Backcountry Hunting Podcast artwork

Backcountry Hunting Podcast

300 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 7 hours ago - ★★★★★ - 962 ratings

Backcountry Hunting Podcast focuses on inspiring and teaching about deep-country hunting, with emphasis on DIY techniques, gear, prep and how-to. Lifelong wilderness hunter Joseph von Benedikt shares stories and tips for success.

Wilderness Sports Health & Fitness backcountry cartridge deer elk hunt hunting mountain rifle
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Episodes

7 PRC vs. 7mm Rem Mag, and Random Ramblings on Ballistics & Terminal Performance

November 11, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 65.1 MB

This episode compares the hot new 7mm PRC with the tried-and-true 7mm Rem Mag, and to a lesser extent the 28 Nosler. We discuss whether the 7mm PRC provides a practical advantage, and consider the type of shooter and hunter that will benefit from the 7mm PRC vs. the 7mm Rem Mag. Ballistic performance, suitable bullets, custom rifles vs. off-the-shelf rifles, factory ammo vs. tuned handloads... all are considered.  About 30 minutes in, the topic turns to terminal bullet performance, wit...

Hunting Late-Season Elk

November 04, 2022 05:59 - 54 minutes - 43.9 MB

Recorded live and raw in Idaho's rough elk country, this episode takes a deep dive into three key methods of late-season elk hunting:  Glassing big wide-open country Finding and hunting tiny pockets of rich feed and cover Tracking in snow Host Joseph von Benedikt provides tips and tricks for each method, and discusses end results for which each method is most effective. Real-world stories of failure and success spotlight each strategy. ENJOY!   FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! ...

7mm PRC: A Deep Dive into the Newest Precision Rifle Cartridge

October 28, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 61.6 MB

Is the new 7mm PRC necessary? If so, why? Does it accomplish much that current 7mm's can't?  The answer is yes, profoundly. However, the devil is in the details. The 7mm PRC offers a series of small advantages that add up to a massive overall superiority. In short, it's potentially the best 7mm magnum cartridge ever designed.  This episode starts from a skeptical standpoint and explores the 7mm PRC's characteristics, and in the end outlines just why it's so profoundly good.  Characteri...

BONUS 5-min Episode: 7mm PRC, A First Look

October 26, 2022 15:07 - 5 minutes - 5.04 MB

Folks, here's a quick 5-minute bonus episode on the brand-new 7mm PRC cartridge. ENJOY!  www.patreon.com/backcountry  

Modern Monometal Bullets: Makers, Types, Performance, & More

October 21, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 55.5 MB

This episode takes a deep dive into the world of current monometal bullets. We explore driving trends, performance characteristics, and differences between monometal and lead-core bullets.  Next, we dig into specific bullet designs by the great makers:  Barnes TSX, TTSX, and LRX Hornady CX & MonoFlex Nosler E-Tip Federal Trophy Copper Winchester Copper Extreme Badlands Bulldozer II Hammer Hunter Cutting Edge ER Raptor We discuss minimum impact velocity thresholds, expansion...

How To Make Fast Follow-Up Shots

October 14, 2022 05:59 - 57 minutes - 53.4 MB

Sometimes things don't go as anticipated when shooting at a big buck or bull. This is when the moment of truth becomes The Moment Of Truth, and the ability to make clean, fast follow-up shots and bring the hunt to a rapid, ethical finish is of vital importance.  This episode digs deep into the fundamentals and the finer points of making fast, accurate follow-up shots in the field. We address:  Shooting positions Scopes and magnifications Controlling recoil Follow-through Spotting ...

Alaska DIY Moose, Part 2

October 07, 2022 05:59 - 54 minutes - 45.7 MB

Recorded live in deep backcountry Alaska, this episode is the second half and the wrap on our DIY, public-land, drop-camp Alaska moose hunt for 2022.  Hunting partner Joe Kennedy and host Joseph von Benedikt continue to hunt without contact with the pilot or family for days, due to a communications/emergency device failure. Caribou herds move into the area. Big grayling fish hit dry flies hard. Rain, wind, weather, eagles and wolves are part of this second week, plus we continue to discuss...

