Vortex Nation Podcast

Get your suppressor faster? Are e-forms your ticket to suppressor bliss? Larry Evans breaks down e-forms, their history and what they mean for you?As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

We’re back in the lab with Vortex Edge® instructor Brennan to chat through all the great responses, tips, questions, and suggestions we got on our original dry-fire podcast. Listen in for more no-bang practice tips to give you bang-on results.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Rust, it’s a fact of life when it comes to vehicles we use to get us to our favorite optics-related activities. But does it have to be? In this podcast, Jim gets rust redemption on his arch nemesis. We also grab Ryan M. to get his take on corrosion and corrosion prevention.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

In this podcast we cover our TSS turkey shell test, where we took a single shotgun/choke setup loaded with three-inch TSS number 7 shot from 10 to 100 yards in 10-yard increments. We get some great data, but the results can’t be considered conclusive. Should we do more testing? Listen in to learn what we learned. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

On location in the Vortex Edge® shoot house, Mark, Jim and instructor Chris U. cover-down on what the heck a shoot house is, how we use it for classes, why it’s so incredibly beneficial for training, and how we run it. We also chat through classes you may be interested in to get your shot in this dynamic, realistic, high-pressure training tool.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Mark grabs Rob Morell and Joe Heltemes from the Product Development Team to get the rundown on the feature-rich, high-performing, and budget-friendly, Strike Eagle® 1-8x24 FFP. This optic will rock on your rifle without rocking your wallet. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Adolescent runaway, professional country singer/fiddle player/musician, hunting TV show host of “Nick’s Wild Ride” and pilot, Nick Hoffman is a dang interesting dude with some dang interesting stories - and some great life incites gained through hard work and experience. This conversation ran long and felt short. Tune in for a fun one all about Nick and the crazy ride he calls life. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Dialing elevation to compensate for bullet drop? You’re going to need a Zero Stop. But why do you need a Zero Stop? What does a Zero Stop do? Are there different kinds? Are they hard to design? Why do some stop below your original sight in zero? All your Zero Stop questions are answered right here on the Vortex Nation Podcast.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO). One optic to rule them all or simply another great option for your AR? One thing is certain, their versatility is unmatched. Pete Schreier from Vortex Edge® Joins Mark and Jim to chat everything LPVO’s. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Lucky items, rituals, and signs from the forest, hunters can be a superstitious bunch. Mark, Ryan Muckenhirn, Erik Barber, and new guest, Clay Hinz, discuss some of theirs. Enjoy a lighthearted listen? You’re in luck!...What are your hunting superstitions? We want to hear them.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Build or Buy an AR-15 off the rack? That is the question. What’s better? What’s more cost-efficient? What route will make your AR the one that’s right for you? What are the pros and cons as it relates to function? Ok, that’s a whole lot of questions. Luckily, Mark and Jim have Vortex’s own Liam Ward to run us through this topic. Tune in for a mag-dump of AR incite.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The mighty .308. Great at everything, expert at nothing, this beloved cartridge is a do-all workhorse perfect for a wide variety of applications. From general big game hunting to military conflicts and tactical applications, the .308 has been put to work for dang-near every scenario under the sun requiring a firearm – and has done a dang good job doing it. Tune in as Ryan Muckenhirn, Mark, and Jim talk through all the great attributes of this fine cartridge.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The Hunting Public’s Aaron Warbritton talks turkey with Mark and Erik. We cover serious challenges facing turkey populations, important studies THP is participating in, what you can do to positively influence turkey populations, calling tips, hunt strategies and more. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Mark and Jim surprise attack Ryan Muckenhirn with the 7x64. Wait, that came out wrong. Ryan is OK…. We invite Ryan to chat with us about the popular-in-Europe 7x64, but don’t let him know the topic at hand until we begin recording. That should clear things up. A listener request, this interesting 7mm cartridge will make quick work of most critters. Listen in to get Ryan’s take on it, as well as hear Jim somehow weave in a challenge to all of Europe. Thanks a lot, Jim.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Western tag draws can be convoluted, confusing and downright difficult to navigate. Luckily for hunters, the good folks at Huntin’ Fool dedicate their lives to researching and knowing the intricacies of each states processes – which can change from year to year. Listen in as they cover the different types of draw systems, strategy, and more. From personalized consulting and full-service application to tools like their detailed publication, YouTube channel, podcast, key partnerships, and pool of folks you can contact who previously drew the same tag you hold in your hand, Huntin’ Fool will get you dialed.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Extend your range, increase pellet count, and maximize lethality with TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) turkey loads. This rare-earth metal combined with modern-shotshell design take performance to whatever level is past next level. Expensive? Yes. Worth it? You be the judge.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

