The Hunt Backcountry Podcast

Kyle Kamp joins Mark for an unscripted discussion. Being that Kyle is a nutritionist, Mark couldn't help but ask some nutrition and backcountry food-related questions, but they also talk more deeply about habits and discipline in general. They also discuss Kyle's journey as a new big game hunter, the best way to learn from experienced hunters, how to ask simple questions, and much more... Free Backcountry Fuel Guide: https://exomtngear.com/nutrition Connect with Kyle: https://v2pnutrition.com/ Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/ Simple Overnight Oats... - Mix equal parts Old Fashion Oats and Milk of your choice. (Mark uses 3/4c oats and 3/4 unsweetened almond milk) - Add scoop of protein powder (Mark uses https://amzn.to/3chna1d) - Shake oats, powder, and milk together - Refrigerate overnight - In the morning, just before eating, add toppings or mix-ins of your choice. (Mark add a small amount protein granola and peanut butter, but other good options are fruit, nuts/seeds, etc) - Mix and enjoy

Steve and Mark answer several listener questions about processing and packing-out elk. They discuss packing the antlers first or last, when to use a bone saw, how to remove the inner tenderloins when using the gutless method, and how to develop a pack-out plan. They also answer another question about scope choices and custom turrets vs range-finding binoculars. Share your question: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/

Chris Way is a well-rounded adventurer, explorer, climber, shooter, and much more. Recently, Chris developed a specific target and shooting drill to assess his true accuracy capabilities with a rifle and also track his shooting performance and improvement over time. While he developed this protocol for his needs as a precision rifle competitor, the protocol is extremely relevant to us, as hunters. Tune in to hear more about how you can shoot this drill, assess your true accuracy, and track your performance leading up to your next hunt. Best of all, this protocol is accessible to everyone and only requires a 100-yard range and a simple paper target you can print at home. Learn more: https://riflekraft.com/ Connect with Chris: http://instagram.com/gunaroundthesun/ Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com https://ExoMtnGear.com/

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on ultralight optics support (tripods and monopods), follow-up feedback from last week's budget spotting scope topic, and share some stories from hunts that humbled them. They also briefly chat about DIY Dehydrated meals, which was covered in-depth on Episode 129. Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com Ultralight Optics Support... - https://tricerusa.com - https://kestrelglassingsystems.com/ - https://www.wiserprecision.com/

Have you been curious about getting into reloading for your hunting rifle, but been too confused or overwhelmed to get started? We've been there! Tune-in as Mark chats with aspiring reloader, Kyle, and shares advice on how to get setup with reloading gear on a modest budget. Mark and Kyle share the same goal of keeping their reloading process simple, while still achieving great precision. Want more info on the ideas and gear discussed in this show, check out this article: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/reloading-gear-for-precision-hunting Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer listener questions about "pack hacks", recommendations for budget spotting scopes, comparisons on NL Pure and EL Range TA binos from Swarovski, other range-finding binocular options for rifle hunting, and hauling moose quarters. Share your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/

Jake takes over as host of the podcast and interviews Steve & Mark with your questions about Exo Mtn Gear. Aside from talking about the company, they also answer some fun questions that were submitted, such as their worse backcountry poop experience, who is "the big spoon" when they share a tent, and more. They ran out of time, so Jake will be back on a future Monday Minute to ask more of the fun questions you guys submitted. PS — There is a BIG surprise at the end! https://exomtngear.com/

We continue our Behind the Scenes at Exo Mtn Gear podcast series with Jake Havlicek. As a teenager, Jake started building packs part-time in the summer. Now, several years later, Jake is a full-time employee and an integral part of the Exo team. We discuss Jake's journey working at Exo, his growth as a hunter, and much more. In tomorrow's episode (#273), Jake takes over as host of the podcast, so tune back in to hear him interview Steve and Mark. https://exomtngear.com

Patrick and his wife sold everything they owned, left the Northeast, and headed West without a specific place or plan in mind. Months later, they settled in Boise, Idaho. Patrick walked into Exo HQ and began building packs part-time. Here we are, a few years later, and Patrick is an integral part of the Exo Mtn Gear family. Tune in to hear more about Patrick's story traveling the US, his work at Exo Mtn Gear, and his recent mountain goat hunt. https://exomtngear.com/

Our guest in this episode, Dwayne Magnusson, is an outfitter, guide, and pilot in Alaska. As owner and operator of Magnusson Alaskan Outfitters, Dwayne has vast experience hunting and flying in Alaska for a multitude of species. This past fall, Steve hunted with Dwayne on his sheep hunt. We speak with Dwayne about his experience, the lessons he has learned, what he sees hunters get right (and wrong!) when it comes to hunting in the mountains, and much more. Contact Dwayne: https://huntmao.com/ Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer listener questions about broadhead flight, the issue of "not knowing what you don't know", and why Steve said that socialism is now a part of hunting. As always, these informal episodes are meant to answer your questions, so send us your ideas and feedback to podcast@exomtngear.com

It is the time of year where many of us are starting to apply for tags in various states. Some of us have a tried-and-true strategy that include spreadsheets of our points for each state and species, while others of us are still scratching our heads and trying to figure out how to make our way through each state's confusing maze of rules for tag applications, points, deadlines, and fine-print. Whether you are a seasoned player in the game of points and draws or a first-time hunter just looking for a place to start, there's something for you in this podcast episode with Jerrod Lile of Huntin Fool. We can't answer every question on every species and every state in this podcast, but we do discuss a TON of helpful information about different states, their application and point systems, and how to develop an application strategy for YOUR unique hunting goals. Draw Deadlines: https://www.huntinfool.com/resources/draw-deadlines Draw Cost Calculator: https://www.huntinfool.com/license-application-service/cost-calculator Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer several listener questions on archery and bowhunting-related topics that cover bow-sight pin size and selection, arrow selection and setup, and broadhead performance on game. They also chat a bit about their cold-weather hiking from the weekend. SHARE YOUR QUESTION: podcast@exomtngear.com Learn More and Shop Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

These lessons from a Marine fighter pilot, mountaineer, and backcountry hunter will change how you hunt. Our guest, Dave, shares lessons and specific "sayings" that came from decades of experience and unending curiosity. If you apply these sayings to your hunts, it will no doubt make you a more effective hunter. Read Mark's takeaway's from this podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/5-sayings-that-will-change-how-you-hunt Podcast Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/podcast Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer listener questions about hiking in the dark, their Death Hike prep, and gear. There are also some funny stories along the way. Share your question or feedback: podcast@exomtngear.com Exo Blog: https://exomtngear.com/blog Gear Lists: https://exomtngear.com/inmypack Podcast Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

As hunters, we should know how to quickly and cleanly kill the animals we pursue. Not just how to choose a bullet or broadhead. Or how to place a projectile "in the vitals". We should understand the animal's physiological systems and how to affect those systems to cause death. In this episode, we speak with Hornady's Lead Ballistician, Jayden Quinlan, to understand how, exactly, animals die. We eventually work our way into talking about the performance of projectiles — such as expansion and penetration — but the primary purpose of this episode is to provide a foundational understanding of physiological systems and how to affect those systems to cause death. Whether you hunt with bullets, broadheads, or both — you will find great value in the information shared in this episode. Share your questions with us: podcast@exomtngear.com Podcast Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer an email from a listener that has been hunting elk for 3 years, but has never seen an elk and has only heard bugling on one day. They also end up chatting about 6.5 PRC vs 6.5 Creedmoor. Mark will post his article on why he chose the 6.5 Creedmoor over the 6.5 PRC... Get the article in your Inbox on Wednesday (02/03/21): https://exomtngear.com/newsletter. Or check the blog after Wednesday: https://exomtngear.com/blog Have a question for us?... podcast@exomtngear.com

Our guest on this episode, Randy, is a vegan turned elk hunter. We hear about Randy's transition into hunting. What it was like to kill his first elk. How he uses yoga to shoot his rifle (kidding...kind of). And much more! Are you interested in the elk hunting course we discussed in this show? Use the code "EXO20" to save $20 on the University of Elk Hunting online course at https://elk101.com/onlinecourse. As a member of the course, you will also get access to a discount on all Exo Mtn Gear purchases. Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

On this late Monday (Tuesday) Minute episode, Steve surprises Mark and asks him to tell the story of his favorite hunt. They also discuss a listener question on bow sights. And then explain the concept of thermals and how thermals affect hunters. Share your question/feedback for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com Shop Bow Sights: https://sandsarchery.com/collections/bow-sights

In this episode, we are joined by backcountry hunter and former Green Beret, Stephen Ourada (@northrangehunter). In our conversation with Stephen we discuss how hunting helped him as a Green Beret, how he recovered from a mental and physical low-point after being medically retired, why hiked more 2,000 miles in 2020, and much more. Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com and https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We answer listener questions on budget clothing, the advantages of the Alaska Airlines credit card, when to drop your pack while stalking, and how to select a stabilizer for your bow. Budget Puffy Pants: https://amzn.to/39idele or search the web for "ECWCS Level 7 Pants" Alaska Airlines Card: https://www.alaskaair.com/content/credit-card/visa-signature Bow Stabilizers: https://sandsarchery.com/collections/stabilizers Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Photographer and hunter, Beaumon Day, joins us to talk about his pursuit of wildlife — with both weapons and cameras. We talk about what Beau has learned from wildlife photography that also informs his hunting. We then discuss a very unique hunt that Beau got to participate in this past fall, as he hunted Mountain Goats within Teton National Park. Beau's 2021 Wildlife Calendar: https://beaudayphotography.com/products/2021-wildlife-calendar Follow Beau on IG at https://www.instagram.com/beaudayphotography/ Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com or https://exomtngear.com/

Mark is joined by Tyler Boschma to discuss their experiences using Hammer Bullets on hunts this fall. The original podcast episode about Hammer Bullets is Episode 227: Hunting with Hammers - Learn more about Hammer Bullets at https://HammerBullets.com - Connect with Tyler: https://www.instagram.com/tyler_boschma/ - Podcast Questions & Feedback: podcast@exomtngear.com

Welcome to the Hunt Backcountry Podcast in 2021! We are starting the new year with a new show format as we go "Unscripted" with Emory Wanger. Mark and Emory hop on a call with no agenda, hit record, and this podcast is the result. They discuss a wide-variety of topics on hunting, backpacking, gear, family, and more... 03:35 — Gear choice with no budget limitations 05:25 — Perspective on the meaning of new gear 10:58 — Is hunting conservation? 17:34 — Animals vs wildlife 27:20 — The importance of conversation and "thinking out loud" 32:53 — Cold-weather clothing and sleep systems 43:33 — Lessons learned by experience and "aha moments" 50:08 — Perspective on adventure, family, hunting, and priorities 01:05:47 — Backpack hunting group 01:11:00 — "Learn How to Backpack" course Get more from Emory, including his podcasts, blogs, and backpacking course at https://byland.co/ or @emory_by_land Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Need a kick in the butt to get in shape, or stay in shape for the New Year? Check out our free training plan... https://exomtngear.com/train In this episode, Steve & Mark answer a listener question about why they choose backcountry hunting as their main hobby. And also what other hobbies they enjoy. Steve & Mark also discuss their "off season" and favorite winter activities. Share your question for the next episode: podcast@exomtngear.com Exo Packs Available Now: https://exomtngear.com/packs Exo's Origins & Ethos: https://soundcloud.com/huntbackcountry/219-exos-origins-ethos

As a small company building our products in the USA, this year presented many challenges. But thanks to the support of our customers, we are finishing this year with immense gratitude for the opportunity we have to continue building high-quality, American-made products for our fellow hunters. As a tangible way to thank you for your support, we want to send a free custom decal to everyone that purchased from Exo Mtn Gear in 2020, and also give you an opportunity to win some of the gear that we personally use in the backcountry. ENTER TODAY: https://exomtngear.com/christmas2020

As the off-season arrives and hunters turn to shoppers, we answer your latest gear questions on this Monday Minute. Share your question for a future episode by sending us an email to podcast@exomtngear.com

Paul Lewis of FHF Gear joins us to talk about a special Bighorn Sheep tag he drew in Montana. We get the full story on how the hunt went down and what he learned along the way. Before we dive into the hunt details, we also get the backstory on FHF Gear. You'll hear how FHF was born from Paul's side-gig in his garage, doing custom work for mostly law enforcement and military needs, and then how it almost unintentionally became the FHF Gear we know of today. This is an entertaining conversation on Bighorns, the Backcountry, and Business! https://fhfgear.com/ https://exomtngear.com/

Steve Evans (@__steve__evans__) just started hunting big game a couple of years ago, but he has already spent more than 150 days in the field across multiple western states hunting deer, elk, and other species. In this wide-ranging conversation, Mark speaks with Steve about the unique experience he has, being both relatively new to big game hunting, while at the same time having the opportunity to spend so much time hunting and learning in just a couple of years. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions about new-for-2021 bows, the pros and cons of long and short axle-length bows, how to shoot your bow effectively with a pack on, whether or not moose is a good species to hunt for a first trip to Alaska, and more. Oh, and they get interrupted with a poopy diaper. #dadlife Share your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com

Save 15% on all Exo Mtn Gear items this Friday (11/27). Sign-up to get notified: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Is ultralight gear overrated? What's the best way to practice with your bow when you can only shoot at a few yards indoors? How was Mark's experience flying the meat home from his recent elk hunt? Share your listener question for the next episode: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Full-time job, wife, kids, no experience, and a worldwide pandemic. Those excuses didn't stop Jared and Eric from a DIY adventure for Sitka Blacktail Deer on Kodiak Island, Alaska. Tune-in to hear how they planned this hunt, what it was like to hunt Alaska on their own, and more. Whether you are looking for specific tips on planning a trip, just wanting to hear a good hunting story, or are open to being challenged about planning your "dream" adventure...there's something in this show for you. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Will Exo be having a Black Friday sale? YES! And to make sure you don't miss the best pricing of the year, be sure you receive our emails: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter Steve and Mark also discuss the pros and cons of Sil-Nylon vs Dyneema/Cuben Fiber for shelters, what they do with their extra gear they're no longer testing/using, and how they make changes to their sleep systems for variable weather conditions. Share your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark discuss their favorite gear of the year in 2020. They also revisit their prior favorite gear from 2018 and 2019, and discuss how that gear is still performing for them today. No matter your budget, there's something in here for you... See the whole list at: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/2020-gear-of-the-year Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve and Mark answer listener questions about off-season gear care and storage, how they feel about hunting with a bow vs a rifle, tips they have for packaging meat while at camp, and more... Share your question for a future show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Why you should consider hunting with a muzzleloader...and how to get started. In the episode with John McAdams from the Big Game Hunting Blog, we talk about the knowledge and gear needed to get started hunting with a muzzleloader. If you are like us and want to expand your opportunities to hunt, regardless of what weapon is in your hands, hunting with a muzzleloader can extend your season, open up new opportunities, and you also might find that you simply enjoy the challenge of hunting with a new weapon system. Read — Why You Should Start Hunting With A Muzzleloader: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/start-hunting-with-a-muzzleloader Read — How To Start Hunting With A Muzzleloader: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-start-hunting-with-a-muzzleloader John's Big Game Hunting Blog: https://thebiggamehuntingblog.com/ Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on the SIG KILO3000 Binoculars, addressing their range-finding and ballistic solving abilities (https://www.sigsauer.com/products/electro-optics/rangefinders/kilo3000/). They also discuss which bivy they use, and answer a listener question about using bivy vs a hammock setup. Finally, they discuss the tools they use to get accurate weather forecasts for backcountry locations, including the "pinpoint" feature at forecast.weather.gov (Example: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=43.6076&lon=-116.1934). Share your question or topic for a future show: podcast@exomtngear.com

We are in a time of year where many hunting seasons are wrapping-up soon and we head into the holidays, cold and dark winters, days, and often, a time where we let things slip. But it doesn't have to be that way. You don't have to wait for a "new year" or next hunting season to commit yourself. A commitment to challenging yourself — be that physically, mentally, or in some other way. In today's show, we hear from a listener, Curt, and how he challenged himself this year. Hear what he did, what he learned, and what advice he has for you. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

As a follow-up to our recent podcast about our rifle elk hunt, we take the opportunity to answer listener questions about that hunt... - How did the elk behavior change after a few days of pressure from rifle hunters? - Are there any regrets on filling tags early in the hunt? - What boots did we wear? And how did Mark's feet hold up after packing the elk out with soaking-wet boots? - How did Mark get the meat home? Did he fly with it? Share your question for a future show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark recap their recent rifle elk hunt in Idaho. They detail the play-by-play of how they were able to fill both of their tags by mid-day on the second day of the hunt. Have a question?... podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark are joined by their good friends, Lenny & Tyler, to retell some amazing stories from September. Lenny and Tyler backpack-hunted with their 10-year-old sons for the first time, shot some big bulls, and made some lifetime memories. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark chat through gear, strategy, and tactics for their upcoming rifle elk hunt in Idaho. Being primarily archery elk hunters, they chat through how they are preparing for and planning this rifle hunt. Share your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com

Elk hunting is difficult. Especially when you are solo, hunting with a bow, have an over-the-counter tag, are on pressured public land, and live more than a 24-hour drive from your hunting area. But none of the things kept our guest on this episode, Jesse, from doing everything he could to try and fill his first elk tag. And on the opening morning of this past archery season, Jesse did just that. Tune in to hear how this 2nd-year elk hunter found success this year and what he learned from his prior, unsuccessful, elk hunt last year. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on pack weight, budget bow setups, "do it all" bullets, and boot comparisons. Share your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/