Wild Meat Cooking with Camp Chef's Brooks Hanson

September 30, 2022 05:59 - 44 minutes - 36.1 MB

I'm joined this episode by Camp Chef's Brooks Hansen, a northern Utah local who's spent much of his life hunting the backcountry and grilling, Barbequing, and smoking the wild game he brings home. We talk about the rewards of introducing friends and family to wild game meat, the evolution of charcoal and gas and pellet grills, and the genesis and foundation of Camp Chef as an outdoor company.  Brooks details the latest and greatest in smokers and grills, including the just-launched Woodw...

Alaska DIY Moose, Part 1

September 23, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 61.3 MB

Recorded audio-journal style in the field, this episode is brought to you raw and unedited and contains the account of a great bull moose hunt. Pals Joseph von Benedikt and Joe Kennedy are dropped via bush plane in the vast Alaska interior, and hunt DIY for 12 days for moose, caribou, black bear, and wolf. Against the odds of hot weather, no rutting action, and a moose population made sparse by severe winter kill, they find and take a fantastic bull during this first half of the hunt. ENJOY!...

Inbound for Alaska Moose

September 16, 2022 05:59 - 40 minutes - 32.9 MB

Recorded live on the road across Alaska, this episode is a raw, unedited discussion as my hunting partner Joe and I head for our DIY, drop-camp moose hunt (with caribou, black bear, and wolf tags in our pockets too). Prep, gear, planning, expectations and hopes are all part of this fun on-the-fly conversation as we embark on an adventure that's been three years in the planning.  ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access ...

Backcountry Rifle Maintenance

September 09, 2022 05:59 - 29 minutes - 23.9 MB

This episode is all about keeping your backcountry hunting rifle running through adverse conditions. Whether you're in shocking cold and the oil on your firing pin assembly gels, or you jam the muzzle into a mud bank and have to clear an obstruction, or it rains so much that rust prevention is challenging, there are tips and tricks that help you stay in the game and keep hunting effectively. ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and ...

DIY Alaska Gear List

September 02, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 54.5 MB

Here's the nitty-gritty on all JvB's gear assembled for an upcoming DIY, drop-camp hunt in Alaska for moose, caribou, black bear, and wolf. Hunt gear, sleep systems, shelters, fire-starting tools, optics, medical prep, everything. We detail each item, including why it's necessary and why we chose that specific version, and provide weight when applicable. Food type, quantity, and prep is also outlined. Full list below. ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcount...

Keeping Sharp in the Backcountry

August 26, 2022 05:59 - 57 minutes - 46.6 MB

This episode is about keeping sharp in the backcountry... literally. Special segments cover nutrition, endurance, the mental game, sleep habits, and more, but the primary topic is how to properly sharpen a hunting knife.  We discuss types of steel, types of sharpening stone, edge angles and retention, sharpening processes, and edge and blade maintenance.  ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST!  Join the Backcountry Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus mater...

Caribou DIY Drop-Camp Hunt Prep with Shaundi Campbell & Kali Parmley

August 19, 2022 05:59 - 53 minutes - 42.8 MB

This episode we're joined by a group of hard-hunting ladies about to head to the far north for a DIY, drop-camp caribou hunt. Shaundi Campbell is Browning's senior marketing manager and a western hunter from childhood. Kali Parmley is editor-in-chief of Backcountry Hunter magazine.  We talk through planning and hunt prep; rifles, optics, cartridges and other gear; expectations and fears; traveling in via bush plane; terrain challenges, and much more.  ENJOY!    FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPOR...

ABC's of Shooting Long Distance

August 12, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 59.7 MB

Inspired by a listener's question, this episode is all about the fundamentals of extended-range shooting in the field.  We start with gear, particularly addressing vital scope features and setup for long-range success. Dial-up turrets, custom dials, parallax focus, reticle types, zero distance, anti-cant levels, and so forth are detailed and discussed.  Next we dive into concepts. Angled shots, effect of altitude and temperature on trajectory, out-of-plumb crosshairs and erratic hits, ho...

