and Reid explore new vs. used, country of origin, and why at times a lower purchase price can result in a headache rather than a bargain. Enjoy!

Reid sits down with Del Whitman of DC Whitman Custom Gunsmithing. Among the finest gunsmiths at the bench today, Del has a particular interest in fine double guns, and the craft and artistry that defines them. Del and Reid discuss guns, mentorship, craft, and the responsibility of understanding what makes a gun exceptional.

In this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast, Reid spans two continents to talk guns with Tobi Nisse of Germany and Dr. George Inge of Mobile, AL. Tobi and George are the principals behind T&G Imports and Save the Fine Guns https://www.save-the-fine-guns.com/ which represents an effort to import guns from Germany that would otherwise be destroyed. Tobi and George, both of whom are passionate about the artistry and engineering represented by older continental guns (largely drillings), noticed some time ago that changing tastes in hunting guns as well as stringent legislation around gun ownership in Europe was bringing an excess of fine old guns to the market. These guns, were they not licensed to an individual or dealer, were destined for the scrap pile. The duo discusses the unique business model that has enabled them to save these guns and transfer them into the hands of hunters and shooters in North America. Enjoy!

Reid once again sits down for a conversation with Chuck Coolidge and Michael Vargas of Hunt, Hike, Hook. The fellows have been getting after it: Michael has been chasing pheasants and bobwhites in his native Kansas, and Chuck has been in south Georgia for bobs and Louisiana for ducks. Beyond simply sharing their tales of adventure, the group talks about the diverse habitats in which bobwhite quail thrive, and the differences between bobs and the desert-dwelling cousins. Enjoy!

Reid joins up with Michael Vargas and Chuck Coolidge of Hunt, Hike, Hook once again to get a tale of life on the road. Chuck and Michael describe a recent trip to hunt a variety of birds in Eastern Washington state, arguably one of the finest and most diverse upland regions in the lower 48. Enjoy this second installment from the duo, who promise to keep us on the road this bird season, even if remotely.

At the Intersection of Bird Hunting and Technology, with Rehan Nana of Garmin On this episode of the podcast Reid welcomes friend Rehan Nana who serves as Senior Media and Sponsorship Specialist. Rehan is a well-known member of the upland hunting industry, and a student of guns, great dogs, and the finer points of chasing wild birds through the Midwest. He and Reid, explore his story and wander into a discussion about the interface of technology and bird hunting. With Garmin's leadership in creating GPS collars for bird dogs, the safety and efficacy of following dogs in big or thick cover has changed dramatically. The two discuss the benefits, and costs, of such advancements. Enjoy!

Reid chats with Courtney Bastian, host of The Bird Dog Babe Podcast. Courtney describes herself as a "Wife to Professional Gun Dog Trainer, William Bastian of Claddagh Kennel, Mom to two amazing kiddos, and a God-fearing, birddog-loving, sick-for-it wingshooter!" With a podcast, website, and instagram presence, Courtney is a driving force in welcoming more women into upland hunting. She and Reid discuss wirehairs, Bracco Italianos, life as a wingshooting mom in Montana, and most importantly the delicate process of giving hunting to your children.

Reid spends some time during this episode addressing listener questions. He talks a bit about storytelling and the prospect of a creative essay collection, how to address the issue of ear protection in the grouse woods, and the feasibility of hunting without a dog. All of this and more on this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast!

Reid joins Chuck Coolidge and Michael Vargas of Hunt, Hike, Hook in an evening session following a day in which Chuck and Michael covered some ground in search of Arizona Blue Grouse. Michael and Chuck use the Hunt, Hike, Hook Instagram platform to document their wanderings throughout the mountain west and southwest in search of upland birds and trout. In this podcast, Chuck and Michael discuss the prodigious bird resource available in Arizona, the opportunities for public land bird hunting throughout the west, and the breadth and depth of the upland experience. Throughout the season we will check in with Michael and Chuck as they explore the uplands and wetlands on a series of adventures. Enjoy!

Outfitter Tim Linehan joins Reid from the remote Yaak Valley of northwest Montana to discuss wild places and wild birds. Tim and Joanne Linehan have been operating a hunting and fishing business for nearly 30 years in one of the most remote communities in the Lower 48. The Yaak is home to huntable populations of Ruffed, Spruce, and Blue (Dusky) grouse, all of which occur in a vast and untrammeled wilderness. Tim and Reid discuss hunting and living in a remote place, and the cover types that the three species frequent. Enjoy!

Reid welcomes Kali Parmley, Editor in Chief of both Gundog Magazine and Backcountry Hunter Magazine. Kali is known to many as an accomplished editor, photographer, and media personality in the hunting space. In a relatively short career she has become an authority on backcountry hunting for both big game and birds. A late-onset hunter, Kali is passionate about sharing her knowledge with aspiring hunters while making the uplands more accessible. She and Reid discuss backpack hunting, her trajectory in the outdoor industry, and her fascination with gundogs. Enjoy!

Reid chats with fellow Vermonter, gun enthusiast, and shooting instructor Lars Jacob of larsjacobwingshooting.com. After a lifetime in the guns and wingshooting world, Lars has amassed an unrivaled knowledge of fine shotguns. He and Reid discuss lesser known Belgian, French, Prussian, and Scottish makers, odd-ball gauges and loads, and what makes a great gun. A fine conversation with a noted authority. Enjoy!"

Reid discusses, grouse hunting, bird dogs, and the writing life with Matt Soberg, Editor of Covey Rise Magazine. Matt abandoned a career as a small-town attorney nearly a decade ago and dedicated himself to the stories that celebrate hunting, fishing, and all that support the outdoor experience. This podcast explores his journey and his thoughts on print media in the outdoor space.

Having recently noticed some rust on a beloved shotgun, Reid revisits best practices on keeping your shotguns clean and in tip-top condition. Building on previous podcasts on the subject, Reid delineates his method for cleaning a gun after use, and similarly shares tips on general care and long-term storage. A must for any gun owner. Enjoy!"