At 60-years-young our guest on this episode, Dave, is a solo mountain hunter in Alaska. Dave has experience as a Marine, pilot, mountain climber, mountain hunter, and much more. As someone who is still hunting hard in the mountains at his age, Steve and Mark wanted to learn from Dave. With an engineer's mindset and a desire to always learn, Dave has gained a lot of experience and wisdom over the years — and we are excited to have him share some of that information with us today. Have a question for us or a story to share with us?... Email podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve and Mark chat through their September elk hunts in Colorado and Idaho. There was plenty of struggle and success involved. How's your season going so far? Let us know... podcast@exomtngear.com

How can the Modern Day Rifleman Virtual Summit help you as a hunter? Even if you aren't a "sniper" or competitive shooter, what can you, as a hunter, learn from the field of 25 experts in the precision shooting industry that will be speaking at the free virtual summit? We answer these questions with summit founders, Caylen Wojcik and Phillip Velayo. FREE Summit Registration: https://moderndayrifleman.com/register Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

We are joined by our buddy, Tyler Boschma, who recently hunted Dall Sheep in the Alaska Range with Steve. We hear the story of the hunt, including the highs and lows, the lessons learned, and more. This hunt was a true adventure and an entertaining story to tune-in to. https://exomtngear.com/podcast Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

We're answering your questions on Labor Day. Hopefully, though, you're not hearing this as it is released, and instead you are out hunting. In this show we answer questions on deer and the full moon, hunting elk solo, hammocks for the backcountry, pack fit for petite women, post-rut elk tactics, and more... Send in your questions for the show... podcast@exomtngear.com

In this show we are joined by podcast listeners, who happen to be both buddies and brothers-in-law. They tell the story of a fun hunt in Montana where they filled elk and deer tags in a single day. But it isn't all about success; they also share the lessons they learned from mistakes they made previously. Connect with us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve returns from his Sheep hunt in Alaska. We are saving the full hunt story for a later show, once our buddy Tyler can join. In this episode we focus on gear choices, lessons learned, and more. Have a question for the show? Email podcast@exomtngear.com

The backcountry is big, beautiful...and unforgiving. We shouldn't pursue the backcountry in fear, but we should be prepared for the possibility of difficult, or even dangerous conditions. If you find yourself in that moment where you or someone you are with needs rescue, what do you do? Hopefully, you have a means of requesting rescue assistance. But what does that really mean? What happens when you request assistance, and how can you best prepare — both now and in the moment — for a backcountry rescue? We answer those questions with air rescue pilot, Jason Fawson. Jason is not only a backcountry first responder, he has been forced to call for rescue in the backcountry while on a trip. If you truly "hunt backcountry", you need to tune-in to this episode and learn from Jason's experience. podcast@exomtngear.com

Mark is joined by John Hakes from Mesa Precision Arms. Together they address a wide variety of rifle-related questions from the audience. They talk about Mark's upgraded Tikka build (https://exomtngear.com/tikka), upgrades for other factory rifles, fully custom rifle builds, optics selection, and much more. Visit Mesa Precision Arms and contact John at: https://mesaprecisionarms.com/ Have a question for the show?... podcast@exomtngear.com

Did you know that the Hunt Backcountry Podcast is now more than 5 years old? To celebrate, Steve & Mark have picked 5 of their favorite episodes from the past 5 years and are replaying them this week. Additionally, we are offering 5 prize packs for you — the listeners. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/06d5759c28/ Today's show is a re-cast of Episode #216 with Chadd Wright. Chadd shares how the lessons he has learned as a SEAL and Ultrarunner can help YOU as a backcountry hunter... "True adventure is when you embark on a journey where the most likely outcome is failure. If you want to experience true adventure in your life, you have to let go of the fear of failure — because failure will happen. If you fear failure, you will remain stagnant for the rest of your life." —Chadd Wright CONNECT WITH CHADD: https://3of7project.com/ CONNECT WITH US: podcast@exomtngear.com

Did you know that the Hunt Backcountry Podcast is now more than 5 years old? To celebrate, Steve & Mark have picked 5 of their favorite episodes from the past 5 years and are replaying them this week. Additionally, we are offering 5 prize packs for you — the listeners. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/06d5759c28/ Today's show is a re-cast of Episode #180 with Mike Graves. Mike is an Exo customer that we connected with before the show and became inspired by. At the time of the original recording, Mike was nearly 70-years-old and still hunting hard in the backcountry. Not only is Mike hunting in an inspiring way today, but he has decades of past experiences and stories to share. You will not only be inspired by this conversation, you will be entertained by some of Mike's stories. CONNECT WITH US: podcast@exomtngear.com

Did you know that the Hunt Backcountry Podcast is now more than 5 years old? To celebrate, Steve & Mark have picked 5 of their favorite episodes from the past 5 years and are replaying them this week. Additionally, we are offering 5 prize packs for you — the listeners. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/06d5759c28/ Today's show is a re-cast of Episodes #162 and #163 with "the Modern Day Mountain Man", Billy Molls. Billy has spent 20+ seasons guiding in Alaska for a variety of species. We speak with Billy about Caribou hunting in Alaska, and why it is the ideal first hunt for those new to Alaska. We also talk about why adventure is so important for us to experience, and why remote places, such as Alaska, are truly special. Connect with Billy at https://BillyMollsAdventures.com/ CONNECT WITH US: podcast@exomtngear.com

Did you know that the Hunt Backcountry Podcast is now more than 5 years old? To celebrate, Steve & Mark have picked 5 of their favorite episodes from the past 5 years and are replaying them this week. Additionally, we are offering 5 prize packs for you — the listeners. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/06d5759c28/ Today's show is a re-cast of Episode #138 with Paul "the Elk Nut" Medel. Paul has been on the show several times, and to be honest, every single time we both enjoy the conversation AND learn a TON. Paul has an unmatched blend of enthusiasm and knowledge, and it is a treat to soak in the knowledge and experience that he has to share about elk behavior, elk vocalizations, and elk hunting. Learn more from Paul by checking out the Elk Nut app: http://www.elknut.com/elknut-app.html CONNECT WITH US: podcast@exomtngear.com

Did you know that the Hunt Backcountry Podcast is now more than 5 years old? To celebrate, Steve & Mark have picked 5 of their favorite episodes from the past 5 years and are replaying them this week. Additionally, we are offering 5 prize packs for you — the listeners. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/06d5759c28/ Today's show is a re-cast of Episode #16 with Russ Meyer. Steve describes Russ as, "the most successful hunter I know." In this conversation with Russ we find out what has helped Russ have so much success over the years, why he feels sharing hunting is so important, why the only way to learn how to kill is to kill, and much more. If you want to hear more from Russ, and other guys that Steve and Mark have learned from, check out the Expert Roundtable Series, which are podcast episodes 181-185. CONNECT WITH RUSS: http://instagram.com/rmeyerarchery CONNECT WITH US: podcast@exomtngear.com

As Steve and Mark prepare to hunt sheep and elk with a rifle for the first time this fall, they seek the wisdom of former hunting guide, previous podcast guest, and full-time gun writer, Joseph von Benedikt. Joseph answers their questions on bullet selection, shot placement, field support and shooting positions, and much more. Connect with Joseph: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryhuntingpodcast/ Have a question for a future show?... podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We, as hunters, spend a lot of time, effort, energy, and money to put ourselves into positions where we have an opportunity to shoot the animal we are pursuing. When that moment comes together, can you hold it together and make a good shot? Whether you have a bow or rifle in your hands, how do you ensure that you make the most of that opportunity you have worked so hard to create? Our guest, Joel Turner, shares what he has learned — through experience AND research — about how to shoot effectively when it matters most. ShotIQ: https://www.shotiq.com/ Exo Pack Systems: https://exomtngear.com/k3 Podcast Contact: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark discuss training for hunting, shooting supports for rifles, how to hike heavy, their favorite backcountry bourbon choice, and much more. Have a question for the show?... podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

What does it take to kill an elk TODAY? What about elk hunting has changed in the past 5-10 years? Those are just a couple of the many questions we ask Corey Jacobsen on this episode. Other questions address e-scouting, dealing with hunting pressure, hunting post-run bulls, and much, much more. Use "EXO20" to SAVE $20 on the University of Elk Hunting Online Course at https://Elk101.com/onlinecourse/ Watch the Destination Elk video series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrIueboMHMn2PV1vWDEfZuDsdtsHqqLVL Exo Mtn Gear Pack Systems: https://exomtngear.com/k3 Share your question or topic for future podcasts: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve surprises Mark with a hunt announcement, and then they discuss listener questions on pack comfort issues, keeping a clean camp, where to look for deer, and more... Share your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com Links for gear mentioned in this episode: - Arcade Belt: https://amzn.to/2P23qlT - Reloading Mounts: https://inlinefabrication.com/ - Scent-Free Bags: https://loksak.myshopify.com/collections/opsak/

Our guest on this episode, Baxter, filled 3 elk tags in his first 4 years elk hunting. Part of the reason for his success is some of his outside-the-box thinking, which you'll hear about in this episode. If you're looking to fill an elk tag this fall, this conversation will help you think through some tactics and strategies to consider for your hunt. Visit Baxter's website at: https://www.baxterbowman.com/ Learn more about the podcast: https://exomtngear.com/podcast Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

We announce a soon-coming giveaway and answer listener questions about breaking-down elk, how to best load head and horns on your pack, discuss follow-up questions on Mark's experience with his new suppressor, and talk through what gear changes for 1-3 day hunts vs 5-7 day hunts. Share your question for the next show: podcast@exomtngear.com Exo Videos: https://youtube.com/ExoMountainGear Exo Newsletter: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

Josh Kirchner joins us to talk about his journey becoming a mule deer hunter, and the Struggles & Success he has encountered along the way. From desert bucks in Arizona to high-country mule deer in the Rockies, Josh has some enjoyable stories and helpful lessons to share with you today. Connect with Josh… - Book: https://amzn.to/2B565rw - Website: https://dialedinhunter.com - Videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ItIjVnltPYvPWohOPk0dQ - Instagram: https://instagram.com/dialedinhunter Have a question for the show? Email podcast@exomtngear.com

Bob & Jeff from PNWild join us to talk about hunting mule deer in the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest. Connect with PNWild... - https://pnwild.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/pnwild - https://instagram.com/pnwild_ Have a question for the show? Email podcast@exomtngear.com

We conclude the How to Hunt Mule Deer podcast series with this in-depth episode on alternate tactics for mule deer hunting. Our guest, Robby Denning, is an extremely dedicated mule deer hunter, with decades of experience. Robby is the author of "Hunting Big Mule Deer" and joins us to discuss still-hunting, tracking, ambush hunting, and other tactics to hunt mule deer "beyond spot-and-stalk". Robby's Book: https://amzn.to/30esQBM Robby's Blog: https://www.rokslide.com/author/robby-denning/ Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

We quickly recap this past weekend's Death Hike (more to come on that), talk about Mark's experience shooting with his new suppressor, and answer listener questions on budget packs, hunting with mountain bikes, and more... Share your question for the next show: podcast@exomtngear.com

We continue the How to Hunt Mule Deer podcast series with this in-depth episode on SHOOTING and archery setups for mule deer. Our guest, Tim Gillingham, is a world-class competitive archer, a passionate and accomplished hunter, and a well-respected part of the archery industry as a whole. We are excited to chat with Tim about the technical and practical aspects of hunting mule deer with archery equipment. This is a deep-dive episode that challenged some of the things we thought we know as bowhunters. There is a lot to take in and learn from in this discussion. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions on how to pack gear in your pack, what "mountain supplements" they use in the backcountry, what Steve found in his test of numerous down jackets, and how breathing techniques can be an effective tool for hunters. Submit your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We continue our How to Hunt Mule Deer series with this in-depth episode on STALKING mule deer. Our guest, South Cox, is a very experienced mule deer hunter that specializes in chasing high country deer with stick-and-string. South has spent years hunting mule deer with spot-and-stalk tactics. In this episode, we learn South's methods for executing stalks in the high country. Resources mentioned in this show... - South's DVDs: https://stalkerstickbows.com/stalker-shop/ - South's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd4eaDR6o-UP1FVW6yJh4Yg - Larry D Jones DVD, How to Hunt Mule Deer in Open Country: https://www.pointblankcalls.com/product/how-to-hunt-mule-deer-in-open-country/ - Hunting Open-Country Mule Deer by Dwight Schuh: https://amzn.to/3gchW5Z Be sure to hit the Subscribe button to receive future episodes. If you have any questions for us, please email podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer your questions on archery shot routines, custom ballistic reticles, quality of roads for elk hunting, and more. You'll also hear about "impressively stupid" questions from hunters. We also discuss some listener tips about using Google Earth and other resources for satellite imagery. As mentioned in the show, check out Google Earth Engine (https://explorer.earthengine.google.com/) and use the "Add data" function to explore data overlays. Suggested data layers include "Landsat 8 Collection 1 Tier 1 8-Day TOA Reflectance Composite" available under "8-day mosaics". Once you load that into your workspace you can scroll through dates and change the opacity (among other things). Another imagery solution to explore is NASA's Worldview at https://worldview.earthdata.nasa.gov Have a question for the show? Let us know... podcast@exomtngear.com

We continue our How to Hunt Mule Deer series with this in-depth episode on LOCATING mule deer. Our guest, Dioni Amuchastegui, is a friend and dedicated mule deer hunter in Idaho. Dioni has spent a lot of time studying, observing, and hunting mule deer. In this episode, we learn Dioni's methods for finding mule deer — and specifically finding mature bucks — which has allowed him to have many years of successfully punching his deer tag, filling his Exo pack, and putting some great antlers on the wall. Be sure to hit the Subscribe button to receive future episodes. If you have any questions for us, please email podcast@exomtngear.com

We continue our How to Hunt Mule Deer series with this in-depth episode on SCOUTING for mule deer. Our guest, Jason Wright, is a friend and muley addict. Jason has a knack for finding good deer country and has spent countless hours scouting for mule deer — using both e-scouting tools (Google Earth, onX Maps, etc) as well as significant time behind glass in deer country. In this episode, we learn Jason's methods for identifying good deer country. Be sure to hit the Subscribe button to receive future episodes. If you have any questions for us, please email podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on hunting elk vs deer, what they look for in broadheads, how to handle hunting with a handheld release, and what hunters should know about altitude sickness. Submit your question for the show: podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We are kicking off a new podcast series, How to Hunt Mule Deer. In future episodes, we will interview guests and take a deep-dive into scouting, locating, stalking, shooting, and more. In this first episode, Steve & Mark discuss some of the things that set mule deer hunting apart for hunting for other species, what new muley hunters should know, and how hunting mule deer can help you develop as a well-rounded hunter. Be sure to hit the Subscribe button to receive future episodes. If you have any questions for us, please email podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve & Mark recap a recent bear hunt and tackle listener questions on scouting mule deer, using high-magnification binoculars, if you should focus on the target or the sight pins when shooting a bow, and more... Have a question for the show? Let us know... podcast@exomtngear.com

We speak with Darin Cooper about his transition from being an engineer at Hoyt Archery to his deep-dive into the precision rifle and long-range shooting world. We cover a lot of ground in this one. In addition to talking about arrow setups, rifle setups, cartridge selection, and related topics, we talk about Darin's new company that offers gear rentals for high-end hunting gear, including custom rifles, optics, shelters, and Exo pack systems. Learn more about Rent Guns & Gear: https://rgunsngear.com/ Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

As backcountry hunters, we depend on hiking to move us into, through, and out of the backcountry. We do this movement with a load on our backs — whether that’s the light load of a day’s essentials, a moderate load of gear for a multiday hunt, or the heavy load of success on our backs. The terrain, the distance, the pace, and the weight vary. So shouldn’t our training hikes mimic these various demands? Our guest in this episode, Mike Prevost, has studied the science and research of hiking heavy. Mike helps us understand how to best prepare for the various loads and distances required of us as backcountry hunters. Tune in to this episode, load up your Exo pack, and then get to work. More resources from Mike Prevost... -https://www.otpbooks.com/mike-prevost-ruck-training-programs/ -https://www.otpbooks.com/mike-prevost-ruck-training-part-2/ -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZnW7A_rdoY Have questions for us? Send an email to... podcast@exomtngear.com

What tips do you have for shooting in the wind? What are the benefits of using a dovetail mount on a bow sight? What stabilizer setup do you recommend? How do you motivate your buddy to get out of the sleeping bag in the morning and start hunting? We tackle these questions on today's Monday Minute podcast. Have a question for a future show? Let us know... podcast@exomtngear.com

The new Cross rifle from Sig Sauer is a hunting rifle like you haven't seen before. It is a combination of a bolt-action rifle with AR-styling and a chasis-style stock that is both foldable and incredibly adjustable. But there's more to the Cross than just modern looks. Along with the Cross rifle, Sig also launched a completely new cartridge called the 277 Fury. This new cartridge with a hybrid steel and brass case design allows for the short 16" barrel to send a 140g bullet at speeds just shy of 3,000fps. Patrick Hanley from Sig Sauer joins us to discuss the story behind the Cross rifle, the new 277 Fury cartridge, and more. Learn more about the Cross at https://sigsauer.com/cross https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this final episode of the four-part series, they discuss navigation, communication, clothing, personal care, safety items, and more. - Learn more & subscribe at: exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