In honor of episode 223, we honor the .223, with a full-length cartridge talk. From nearly every conflict since Vietnam, to law enforcement, home defense, competition, prairie dog towns of the west, plinkers, coyote callers, a little big game, and countless other applications, this historic cartridge stands the test of time…Doing serious work along the way. Tune in to listen to Ryan M. talk all about it.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Maximize your shotgun’s pellet-slinging performance by adding a red dot sight. It’s fast, easy, and relatively inexpensive. Mounting solutions, extending effective range, better sight picture, increased accuracy (even from awkward positions), are just a few of the advantages. And if you’re a “one shotgun to do it all” type of person – have no fear. Taking the sight off for your waterfowl and upland pursuits is a snap. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Vortex’s Scott Parks and Tucker Schmidt guide us through the deepest darkest depths of the reloading equation. Annealing. These guys know their reloading stuff and annealing is no exception. What is annealing? How does it work? What’s happing to the metal? When should you anneal? What makes brass so special. Literally a heated topic, they go through the ins, outs, how-to’s and everything else to get you on your way to annealing glory. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Sturgeon spearing is an ultra-unique fishery on Wisconsin’s Lake Winnebago system. Longtime outdoor writer, Navy man, Wisconsin native and friend of Vortex, Pat Durkin, spearheads this interesting conversation all about the practice. We cover its roots, spearing tactics, and the sense of community surrounding it that’s larger than the fish themselves…And these fish are pretty big.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

MeatEater’s Steven Rinella and longtime friend of Vortex, joins Mark for a great conversation covering trapping, writing, 10 years of MeatEater and its evolution, getting kids into hunting (coincidentally Steve has a book out - “Outdoor Kids in an Inside World”), and more. Steve’s incites on hunting and life in general, are inspiring and thought provoking. His ability to articulate hunting’s nuances in a meaningful, impactful way, not only to other hunters, but to the mainstream public, is a true talent. Tune in for a fun conversation with the MeatEater himself. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Vortex’s Jimmy Jordan tags in with Ryan Muckenhirn for this cartridge talk on the extremely capable 6.5 Swedish. Jimmy was the first person to bring this cartridge to my, (Mark B’s) attention many years ago…And is the only person I know to own one. Frankly, when he mentioned it, I thought it sounded French – which doesn’t make sese at all. What does make sense are its numbers on paper, its performance on game in the field, and rabid following seemingly everywhere but the US – possibly because we just weren’t ready for metric 6.5’s back then. But we are today. Listen in to hear all about this fine example of European cartridge engineering.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The U.S. Army Selected Vortex® to provide its Next Generation Squad Weapon - Fire Control Optic (NGSW-FC). But what is an NGSW-FC? What is Vortex’s new scope replacing? What weapons will it ultimately sit on? What features/capabilities does it have? What is Active Reticle™? What is Intra-Soldier Wireless? How do the features work? With this much tech built in, is it durable? How was it tested? Is it easy to use? Where will the scope be manufactured? What are the overall implications of our nation’s warfighters having this technology in their hands? Alexander Lewis from Vortex’s secret-squirrel sector answers these questions and more (as much as he is allowed by law). Listen in to get the scoop on this revolutionary smart scope!As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The team takes 10-ish minutes to chat hunting rifle slings – traditional, modern, and pack-integrated systems. A sling can be one of the best additions to any big game rifle setup. Slings keep your hands free when navigating difficult terrain, hold the rifle to your back while riding a bike on logging road systems, keep your barrel pointed in a safe direction around others, provide stability for offhand shots and more. If you can’t tell, we sling their praises.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Magnify red dot sight performance with the Micro6X. Simple, fast, effective, this optic increases effective range and enhances versatility. Is it right for you?As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Carbine slings - accessory or required equipment? Instructor Pete from Vortex EDGE makes his point on two-point slings, and why you need one on your Carbine. If you haven’t been using one, you will after this podcast. There’s just no down-side.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Long-range shooters rejoice, the Razor® HD Gen III 6-36x56 sets a new alpha-class standard in optical and mechanical performance. The result – greater long-range capability across the vast spectrum of shooting disciplines. Is this a bold claim? Yes. But when you have product development team member, accomplished long-range shooter, and quite possibly the pickiest/most critical person we know saying this – our very own Scott Parks – we think you’ll agree. Tune in to get the inside scoop and see if it’s the scope you’ve been waiting for.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