Classic Cartridges for Backcountry Hunting

August 05, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 56.9 MB

Are classic cartridge suitable for backcountry hunting? You bet they are—and some are particularly good at it. This episode takes a detailed look at several of the best. We list top bullet choices and favorite rifles, and discuss what each cartridge is really good at.  Criteria for inclusion:  Must be old (youngest cartridge discussed is 97 years old) Must be capable on deer-size game and up Must be dominantly popular in at least one significant region (such as the far north or Scandi...

The Lifetime Athlete with John Zombro

July 29, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 63.3 MB

Want to stay backcountry-fit into your older years? Or just shake off the cobwebs and get mountain-hunting shape? We recorded this episode with John Zombro, a professional trainer and physical therapist who specializes in hunt-prep training. A passionate backcountry hunter with more than 50 years in the field, Zombro lives in southwestern Montana and hosts The Lifetime Athlete podcast.  John is a down-to-earth, relatable guy with great real-life hunting stories that have shaped his approac...

Optimizing .30-caliber Performance for Hunting

July 22, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 63.3 MB

Why does America love .30-caliber cartridges so much? BECAUSE THEY WORK! Here's a little history on when the great .30's won our hearts, and a deep dive into how to get the best out of your .30-caliber cartridge.  We touch on most of the popular .30-caliber rounds, but focus primarily on bullet types, intended uses, rifling twist rates, cartridge case capacity, and so forth. The discussion spans the spectrum of great cartridges from the .300 Savage, .30-30, and .308 up to the .300 WSM, ....

Bush Rifles & Brush-Busting Cartridges

July 15, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 51.6 MB

This episode takes a deep dive into the realm of brush-country rifles, cartridges, and bullets. Inspired by a listeners question, we explore the concept of a "bush gun," and define rifle characteristics that fit. Rifle responsiveness, balance, fast function, accuracy, reach, and authority, along with appropriate scopes are addressed.  Next, species and habitat types likely to fit the deep-thicket hunting scene are detailed. Alaska and Canada's alder thickets, Northeastern and Northwester...

Backcountry Brown Bear with Shane Porter

July 08, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 52.9 MB

This episode we're joined by Shane Porter, Gunwerks' No. 1 dealer and owner of Porter's Pawn in Arkansas. Shane shares what makes his business tick, why he loves and specializes in high-end backcountry hunting rifles, and what drives his own passion for hunting remote areas. Plus of course we swap hunting stories, and Shane tells about his spring 2022 brown bear hunt on the Alaska Peninsula with Alaskan gunsmith and guide Steve Hallenbeck of Double Broomed Mountain Rifles. And how about a ...

Monster Kudu & Old Cape Buffalo: Backcountry in Africa, Part 2

July 01, 2022 05:59 - 2 hours - 101 MB

This around-the-campfire episode details three proper backcountry hunts for big Kudu bulls, and two nail-biting hunts in Namibia's historic Caprivi region along the Okavango River for massive, ancient Cape buffalo bulls.  Adam Weatherby, Rob Gearing, Austin Brown, host Joseph von Benedikt, and PH Jacques Strauss dig deep into what worked, what didn't, and how to re-group and sort out a problem when it occurs. And of course we tell the stories of each of the tremendous animals taken, from t...

Backcountry In Africa

June 24, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 63.3 MB

Deep in the heart of Africa, Rob Gearing, Adam Weatherby, and Austin Brown join Joseph von Benedikt for a proper safari in Namibia. Hunting more than 400,000 acres of free-range thornbush country on the edge of the Kalahari, we pursue giant kudu bulls, oryx, springbuck, zebra, and more.  For the gearheads amongst us, we're using some very cool cutting-edge rifles from Weatherby, Gunwerks, and Dakota, chambered in .338 WBY RPM, 6.5-300 WBY, .416 WBY, and the classic, legendary .375 H&H, all...