We are joined with a special guest, and discuss ballistics (including how barrel length affects velocity), beverages (including beers and backcountry coffee), and get the full story of the adventure that was Steve's recent bear hunt. Have a question for a future show? Send it to: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve Davis of Hammer Bullets joins us to discuss the history, development, and use of Hammer Bullets for hunting. Hammer is a small bullet manufacturer out of Montana. Brian and Steve started Hammer Bullets when they, as hunters, couldn't find the bullet they were looking for on their market. You'll hear how they started building bullets in their garage, the struggles they went through in testing, and how they ultimately found a unique design that had numerous benefits for hunters and hand-loaders. Hammer makes all-copper, monolithic bullets. In addition to discussing Hammer bullets specifically, we also talk about the benefit of monolithic bullets and why hunters should consider using them — even if they hunt in states where traditional lead bullets are able to be used. Learn more about Hammer Bullets at https://HammerBullets.com/. You can also reach out to Hammer directly via info@hammerbullets.com or 406-261-0010. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this third episode of the four-part series, we discuss the hunt-specific gear that should be in your pack. We cover everything from the knives and game bags we use, to how we carry our binos, and what weapon-maintenance items we bring into the backcountry. - Learn more & subscribe at: https://exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve filled a bear tag this weekend...and tore up a pair of boots on their maiden voyage. We chat about that, then dive into listener questions on water filters, sandbags and pack weight, packing wood stoves, and more... Share your questions via email: podcast@exomtngear.com

How does a bullet kill? There are different theories, different opinions, and different bullet designs. Today we're speaking with Garett Stoddard from Berger Bullets to understand how Berger bullets are designed and constructed to perform on game. Garett is an engineer that has spent a lot of time studying bullet design and terminal performance, and as a hunter himself, also puts his research to the test in the field. This discussion on Terminal Ballistics (a bullet's performance on game) is a great follow-up to our recent conversation with Bryan Litz in Episode 223, which was all about External Ballistics (a bullet's performance in flight). Check out helpful resources and product offerings from Berger Bullets at https://BergerBullets.com Learn more about this podcast at https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast or contact us directly via email to podcast@exomtngear.com

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this second episode of the four-part series, we discuss the topics of Water, Food, and Cooking. We cover everything from how we filter water, to selecting the best stove for the backcountry, to our favorite meals and snacks for extended adventures. - Backcountry Food Plan: https://exomtngear.com/nutrition - Stove Review & Comparison: Episode 190 - DIY Dehydrated Meals: Episode 126 - Learn more & subscribe at: exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Steve and Mark answer a listener question about supporting "non-hunting" companies, cold weather gear, and more. Share your question with us: podcast@exomtngear.com Learn more & subscribe for future episodes: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It doesn't take a degree in rocket science to understand bullet performance. Or does it? Bryan Litz is a scientist, shooter, and ballistician. He quite literally "wrote the book" on external ballistics and informed what we know about the flight and performance of bullets. Bryan joins us in this episode to breakdown the concept of BC (Ballistic Coefficient) and what this number on your box of bullets or ammunition means for you as a hunter and shooter. We discuss what BC is, how it is measured, when and why it matters for hunters, and more... To dive even deeper into this topic, visit https://NoBSBC.com. You can also check out Bryan's books and other resources at https://AppliedBallisticsLLC.com/ If you have questions about this topic or anything else you want to hear about on future podcasts, let us know by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com https://exomtngear.com/podcast

It is easy to get overwhelmed with gear choices. In this new "Pack Essentials" series, Steve & Mark discuss the essential gear for backcountry, backpack-style hunting, and how to select the right gear for your needs and budget. In this first episode of the four-part series, we discuss the topics of Shelters & Sleep Systems. If you've been wondering about floorless shelters vs double-wall tents, sleeping bags vs quilts, or other related topics, this discussion is for you. - Budget Gear List: https://exomtngear.com/budgetgear - Learn more & subscribe at: https://exomtngear.com/podcast - Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com

If you have a limited budget and are looking to extend the effective range of your rifle, should you consider upgrading or replacing your rifle scope? We answer that listener question with the help of Brenton from Leupold Optics. Do you have a question or topic suggestion for a future episode? Let us know... podcast@exomtngear.com

The TSS episodes are coming to an end, but keep your questions coming and we will answer them on upcoming Monday Minute episodes... podcast@exomtngear.com

Brass cases are a critical component of a loaded rifle cartridge, and understanding how to properly work with brass cases is a critical aspect of being a safe and successful reloader. In this episode, we discuss what every reloader should know about brass. We answer the questions... - "What is the difference between loading with new brass and previously-fired brass?" - "Is it better to full-length size or 'neck size' brass before loading?" - "When should I trim, chamfer, and deburr brass cases for loading?" - "What is the best way to clean brass?" - And more... Did you miss Part 1 of our reloading series? Check out Episode 213. Learn more about how to get started hand loading from RCBS at www.rcbs.com/handloading-basics.html. Have questions for future episodes? Please send them to podcast@exomtngear.com

How do you find reliable water sources using maps or Google Earth? How do you make your own dehydrated meals for backpacking at home? How do I balance arrow speed, total arrow weight, and FOC (front-of-center) for my arrows? Will Exo offer more color or camo options on packs in the future? Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

How do you balance hunting for meat (filling tags) vs hunting for adventure, even if adventure means you have a lower chance at filling your tag? We talk about that question, and answer more gear questions in today's episode... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

We discuss Mark's rifle build, which is detailed in a recent article here: https://exomtngear.com/tikka SAVE $100 on the Altitude Stock from Mesa Precision with the code "MESA100" at MesaPrecisionArms.com We also chat about finding a hunting partner, hunting solo, and Exo bag design details. Hunting Solo?... https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/solo-hunting-in-the-backcountry Finding a partner?... https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/how-to-choose-a-hunting-partner Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on securely storing gear at the trailhead, what socks we use and recommend, what to look for or consider in tent stakes, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

We met our guest, Rafe, on Kodiak Island this past fall. Rafe has extensive experience hunting, guiding, and fishing in Alaska for species that include Sitka Blacktail Deer, Kodiak brown bears, mountain goats, and sheep. In this show, we chat with Rafe about his experience as a guide and what lessons he has learned in the field that can help us as hunters. We cover everything from mindset, to shooting, to gear, and much more. With a tremendous amount of time in the field, Rafe has a lot to share. And he'll also tell you some things he has done that you should never do — such as stealing deer meat away from a brown bear. If you're interested in our experience hunting and fishing on Kodiak Island, check out episodes 201 and 202 of this podcast. And contact Foxtail Lodge about future opportunities: http://FoxtailLodge.com

Steve & Mark answer two important listener questions from new elk hunters... How do I get a tag? And how do I pick a spot and find elk? Elk Tag Strategy — https://exomtngear.com/elktags Online Elk Course (Use "EXO20" to save $20) — https://elk101.com/onlinecourse Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on gear and also discuss why gear isn't everything. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve and Mark answer your questions on their preferred method of bow tuning (paper tuning, french tuning, broadhead tuning, etc), what are the pros/cons of hunting with a handheld release compared to a wrist strap release, how to make the most of limited hunting time, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark cover budget backpacking gear recommendations. Answer questions about having fires in the backcountry while bowhunting. And discuss how they track and analyze their hiking performance data. Budget Gear List & Podcast: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/budget-backpacking-gear-for-your-next-hunt Live Q&A TONIGHT (4/16/20 @ 7p Mtn) on the Born & Raised YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCubQp7PzYsUKV5K4J-f9mig/ Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Origins: the point or place where something begins, arises, or is derived. Ethos: the characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or community as manifested in its beliefs and aspirations. Exo Mtn Gear Co-Founder, Lenny Nelson, joins Steve & Mark to discuss Exo's origins and ethos. At your request, we are diving into the backstory of Exo Mtn Gear and sharing the reason Exo exist today. “For us, it has always been... take care of the product, take care of the customer, and everything else will take care of itself.” —Steve Speck https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer your questions on camping with your family, when to use trail cameras, hammocks for the backcountry, tips on using quilts, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer questions on soreness after packing heavy loads, the best binocular magnification for western hunting, whether to be quiet or loud in the elk woods, and more... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on shed hunting, burning preference points, pack choice and size for elk vs mule deer, floorless shelters vs traditional tents, and quilts vs mummy sleeping bags. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark discuss the tips & tricks shared in the Backpacker Magazine Article, "100 Essential Skills Every Backpacker Should Know" https://www.backpacker.com/skills/100-pro-level-hiking-skills-everyone-should-know Have a "pro tip" to share? Email it to us: podcast@exomtngear.com

This episode features a listener story that many of you can relate to, and all of us can learn from. Corey joins us to share his journey of learning to become an elk hunter as an adult from Iowa. Along with his own "hunting renaissance", he also shares some of the stories and lessons from getting his daughter into hunting during her teen years. How are you using your time and knowledge to share what you know as a hunter? https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Steve & Mark answer listener questions about Copper vs Load bullets, Spot-and-Stalk Spring Bear Hunting, the Ideal Pack Weight for Pre-Season Training, and also discuss Steve's latest boot research and theory. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

What are the best budget clothing options? How do you pick the best spotting scope (balancing weight and magnification) for high country mule deer hunting? Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

We answer listener questions about bow sights, bugling bulls, and bivy selection. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer pack-related questions... "Will I damage my pack by training with it year-round?" "What is your advice for packing out a whole buck, camp, and weapon in one trip?" "What should I look for when it comes to selecting a pack for a teenager?" Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Kody & Trent from Born & Raised Outdoors join us to discuss the different styles and approaches of camping for elk hunts. We discuss the pros and cons of hunting from a roadside base camp, packing in for a backcountry spike camp, or hunting with camp on our back for a bivy-style hunt. As we discuss in the show, there is no one "right" way to approach an elk hunt. Rather, you should understand the pros and cons of each style, and understand when and where each approach makes the most sense for your goals. Catch up with Born & Raised at https://BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com/ Connect with us and send us your listener questions or feedback to podcast@exomtngear.com

Co-Founder of Exo Mtn Gear, Lenny Nelson, joins Steve & Mark to talk about parenting during COVID, raising kids in the mountains, and to answer listener questions on elk tag applications and points, power supply in the backcountry, and his take on the topic of boots. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on arrow and broadhead setups for deer vs elk, adapting sleeping gear for warm weather, and answer follow-up questions from topics discussed on previous TSS episodes... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on... Hunting in Kodiak, Late-Season Gear Choices and Pack Weight, and Tripod Selection. (No boots!) Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark answer listener questions on... Shelters & Condensation, Camp Site Selection, Bear Prevention, AK Caribou Gear Lists, and yes, they talk about boots... AGAIN. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Navy SEAL, Ultrarunner, and Hunter — Chadd Wright (@chadwright278) — joins us on the latest #HuntBackcountry podcast to talk about adventure and adversity. Chadd shares how the lessons he has learned as a SEAL and Ultrarunner can help YOU as a backcountry hunter... "True adventure is when you embark on a journey where the most likely outcome is failure. If you want to experience true adventure in your life, you have to let go of the fear of failure — because failure will happen. If you fear failure, you will remain stagnant for the rest of your life." —Chadd Wright Learn more about Chadd and the 3-of-7 Project at http://3of7project.com/

As requested, Steve & Mark share the stories of their first bow kills. Let's just say that, for each of them, their first bow kills were good experiences to learn from... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve and Mark discuss Mark's 12-hour, 40-mile hike from this weekend. They answer a listener question about how to pack skulls/antlers on your pack. And continue to try and bring some helpful perspective to the current state of affairs... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve and Mark answer a listener question about how much a pack should weigh for a 6-7 day hunt. They also discuss the differences between "base" pack weight and actual pack weight at the trailhead, how to shave weight from your pack, the balance of weight/comfort, and more. Oh, and they have a follow-up on yesterday's discussion regarding boots. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Steve & Mark are back with another informal episode talking a little about current events and then diving into hunting-related topics that include how Steve was preparing for a (now cancelled) trip to New Zealand, new gear, boot reviews, backcountry communications, and figuring out what this year's Death Hike should be for Mark... Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting.

Amidst the pandemic of COVID-19, we want to use this podcast as a helpful source of information, entertainment, and most importantly — connection. We will continue to release regular episodes that are all about becoming a more capable and confident backcountry hunter, but as many of us will be spending more time at home, and potentially with downtime in the coming weeks, we thought it would be helpful to supplement that time with additional content. Connect with us and let us know what you want to discuss on future TSS episodes by emailing podcast@exomtngear.com. What does "TSS" stand for? The Supplemental Show? The Shutdown Show? The Stopgap Show? We're not sure, but we will be using the TSS episode name for future episodes are NOT our "normal" episodes that focus 100% on backcountry hunting. If you listened to this show, don't forget to check-in and personally connect with 5 people each day. We're in this together...

Toby Boudreau, Wildlife Bureau Chief at Idaho Department of Fish and Game joins us to discuss wolves and wolf hunting. In this conversation, we cover the history of wolves, their reintroduction, the growth of their numbers, and the future of wolves as part of Idaho's wildlife landscape. We also cover helpful advice for wolf hunting — including wolf habitat, terrain, calling, behavior and more. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

"Becoming A Backpack Hunter: A Beginner's Guide to Hunting the Backcountry" is a new book from our buddy Josh Kirchner (@dialedinhunter)... https://amzn.to/39Vlln6 Josh joins us to share the backstory of the book. Why he wrote it. Who it's for. And more. If you're interested in the content we share on this podcast, you'll love Josh's new book, which is only available at Amazon: https://amzn.to/39Vlln6

Good lessons don't come easy. That is true of hunting and life. The good elk hunting lessons we discuss in this show come from the experience of one of you — a listener. We discuss the realities of DIY elk hunting. The highs and lows. And the lessons that are learned from experiences... and not always the experience we want to happen. Use the code EXO20 to save $20 on the University of Elk Hunting online course at https://elk101.com/onlinecourse. Have a question for a future podcast? Let us know... podcast@exomtngear.com

Answering listener Q&A on sleep system gear, training for older hunters, updates on the death hike, and more. Have a question you want to hear addressed on a future show? Let us know: podcast@exomtngear.com

We are starting a new podcast series on the topic of reloading. If you've ever been interested (or intimidated!) by the topic of loading your own ammunition, this first episode is for you. We answer... Why should I consider reloading? What does it cost to get started? Will reloading give me better accuracy compared to factory ammunition? And more... Looking to get started with equipment? Here is the suggested starting kit that we discussed in the podcast: https://www.rcbs.com/kits/16-9354.html. Learn more about how to get started hand loading from RCBS at https://www.rcbs.com/handloading-basics.html. Have questions for future episodes? Please send them to podcast@exomtngear.com

"Why do I freeze at night?" We answer that listener question and also discussion more on the topic of sleeping pads and sleeping bags. Speaking of gear, we have a new Pack Essentials series coming to the podcast this Spring... Let us know what questions, topics, and gear you'd like to hear included in that series. Next up on the podcast we have a series on reloading or ("hand loading") for precision with centerfire rifles. We will cover this topic from A-to-Z over the year and are starting off this week with a full-length episode covering the basics of reloading. If you have considered how or why to get started, you'll want to tune-in to Wednesday's full-length episode. Contact us: podcast@exomtngear.com Subscribe: https://exomtngear.com/podcast Shop Hunt Backcountry Podcast Logo Gear: https://exomtngear.com/podcastgear

Our buddy Dan Solsman (@dansolsman) joins us to discuss some lessons and laughs from his 2019 hunting season. You'll hear how Dan prepared, fought through setbacks, and ultimately found success in filling his elk and deer tags in Idaho. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In Episode 210 we shared a listener story about a DIY Death Hike. Since then, we've gotten quite a few questions from other listeners that are trying to put together their own Death Hikes. In this episode, we answer the questions that will help you in that process. We talk about group size, participant vetting, safety, training, and more. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

We have a love/hate relationship with the topic of fitness and hunting. On the one hand, we know that fitness matters and can help us hunt the backcountry more effectively. On the other hand, we get tired of the "hype" surrounding training and fitness for hunting. We want to focus our limited time and energy on training that is effective, not necessarily attractive. To help us understand effective training for hunting, we are joined in this podcast by Jake and Jordan from Atomic Athlete (http://atomic-athlete.com). DOWNLOAD a free training program, written by Jake from Atomic Athlete, exclusively at http://ExoMtnGear.com/train

You can't buy it, but you can win it... We are giving away an Exo Pack System in an unreleased Multicam Black pattern. To enter, visit https://exomtngear.com/group and join.