In our greatest “ish” ever, this 10-minute talk goes long, way long. But that’s ok, because we’re talking 10 days of sheep kit with in-house sheep guide Paul Neess. We unpack this topic by unpacking Paul’s pack. From soup to nuts – literally – we run through Paul’s kit piece by piece.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

You bought a pistol. Now what? Good question. You’re not alone. Millions of people are in your exact shoes. We tap into knowledge well of the professionals at Vortex edge to get their take on next steps to make your pistol journey, safe, practical and productive.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Cold feet can ruin a hunt faster than you can say numb toes. Mark and Erik chat footwear options and techniques you can use to keep feet comfortable - and you on stand. Boot styles, to auxiliary warmers, and few things we’re considering experimenting with, tune in for simple tips to keep your feet in the game.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Simple yet complex, dirtbag yet refined, MeatEater’s Ryan Callaghan is a proverbial onion of interesting. We pulled him away from chasing game to play a little 20 questions. This man knows the outdoors. When he talks, folks listen. Entertaining, humble, genuine, and just a good dude, we tackle the big issues in this one. From his iconic mustache to the best hunting cartridge and capped off with a little “overrated/underrated, this is a fun one worth a listen.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The future of the modern warfighter or lead balloon. Few cartridges have received more hype on the front end and fallen into near obscurity than the 6.8 SPC. Is it seeing a well-deserved resurgence in popularity? Tune in to find out.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

This 30-Cal long-range bomber packs a punch and does so very effectively at distance. PRC stands for Precision Rifle Cartridge – and it lives up to its name. Optimized for heavy, high BC bullets, and featuring a big case for plenty of powder, this beauty has the gas to get it done.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Does the .22 Creedmoor capitalize on the popularity of its parents, or does this speedster have merit all its own? Listen in to find out.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

You asked, we listened – and we are glad we did. The 6 ARC is coming on the cartridge scene fast and furious. Not Fast and Furious 5 fast, but still super-fast. ARC stands for advanced rifle cartridge. That may be an understatement. From precision-rifle work, spotting impacts, making wind calls and knocking deer-sized game to the earth, the positive attributes of this petite, light recoiling cartridge are many. And as per usual, our own Ryan M. tells us all about it.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

If speed kills, at 4200 fps, the 204 Ruger should have every coyote in the county tucking its tail between its legs. This little barn burner most certainly has a home in the cartridge world, but should it be more popular?As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Few cartridges stand the test of time like the iconic 30-06. Ahead of its time at its inception and even more potent today, the old ought-six is simply tough to beat. From war fighting to freezer filling, it is as historically significant as it is effective. Mark and Jim grab Ryan, “Mucky” Muckenhirn to discuss what we like to call “America’s Cartridge.” As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Dry-fire practice with your pistol – equally as important as live fire? Vortex Edge instructor Brennan Brennecke breaks down dry firing, what it is, the why behind it, how to properly do it, and all the great benefits. Costs are minimal to nothing – a rarity in the shooting world. Done with intentionality and high-level concentration, what you get from your dry-fire sessions is priceless.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