Hunting Handloads: How to build the ideal home-rolled cartridges

June 17, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 55 MB

Getting down and dirty with handloading, von Benedikt details the exact process he uses for building an awesome hunting handload.  How to choose the right bullet for the task Gunpowder, and why it's not all equal Cartridge cases and case prep Primers, and the best of the best Charge weights, and where to start Seating depth for various bullet types Testing handload batches Using ladder tests to refine handloads Trajectory validation and why we do it The confidence and sati...

Mental toughness, mountain fitness, & lightweight gear with Ron Spomer

June 10, 2022 05:59 - 48 minutes - 39.3 MB

Spomer is back! My good friend Ron shares solo-hunting experiences, tips for pre-hunt fitness and conditioning, and how to build your mental toughness so you don't give up when tested by harsh country and conditions.  Additionally, we dig deep into:  Hydration (and debilitation when lacking) Lightweight rifles & gear Going just one ridge farther to achieve success Being prepared to sleep anywhere Bivy gear & lightweight sleep systems that work DIY sheep hunting Solo hunting & ...

Gunwerks Nexus: Most versatile rifle made in America?

June 03, 2022 05:59 - 53 minutes - 49.1 MB

By popular demand, here's a deep dive into the new Nexus rifle by Gunwerks. It's a switch-barrel design with an aluminum action, a built-in ARCA rail under the forend, a fast-moving 3-lug bolt, and a superb carbon fiber stock that really minimizes felt recoil.  Features of the Nexus are unpacked and detailed, and practical, tested, field performance to 1,400 yards is discussed. Cartridge options (initially 6.5 PRC and .300 PRC) and barrel lengths (20" and 24") are explored.  Real-world u...

Bears & Blades, with Evan Siembida

May 27, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 54.3 MB

Recorded in the backcountry, this episode is the story of an epic bear hunt. Custom knife maker Evan Siembida came West to hunt Idaho's vast remote country with host Joseph von Benedikt, and after a series of setbacks and challenges, took a magnificent color-phase boar with his new Browning X-Bolt in 6.8 Western.  We discuss black bear baiting, glassing, rifles, optics, cartridges, bullets, shot placement, and hunting techniques in general, woven into the blow-by-blow tale of Evan's hunt. ...

Leupold Riflescopes: Behind the Scenes with Tim Lesser

May 20, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 48.4 MB

Featuring guest Tim Lesser of Leupold, this episode takes us backstage with America's favorite riflescope company. Tim guides us through the fascinating origin story of Leupold, reveals the driving passion behind the R&D team, and details the rigorous testing the engineering team puts every new optic through. Ever wonder exactly what's inside a scope? Tim provides the clearest description of the various parts and functions of a modern hunting optic I've ever heard. We talk through the marv...

Backcountry Shooting Skills: Building & Practicing the Fundamentals

May 13, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 61.9 MB

This episode takes a deep dive into how to learn and practice shooting skills that will make you a backcountry deal-closer at the moment of truth.  With the objective defined as the ability to place a bullet precisely into the vitals under challenging conditions, we address:  Reading the lay of the land as you set up to shoot Building a stable shooting position Mastering your breathing Achieving a correct sight picture Executing a clean trigger squeeze Controlling recoil Follo...

Mountain Hunting Cartridges, with Ron Spomer

May 06, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 62.4 MB

This episode, we're joined by gunwriting legend Ron Spomer. A mountain-country hunter by choice, Ron shares his favorite shooting equipment for hunting gnarly, steep backcountry settings. We talk ultralight rifles, cartridges that suit them, and bullets that are versatile across a spectrum of western big game. Ron hosts a very successful YouTube channel, Ron Spomer Outdoors, and has a podcast as well. Be sure and check them out! Links are below.  ENJOY! FRIENDS, PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAS...

Living Off the Land: Supplementing your freeze-dried meals in the backcountry

April 29, 2022 05:59 - 47 minutes - 52.4 MB

Tired of freeze-dried food after a week in the backcountry? This episode addresses how to go full hunter-gatherer while hunting. With a little forethought, it's easy to take advantage of wild streams full of fish and random encounters with grouse, ptarmigan, or wild turkeys (where take is legal of course). It goes without saying that savvy backcountry hunters pack seasonings and eat big game, once harvested: Moose ribs over alder-wood coals... Elk kabobs charred over a quick pine fire... o...

Hunting Cartridges: Precision vs. Authority

April 22, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 50.9 MB

Is it better to hunt with a sledgehammer? Or a scalpel? This episode explores two vastly different approaches to picking a hunting cartridge.  Precision. In this approach, shot placement matters above all else. Accuracy and high ballistic coefficient are bullet priorities. Terminal performance is secondary. A low-recoiling cartridge is considered key.  Authority. In this approach, a powerful cartridge with a hard-hitting bullet is paramount. Bullet frontal diameter, weight, velocity, expa...

Backcountry Fitness & Injury Recovery with Jordan Voigt

April 15, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 49.2 MB

Last year, deep in Alaska's Chugach Mountains, guide Jordan Voigt experienced a catastrophic boot failure that left his feet unusable for weeks. This episode, we dig deep into injury recovery and maintaining fitness as we age.  "Old man yoga," daily miles, packing weight, and knowing your own body are critical ingredients to maintaining a backcountry-capable level of fitness into your 60's and 70's. Voigt tells his story, and walks us through the process he used to come back. Need a teas...

How To Shoot Bears, with Tyler Freel

April 08, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 71.3 MB

Spring is here, and bear season is right around the corner. Alaskan bear-killing expert Tyler Freel joins us to talk about how to properly shoot and cleanly kill bears. Freel details bear anatomy, vitals location and shot placement, tracking and recovering bears, cartridges and bullets for bears, arrows and broadheads for bears, and much more.  Freel hosts the Tundra Talk podcast and is a staff writer for Outdoor Life. An outdoorsman of vast and varied interests, he's shot grizzlies with l...

Optimizing 7mm Performance for Hunting

April 01, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 69.7 MB

7mm-caliber cartridges are capable of taking any hooved, non-dangerous game in the world—as long as they're paired with the right bullet. This episode takes a deep dive into the 7mm world, from the historic 7x57 Mauser that started it all up through the cutting-edge modern "sevens." Focus is on how to get the best-possible performance out of your 7mm cartridge, whatever it might be. We use the following criteria:  Intended use (game type and anticipated shot distance) Big game. Elk up ...

Timney Triggers & Deer Bullets with Chris Ellis

March 25, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 53 MB

This episode we welcome back Chris Ellis, trigger savant and self-styled hillbilly bullet tester. We discuss what really makes a great trigger, and why Timney Triggers achieve what the do. Chris walks us through a bit of the history and inspiration behind Timney, details manufacturing processes and dedication to quality, and talks about the vast variety of Timney triggers available for everything from cutting-edge bolt-action hunting rifles to Glocks to Remington 870s.  Chris is a student ...

Survival Guns Part 2: For Fighting

March 18, 2022 05:59 - 1 hour - 89.2 MB

This episode explores what characteristics are paramount in a versatile self-defense firearm for survival situations. Based on a worst-case, apocalyptic scenario, it discusses rifles, shotguns, handguns, cartridges, and appropriate ammunition.  SHOW NOTES:  Characteristics of a great survival gun Reliability Portable and handy Firepower Accuracy Long-range capability Cartridge authority Appropriate bullets Specific recommended cartridges Crossover hunting tools Recomme...

Survival Guns Part 1: For Hunting

March 11, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 55.9 MB

Survival guns! What could be more fun to talk about. This episode focuses on hardware, situations, and skills. It's not a prophecy. Outdoor people all have a little Boy Scout in them (motto: Be Prepared). We like to be ready for anything, and that's what this discussion is all about.  First, let's throw out that one word that suggests extreme survival: Apocalypse. All the really gnarly stuff. Super volcano. Solar flare. Gigantic earthquakes. Nuclear war. Foreign invasion. Runaway asteroid....

New .338 Weatherby RPM cartridge and Backcountry 2.0 rifle, with Adam Weatherby

March 04, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 61.3 MB

This episode we're joined by Adam Weatherby to discuss the new .338 Weatherby RPM cartridge, the Gen 2 version of the sub-5-pound Mark V Backcountry 2.0 rifle, and more including:  Never before revealed ballistics and info on the .338 WBY RPM Ammo shortages, supplies, and availability forecast New lightest-ever Peak 44 carbon fiber stocks on Weatherby rifles Backcountry 2.0 features, design, and variations including the awesome Titanium, carbon-barrel rifle Bear and moose hunt stori...

Suppressors Today: E-Forms, ATF processing, New products, and more with Silencer Central's Brandon Maddox

February 25, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 72.3 MB

Silencers, suppressors, and the new E-Form application process have the shooting world on point. Brandon Maddox, founder and owner of Silencer Central, joins us as a special guest. His insider perspective clears up misconceptions, provides solid, data-backed info on processes and wait times and what purchasers should expect, and generally throws a ton of light on the subject of purchasing a suppressor. Additionally, we talk through current trends in suppressors and the growing contingent...

Mountaineering Quality Bipods & Tripods, with Rob Gearing

February 18, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 63.5 MB

When it comes to gear for deep backcountry hunting, failure is not an option. Warrantees do you no good if a critical piece of kit breaks when you're several days away from any resources. This episode we're joined by Rob Gearing: rock climber, mountaineer, fly-fishing addict, and the genius behind Spartan Precision Equipment. We talk about multi-purpose tripods and ultralight bipods for hard use in unforgiving country, swap hunting stories, and get Rob's take on the ultimate fly-fishing rig ...

Optimizing .30-06 Performance

February 11, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 63.5 MB

The .30-06 still stands as one of the best choices for all-around use on big game—particularly with modern projectiles and propellants. From close up to 400 yards, it's superb. From little southern whitetails and pronghorn antelope to Alaska/Yukon moose, it's outstanding.  This episode takes a deep look into how to get the best performance your .30-06 is capable of.  Why the .30-06 became so popular in the first place What traditional cup-and-core bullets do so well out of the .30-06 ...

Hornady's New CX Bullet with Seth Swerczek

February 04, 2022 06:59 - 2 hours - 123 MB

Hornady technician, ballastician, and communications guru Seth Swerczek joins us this episode, for an in-depth look at the new CX monometal bullet. We discuss Hornady's old GMX bullet, and what makes the new CX different. Top terminal performance, increased aerodynamics, and a high accuracy standard set the CX apart. Initial cartridge offerings and component bullets are detailed, along with tips for handloading the CX for best accuracy.  Additionally, we examine the meteoric rise of th...

Q&A: Bears, Cartridges, Backcountry Books & More

January 28, 2022 06:59 - 58 minutes - 47 MB

Backcountry Q&A This fun episode responds to a dozen fascinating questions from listeners, including: • Bear deterrent • 6.8 Western vs. .280 Ackley vs. .30-06 cartridge comparison • Rifling twist rates • Traditional bows & muzzleloaders • Wild Bison success • Precision scopes for .22s • Upcoming live Podcast Q&A on Zoom • Troubling memories of unrecovered game • One-shot drops & escapes • Backcountry hunter's "essential book list" • More DIY Alaska tips & tricks • "Popper" loads for .35 W...

SHOT Show: New Gear & Trends of 2022

January 21, 2022 06:59 - 46 minutes - 37.8 MB

SHOW NOTES Main topic: New and intriguing gear and trends.  SHOT Show 2022 had an interesting vibe and dynamic. Joseph and Colton discuss subtle trends in rifles, optics, ammo, and other gear, as well as manufacturing challenges and processes. Most interesting new products include GA Precision's new ultra-small backcountry-appropriate suppressor, Leica's new compact rangefinding binocular, Browning's new X-Bolt Speed SR (suppressor ready), and some smaller items.  ENJOY! FRIENDS, PLE...

An Ultimate Alaska Rifle

January 14, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 67.7 MB

SHOW NOTES Main topic: Planning and building the ultimate all-purpose rifle for hunting Alaska WINNER Announced: 150th episode custom knife winner revealed Q&A:  Starter .22s for left-handed kids Aoudad hunting (heat, humidity, and big rams) Utah's bonus point-creep dilemma Best .270 bullets for elk Ultimate Alaska Rifle CRITERIA Capable of cleanly killing anything you want to hunt Capable of reaching way out Capable of not just killing a grizzly, but stopping a chargin...

Planning A DIY Alaska Moose Hunt

January 07, 2022 06:59 - 1 hour - 69.3 MB

SHOW NOTES Intro: If you want the ultimate backcountry DIY challenge, hunt moose in Alaska.  Up Front Q&A section:  To Buy or Not To Buy: high-tech clothing and pack vs. a new backcountry hunting rifle Patreon update. Things to come, including live Zoom Q&A sessions for Patreon members, as well as a Backcountry Hunting companion book for the podcast.  Primary Topic: Planning A DIY Alaska Moose Hunt Research, planning, and booking a transporter Air Taxis vs. Outfitters Travel to ...

Predator Cartridges & Bullets

December 31, 2021 06:59 - 56 minutes - 45.5 MB

SHOW NOTES Main Topic: Predator Cartridges & Bullets "Up Front" Q&A section:  Undergunned for Aoudad "Recoil" is Right Characteristics of a great coyote cartridge: Fast & Flat Accurate Tiny grenade-like terminal performance If fur collecting, minimal bullet hole damage If competition calling, coyote-walloping authority Spectrum of suitable cartridges: What is too big? (deer cartridges?) What is too small? (.22 LR for coyotes?) Ideal rounds from .17 Rem. and .204 Ruger ...

Kodiak Island Cast & Blast: Part 2

December 24, 2021 06:59 - 1 hour - 94.2 MB

SHOW NOTES Intro: Second half of 2021 Kodiak Alaska audio journal.  Hunters: Colton & Gary Heward, Austin Brown, Shawn Skipper, Andrew Smith, Brent Neidig, and Joseph von Benedikt. Transporter: Travis Larson, Captain of the Venturess, and crew Susan, JJ, and Garrett of Alaska Premier Sportfishing.  Audio Journal entries:  Day three: Four big bucks down, and a late-night packout in fierce wind.  Day four: 100-mph winds, a bucking boat, and life on the edge. Some duck hunting and an...

Recoil: A Lousy Reason to Hunt Undergunned

December 17, 2021 06:59 - 1 hour - 48.3 MB

SHOW NOTES Main Topic: Recoil. How and why to master it and shoot authoritative cartridges accurately.  150th Episode Giveaway!  Custom Northern Shrike hunting knife To enter, post your favorite episode on Instagram or Facebook, and tag the Backcountry Hunting Podcast.  Q&A:  Barrel break-in, average velocities, and custom turrets Gransfors Bruks Hunters Axe A very short (18-inch) suppressed .30-06 Main topic:  Bad side-effects of recoil:  Flinching FIX: Man up, practic...

Kodiak Island Cast & Blast: Part 1

December 10, 2021 06:59 - 1 hour - 87.6 MB

Intro: On the boat, under way around Kodiak Island Participants: Colton & Gary Heward, Brent Neidig, Shawn Skipper, Austin Brown, Andrew Smith, Travis, Susan, & JJ Larson, and Garrett Lambert.  Plans: Hunt sitka blacktail deer & sea ducks, fish Forecast: Troubled. Cold, wind, & snow A lot of firsts: First bucks, first Alaskan hunts  Gear time: Rifles, optics, & ammo picked for the hunt First three days: Hunt stories & adventures Under way again: South Kodiak & big deer ahead T...