If you've been around this show for a while, you've likely heard about our annual Death Hike. You may have heard about it...but have you done anything like it? One of you, a listener, took matters into his own hands and created his own Death Hike. In this episode, you'll hear how he planned it, how he found others to go with him, how they trained, and ultimately how the hike went. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute: Follow-up on the K3 Frame replacements, a look at the 6.5 PRC rifle cartridge, where you can see Exo in the next couple of weeks, and a sneak peek at this week's full episode that you don't want to miss. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Long-time listener, first-time mule deer hunter. Tune in to hear Chris' story and how he went from hunting whitetails in Alabama to hunting mule deer in the Wyoming high country. We cover Chris' hunt planning, e-scouting, travel logistics, and the lessons he learned from the hunt. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mark & Steve discuss an announcement regarding K3 Frame Replacements. If you are a K3 pack owner, please learn more at: https://exomtngear.com/newframe. After that announcement, you'll hear more about Mark's identity as a vegan advocate for fair treatment of coffee beans. (Wait! What?) https://exomtngear.com/podcast

PART TWO — Two buddies, two sheep tags, two amazing adventures. We are joined again by Nate and Paul to hear their sheep hunting stories from this past fall. Out of the 80+ sheep tags awarded in Idaho in 2019, co-workers, Nate and Paul were lucky enough to both get drawn. They went from sitting by each other at work each day at First Lite HQ, to sharing some amazing experiences in Idaho's backcountry as they sought to fill notch sheep tags. As is typical of sheep hunts, there were high-highs and low-lows in their stories. There is so much to learn from and be inspired by as you listen in. ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Two buddies, two sheep tags, two amazing adventures. We are joined by Nate and Paul to hear their sheep hunting stories from this past fall. Out of the 80+ sheep tags awarded in Idaho in 2019, co-workers, Nate and Paul were lucky enough to both get drawn. They went from sitting by each other at work each day at First Lite HQ, to sharing some amazing experiences in Idaho's backcountry as they sought to fill notch sheep tags. As is typical of sheep hunts, there were high-highs and low-lows in their stories. There is so much to learn from and be inspired by as you listen in. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Do you want to be on a Pro Staff for a hunting company? What does that even mean? Well, we can't speak for everyone, but since we get this question a lot, we thought we'd discuss how we, at Exo Mtn Gear, handle our "pro staff". We also have some listener thoughts and questions from the Meat vs Antlers pack-out topic we discussed on Monday Minute #50. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Why is this the Hunt "Backcountry" podcast? What is it about backcountry hunting that inspires us, challenges us, and ultimately in some ways defines us? If you're an experienced backcountry hunter, you will surely relate to many of the things discussed in this episode. If you are new to backcountry hunting, you'll hear why the pursuit is so worthwhile. https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Many of us are thinking about a new year, and what changes we'd like to see in our life. Whether it is personal, professional, or strictly for pleasure (hunting!)— your habits are the key to making changes. Steve and Mark discuss some of the changes they want to see in 2020 and how they look at managing those things in the midst of being busy with business, family, and more. "Changes that seem small and unimportant at first will compound into remarkable results if you’re willing to stick with them for years." —James Clear, author of Atomic Habits Come see us in February at the Pacific Northwest Sportsmen's Show (https://www.thesportshows.com/shows/pacific-northwest/)in Portland, Oregon, or the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo (https://huntexpo.com/) in Salt Lake City, Utah. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

We have a new look and a new sound for the New Year! And of you will also be the winner of a new K3 Pack System — tune-in to hear who was drawn as the winner of our podcast feedback survey. Thank you to everyone that took the time to share your feedback with us. NEW Podcast Logo Decals & Shirts available now at https://exomtngear.com/logo

Should you upgrade your factory rifle stock? What advantages would a custom aftermarket rifle stock offer? What should you consider when selecting an aftermarket rifle stock? What are the best materials for rifle stocks? What should I know about different stock shapes available? These questions, and more, are answered in this discussion with John Hakes of Mesa Precision Arms (MesaPrecisionArms.com) Survey + Giveaway: https://bit.ly/hbpod20 <--- Share your feedback with us and you'll automatically be entered to win a K3 Pack System of your choice. Entries accepted through Dec 31, 2019.

Pack Giveaway / Podcast Survey: https://bit.ly/hbpod20 ^ Enter to win a free Exo Mtn Gear K3 Pack System of your choice. Just complete the podcast feedback survey at the link above before the end of the year. We'll announce the winner on January 1, 2020

Have you ever considered using a suppressor/silencer for hunting? What advantages do they offer? What should a hunter look for in a suppressor model? Are suppressors legal and how do you purchase one? We answer these questions, and many more with Zak from Thunderbeast Arms (http://thunderbeastarms.com/). Are suppressors legal in your area? Find out at: https://americansuppressorassociation.com/education/ Have questions about purchasing a suppressor? Understand the process at: https://americansuppressorassociation.com/how-to-buy/

Where we've been, where we're going, and a reminder that "Nothing worth having comes easy." https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Exo Mtn Gear has one sale a year...and it starts now. Remaining K2 Pack Systems are marked-down to $399, and when they're gone, they're gone for good. K3 Pack systems include free accessories. And logo gear (including Hunt Backcountry Podcast logo gear) is marked down up to 50% off. Also, Mark & Steve discuss a listener question regarding meat vs antlers. Which do you pack-out first? Do you worry about antlers getting stolen? And more... https://ExoMtnGear.com/

Mark & Steve are back to talk more about their recent trip to Kodiak Island, Alaska, where they hunted Sitka Blacktail deer. In this episode, they answer listener-submitted questions, talk about the specific gear needed for this type of hunt, and explain why Kodiak is a great opportunity for new and growing hunters. As always, you can submit your questions for the show to podcast@exomtngear.com

Mark & Steve announce the release of the new K3 Daypack, as well as details on an upcoming sale for Black Friday. They also answer a listener question about pistols, holsters, and pack hipbelts. Sale Announcement: https://ExoMtnGear.com/newsletter Ivory Holster: http://ivoryholsters.com/exo

Mark & Steve just returned from Kodiak Island, Alaska, where they hunted Sitka Blacktail deer. In this episode, they discuss the trip's logistics, costs, and begin to detail what it is like to hunt on Kodiak Island. There's more to come, so if you have a question about this hunt, please send it to: podcast@exomtngear.com. Thanks for tuning-in!

In this Miscellaneous Monday Minute, Mark & Steve discuss choosing traditional archery as a new hunter, some more cold weather tips, their upcoming trip to Kodiak, and more... GIVEAWAY for Dark Timber Coffee + Off Grid Food at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Our buddy Colter Ingram joins us to discuss his journey hunting Bighorn Sheep in Idaho's backcountry this fall. From the moment Colter found out he drew the tag, he put in countless hours scouting, e-scouting, networking, and doing everything else he could to make his dream hunt become a reality. You'll hear about the journey, the lessons he learned, and how it all came together so that he was able to take an amazing ram with his bow. GIVEAWAY for Dark Timber Coffee & Off Grid Food at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Mark discusses listener-submitted tips and tactics for hunting and camping in cold weather. Tune-in to hear how the podcast audience stays comfortable in cold conditions. GIVEAWAY with Dark Timber Coffee + Off Grid Food at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Tune-in to hear how one of you (a Hunt Backcountry Podcast listener) took the advice from this show and put it into practice in the elk woods. After bowhunting for elk unsuccessfully for a few years, Jeremy applied some of the tips and tactics that we've discussed on this show to help him shoot his first bull elk with a bow. All of the credit goes to Jeremy — he's the one that did the work! But is interesting to hear which parts and pieces of past podcast episodes helped him in the elk woods. Enter the GIVEAWAY for Dark Timber Coffee and Off Grid Food at http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Steve is back from the bitter-cold opener of Idaho's rifle deer season. Mark and Steve discuss the hunt and dive into some advice for staying comfortable when temperatures plummet. GIVEAWAY: Dark Timber Coffee + Off Grid Food at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

This is Part 2, discussing what we learned on our Caribou hunt in Alaska. We pick up where we left-off last week and discuss optics, shelters, clothing and more in this episode. GIVEAWAY: Dark Timber Coffee + Off Grid Food at http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

If you struggled in September, what should you do now? How do you bounce-back from hunts that don't go your way? How do you improve your skills and abilities for next time? What are the things you should focus on? We don't have all of the answers, but we do have experience with "failure" and wanted to talk about how we deal with it... http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Our last episode was about the story of our recent Alaska Caribou hunt. While that episode told some tales of adventure, success, and misfortune, it didn't answer a lot of the questions we have been getting about this hunt. Those questions include... How much does a hunt like this cost? How easy is it to get tags? How do you fly home with meat and antlers? What clothing do you suggest for a hunt like this? What shelter is suitable for a hunt like this? We answer those questions, and many more, in this episode and the second part of this discussion, which releases next week. http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

We are back from our Alaskan Caribou hunt! In this episode, Mark and Steve are joined by Tyler, Jason, and Lenny to recap some of the stories from the trip. As you'll hear, the trip was a success... and it wasn't. There were many highs and lows — that's how true adventure goes. We discuss how we filled our tags, what went right, what went wrong, and the importance of expectations and attitude for this type of trip. LEUPOLD GIVEAWAY: https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

This is a RECAST of an episode we did a couple of years ago with Ryan Cleckner. Ryan is a former special operations sniper, author of the Long Range Shooting Handbook, and shooting instructor. The two-part episodes with Ryan are all about shooting skills and the application of shooting knowledge. In these episodes you will learn about trigger control, sight picture, practice routines, shooting positions and supports, and much more. Check out Ryan's books, podcasts, and more at https://RyanCleckner.com SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY — Win a Leupold VX-5HD Rifle Scope at https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

This is a RECAST of an episode we did a couple of years ago with Ryan Cleckner. Ryan is a former special operations sniper, author of the Long Range Shooting Handbook, and shooting instructor. The two-part episodes with Ryan are all about shooting skills and the application of shooting knowledge. In these episodes you will learn about trigger control, sight picture, practice routines, shooting positions and supports, and much more. Check out Ryan's books, podcasts, and more at https://RyanCleckner.com SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY — Win a Leupold VX-5HD Rifle Scope at https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Whether you are traveling with a bow or a firearm — by land or by air — this episode will help you get to your next hunt and avoid the mishaps or complications of traveling with a weapon. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Hopefully, at this point, you have put in the work to be ready for opening day. The decisions you make now, on your way to a hunt, during a hunt, and even between hunts can still have a massive impact on how "ready" you'll continue to be. If you want to be able to hunt as hard on the last day as you can on the first, you need to think about your nutrition, hydration, and even your in-season training. In this Monday Minute with Kevin Guillen from Wilderness Athlete, we get some pointers on those topics — to help us hunt strong all season. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast https://WildernessAthlete.com

Welcome to ELK WEEK! This is the final of 5 back-to-back episodes answering your questions about elk hunting. Our roundtable of guests includes Dan Staton (ElkShape.com), Corey Jacobsen (Elk101.com), Trent Fisher (BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com), and Paul Medel (ElkNut.com). In this episode, we go "rapid fire" with Listener Q&A on a variety of elk hunting topics. Our panel of guests gives their take on the best week to hunt elk, overlooked areas or preparation, how the elk hunting landscape has changed in recent years, and much, much more... Visit ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to enter in the August 2019 giveaway for a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife.

Welcome to ELK WEEK! This is the 4th of 5 back-to-back episodes answering your questions about elk hunting. Our roundtable of guests includes Dan Staton (ElkShape.com), Corey Jacobsen (Elk101.com), Trent Fisher (BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com), and Paul Medel (ElkNut.com). In this episode, we discuss how to make the most of opportunities. You have worked hard to find elk and close the distance, now when the moment of truth comes, how do you make the most of a shot opportunity? There is a lot that can still go wrong when you are in bow-range and we discuss some of the main things you need to be aware of. Visit ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to enter in the August 2019 giveaway for a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife.

Welcome to ELK WEEK! This is the 3rd of 5 back-to-back episodes answering your questions about elk hunting. Our roundtable of guests includes Dan Staton (ElkShape.com), Corey Jacobsen (Elk101.com), Trent Fisher (BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com), and Paul Medel (ElkNut.com). In this episode, we tackle the topic of closing the distance. If you hear a bull bugle but aren't sure exactly how far away he is, if he has cows, if he is coming towards you, etc... How do you proceed? Should you be aggressive or stay patient? Should you make a move or stay put? Should you call back or stay silent? We answer these questions and get additional tips on closing the distance. Visit ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to enter in the August 2019 giveaway for a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife.

Welcome to ELK WEEK! This is the 2nd of 5 back-to-back episodes answering your questions about elk hunting. Our roundtable of guests includes Dan Staton (ElkShape.com), Corey Jacobsen (Elk101.com), Trent Fisher (BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com), and Paul Medel (ElkNut.com). In this episode, we tackle the topic of hunting quiet elk. How should your hunting strategies change when elk aren't responding to calls? How should you adapt your calling style when your go-to calls aren't working? How do you locate elk when you can't rely on bulls being vocal? Visit ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to enter in the August 2019 giveaway for a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife.

Welcome to ELK WEEK! This is the first of 5 back-to-back episodes answering your questions about elk hunting. Our roundtable of guests include Dan Staton (ElkShape.com), Corey Jacobsen (Elk101.com), Trent Fisher (BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com), and Paul Medel (ElkNut.com). In this episode we tackle the topic of finding elk. After all, before you can kill an elk, you have to find them, right? Tune-in and hear how these experienced elk hunters have learned to find elk. Visit ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to enter in the August 2019 giveaway for a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife.

Better late than never? We hope you think so... On this Monday/Thursday Minute, we answer your questions about splitting meat with your hunting buddies, storing your food in the backcountry, stopping an animal for shot opportunities, building fires, using bipods, and more... We are giving away a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife this month, August 2019. Enter now: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

As much as we might dream of hunting for days, weeks, or months on-end, most of us have a very limited amount of time to hunt each year. So if you only have a few days here and there, or maybe one big trip a year, how do you make the most of that time? What are the ways you can use that time more efficiently? What should you do, and what should you avoid to make the most of your precious hunting time? That's the topic of today's episode! Custom Benchmade Knife Giveaway! Be sure to enter at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

If you want to effectively use your pack system for this hunting season, tune-in! Steve & Mark dive deep on the topic of how to load your pack. In the first half of the show, they discuss how to best load gear into your pack for multi-day hunts. In the second half of the show the discuss what to do (and NOT to do) when you get an animal down and need to pack it out. Custom Benchmade Knife Giveaway! Be sure to enter at http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

We tackle listener Q&A from a new elk hunter. Be sure to enter the GIVEAWAY this month, August of 2019, for a custom Benchmade + Exo Mtn Gear knife at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The Expert Roundtable features 6 experienced, knowledgeable, and successful hunters providing their insights on a single question or topic. In this, the final of five episodes with the Roundtable, we discuss the Secret to Success. Obviously, there is no “secret” — rather, success is a byproduct of knowledge, experience, and effort. But if these consistently successful hunters can contribute their success down to one or two important things, what would they be? Tune-in to find out… The Roundtable consists of Ryan Lampers (@sthealthyhunter), Russ Meyer (@rmeyerarchery), Kody Kellom (@bornandraisedoutdoors), Nathan Jones, Ben Guttormson, and Exo’s own, Steve Speck. BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

We answer your questions on bow tuning, camping with elk, meat care, backcountry food options, and more... BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The Expert Roundtable features 6 experienced, knowledgeable, and successful hunters providing their insights on a single question or topic. In this, the fourth of five episodes with the Roundtable, we discuss Rituals & Superstitions. What unique and personal habit do these hunters have? If not a ritual or superstition, what particular tactic do they use that isn't the norm? Listen in to find out… The Roundtable consists of Ryan Lampers (@sthealthyhunter), Russ Meyer (@rmeyerarchery), Kody Kellom (@bornandraisedoutdoors), Nathan Jones, Ben Guttormson, and Exo’s own, Steve Speck. BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

We answer your questions on scouting for elk, hunting high country mule deer, budget bowhunting, beginning to hunt bears, and more... BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The Expert Roundtable features 6 experienced, knowledgeable, and successful hunters providing their insights on a single question or topic. In this, the third of five episodes with the Roundtable, we discuss Mistakes & Lessons Learned. It isn’t that successful hunters don’t make mistakes, but rather that successful hunters learn from their mistakes and strive to not repeat them. What real-life examples do the members of our roundtable have of mistakes they’ve made and how they’ve become better hunters because of it? Listen in to find out… The Roundtable consists of Ryan Lampers (@sthealthyhunter), Russ Meyer (@rmeyerarchery), Kody Kellom (@bornandraisedoutdoors), Nathan Jones, Ben Guttormson, and Exo’s own, Steve Speck. BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The Expert Roundtable features 6 experienced, knowledgeable, and successful hunters providing their insights on a single question or topic. In this, the second of five episodes with the Roundtable, we discuss Gear That Truly Makes A Difference. Of course knowledge, skills, and experience matters more than gear. But what gear items help these successful hunters be more successful? The Roundtable consists of Ryan Lampers (@sthealthyhunter), Russ Meyer (@rmeyerarchery), Kody Kellom (@bornandraisedoutdoors), Nathan Jones, Ben Guttormson, and Exo’s own, Steve Speck. BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The Expert Roundtable features 6 experienced, knowledgeable, and successful hunters providing their insights on a single question or topic. In this, the first of five episodes with the Roundtable, we discuss Failures and Comebacks. How have these hunters pushed through difficult times, bounced-back from hunts that seemed doomed, and found success on the other side of failure? The Roundtable consists of Ryan Lampers (@sthealthyhunter), Russ Meyer (@rmeyerarchery), Kody Kellom (@bornandraisedoutdoors), Nathan Jones, Ben Guttormson, and Exo’s own, Steve Speck. BOW GIVEAWAY! Be sure to enter the Hoyt Helix bow giveaway this month, July of 2019, at ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The Roundtable is our new podcast series that will be published each week in July. Each week's episode will feature a new question or topic, and you'll hear from the same six hunters on that week's topic in the episode. The Roundtable guests are extremely knowledgeable, experienced, and successful hunters: Ryan Lampers, Russ Meyer, Kody Kellom, Nathan Jones, Ben Guttormson, and Steve Speck. New K3 Packs: https://exomtngear.com/k3 Hoyt Helix Giveaway: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Mike Graves spent nearly 40 days covering over 250 miles of tough terrain while hunting the backcountry last fall. Over that time, he packed out several animals. Mike is 67-years-young. We speak with Mike in this episode to understand how he is still hunting hard at his age, what lessons he has learned over the years, and how he has seen hunting change in his lifetime. Along the way, we also hear some incredibly entertaining stories of Mike's adventures. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

How did Steve recover from a battle with target panic? How should new hunters make the most of an opportunity to hunt with someone that is far more experienced and knowledgeable? What is the latest on Exo's new K3 packs. We answer these questions in today's Monday Minute episode. Have a question you want to hear answered on a Monday Minute episode? Send it to podcast@exomtngear.com Resources mentioned in this episode... - New K3 Pack Waitlist: https://ExoMtnGear.com/2019 - The Cure for Target Panic, Episode #87 with Joel Turner https://soundcloud.com/huntbackcountry/087-the-cure-for-target-panic-with-joel-turner

Having good boots is critical. But finding good boots is difficult. There are countless options on the market, and while reviews and suggestions are helpful, it can be a struggle to find the right boot for your foot, your preferences, and your needs. We wanted to speak directly with a boot designer and take a "deep dive" to understand the anatomy of boots. Our goal was to make you a more informed customer so that you can narrow down what to look for in a boot that meets your needs. Thankfully, we were able to speak directly with a product designer from Tecnica boots, Federico Sbrissa. Learn more about the Tenica forge at: http://TecnicaSports.com ENTER this month's giveaway for the Brooks Ultralight Down Sweater from First Lite at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Mark & Steve quickly catch up on what's coming next on the podcast, in the new Exo line, and at this weekend's Northwest Mtn Challenge at Tamarack. GIVEAWAY: This month, our friends at First Lite are offering their new Brooks Down Sweater for the monthly podcast giveaway. Enter at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

The 2019 Death Hike is over, and we lived to tell the story. Mark and Steve recap this year's hike, including the surprise challenges, the funny stories, and the lessons learned. Little sleep, long miles, surprising weather, far shots, heavy packs, and more...this was a weekend to remember. Visit http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast and enter to win the new Brooks Down Sweater from First Lite. Visit http://FirstLite.com to see the Brooks and all of the new releases for 2019 that are now available.

Rob Gearing has been pursuing a wide variety of outdoor adventures for decades. Rob's vast backcountry experience has taught him about risk, fear, and discomfort. We, as backcountry hunters, have much to learn from Rob in this episode. Tune-in and be challenged to live more fully. Learn more about Rob's company, Spartan Precision, at https://JavelinBipod.com Learn more about this show and subscribe to receive future episodes for free at https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast If you enjoyed this show, please share it with a friend or leave a review in your podcast app. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, contact us at podcast@exomtngear.com

Last-minute change of plans. This year's Death Hike is now a hike + adventure race + bear hunt. Tune-in to hear more. Also in this episode, find out about a $75 discount on K2 packs, more info on the new K3 packs, and all-new Exo hats. Thanks for First Lite for offering a giveaway for YOU this month. Visit https://exomtngear.com/podcast to enter today. K2 Packs: https://exomtngear.com/packs K3 Waitlist: https://exomtngear.com/2019 New Exo Hats: https://exomtngear.com/hats

Can you...should you...and how do you HUNT ELK SOLO? We answer these questions with Will Meyers (@id_archeryhunts) on this episode. We cover the tactics, strategies, and logistics you need to know when it comes to hunting elk on your own. "EXO20" will save you $20 on the University of Elk Hunting online course at https://www.elk101.com/onlinecourse/. This is THE best comprehensive resource to learn about elk hunting. Enter this month's GIVEAWAY at http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

What is a pack raft and how can using one help you on future hunting trips? We answer that question with the owner of BackcountryPackRafts.com, Matt Harrington. Matt helps us understand what packs rafts are, how they can be used for hunts, and what you need to know about using one. RAFT RENTAL: Use the code “HUNTBC15” for 15% off of a pack raft rental at BackcountryPackRafts.com GIVEAWAY: Visit ExoMtnGear.com/podcast and enter to win a membership to onX Maps or a customer holster from Ivory Holsters. FREE SWAG: Leave us a review on iTunes, Stitcher, or any other podcast platform. We will pick a winner and send you some free Exo Mtn Gear or Hunt Backcountry Podcast swag. This week, Jordan L was selected for his review… “What I thought could only be possible via a once-in-a-lifetime guided hunt, now seems far more approachable as a DIY hunt.”

Welcome to the Monday Minute! Today we are answering a listener question... How can Steve pack 130lb loads when he isn't a big guy? How does he train and prepare his body to make this possible? (We also include some training tips specifically for flat-landers.) GIVEAWAY: https://exomtngear.com/podcast K3 Updates: https://exomtngear.com/2019 K2 Photos: https://exomtngear.com/group VIDEO of Steve Hauling Heavy: https://bit.ly/ExoMeatPack

$500 for a bow? No, not JUST a bow...a ready-to-hunt bow setup with all accessories, arrows, and broadheads. Too good to be true? Our guest, Garrett Weaver, doesn't think so. Tune-in to hear how Garrett went from shooting a bow setup that cost over $2,000 to now shooting a bow setup that costs less than $500. onX Maps and Ivory Holsters Giveaway: https://exomtngear.com/podcast Garrett's Podcast: https://onpointwithgarrettweaver.podbean.com/ Garrett's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW4_MyKkuW2J8qs3Yuv6nhA

Steve and Mark are back to pick up where they left off in the MM 24 episode, as they discuss Exo Mtn Gear's new products for 2019. In this episode, they discuss the new K3 Sypder frame and new K3 bag options coming to the Exo Mtn Gear line. Sign-up to receive future updates on the new products at https://exomtngear.com/2019. To see some "sneak peek" photos of the new K3 frame, visit https://exomtngear.com/group

Greg McHale has spent years testing himself in the mountains — not only while hunting, but also in the pursuit of climbing, adventure racing, and more. Based on Greg's experience, he identified 7 ways to be a better mountain hunter. We begin the conversation on this topic, but did not make it through all 7 points, so be sure to check out Greg's YouTube Channel to see videos on each of the points: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrJ_aNEZSuBPjktB4tVV78A/. You can also learn more about Greg and his show, Wild Yukon, at https://GregMcHalesWildYukon.com/ http://ExoMtnGear.com

New Giveaway with onX Maps and Ivory Holsters. Enter today: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Want to ruin your next hunt? Of course you don't! Especially if it is a special tag that you have been waiting for years to draw. A limited tag like that is something our guest for this episode, Josh Roy, drew and had the opportunity to use on a bull elk in Utah. The hunt was successful, but it wasn't everything it could have been. Josh's mindset and perspective affected how he viewed this hunt and ultimately left him feeling disappointed after the hunt, even though he killed a solid bull. Tune-in to hear how Josh's perspective has changed since that hunt and how we can ensure our mindset doesn't ruin our future hunts. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

We are glad to have Ryan Lampers join us again on the podcast. This conversation with Ryan covers quite a few topics, including why most new elk hunters struggle to find success, how to effectively stalk high country mule deer, and what gear truly helps him hunt more effectively, and so much more. Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway from Easton Archery by visiting ExoMtnGear.com/podcast Connect with Ryan @sthealthyhunter and HuntHarvestHealth.com

While the Hunt Backcountry Podcast is published by Exo Mtn Gear, it isn't about Exo Mtn Gear. However, given the number of questions we have been getting about new products in the works from Exo Mtn Gear, we thought it would be worthwhile to take some time on a few Monday Minute episodes to address the questions that we have been receiving. To understand where Exo Mtn Gear is going, it is helpful to understand where we have come from. This episode will provide some context on the history and future of Exo Mtn Gear. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Before we talk about mentorship and conservation, our guest — Johnny Mack of Washington Backcountry — tells us about his first successful big game hunt, which involves Birkenstocks and a scouting tip from a yoga instructor. Johnny's first hunt wasn't typical, and neither were his origins as a self-proclaimed "adult onset hunter". Johnny has a contagious passion for hunting that is something you'll want to listen-in and hear about. Easton Arrow Giveaway: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast Washington Backcountry: http://wabackcountry.com

"Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." -Mike Tyson. Or was it Michael Jordan? Anyway, tune-in and hear about two new podcast series in the works. Want to make sure they are the best series yet? Then send us your ideas for the series to podcast@exomtngear.com

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." This famous line from Charles Dickens has nothing to do with backcountry hunting. Except it does. Sheep hunting in the Frank Church Wilderness, as you will hear in this episode, is the best and worst of times. The country is big and tough. The animals are even tougher. Our guest, Darin Cooper, tells us about the sheep hunting adventure that he and his good buddy had this past fall. https://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Mark & Steve cover the 2019 Death Hike Plans and then chat with Tyler from Muley Freak about a special spring bear hunt video series happening now... LINKS to watch the bear series... Top Priority: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSKMNH1KpzZJ9weEb5iA-3g MuleyFreak: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClN6uWqHJ4vCVjt7v29XZRg

Can you ditch your tent and use a hammock as your primary shelter in the backcountry? Will it be safe or will you become a "bear burrito"? Will it be warm or will you freeze to death? Will you stay dry or will you be fully exposed to the elements? Will a hammock setup save weight and space in your pack? We answer all of these questions, and more, with our guest Tayson Whittaker of Outdoor Vitals. http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

After being a self-proclaimed "bow hiker" for 5 years, our guest filled his first archery elk tag. What made the difference? What can you learn from his story to help you spend less time as a "bow hiker" and increase your odds at filling more tags? We answer those questions in this episode with Hunt Backcountry Podcast listener, and now guest, Trevor White.

Do you rely on digital resources to scout for new hunting areas? If so, you'll want to tune-in to this episode. Our guest, Dr. Everett Hanna, is a Wildlife Biologist and hunter that uses scientific and academic research data to help inform his scouting. Not a scientist or academic? Yeah, me either. Thankfully, Everett helps us ALL understand how to use these resources. Resources mentioned in the show... - https://scholar.google.com/ - https://fwspubs.org/ - https://journals.plos.org/plosone/ http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

You guys gave us some great feedback on Episode 164, where our guest told the story of hitting the SOS button on his Garmin InReach and how the response went. We heard from listeners with similar stories, SAR personnel, SWAT EMTs, and more. In this Monday Minute episode, we recap some of the information that you guys provided us about hitting the SOS button in a backcountry emergency. http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Steve takes over the podcast and surprises Mark by interviewing him about his first backpack hunt. http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

Kevin from Ripcord Arrow Rests joins us to discuss cable vs limb-driven rests and more. Ripcord is one of our giveaway partners this month and you can win a Ripcord rest of your choice, as well as a TightSpot quiver of your choice, by entering at http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

What happens if you are miles-deep in the backcountry and suffer a serious injury? Hopefully, you have some method of reliable communication to call for help. If you do, what happens after you "push the button"? We are joined by Martin Fox to hear his story of pushing SOS on his Garmin InReach device and what happened after help was summoned. Don't forget to enter the March giveaway from TightSpot Quivers and Ripcord Arrow Rests by visiting ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

A new month means we have a new giveaway! In March we are offering a TightSpot Quiver and a Ripcord Arrow rest. Visit http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to get entered today. In this episode we are joined by Joe Jacks from TightSpot to discuss what's new for 2019.

We are back with the "Modern Day Mountain Man", Billy Molls. This is the 2nd part of our conversation with Billy about hunting Alaska in general, and hunting Caribou specifically. In this episode we talk about meat care, grizzly encounters, and more. Be sure to hit Subscribe on the podcast or visit http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast to learn more.

Mark & Steve are back from show season and record a Monday Minute answering the question, "If you could only have one more hunt, what would it be?" Don't forget to enter the February podcast giveaway to have a chance at winning a custom Black Gold Bow Sight of your choice! Enter now at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast

I am sure you have dreamed of hunting Alaska. I think we all have. In this episode, we speak with the "Modern Day Mountain Man", Billy Molls. Billy has spent 20+ seasons guiding in Alaska for a variety of species. We speak with Billy about Caribou hunting in Alaska, and why it is the ideal first hunt for those new to Alaska. Be sure to hit Subscribe to make sure you receive next week's episode, the second part of our discussion with Billy. http://BillyMollsAdventures.com

Do you want to hunt hard when you are in your 50s, 60s, or even 70s? Well if you do, you are going to need to be strategic about how you get there. You are going to need to train hard, but you also need to recover well. We like to talk about how far we hiked or how heavy that pack-out was — but to keep hunting, hiking, and packing-out loads from the backcountry, we need to address the often neglected topics we talk about in this episode...

Dustin from Black Gold Bow Sights joins us to discuss their new-for-2019 Pro Sight. YOU can win this sight and customize it to your liking, by entering this month's podcast giveaway at: http://ExoMtnGear.com/podcast. To learn more about selecting, setting-up, and using bow sights, check out our previous episode with Dustin, Episode #101.

As much as we love new gear, our budgets are limited. If you are a hunter that is looking to get into backcountry, backpack-style hunting, we wanted to discuss how we would shop for backpacking gear and make budget-minded decisions. In this episode, Mark and Steve discuss how they would spend $700-$800 to purchase a shelter, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, backpacking stove, water filtration system, a reliable light source, and footwear for western-style hunting. View Steve and Mark's picks at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

If you hunt the backcountry, you need to be informed, equipped, and prepared for medical situations that could occur. The problem is, most of us aren't. We are personally guilty of not knowing enough or carrying enough as it relates to first aid and medical care if, God forbid, we have an emergency in the backcountry. In this episode, we are joined by two instructors from Aerie Backcountry Medicine. Mike and Trent are experienced in the areas of medicine, trauma, emergency responses, and the outdoors. We speak with them about the first aid knowledge, skills, and equipment that backcountry hunters need. We will cover more on this topic in the future and would love to know what related questions you have. Email us at podcast@exomtngear.com. Learn more about Aerie at https://www.aeriemedicine.com/. Learn more about the podcast at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast.

This time of year is show season. In this episode, Mark and Steve quickly recap some new gear from the recent ATA Show. They also talk about the opportunity to join them in February to swap stories, see Exo packs, and just hang out. The Exo crew will be at the PNW Sportsmen's Show in Portland, OR, as well as the Hunt Expo in SLC, UT. We would love to see you there!

Don't wait until September to start hunting. Explore the opportunities in all seasons throughout the year and you will grow and learn as a hunter. Yes, hunting small game can, and will, make you a better big game hunter. Our guest in this episode, Levi Sim, shares his journey and the lessons he has learned as a new hunter that has explored year-long hunting opportunities on everything from Marmots to Black Bear. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

The way you train right now should not look like the way you are training 6-weeks out from your hunt. Most of us have many months before our biggest hunts of the year, and if we want to train smart and be prepared for those hunts, we shouldn't be doing the same thing over-and-over for months. So what should our training year look like from a high level? That's one of the questions we set out to answer in this episode with Jake Saenz from Atomic Athlete. When it does come time to specifically train for backcountry hunting, be sure to check out the FREE Backcountry Hunting Training Plan that Jake put together for us at http://ExoMountainGear.com/train To enter this month's podcast giveaway visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Two buddies set out to hunt a new species in a new state, and in a new way. The did some things right, and quite a few things wrong. They learned, they laughed, and they filled a tag. Is there anything better? How did they research this hunt? How did they get tags? How did they scout? How did they feel about hunting so close to the Mexican border? What gear did they use? What did they learn? What would they do differently next time? And, ultimately, how did they find success? We answer all of these questions, and more, in this episode. Oh, and there are a lot of laughs along the way, too. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

We know, this is probably the 3,594th time you have heard about diet and weight loss already this month. January is THE time when everyone is talking about diets and weight loss. The problem is, most of the information isn't truly helpful. Instead of talking about some secret diet, a magic supplement, or selling you any shortcut, we wanted to talk with our buddy Kyle Kamp about some simple, practical, and truly helpful strategies to clean-up your diet in 2019. Kyle is not only a registered and practicing Dietician — he has gone through a significant weight loss journey in his past. Kyle has both the knowledge and experience to give advice that will be truly beneficial. And thankfully, it is all doable. Don't forget to enter the January podcast giveaway by going to http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast. You can win one-on-one coaching with Kyle, as well as some training help from our friends at Atomic Athlete.

There is a lot of information and MIS-information out there about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Some say that CWD is a real and present danger that could significantly decrease wildlife numbers; others say it is nothing to worry about. What is the truth about CWD? Where did it come from? How does it spread? How can it be contained? What is the real threat to the future of wild game populations? We answer all of these questions, and more, in our conversation with John Vore, the Game Management Bureau Chief for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast for more.

Every month in 2019 we are offering a new giveaway to listeners of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast. You'll hear about all of the brands offering prizes as well as how to enter. The January giveaway is already live at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Relive our September elk hunt with the Born & Raised Outdoors crew by listening to the 4-part podcast series, which we recorded "live" during the hunt. You can also watch the hunt unfold on the Born & Raised YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/BRO_Subscribe

There are many, many holsters on the market. And many of them will work on an Exo Mtn Gear pack hipbelt. But is there a holster that is purpose-built for use on a pack hipbelt? There is now. In this episode, I speak with Gabriel of Ivory Holsters about his new EMG Holster that is purpose-built for use on Exo Mtn Gear packs. Tune in to learn more and check them out now at: http://ivoryholsters.com/exo

How does hiking with a weighted pack affect shooting accuracy? This question was formally researched by one of our listeners, Adam Carter, as a part of his Master's Thesis. We speak with Adam about the testing protocol, his pre-test hypothesis, the outcomes from his testing, and how we can apply this information to our training, shooting, and hunting. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Mark & Steve pick their "gear of the year" in three different budget categories. What's your pick? Have a question for a future episode? Let us know... podcast@exomountaingear.com

There is a story behind every sheep hunt. These stories typically involve remote and rugged locations, challenging conditions, and additional elements of difficulty that tests the hunter's limits. This sheep story is all of that, and more — times two. We are joined by brothers, Ryan and Kenton Clairmont, to hear about their sheep hunting story that culminated after years of effort. Not a sheep hunter? Neither am I, although I hope to be one day; nevertheless, I gleaned a lot out of this two-part conversation with Ryan and Kenton, and I am sure you will too.

Online resources are great, but nothing can come close to in-person training and real-time feedback. That's why Dan Staton of ElkShape.com is launching a new way for elk hunters to learn about elk hunting at weekend-long Elk Camps. These camps will cover physical fitness, shooting, backcountry gear and pack systems, live Q&A with experienced elk hunters and more. In this Monday Minute we talk about the first ever Elk Camp that is taking place in March, and learn more about Dan's vision for expanding these weekend events in the future. Want one to come to your part of the country? Let Dan know!

There is a story behind every sheep hunt. These stories typically involve remote and rugged locations, challenging conditions, and additional elements of difficulty that tests the hunter's limits. This sheep story is all of that, and more — times two. We are joined by brothers, Ryan and Kenton Clairmont, to hear about their sheep hunting story that culminated after years of effort. Not a sheep hunter? Neither am I, although I hope to be one day; nevertheless, I gleaned a lot out of this two-part conversation with Ryan and Kenton, and I am sure you will too. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

We all have excuses. More accurately, we all make excuses. But those excuses are just that — something we make. Something we control. Something we can overcome. In this episode we speak with double-amputee, Sidney Smith (@tri_nofeet), about his story and how he has overcome setbacks to complete triathlons, climb the highest of mountains, and hunt the backcountry. Everyone will take something away from this episode... Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Get the scoop on Exo's Black Friday sale. Hear about Mark's opening day buck. Learn why your excuses — all of them — aren't reasons why you can't do something; more on that in this week's full episode with @tri_nofeet.

This week, in lieu of the Monday Minute, we have a full-length episode with Dan Staton of ElkShape.com. Mark and Dan discuss the topic of balancing family and hunting, and also cover some great elk hunting advice. Be sure to share your stories and strategies for balancing family and hunting with us by emailing podcast@exomountaingear.com

You have waited 5 years to draw a coveted Arizona archery elk tag. You have more than two weeks to hunt. You have spent time and scouted the area. Your one worry is that this hunt will be too short-lived, as you know opportunity abounds. But things do not go your way. The elk do not cooperate. You have some bad luck. And as your mindset is challenged, you make some mistakes. How do you bounce-back from "failure"? How do you continue, despite your mistakes? How do you deal with what seems like crushing defeat? Churchill said that, "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." But that is easy to say, and harder to live. Josh Kirchner (DialedInHunter.com) shares this story with us. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute we discuss a listener question on the topic of taking time away from the family to go hunt the backcountry, and how to keep a happy wife and a happy life. The struggle is real. What are your tips and experiences managing hunting and family? Let us know at podcast@exomountaingear.com ALSO... Land of the Free 2.0 launches this week! Check it out at BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com

We are back with the crew from Snowy Mountain Rifle to talk more about upgrading a factory rifle vs building a custom rifle. Our first podcast with them (#128) covered this topic and raised a lot of listener questions, so in this follow-up show we dive deeper and answer many of your specific questions. We cover where and when to spend your money, balancing light weight and long-range accuracy, barrel life and re-barreling, accurizing a factory action vs building off of a fully custom action, Steve’s experience breaking-in his SMR build, and much more. Learn more at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/148

In this Monday Minute we hear about listener feedback for running stoves in your shelter, talk about ways to pass the time on late-season hunts when darkness falls early, and preview the next episode on custom vs factory rifles.

Steve Flores hunts whitetail in Appalachian mountains of the Eastern US and has also transitioned into hunting elk in the west. We talk with Steve about traditional whitetail tactics, as well as the unique tactics for hunting "mountain whitetail", and also learn how he adapted his hunting style when learning to hunt elk out west. Steve also shares an important lesson with us about "failure" and growth as a hunter. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Help us design the Exo Mtn Gear 2019 packs. Sign-up before this Wednesday (10/24) to receive an invitation for the product design survey at ExoMountainGear.com/newsletter. If you do not sign-up before then, email podcast@exomountaingear.com to request access to the survey. In this Monday Minute episode, Mark and Steve talk about a once-in-a-lifetime Mountain Goat hunt that Steve was a part of last week. As pretty much all Mountain Goat hunts are, it was an adventure!

Tyler Boschma and Exo Mtn Gear co-founder, Steve Speck, share their recent experiences hunting elk in the midst of wolf activity. Hear about Steve accidentally calling-in and being surrounded by five wolves, Tyler's account of active wolves while recovering a bull he shot, and more. Whether you just want a good story from this past elk season, or you want to pick up a few elk hunting lessons that they learned, you'll enjoy this episode. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

This Monday Minute is a bonus replay of a podcast we recorded a couple of years ago. The timely topic is hunting post-rut, late season elk. Most of the elk hunting information out there is about hunting elk during the rut, but in the late season you need to consider changing tactics to fill your tag. Our guest, Mark Kayser, shares many lessons he has learned about hunting post-rut elk.

In this week's show we speak with Troy from Benchmade Knives about the pros and cons of choosing a fixed-blade, folding, or replaceable blade knife. Then we dive deep into understand the anatomy of a hunting knife and what knife attributes should be considered for ultimate performance. If you want to learn more about blade steels, sizes, shapes, sharpening, and more, you will definitely benefit from this episode! http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Now that September is over, we are back to podcasting weekly. In this Monday Minute episode we quickly recap what we were up to in September, talk about some of the good and bad from gear we tested in the backcountry over the past month, and explain what is coming for the podcast. Don't forget to share your stories and photos from September with us!... podcast@exomountaingear.com

Highs and lows. Mistakes made. Lessons learned. And a bit of good fortune. We dive into these aspects of Tim Connor's first elk hunt. His story is real, and familiar. As many of your are getting your start and building experience in western hunting, I am sure you will relate to and benefit from Tim's story. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Just a couple of days ago Steve was hunting highcountry mule deer and spent a frigid, snowy night on the mountain...in August. Other days, it was 80s and sunny. Mountain weather, it seems, is consistently inconsistent. But there are patterns that we can look for. The weather forecast is worth paying attention to before any backcountry adventure. Our guest in this show, Eric Knoff, is an experienced outdoorsman and weather forecast, and he helps us understand weather in the mountains — what to look for, how to prepare, and how to adapt. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast for more.

What are some of the differences between Roosevelt Elk and Rocky Mountain Elk, and how do tactics both differ and stay the same when hunting these elk sub-species? We cover this topic with our guests, Cory and Shannon, from Angry Spike Productions. The guys at Angry Spike have an incredible track record of killing big Roosevelt bulls in the Pacific Northwest, and although their specialty is Roosies, we learn a lot from their approach that can apply to us, as hunters of Rocky Mountain Elk. We cover locating, calling, setting up for the shot, arrow and broadhead selection for elk, and much more... http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Have you ever looked around at other hunter's success and wondered what their secret was? How did they become so successful? How did they fill so many tags? How did they find such amazing animals? There could be many answers to those questions, but for hunters that consistently get it done on public lands, it boils down to simple elements, such as focus, preparation, determination, time in the field, etc. Maybe what we need to do is focus on the basics, be persistent, and that becomes the "secret" to being a more effective hunter.

What is altitude sickness? How can it be prevented? Do over-the-counter medications and supplements work? How can you tell the difference between serious illness and non-acute symptoms? If acute mountain sickness occurs, how should you treat it? We answer all of these questions, and more, with our guest Robert Roach. Robert is the Director of the Altitude Research Center at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and has spent years researching altitude sickness. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast for more.

In this week's #HuntBackcountry podcast we speak with Aaron Van Woerkom of Muley Freak about the lessons he has learned from hunts gone wrong. Among other things, we discuss a tough hunt where Aaron lost a buck he shot. It has been said that if this hasn't happened to you, you just haven't hunted enough yet. Losing an animal you shoot is always a tough situation, and it is an important topic to consider for yourself, ideally before it happens to you.

Special guest, Trent Fisher of Born & Raised Outdoors, joins us to talk what's to come for the 2018 season. Of course, we couldn't let him go without asking for some last-minute elk hunting advice...

Paul "the Elk Nut" Medel has been on the #HuntBackcountry Podcast a couple of times before, and he's back again to share some last-minute advice for everyone heading into the elk woods this year. We always learn a lot when we talk to Paul, and in this episode Paul shares some things he's never shared before. You might want to have a notepad handy when you listen to this one! http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

What gear is the Exo crew using this year? Do you have to go "miles deep" to find game? How do we train while traveling? Oh, and don't forget about the #InMyExo giveaway... http://ExoMountainGear.com/InMyExo

I have read, listened to, and watched a lot of content about elk hunting tactics, strategies, etc. But in this podcast I learned some new tactics and perspectives that I have never heard of before. Our guest, Jake Saenz of Atomic Athlete, shares what he has learned hunting public land bulls over the past several years. Between Jake's military background and the experiences he has gone through in the backcountry, he certainly has some unique insight to share. Make sure you listen to this one before opening day! Be sure to head over to http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more, subscribe, and see the Jake's article that inspired this episode.

This Monday Minute features a full-length bonus interview with Tony from Dark Timber Coffee Co. Whether at home or in the backcountry, Mark and Steve both appreciate a good cup of coffee, and we certainly learned a lot from this conversation with Tony. Before the interview, Mark and Steve catch up on new gear that was released at the Outdoor Retailer Show, talk about realistic shooting practice and drills, and more.

In what specific ways do new backcountry hunters tend to carry more gear than they need? Where is the greatest opportunity to simplify and lighten the load? We see it over and over again. New hunters tend to overpack clothing and other "just in case" items. As Andrew Skurka said on one of our podcast episodes, we tend to "pack our fears". When you are new to backpacking and backcountry hunting, it is natural to think, "Well, this is only a few ounces. And that is only a few ounces. So I should probably just throw them in the bag." Those ounces become pounds, and as the saying goes... pounds become pain. On this episode we had the opportunity to speak with Chad from Backcountry Rookies (BackcountryRookies.com). Chad is going on his first backcountry elk hunt this fall. During the show Mark and Steve go through Chad's gear list, item-by-item, to ask questions and make suggestions that can help Chad lighten his load. Enter the giveaway at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/InMyExo Learn more about the podcast at: ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Wrist strap, thumb trigger, or hinge? Which style of release is right for you? What are the pros and cons of each style? ALSO, we release a bit more about the upcoming #InMyExo giveaway launching on Wednesday, August 1st.

Heading into the backcountry all on your own presents a unique set of challenges...and benefits. Whether you hunt solo by choice, or by necessity — because you can't find someone who hunts when, where, and how you want to — solo hunting is both uniquely demanding and rewarding. In this episode, Mark and Steve are joined by Josh Kirchner to discuss all aspects of solo hunting, including the pros and cons, mindset, and practical topics like safety and meat care. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute we tackle your meat care questions, including what's in our kill kit, advice for meat care on solo hunts, quartering vs deboning, and more. AND we have a bonus replay of a previous episode with David Draper that will educate you on how to care for meat in the field when heat is a concern, further discussion on the pros/cons of quartering, tips for at-home meat care and preparation, and even some grilling and cooking tips.

How to perform under pressure. That’s the topic we dive into on today’s podcast with mental training expert, Dr. Patrick Cohn. Patrick has worked with professional and amateur athletes, helping them excel in their sport and reach peak performance when it matters most. The same principles and mental skills that applies to traditional sports can also apply to us, as hunters. Under the pressure of a shot opportunity that we have been dreaming of and working towards, how can we best perform in that fleeting and stressful moment? http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute, Mark and Steve talk about stabilizer choices for backcountry hunting, the upcoming Northwest Mountain Challenge shoot at Steven's Pass, and pick this week's podcast topic on the fly... http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

This was the fourth year that Exo Mtn Gear co-founders, Steve Speck and Lenny Nelson, gathered a group of guys to embark upon a challenging hike nicknamed “The Death Hike”. The hike has changed each year — the location, the distance, the terrain, and the participants. This year, thirty-one crazy fools showed-up to hike 90+ miles through some of Idaho’s most beautiful and rugged mountains. In the end, we hiked 92.5 miles and climbed over 21,000 feet in elevation. Some of us took a few detours (got lost) and hiked even more. None of the past Death Hikes had been easy; but none of them could come close to this year’s distance and total vertical. Of the thirty-one that started, twenty-one completed each and every mile of the hike. Those other ten gents either dropped-out completely or sat-out portions of the hike. For more information about the hike, including detailed gear and food lists, a What's In My Pack video, and more, visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/133

In this BONUS EPISODE we takeover the typically short Monday Minute format to bring you a longer-form question and answer show all about hunting packs. Whether you are interested in Exo Mtn Gear packs specifically, or just want to learn more about hunting packs in general, this discussion will help you out. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

As backcountry hunters, we depend on hiking to move us into, through, and out of the backcountry. We do this movement with a load on our backs — whether that’s the light load of a day’s essentials, a moderate load of gear for a multiday hunt, or the heavy load of success on our backs. The terrain, the distance, the pace, and the weight vary. So shouldn’t our training hikes mimic these various demands? Our guest on this episode, Mike Prevost, has studied the science and research of hiking heavy. Mike helps us understand how to best prepare for the various loads and distances required of us as backcountry hunters. Tune in to this episode, load up your Exo pack, and then get to work. Learn more or subscribe at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

What extra clothes do we pack on extended hunts? When will this show return?

Eric Voris joins us on this episode to share some of his story — including some hilarious moments, inspiring thoughts, and some tips for those that are getting started "late to the game"... Eric didn't grow up as a hunter; he wasn't exposed to hunting until later in life. As some of you can imagine, and some of you intimately know, becoming a hunter in your adult years is much different than becoming a hunter during childhood. Eric shares about his adult hunting journey through his website article and videos at Late to the Game Outdoors. Learn more: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

As mentioned in the show, sign-up here to get the goods... http://ExoMountainGear.com/newsletter

How do you select "the one" right sleeping system for your needs? Should you choose a quilt or a sleeping bag? Down or synthetic? What's the ideal temperature rating? And can those temperature ratings be trusted? We cover all of this, and much more, in the latest #HuntBackcountry Podcast with Aaron from Katabatic Gear. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

In this week's Monday Minute we tackle some of your listener questions. Have a question that you want answered on the show? Email it to us... podcast@exomountaingear.com Can someone with zero hunting experience start with archery and bowhunt, or should they hunt with a rifle first and then transition into bowhunting? What are the best times of day to hunt, and what do you do in the other hours?

Have you ever wondered how, exactly, a rifle scope works? With adjustable magnification ranges, numerous reticle options, as well as precise and repeatable adjustments on a micro-scale, rifle scopes are clearly more than "glass in a tube". If you want to understand the anatomy, function, use, and selection of rifle scopes on a deeper level, then this episode is for you. Our guest, Leupold product manager, Vici Peters, helps us understand how rifle scopes work, what to look for when selecting a rifle scope, how to evaluate the quality of a rifle scope, and more... http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

In this Monday Minute, Mark and Steve recap the Northwest Mountain Challenge at Hoodoo, discuss Mark's 26+ mile hike in preparation for the Exo Death Hike, share good news about Exo inventory, and more. Have a questions you'd like answered on the show? Submit it via email to podcast@exomountaingear.com or http://exomountaingear.com/podcast

Factory, fully custom, or something in between? On the episode we talk with the crew from Snowy Mountain Rifles about the differences between factory rifles, customized factory rifles, and fully custom rifle builds. There is a lot to learn about this topic, and this episode is a great primer on knowing if, or when, to upgrade your rifle, and how to go about doing it. To learn more and subscribe, please visit: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

"It is about efficiency, and the more efficient you become at it, the less you have to think about it."

In this episode we speak with Zach Sandau from onX Maps to better understand how we can use onX Maps before, during, and after the hunt. And we talk specifically about what's new, and what's coming, in the app platform. onX has truly been a game-changer for the way we hunt, and we are always excited to learn more about what new features and data is being added to their app platform. For more tips on using onX maps in the field, check out our blog post on Backcountry Navigation Tips using onX maps at http://ExoMountainGear.com/blog

Introducing the Monday Minute. This is a new unscripted, unedited, "show within the show" that will cover timely topics, listener Q&A, give you a preview of this week's main podcast show, and also feature, uhhh... whatever else we decide to throw in there. Share your questions or feedback by email: podcast@exomountaingear.com

Packing food for backcountry adventures usually means relying on a bunch of pre-packaged options. And although the quality of packaged food offered on the market has never been better, preparing your own meals will be cheaper, offer more flexibility, and ensure you know exactly what you are eating. Dehydrating is something that might sounds complex, but it isn't — and we break that down in this episode. As a hunter, you have access to the highest-quality lean proteins on the planet, and you might as well use some portion of that to fuel your next hunt. Tune in and learn how you can get started dehydrating and ensure that your next mountain-top meal isn't crap. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

The Full Draw Film Tour is an event to see bowhunting on the big screen. But more than just films, the FDFT is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded hunters, win some gear, support conservation, and even see an Exo pack in person. In this episode we speak with Jade Helmich of the FDFT to learn about what's new for 2018 — including the expanded tour dates and locations that are coming across the country, from coast to coast. See all dates and locations at FullDrawFilmTour.com

There are many things to consider when choosing foods for backcountry hunts. Most often, foods are selected because of how they taste, how convenient they are to find and prepare, and how light or “calorically dense” they are. All of those considerations are valid, but we should also start to ask questions like… What does my body need? What foods will allow me to perform at my best, day-after-day, on long hunts? What role can nutrition play in allowing me to hunt more effectively? To answer those questions, we need to understand how food works. We don’t have to become students of nutrition, but we should learn from those that are. Thankfully, our guest in this episode, Kyle Kamp, can help us do just that. Kyle is a registered Dietician and owner of Valley-to-Peak Nutrition. He joins us for this episode and has also put together a detailed guide to help you understand how to optimally fuel for demanding backcountry pursuits... GET THE FREE GUIDE: http://ExoMountainGear.com/nutrition

In our previous episode we discussed Critical Factors of Broadhead Performance, in this show we are looking at Critical Factors of Broadhead Flight. Our guest for this discussion is Darin Cooper. As an accomplished bowhunter, and former design engineer for Hoyt Archery, Darin understands bows, arrows, and broadhead flight. Darin helps us understand how to get better broadhead flight by deconstructing critical factors of arrow selection, vane selection, bow tuning, and much more. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

A broadhead is the physical point of contact between the bowhunter and the animal being hunted. This point of contact is critical, so broadhead selection should be considered critically. With seemingly countless broadheads available on the market, how should you evaluate which one to shoot? Should you choose a fixed-blade or a mechanical? Should it have 2, 3, or 4 blades? Is bigger better? Are premium models worth the cost? The questions could go on and on... And there isn't one right answer. There isn't one perfect broadhead for every situation. In this episode, our goal is to provide you with the information you need to select the best broadhead for your needs. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

How should one defend themselves in a grizzly bear encounter? Better yet, how should they avoid that encounter in the first place. And in a defense scenario, should they use a firearm, bear spray, or something else altogether? If using a firearm for bear defense, what caliber and load should one choose? These questions, and more, are answered on this episode with Chris Forrest, owner of TACTIC MT, and instructor of their innovative "Surviving the Griz" course that educates, equips, and prepares outdoorsmen and women for surviving in Grizzly country. Learn more at ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Wolf hunting. It can be a hotly debated topic. There are a lot of opinions out there, many of which are very strongly held. In this episode we discuss the wolf hunt that Corey Jacobsen and Tyler Crockett went on this year on Idaho. We talk about the experience they had during the hunt, and discuss WHY they hunt wolves. "No one cares more about wildlife than hunters. No one contributes more funding to the management and conservation of wildlife than hunters. Whether it be predator or prey, wildlife needs managed and controlled, and there is no more effective management tool than Hunting. We don’t kill just to kill, and we don’t hunt just to hunt. We hunt – and kill – to ensure that there is wildlife for all who love wildlife for generations to come." —Corey Jacobsen Learn more and subscribe: http://exomountaingear.com/podcast

Does a do-it-yourself hunt in Alaska seem possible? Do you have the money, time, and knowledge? If you answered "no" to any of those questions, this show will make you reconsider your answer. Our guest, Abe Henderson, is an Alaskan hunting guide that founded HuntAlaskaDIY.com and is publishing "how to" guides for regular hunters — like you and me — to give them what they need to make a do-it-yourself Alaskan adventure hunt possible. >>>>> Save 20% on the Kodiak Sitka Blacktail Guide with the coupon code: HB20 Learn more and subscribe at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

The Solo Hunter, Tim Burnett, joins us on this episode. The topics we cover with Tim are far-ranging, and move well beyond what you might expect. We collected numerous listener questions for Tim before this show, and those questions focused primarily around advice for hunting solo, some aspects of filming hunts, and more general hunting tactics. But this conversation goes well beyond those topics and is sure to give you something to think about. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Two buddies from Arkansa travel to the high country of Colorado in search of Mule Deer. They have never hunted the mountains, never hunted Mule Deer, and never been on an adventure of this scale — but they got it done.  They brought home some velvet, meat, and unforgettable memories. This is their story. This can be your story. Tune in and learn what they did right, what they did wrong, and how it all came together as a trip they'll never forget. LEARN MORE & SUBSCRIBE AT: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Our guest for this episode is Kenton Clairmont from Train to Hunt. Our discussion is about much more than hunting, though. We dive deeper and discuss mindset, confidence, and discipline, and how these things lead to success in hunting...and life in general. If you need to be challenged or encouraged to up your game, be sure to give this one a listen and take it to heart. Learn more at ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Our guest on this episode is Douglas Boze, author of "The Ultimate Guide to Black Bear Hunting" and "No Bait, Just Bears: Black Bear Hunting Tactics". We speak with Doug about a wide-array of bear hunting topics, including the differences between Fall and Spring hunts, how to identify key habitat and food sources, shot placement and after-shot care, and as the title implies — bear hunting tactics without the use of bait. Learn more and subscribe at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

There are numerous similarities between hunting turkey and elk. First and foremost, they're both a ton of fun. If you haven't yet gotten into hunting the wild turkey, we hope this show inspires you to do so. If you're a turkey hunter that' looking to increase the effectiveness of your calling, you should also tune-in. Our guest, Scott Ellis, is a multiple-time Grand National Calling champion, and has been putting his calling to the test in the field, on wild birds, for several decades. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more and subscribe to the podcast, and be sure to look up Scott's "Turkey Tech" app in your mobile app store.

Our guest tonight, Mark Gassner, is one of you. He’s a regular guy who loves to hunt, but also has to deal with the responsibilities of work, family, and life in general. For Mark, hunting has been more struggle than ease, but he kept going. After years and years of trying, Mark’s arrow connected with his first bull. In this conversation, Mark shares what he learned over the years, what kept him motivated, what challenged him, and what it felt like to finally get his hands on his first bull. You will not only learn from Mark, you will be inspired by his honesty and persistence. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more and subscribe.

Our guest on this episode is Scott Bodle, a Wildlife Biologist and Forest Protection Officer with the US Forest Service. We draw on Scott's expertise to understand how vehicles can be used on public lands for hunting, and how they should NOT be used. We also discuss what we should do if we observe illegal off-road vehicle use in restricted areas. But it is not all about vehicles, Scott also helps us understand how to use Wildlife Biologists to gain good information on hunting areas, and more. Visit ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to subscribe to the podcast, learn more about the show, and download past episodes.

The crew from Pacific North Wild joins us on this episode to talk about hunting the Northwest. Hear about their wild adventures hunting elk in the state of Washington, why they capture their hunts on film, how they utilize trail cameras in the backcountry, and much more! Be sure sure to give them a follow on Instagram (@PNWild_) and view their hunting films on YouTube. For more information about the #HuntBackcountry podcast, please visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Our guest, Justin Shaffer (@justinshaffer1115), is an Army Ranger Sniper, a hunting guide, a taxidermist, and somehow still managed to fill a seemingly countless number of tags in 2017 — including a grizzly, a Chugach Dall Ram, a Colorado Big Horn, and numerous other species. We speak with Justin about a variety of topics, and dive deep into the team effort that went into filling his Colorado Big Horn tag on a wonderful ram. The story is incredible. Although many of you, like me, won’t be hunting grizzly, Dall sheep, or Rocky Mountain Bighorn this year, there’s still a lot to learn from Justin’s vast experience. Learn more and subscribe: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Steve and Mark are back from the ATA (Archery Trade Association) Show, where they got a chance to shoot all of the new bows for 2018 and see the latest and greatest in bowhunting gear. They talk about their highlights from the show, trends developing in the industry, and much more. Steve and Mark also answer several listener questions that cover the topics of efficiency in packing and re-packing camp, finding trailheads using mapping resources, tents vs. hammocks, and water bladders vs. water bottles. Send your question in to be featured on a future Q&A episode: podcast@exomountaingear.com

We've always wanted this show to be about you, the listener, and connecting you guys with valuable guests. It is not about us — we are simply the "men in the middle". That philosophy is highlighted in this episode, where we feature the story of one of you — our listeners — and how the podcast resulted in a successful first elk hunt. We talk with Brian Oden, and hear how this "regular guy" from Arkansas drove all the way out to Idaho and tagged-out on a bull during his first hunt. Brian tells us about the specific lessons and tactics that helped him close the distance, get the shot opportunity, and make it all happen. Brian's story is entertaining and incredibly helpful, so make sure you give this one a listen all the way through. As always, you can learn more about the podcast and view all past episodes at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

We are all constantly trying to improve. We learn from each and every day spent in the field, pursuing what we love. Imagine if you could take several consecutive months and spend it "out there". How much could you learn? Imagine how real, concrete, and true the lessons would be. In this episode, we get to learn from someone that has had this experience. Emory Ronald (ByLand.co) hiked the Pacific Crest Trail this past year, and he joins us to share some of the lessons he learned on his journey of spending over 2,000 miles hiking through some of the best terrain that the West has to offer. We talk nutrition, gear, mindset, and more. ALSO, Emory gave us the opportunity to get even more specific on the topic of lightening your pack weight in a new article on the Exo Mtn Gear blog. Read "3 Free Ways to Lighten Your Pack" at: http://exomountaingear.com/3-free-ways-to-lighten-your-pack/

We always want this podcast to be a resource that helps you be a more capable, confident, and successful backcountry hunter. And now we have a plan to help you be more physically capable and confident, which will lead to more success. Best of all, this plan is 100% free and requires minimal equipment. This plan was programmed by our guest from this episode, Coach Jake Saenz of Atomic Athlete. Tune in to learn about the unique physical demands of backcountry hunting, and how to be prepare yourself for those demands. This episode is jam-packed with knowledge, and the FREE training plan that Jake has put together for you will help you put that knowledge in to practice. Download the free training program at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/train

We are always looking to ensure that we properly fuel our bodies for the physical demands of backcountry hunts. Nutrition is clearly a critical element of performance, but we also want to enjoy what we eat. Thankfully, we don't have to decide between what's good for us and what tastes good — thanks to product like those from Off Grid Food Company. In this episode we talk to Off Grid's founder, Spencer Trippe, about the origins of Off Grid, the products he chose to develop and release, why he is so passionate about making products for the outdoorsman, and why he is giving back a portion of his sales to conservation. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast and be sure to use the coupon code HUNTBACKCOUNTRY10 to save 10% off of your purchases at OffGridFood.co.

"It will never happen to me." That's what most of us think. But all it takes is one wrong step. One careless move. One thing to go wrong. And then, you are in trouble. You are miles-deep into the backcountry. You are severely injured, maybe immobile. What do you do then? In this episode we hear the story from one of you — our listeners. What happened to Steve Wolfe? How did he respond when he found himself immobilized in the mountains? How did such a simple hunt, turn into a serious situation? What can you and I learn from Steve's story? Tune-in and find out. As always, you can learn more about this show and find other episodes at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast.

What makes an optic great? What are the differences between a $200 dollar optic and a $2,000 optic? And what about all of those terms and numbers — objective, exit pupil, field-of-view, eye relief, interpupillary distance — what does all of that mean, and how does it affect us, as hunters? Our guest for this episode, Colby Kroff, helps us understand the anatomy of optics, what details and specifications matter to hunters, and how to best use and care for optics. If you want to learn more about selecting the correct binocular or spotting scope for your hunts, you are sure to benefit from this episode. Also, don't forget to enter the 100th Episode Giveaway to have your chance at winning an Exo Mountain Gear pack and over a dozen other prizes. Entries accepted through November 30th! http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Our guest for this episode, Eddie Edmondson, is a 20+ year veteran of Special Operations in the United States military. Eddie continues to work as a trainer and shooting instructor, while also pursuing his passion of big game hunting. Eddie's combined experience in the military and in hunting endeavors has given him incredible insight that he shares with us on this episode, as we discuss topics like stealth, stalking, shooting, mindset, and much more. Also, don't forget to enter the 100th Episode Giveaway to have your chance at winning an Exo Mountain Gear pack and over a dozen other prizes. Enter now at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast.

Dustin Wardell from Black Gold Bow Sights joins us to discuss all aspects of selecting or building the best bow sight for your needs. We cover pin selection (number of pins, color of pins, size of pins, etc), discuss the pros and cons of choosing a fixed vs a moveable bow sight, the advantages and disadvantages of micro-adjust, and so much more. If you want to learn more about bow sights, this deep-dive discussion is just for you! Also, don't forget to enter the 100th Episode Giveaway to have your chance at winning a custom Black Gold Sight, an Exo Mountain Gear pack, and over a dozen other prizes... http://ExoMountainGear.com/100

We want to celebrate Episode 100 of the podcast by thanking you — our listeners. We are giving away an Exo Mountain Gear 3500 pack system and many of our previous podcasts guests have also stepped-up to offer you more than a dozen additional prizes. Listen to the show to get all of the details and complete the giveaway entry form at http://ExoMountainGear.com/100. Winners will be selected on December 1, 2017.

If you caught Episode 95, you heard about a 5-state, 45-day elk hunting project that the Born and Raised Outdoors crew embarked upon this fall. Well, they are back, and in this episode, they join us to recap their Colorado elk hunt with Exo Mountain Gear co-founders, Steve and Lenny, as well as Jason and Tyler from Pure Elevation Productions. We always try to bring value in each and every episode we publish, and there are certainly many insightful lessons shared in this one, but there is also a LOT of laughs. Don't miss this one! Learn more at ExoMountainGear.com/podcast.

This episode on Long-Range Hunting is a continuation of our Building a Backcountry Rifle series. Our guest is the President of Gunwerks, Aaron Davidson. Aaron helps us understand why some hunters pursue long-range hunting, what misconceptions exists around the idea of long-range hunting, and for those of you interested — he helps us understand the gear and skills necessary to begin a journey in pursuing effective long-range shooting. Steve and I learned a lot in this discussion, and I'm sure you will too! Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more...

Ryan Cleckner returns to answer your rifle-related questions. This is Ryan's third appearance on the show. His previous two episodes were part of our Building a Backcountry Rifle series from earlier this year. In this episode we get Ryan's answers to your questions from that series, including... - How to effectively shoot off of your pack. - What shooting positions should a hunter practice when dry-firing? - What distance should a hunter zero their rifle for mountain hunting? - What should a hunter look for in barrel lengths/profiles/weights for a hunting rifle? - Are premium metal finishes and high-end stocks worth the cost increase for a hunting rifle? - What are the pro/cons of different bolt-action types, such as push-feed and controlled round feed? - What should a hunter do when they are sighting-in a rifle in conditions that they know will be vastly different than the conditions or terrain that they will be hunting in with that rifle? Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Mark, Steve, and Lenny return to the podcast to share their stories from September. You'll hear the good, bad, and ugly from their elk and mule deer hunts in Idaho and Colorado. Tactics, strategies, and gear that worked well, as well as what didn't work. We hope you had a great September and would love to hear about it, so be sure to share your stories and field photos with us. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and catch the 100th Episode giveaway coming soon... http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

What would it be like to experience 45 days of back-to-back elk hunts in Oregon, Wyoming, Colorado, Idaho, and Montana. You're about to find out. This epic adventure is happening right now and will be filmed and released beginning November 1st on the Born and Raised Outdoors YouTube channel. We chatted with Kody and Trent from the BRO crew before they started this hunting marathon to hear how they've prepared for it, how they'll pull it off, and why they're documenting every step of the way. If you know the BRO crew, you know that this episode will also feature a lot of laughs and some helpful hunting tips, too. Learn more at BornAndRaisedOutdoors.com/project and ExoMountainGear.com/podcast.

Steve and Lenny just returned from their first Caribou hunt in Alaska and tell us all about their trip. Learn what worked well, what didn’t, and what they would do differently next time. More than just lessons learned, we also hear some great stories — such as why they slept in a shipping container, how caribou were shot out from under them, and how Lenny ended up face-down in a river. We hope your September is going well! Be sure to share your field photos and hunting stories with us by emailing podcast@exomountaingear.com.

Paul “the Elk Nut” Medel returns to share some last-minute advice that might help you fill your elk tag in the coming weeks. Paul was previously a guest way back on Episode 36, which has been one of our most popular shows. Paul has a decades-long track record of successfully killing bulls on public land with over-the-counter tags. Paul encounters the same situations and problems that you and I do on these tough hunts. This episode is a special opportunity to hear some of what has made Paul beat the odds and find success year after year. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Sometimes you call at a bull and he comes charging-in, giving you a shot opportunity. Sometimes that happens, but not often enough. Other times our calls go without a response. Or, worse yet, our calls seem to have a negative effect on the elk we are after. Why is that? Do we really sound that bad? Maybe that answer isn’t in how we sounded, but what we “said” to the elk. Maybe our call meant something we didn’t intend. Think about it, elk don’t make noise for no reason. They are communicating with one another. There has to be a meaning to their vocalizations. The question is — Can we understand this meaning? Can we communicate with purpose? Our guest on this episode of the #HuntBackcountry podcast is wildlife biologist Chris Roe. Chris is a student and hunter of elk with decades of experience in the field, as well as formal education in animal behavior. Chris helps us understand how to more effectively “speak the language” of elk. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

You called a bull towards you, but he wouldn’t come close enough — what could you have done better? The elk are quiet, what should you do? When should you cow call, when should you bugle? You’ve been hunting the area for a while without much luck — should you move on or stick it out? What calling strategies and setups can you use when hunting solo? These are some questions, from you, that we answer in the episode of the Hunt Backcountry podcast with our guest, Corey Jacobsen. Our single goal with this episode was to address common elk hunting scenarios and questions that we have received from our listeners. If you are interested in learning more about elk scouting, elk hunting, elk calling, elk ANYTHING, then be sure to check out the elk hunting resource that covers it all: The University of Elk Hunting Online Course from Elk101.com. Visit http://Elk101.com/OnlineCourse and use the coupon code BACKCOUNTRY to save $10.

What is the best stove system for backcountry hunting? Mark and Steve take a look at several good options, comparing them, highlighting their pros and cons, and giving you the information you need to make an informed decision. If you enjoy this type of gear talk, be sure that you also catch Episode 89, where Mark and Steve take the same approach to selecting the right headlamp for backcountry hunting. As always, you can find more information and all #HuntBackcountry podcast episodes at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

This episode is unlike anything we have ever done before.  Steve and I have been testing a handful of headlamps for a few months now, and in this show we dive deep into our review and comparisons of each model.  While each headlamp has its pros and cons, there were some that were clearly better than others.  And although some headlamps might be good general lights, the backcountry hunter has specific needs — some of the models we tested excelled at meeting these requirements, while others came up short. What is the best headlamp for backcountry hunting?  Tune-in to find out what we will be taking into the field this fall.  Obviously, your opinion might be different, and this episode will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com

How can you ensure that you get the best result possible when it comes time to mount your trophy harvest? We answer that very question in this episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast with our guest, Casey Higley, of Wild River Taxidermy. Casey is not only an award-winning taxidermist with decades of experience, he is also a passionate backcountry hunter that understands how to best care of an animal in the backcountry and prepare that trophy for a trip to the taxidermist. Casey shares invaluable information on field processing, taxidermist selection, and much more. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more and subscribe to future podcast episodes.