A split vote by a governor-appointed commission, a potentially tie-breaking commission seat slated for a representative from the traditionally pro-hunting eastside of the state mysteriously unfilled, hunting advocates left conveniently unaware the possibility of no season was on the table, and simply not following the science-based recommendation of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, led to the 2022 spring bear season simply not happing. Mark and Sawyer sit down with Sportsman’s Alliance Brian Lynn to chat through how this happened and the much broader implications. This is not a Washington issue. This is not a spring bear issue. This is a hunting issue. Your season, your tradition, and your food source could be next.Make your voice heard:https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/commission/contactAs always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Flat or curved….Triggers? One of life’s greatest questions. Well, not really, but it does get asked. Are their legitimate pros and cons to each style? Does it just boil down to personal preference? Listen in as Vortex EDGE® instructor Chris Urrutia gives his take on trigger shape.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

We're joined by Dave Matheny, CEO of Silencer Shop. Learn how Silencer Shop provides the most simple buying experience for folks who need a suppressor, all while providing unbeatable service and prices.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Supersonic loads, subsonic loads, big bullets, and high-level performance when things are up close and personal – the .300 Blackout is an excellent cartridge for the AR Platform, as well as bolt rifles. This cute cartridge serves a variety of roles pretty darn well. Compare it to the 30-30 Win. for hunting and you may take a hard look. Listen in to hear the Vortex Nation Podcast team chat all about it.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Bang for the buck, the Diamondback® HD binocular series is likely responsible for spotting more bucks than any other in our line. These things are downright performers – and they don’t break the bank. Vortex’s deepest lineup of configurations (8x28 to 15x56), there’s a bino in here to suit nearly any observation application. Listen in as we dip back into the knowledge well of inhouse optics guru Mike McDowell. Are they good enough for how you intend to use them? Find out.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Did you hunt elk this year? Did you get one? Did you get frustrated? If you’re answers are Yes, No, Yes, you’re sitting in the same position as most elk hunters who hit the field this year. Do you want to make changes in your life and hunting strategy in the name of better elk hunting? It’s time for an Elk Shape Camp. We sit down with Dan Staton, a man who has dedicated his life to not only chasing elk, but consistently putting them in the freezer year after year, to chat through his Elk Shape Camps. Tune in to get the rundown. Register to get tuned up!As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Texas deer hunting is a culture and way of life. This state is serious about a lot of things, and whitetail deer may be at the top of the list. We sit down with Texas native, host of the Lone Star Outdoor Show, Cable Smith, for a killer conversation on Texas deer hunting. Tine in for a good listen!As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Muzzleloaders inherently run a bit dirty. Learn how to clean yours to ensure it runs optimally for years. Take it form a guy who’s sacrificed a couple to the “corrosion gods”, a bit of care goes a very long ways….And it’s not that hard or time-intensive.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

There is something incredibly satisfying about pouring a measured charge down your barrel, pushing a bullet on top of it, priming your muzzleloader, and touching it off. It’s the tying-your-own flies of sending a projectile down range. The intricacies of muzzleloading are part of the fun. It is beautifully simple yet complex. One thing is certain, it’s fun and can extend your hunt season, as well as create fantastic opportunities in the woods you otherwise would not get. Listen in for a good old fashioned rundown on muzzleloading.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

It’s time to knock the rust off. The elements can be rough on rifles, resulting in surface rust on Ol’ Betsy. Vortex’s own Ryan Muckenhirn gives us his tips to help get your rifle back into shape.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Buckle your TMA approved safety harness and settle into the tree – or at least one hell of a conversation – with Heartland Bowhunter’s, Mike Hunsucker and Shawn Luchtel. From their unique start in the outdoor television space, to dropping expensive camera’s out of trees, this was a super fun conversation that twists and turns like a rut-drunk buck on a hot doe.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Underutilized, underappreciated, and overly handy, if you’re a rifle hunter, a good set of shooting sticks will improve your ground-game – and put more game in the freezer! Listen for the why and how.As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast