Vortex Nation Podcast

Testing complete, Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn and special guest Reuben Aleckson break down their 6mm ARC terminal test. One factory offering is contrasted with handloads intended to maximize the performance of this petite cartridge in the bolt rifle platform. Listen as they dissect the project, the gel blocks, and Reuben’s field experience shooting deer with it. In certain cases, could a lower impact velocity be advantageous for this cartridge? Tune in to hear it all.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

Rock — Paper — Scissors — Spaghetti Shootout. Your favorite series is back for its third and final season! Can Mark Boardman turn the tide against his good friend/Spaghetti Shootout arch enemy Ryan Muckenhirn to pull out a winning season, or will he, in classic form, blow a trivia question he’s known the answer to his entire life due to a deep-seated and not yet understood need for self-sabotage? Will Jimmy Hamilton be biased as ever? What hard-hitting questions will get asked? 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

Silencers live their suppressing lives subjected to extreme conditions to say the least. Like most things, a little maintenance is required for optimal performance. Chase Glenn from SilencerCo joins Mark Boardman and Scott Parks to chat suppressor care and cleaning. It may be simpler than you think.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 get five guns. What are they? One of our listeners asked this very question – so we sat down to answer it. Tune in for four different takes on the perfect five-gun repertoire.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 Edge® Hunter Marksmanship Class of 2024 Valedictorian, Erik Barber, drops by to recap the course. Experienced hunter and crack shot, Erik proves once again there is always something to learn when it comes to hunting and shooting.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 1911 Stood up for America and its soldiers as a service pistol for nearly 80 years — and still stands today as one of the most capable pistol designs in existence. 1911 enthusiast, expert competitive shooter, amateur historian, and Vortex Mil/LE account manager, Adam Maxwell, joins the crew to chat all about this more than iconic pistol. 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 Travis Jones is at it again with his 33 Nosler. This thing is an absolute long-range bomber. Lisen to hear about the rifle, cartridge, and impressive ballistics he’s getting out of 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

Riflescopes are often wrongly accused suspects when it comes to accuracy issues. A complete rifle with mounted optic is a system. It must be set up correctly with all the right components working in harmony. If one variable is out, you’ll likely see it rear its ugly head in the form of inconsistent impacts down range. Tune in for troubleshooting tips to make sure your rifle and you are set up for success.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

ElkShape’s Dan Staton works hard at everything bowhunting and is never satisfied. This includes his arrow setups. Dan’s “Always be Tinkering” (ABT) attitude is fueled by passion and a perpetual search for optimal bow performance. Tune in to hear about his elk and whitetail arrows at the time of this recording. It’s more than 24 hours later, so they could be different by now.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

Thomas Mlsna from Untamed Ambition Joins Mark Boardman and Josh Diederich to talk habitat management and early-season whitetail tactics. Thomas plants high-grade seeds of information throughout the conversation guaranteed to yield results – for you and the critters who call your land home.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

Light transmission isn’t one dimensional. Multiple factors play into this important, but often misunderstood attribute of an optic. Rob Morell (Vortex® New Product Development) joins Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn to shed some light on this subject.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

Backcountry hunting expert, Ryan Lampers, talks all about water treatment methods and best practices. From what he used back in the day to the system he uses today; he provides important tips to keep you healthy and hunting.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

High-end eyewear that fits your face and the demands of your active hunting, shooting, outdoors, and daily life. Polarized, ballistic-rated, shatter-resistant lenses are at home on the range, on the water, and at your kid’s soccer game. Lenses also cover your tears when at some less-than-ideal obligatory function not doing what you really wish you were. Tune in to hear about the cool tech integrated into these 100% UV blocking sunglasses – get a pair to wear 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

Adam Kraut from the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) joins Mark Boardman and Sawyer Briel to chat SAF, current 2A battles, where the money goes, and the Vortex®/SAF Crafted Impact T-shirt collaboration. When you purchase one these special-edition, limited run, cool-as-heck shirts, you support the Second Amendment Foundation in their mission to foster and defend the 2A and all it stands 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

Remi Warren is one of the most experienced hunters in the world. That experience has led him to develop several hunting mantras that if followed, deliver time and again. Choosing the right approach, to finding your knife when the dirty work is done, Remi gives us hunting words to live by.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

Elk Shape’s Dan Staton joins Mark to chat backcountry food and nutrition. They cover stuff they like, their food strategies, and break down Mark’s daily ration. They even find a nutritional hole in Mark’s food game he will want to fill with additional items. The best part about a week of food in the field — the greasy burger you get at the local diner on your way home. Hit play and channel your inner backcountry foodie.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

Early season critters taken with antlers shrouded in velvet require special care if the hunter desires to preserve them in their fuzzy form. No easy task considering their delicate nature and often warm daily temps that may accelerate the decomposition process. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn talk through what worked with a nice Sitka blacktail and the two processes they have the most confidence in.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

Since 1989, Barnes has been leading the charge in the all-copper bullet arena. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn sit down with Mike Painter and Gregg Sloan in their home state of Utah to chat through their bullets, how they work and more. Is Ryan completely biased toward these projectiles? Yes. For good reason? You decide.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

Fast, simple, and effective, using a Vortex® custom yardage-marked turret may be your ticket to extending your effective hunting/shooting distance. Range in yards, dial in yards, and execute the shot. Listen and learn about this great tool. Get one FREE with select riflescopes!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

Compact optics are the definition of, “Big things come in small packages.” Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn highlight these optical powerhouses and where they will enhance your hunting/observation game! Don’t be fooled by appearances. Compact optics may provide all the optical performance you need while saving space and weight in the field.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

Adam Maxwell and Ryan Muckenhirn are in the house to chat Auxiliary Micro Red Dots along with the pros and cons of common mounting positions. 45-degreee offset or 12 O’clock? At the end of this podcast, you’ll know if you need one and where to stick 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

Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down their 2024 budget rifle test and review from top to bottom. No bolt is left unturned as they deep dive into the intricacies of each, what they liked, disliked and were surprised by. Tune in for facts and opinions that may just lead to your next big game boom stick.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

Elk Shape’s Dan Staton gets a little salty in this conversation all about hydration and hydration supplements. Water and salt are essential. Dan hits us with some great info along with things we ought to be thinking about to maximize our human performance in the field.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

Dan Gates from CRWM (Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management) and his team have been in the trenches battling an anti-hunting agenda fueled by disinformation, big budgets, and emotion. His organization focuses on CO, but if you think your state, the way you hunt, and the critters you chase are somehow safe or exempt — you’re wrong. Listen to Dan, get spun up with the facts, and get in the fight. Issues like what’s going on in Colorado affect us all! Whether you live there, hunt there or even hunt at all – we all benefit from sound, science-based, wildlife management. If that is lost, our heritage, traditions, way of life, preferred food source, and most importantly, the wildlife itself are lost.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

Concealed carry to competition and everything between, tune in to hear Vortex’s Chris Urrutia and Liam Ward run through the features, benefits, and applications of the Defender Micro Red Dot series. Tough as nails, there is a Defender to fit your needs.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

Real life cowboy, rodeo star, rancher, outfitter, self-reliant, tough as nails, fix anything, honest, hard working and grounded. Mike Barthelmess is a rare breed of man getting rarer by the day. Tune in for a super interesting and fun conversation with some great stories drawn from Mike’s life lived.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

Looking for the perfect optic? The Vortex® Optics Finder Tool on vortexoptics.com can help narrow your search. Simple and easy to use, follow along as Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn walk through finding your next piece of glass.Try out the Optics Finder!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 Edge® Instructor Justin Lipska drops by the studio to drop long-range knowledge bombs. Gear, technique and more, tune in to get insightful tips from a true professional.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 Vortex Nation™ Podcast studio décor is an eclectic mix of random hunting and shooting-related artifacts…And some that are just plain random (like a framed picture of Jason Alexander). Mark Boardman and Jimmy Hamilton give a guided tour, explaining the “why” behind the seemingly arbitrary nature of the items adorning their walls.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 Tucker Schmidt and Scott Parks are back with reloading tips and tricks you can take to the bank…the proverbial bank. We are in no way suggesting…never mind. If you’re into reloading, you’ll likely find what they have to say useful. Or you may flat out disagree and take your rage out in the comments. Either way, give this one 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

Serious whitetail hunters use optics and use them well. They are integral to their hunt and their success. Long distance scouting to hardwoods glassing, east to west, bow, rifle, and muzzleloader – optics are a difference maker. So, what should a whitetail optics kit look like? Good question. Tune in as we talk optics for North America’s most popular big game animal. 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 good set of properly fitting boots is critical to the success of any hunt where your legs are your primary mode of transportation. Raw, seeping, painful, blisters will ruin any hunt fast. Kendall Card and Matt Ericksen from Crispi USA sit down with Mark Boardman at the Western Hunting & Conservation Expo, providing expert tips to ensure your feet are happy campers in the backcountry.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 Hollfelder digs up several AK’s from his backyard, wipes of the Cosmoline, and sits down for a podcast all about his favorite firearm. Tune in for a fun conversation with an AK enthusiast who appreciates the fine attributes of the super cool, super reliable, and historically significant, AK platform.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

Pumps, levers, bolt guns, autos, and AR’s. Precision rifles to predators. Big game to biggest game. Military and law enforcement applications – check that box too. The .308 Winchester may not be the best cartridge for everything, but it is certainly the most versatile cartridge for a heck of a lot of things. One rifle to do it all? Look to the good old .308…And yes, it is old, but this thing ages like a fine wine.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

Pistol-mounted red dot sights have changed the pistol shooting game. But there are best practices to implement into your shooting regimen to ensure your dot gets on target fast and effective. Chris Urrutia from Vortex Edge® drops by to drop knowledge on this very topic.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

High-level competitive shooter, USPSA Grand Master, and integral to Vortex’s Mil/LE sales team, Adam Maxwell is no stranger to USPSA along with most of the shooting sports disciplines. He, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Mark Boardman talk through how to shoot a USPSA Match. Tune in to up your pistol game on pistol games.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

Invest in your most important piece of gear — you! Dustin Diefenderfer, founder of MTNTOUGH, joins Mark Boardman for a marathon of a conversation about hunt-specific training. Even if you’ve let the fitness component slip, there’s still time to positively impact your fitness level before big game seasons kick off — if you start now. Fitness is key to success in the field. Dustin and the tools he offers through MTNTOUGH will get you there.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

Bestowing lead-balloon status on the 7mm STW (Shooting Times Westerner) may have some folks wanting to sling lead at us. If that’s the case, we ask you download to rotten tomatoes. Born from the 8mm Remington Magnum (most certainly a lead balloon), the 7mm STW began life as a wildcat, gained popularity at a rate akin to the velocity it could push bullets, but fell off sharply. Why? Tune in to hear all about this super-fast 7mm. It’s still breathing, but for how long?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 gang is firing on all cylinders today as they break down the category of wheel guns. The good old revolver won the west, and it still wins our hearts over today. Battlefield to bear country, hip to ankle, the revolver has been there and done that. Its practicality and proven performance cannot be denied. Pull the hammer back and press play on this podcast all about revolvers.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

USPSA Grand Master, Adam Maxwell, drops in to tell us how to drop and change magazines like a pro. Competition to professional work and self-defense — a fast and efficient mag change will shave points and may save your life. Tune in to hear the process Adam has distilled down through years of dedicated training.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

Jerry Miculek’s flight gets diverted, we pick him up in Milwaukee, and BS all the way back to Vortex HQ. Jerry is a national treasure. His shooting ability, knowledge, philosophy on life, and stories are unmatched. A true pleasure to hang with, Jerry is the real deal in every way. Ride along for a fun and informative conversation with Mark Boardman and the legendary Jerry Miculek to, as Jerry would say, “Get some!” 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 appendix carry position is one of the most popular — and for good reason. Vortex Edge® instructor Chris Urrutia covers holsters, fit, customizing for ideal pistol position, proper draw and more. If you conceal carry or are thinking about it, this is a good one.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

Different critters, terrain, rifles, personal capabilities, tactics and what a person wants to get out of their hunt will dictate the best riflescope for them. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down the hunting riflescope category to help hunters select the optimal riflescope for their outdoor adventures.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

Ruger 5.7x28 ain’t no math problem — it’s a super cool gun Jimmy brought in for us to check out. The cartridge itself to the form factor of this compact rig, it is sweet for a variety of reasons. Jimmy gives us a rundown including his likes, critiques, and the modifications he made. Check it out with us and decide if you need one too.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

Ring and base riflescope mounting solutions are nearly as diverse as the rifles they sit on. The perfect match for your long-range rig might be the worst for your lightweight mountain rifle. In this podcast, we run through the most popular options, detailing their pros, cons, and how they work.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

Proverbial S#!T hitting the fan can come in many forms and mean many things. The guys share their thoughts on kits they have put together and what they think should be in their kit. Your region, circumstances, job, and infinite variables can determine the right kit for you. This is an initial discussion likely with a follow 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

Adding lightweight suppressors to hunting rifles is incredibly popular. The upside is so great, hunters are selecting/building rifles specifically around their plan to suppress it. But which model will best suit your needs? Rob Morell from Vortex® Product Development uses his engineering brain to create a spreadsheet of popular models broken down by price, length, weight, and a few other factors. The gang talks through the different attributes they are looking for in a lightweight suppressor, considerations and more.Link to chartAs 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

Do you love archery, bowhunting or both? Mountain Archery Fest is for you. These multifaceted, multi-course, multi-day 3D archery events with hunt-specific flare will get you prepped for the season while having a blast! Family-friendly fun with venues throughout the USA. Brandon Waddell with “MAF” tells us all about it. Use code Vortex24 for 15% off at checkout – the best discount offered!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

Barrel fluting — practical, aesthetic, or both? Matt Pederson from Pederson Precision pops into the podcast studio to spit barrel-fluting facts. Matt is an expert rifle builder with extensive barrel production experience. Traditional straight to spiral and more — we cover it all. 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 winter of 2023 was hard on the critters of Wyoming and many western states. Ike Eastman and Brandon Mason from the iconic western hunting media company, Eastmans’, give us their take on what happened, the strategies western states took, and things to consider when applying.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