There are three kinds of archers and bowhunters — those that have experienced target panic, those that will experience target panic, and liars. Mark and Steve have each battled target panic and have had varying levels of success overcoming it. In this episode, Mark and Steve discuss the topic of target panic with Joel Tuner of Iron Mind Hunting. As a SWAT sniper, successful competitive archer and dedicated bowhunter, Joel has broken down the shooting process to its fundamental components and has dedicated himself to understanding why we ALL struggle with target panic. Joel can do more than just help us understand and identify the problems in our shooting — he goes the next step in helping us overcome those problems. We are glad to have Joel on this episode to help us all learn to move beyond target panic and shoot with control. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

The discussion in this episode was so much fun! Our guest, Joe Jacks, runs TightSpot Quivers and is a passionate big game archery hunter. We talk a bit about Joe’s roots in hunting and with TightSpot, then we take a deep dive into archery antelope hunting. Joe has been chasing “speed goats” for years and has some amazing stories and tactics to share. Learn more about the podcast, find previous episodes, and subscribe to future episodes at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

The 2017 Exo Death Hike was a success! Twenty guys completed just shy of 40 miles through some beautiful Idaho high country. Although the terrain was rough, the trail was good for much of the hike, which meant that this year’s hike wasn’t as torturous as last year’s. It was far from a “walk in the park” though, and every man had plenty of opportunity to test his physical and mental strength. In this #HuntBackcountry episode, Mark and Steve are joined by fellow Death Hiker and backcountry hunter, Tyler Boschma. The three of them recap the hike, detailing what worked well and what could have gone better. They then dive into some of Tyler’s adventurous hunting stories and dissect some of his future hunting opportunities. Be sure to visit ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to subscribe to future episodes and check out the entire back-catalog of #HuntBackcountry podcasts.

Heather Kelly, owner of Heather’s Choice adventure meals, returns to the Hunt Backcountry podcast to answer an array of questions about nutrition and performance. (Heads up: discount below!) As a trained nutritionist, experienced athlete, and backcountry adventurer, Heather is uniquely equipped to discuss specific nutrition aspects of our pursuit — backcountry hunting. Making food choices for a hunting trip, however, is one thing; having a proper diet for the other 300+ days a year is even more important. In this episode, we answer questions such as: What are the easiest diet changes that provide the highest benefit? Are carbs evil? Where do most people go wrong when it comes to backcountry nutrition? What supplements, if any, should one be taking? And much, much more. We also discuss some of the specific meals that Heather offers in the Heather’s Choice lineup. If you are interested in trying any products from Heather’s Choice, be sure to use the coupon code “EXOMOUNTAIN” to save 10% off of your order at HeathersChoice.com. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/84

Brian Barney joined us last summer for two great episodes (#42 & #43) on Finding Your Next Honey Hole. Be sure to check those episodes out, as they are incredibly helpful in this current time of pre-season scouting. Brian returns in this episode with some great stories and helpful lessons from the past year. We discuss Brian’s new podcast, Eastman’s Elevated, his recent hunting adventures in Hawaii (and the idea of a “meat purse”), how he learned from two misses, yet had the confidence to still harvest numerous Pope & Young animals this past season, and much more. Visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more.

Our guest, Craig White, is the Coordinator of Deer & Elk Programs for Idaho Fish & Game. We ask Craig your questions, including: How to start a career in wildlife. How to best use F&G resources and wildlife biologists as a wan to plan/prepare for your hunt. Advice for non-residents that want to hunt in Idaho. Thoughts on lottery vs point systems for tag acquisition in Idaho. An overall outlook for deer and elk hunting seasons in 2017. And much more. Subscribe to receive future episodes, or find previous episodes at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Hunting with goats? Yes, goats. Pack goats are more than just helpful for carrying a load. As you will hear, they can even be valuable hunting partners from a strategic perspective. Unlike horses, which are often left in camp, pack goats can hunt right by your side. In fact, when Mark killed his bull in 2016 there were several goats just yards away. In this episode, Mark is joined again by Clay Hayes (previously on Episode 27) to discuss their experiences hunting with pack goats. Whether you are interested in owning and raising pack goats for hunting, curious about renting pack goats for a backcountry hunt, or just want to hear some funny tales about hunting with these interesting animals, you’ll be sure to enjoy this episode. Learn more and subscribe at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Erik Van Weorkom of Muley Freak joins us in a wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from building a brand to hunting Sitka Blacktail. We discuss the pros and cons of social media from a personal and professional perspective, several aspects of the hunting “industry”, and then dive into a wild DIY Alaskan adventure story. Learn more or subscribe at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

You learn a lot about elk hunting when you do it for several decades and make a living that’s all about it. But what about us? You and me? What specific things should we focus on at our current “stage” as an elk hunter (or even as an aspiring elk hunter)? In this episode, the man with decades of knowledge, Corey Jacobsen of Elk101.com, breaks down what three different types of elk hunters should focus on to make the most of their elk hunts. Additionally, we also speak with Corey about the updated University of Elk Hunting Online Course, available at Elk101.com. Be sure to use our exclusive coupon code "BACKCOUNTRY" to save $10 off your subscription to this course, which we wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking to increase their success in the elk woods. Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Our lives are dominated by convenience and ease. Nearly every product we are marketed and every service we are sold has the intention of making our lives easier in some way. There is a limit to the benefits of living this privileged life, and over that limit is what Theodore Roosevelt called, “A life of slothful ease.” To improve — at hunting and at life — we must be intentional about embracing some level of suffering. Steel becomes strong by suffering through the heat of fires; it is shaped by repeated blows. In this episode, Mark and Steve discuss the topic of “practicing suffering” for the specific purpose of preparing for backcountry hunts. What activities have they done to challenge themselves? What can you do now, before hunting season, to challenge yourself? Listen in and find out. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Author, actor, and Navy SEAL Commander, Rorke Denver, has discovered that backcountry hunting is one of the best activities that military veterans can engage in. We discuss that topic and much more, including why grit or mindset is critical to hunting success. Rorke helps us apply the lessons he has learned as a SEAL to our lives, becoming more resilient and successful in hunting and...life. To learn more about Rorke or about the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, please visit ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Our guest for his episode, Hank Shaw, has said that, "Venison may or may not be the most popular game meat, but it is definitely the most abused." We discuss why that's true and how to fix it. Hank is a hunter, a gatherer, and a cook. He has been published in Food & Wine, Petersen’s Hunting, Garden & Gun, Organic Gardening, The Art of Eating, Field and Stream, Sactown, Pheasants Forever magazine, Delta Waterfowl Magazine. He has also authored several books, including his latest, "Buck, Buck, Moose: Recipes and Techniques for Cooking Deer, Elk, Moose, Antelope and Other Antlered Things". Our conversation with Hank was a ton of fun and even more informational. We learn how to cook the perfect steak, why flipping meat with a fork should be a criminal offense (and, thus, why Steve should be in jail), and so much more. Visit ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to get the show notes for this episode.

You might know Ryan as a part of the First Lite crew. You might know him as a guest on Steven Rinella's show, Meat Eater. You might know him because his mustache is legendary. We speak with Ryan about a variety of topics in this episode, including a breakdown of the new gear and new camouflage pattern from First Lite in 2017, we also learn about Ryan's most memorable moments and important lessons learned from this past hunting season. And, of course, this episode wouldn't be as valuable as it could be if we didn't get some mustache tips from Ryan, so we are sure to get that info out of him. Enjoy this one and be sure to share your feedback with us by visiting ExoMountainGear.com/podcast or leaving us a review in iTunes.

There are no stupid questions. And, hopefully, there are no stupid answers in this Part 3 Q&A episode of the Hunt Backcountry podcast. Mark and Steve tackle a variety of listener questions, including... - What is the best way to load a pack with weight for pre-season training hikes? - What are some tips for finding and purchasing affordable gear for backcountry hunting? - How do you secure gear, such as coolers, and prevent theft at your vehicle while you are in the backcountry on a long hunt? - What are some tips for finding success when you can only go on short hunts that last 2-3 days? - How can a young man from the midwest hunt the backcountry, and can he do it on his own? - What should you do if you have hunted elk for several years but struggle each year to locate elk during your hunt? - Should one avoid making fires in the backcountry for fear of spooking game with the smell of smoke? - Do you ever worry that using a headlamp while hiking in the dark will spook game out of the area? - What is the best way to prevent tick bites? - What’s better, paper maps or a GPS? Submit your question for future episodes and subscribe to the podcast by visiting http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast. Thanks for listening!

We are back with Ryan Cleckner! In this episode, we answer the questions of: What are the easiest and cheapest improvements that can be made to an average rifle and scope package? What is the best process for barrel break-in? How do angles and shooting up/down inclines in the mountains affect accuracy? And MUCH more! Don’t forget to visit ExoMountainGear.com/ShootingBook to enter a giveaway for Ryan’s Book: The Long Range Shooting Handbook. We are giving away 10 copies through May of 2017. Please consider leaving us a review in iTunes if you are enjoying this Building A Backcountry Rifle Series. You can also reach us directly by email, as well as learn more about the podcast, by visiting ExoMountainGear.com/podcast.

We have a special guest AND a special GIVEAWAY in this episode. Our guest is former special operations sniper, Ryan Cleckner. Our first conversation with Ryan was so helpful and entertaining that we knew we’d have to have him back for a second show — and we did just that. Join us this week for Part 1 of our discussion, then be sure to subscribe to the podcast so that you don’t miss Part 2, which is coming soon. Most of the content in our Building A Backcountry Rifle series has been about equipment and/or technical knowledge. But our conversations with Ryan are all about shooting skills and the application of shooting knowledge. In these episodes you will learn about trigger control, sight picture, practice routines, shooting positions and supports, and much more. Ryan has graciously given us the opportunity to give away ten copies of his book: The Long Ranger Shooting Handbook. This book expands upon many of the topics that we discuss in this podcast series and is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their effectiveness with a rifle. To enter the giveaway, please visit ExoMountianGear.com/ShootingBook before May 31, 2017.

Scope selection is an extremely import aspect of any rifle build. In this episode of our "Building A Backcountry Rifle" series we speak with Mark Boardman of Vortex Optics to learn what hunters should consider when selecting an optic to top their big game hunting rifle. We discuss the technical details of scopes, such as zoom ranges, objective sizes, exit pupil, and more — but in the end our purpose with this show is to explain those specifications so that we can make a more informed decision about what really matters: how a scope performs in the field. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

We all strive to end our hunts with a clean, one-shot kill. And when it comes to hunting with a rifle, the bullet is what impacts the animal to create the desired outcome. But a bullet is much more than a chunk of lead or copper. There are many types of bullets, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. When it comes to big game hunting, how do you know what bullet to select? That is the topic of this episode's discussion with our guest, Mason Payer of Nosler. Mason helps us understand the different types of bullets, the different performance characteristics of those bullets, and how to select the best bullet for the species we are hunting, the terrain we are hunting in, and the rifle we are hunting with. As always, you can learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

In this, the second episode of our "Building A Backcountry Rifle" series, we discuss the topic of caliber/cartridge selection with Joseph von Benedikt. Joseph is an editor and writer for numerous shooting and hunting publications, and has spent years both in the field in pursuit of game, as well as at the range in pursuit of rifle mastery. We discuss the variables that one should consider when selecting a rifle caliber, and get Joseph's recommendations for the top three do-it-all cartridges for western big game hunting.

In this episode Mark is joined by Exo Mountain Gear co-founders, Steve Speck and Lenny Nelson, to discuss new Exo pack updates for 2017. You will not only hear what is new, by the why these changes and additions to the Exo lineup have taken place. Be sure to visit ExoMountainGear.com to see the new products. We will be returning to the Building A Backcountry Rifle series in our next episode, which is coming very soon!

We are kicking off a brand new series: "Building A Backcountry Rifle". In this series we have dedicated episodes on the various aspects of putting together a rifle package for western big game hunting. You'll hear about caliber/cartridge selection, bullet/projectile selection, optics selection, rifle selection, in-the-field shooting tips, and much more. In this, the first episode of the series, Mark & Steve kick things off by discussing the purpose of this series, their history with rifles, and what's in store for future episodes. As always, you can learn more and subscribe to future episodes at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

There are many factors in arrow selection. How do attributes such as spine (static and dynamic), weight, straightness, diameter, materials (carbon, aluminum, hybrids), all come together to make the ideal arrow for your bow, your broadhead, and the game that you are hunting? In this podcast with Easton Archery’s Gary Cornum, we discuss what goes into selecting the ideal arrow for you. As always, visit http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast to learn more or subscribe.

On this episode of the Hunt Backcountry podcast we interview Matt Gray. Haven't heard of Matt? That's because he is a regular guy, probably a lot like you. A husband, a father, a hard-worker, and now — en elk hunter. Matt embarked upon his first elk hunt in the fall of 2016 and was able to bring a bull back to his hometown in Texas. We loved talking with Matt and hearing what lessons he learned, what mistakes he made, what things he did right, and ultimately what helped him beat the odds and tag a bull on his very first elk hunt. We know that many of you are new to backcountry big game hunting. And many of you, like Matt, don't live in the Western states that provide opportunities to scout for and hunt big game near home. But, as Matt's story shows us, it is possible to make your backcountry hunting dreams come true. If you want to become a better elk hunter in 2017, we highly recommend that you check out the University of Elk Hunting Online Course from our friends at Elk101.com. Use our discount code "BACKCOUNTRY" to save 40% on the course: http://Elk101.com/onlinecourse To learn more about the podcast and subscribe to future episodes, visit: http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

There are no stupid questions. And, hopefully, there are no stupid answers in this Part 2 Q&A episode of the Hunt Backcountry podcast. Mark and Steve tackle a variety of listener questions. We discuss the importance and necessity of camouflage, along with our preferred patterns, as well as answer questions about finding water in the backcountry, what spare gear we keep in our packs, what resources are helpful to learn bow tuning and maintenance, as well as what tools every bowhunter should own for their bows, and a whole lot more. Submit your question for future episodes to podcast@exomountaingear.com. Thanks for listening!

There are no stupid questions. And, hopefully, there are no stupid answers in this Q&A episode of the Hunt Backcountry podcast. Mark, Steve, and Lenny tackle a variety of listener questions. We discuss hunting on public land, what state to choose for your first western hunt, how to deal with other hunters while on public land, how to select a camp site, advice for sleeping in the backcountry, and a whole lot more. Submit your question for future episodes to podcast@exomountaingear.com. Thanks for listening!

It isn't about looking good. It isn't about impressing someone in the gym. Rob Shaul's experience-backed training philosophy is about forging mountain athletes that can perform when it matters, where it matters (in the mountains), and for what really matters (the outdoor pursuit of their choice, and often, profession). Rob's clientele is comprised of a diverse array of individuals from an equally diverse array of professions: rock climbers, special forces soldiers, skiers, wildland firefighters, and more. But for us, for you, and for Rob — the passion is backcountry big game hunting. Rob first joined us to discuss his training philosophy and programs waaaayyy back in Episode 5. He returns in this episode to discuss fitness, sure, but we also dissect Rob's 2016 hunting season; his first as a bowhunter, after many years of meat hunting with firearms. We hear about the lessons that Rob learned this year, such as the distractions of chasing the "latest and greatest" gear. As we usually say, and strive to make true: there's something for everyone in this episode. Be sure to check out the show notes at http://ExoMountainGear.com/62!

In this timely New Years episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, we speak with Ryan Lampers, aka @SthealthyHunter. Ryan is a dedicated do-it-yourself hunter that has been pursuing wildlife in the wilderness for decades. We discuss Ryan's 2016 Nevada mule deer hunt — how it all came together, and what it takes for non-residents to hunt Nevada. Additionally, because Ryan wants to ensure that he can hunt the backcountry for decades to come, he invests in his health in a serious way. It is a great time of the year to get some inspiration and helpful health advice from Ryan, so that we can also pursue our passion in the outdoors for many years to come. Be sure to visit HuntHarvestHealth.com to learn more about Ryan and check out his new "Hunt, Harvest, Health" podcast. As always, you can learn more about this episode and the Hunt Backcountry Podcast at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

From hunting Aoudad in Texas and Brown Bears in Kodiak, to discussing how to balance adventure and fatherhood, and raise pack goats — in this episode we have a fun and obviously wide-ranging discussion with Chase Christopher of The Mountain Project (TheMountainProject.tv). This is an informal and fun discussion that happens when two passionate hunters get together, so join us around this virtual campfire and enjoy. http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

Arizona is the "Land of Giants" when it comes to elk. In this episode we discuss how you — yes, YOU! — can get an opportunity to hunt this place where 350-400" bulls are a reality. We're not saying it is guaranteed, we're not saying it is easy, but we are saying, and showing you in this episode, that it is very doable with a little bit of hard work and some patience. Our guest is Arizona hunter and hunting guide, Dan Adler, owner of Diamond Outfitters (http://AZDiamondOutfitters.com). Dan explains why Arizona has such quality elk, how non-residents can get an opportunity at a tag (as well as some great money-saving tactics!), why he rarely calls elk, and much more. You are going to love this episode! Learn more at http://ExoMountainGear.com/podcast

We cover a variety of topics in this episode with guest, Brad Brooks, of Argali Outdoors. Our discussion ranges from late-season deer hunting tactics, to do-it-yourself dehydrated backpacking meals, to beginner archery lessons, to urgent conservation issues such as the potential transfer of federal lands into state management and what that means for the future of hunting and access on those public lands. There's truly something for everyone in this episode and we hope you enjoy it! http://exomountaingear.com/58

What if you could get your hands on the best spotting scopes from Swarovski, Leica, Zeiss, and Vortex — spending a couple months testing each of those models side-by-side in a variety of real world conditions? Certainly you would form some opinions and gain some experience on the pros and cons of each scope. Sadly, we can't offer you that experience for yourself, but we can give you the next-best thing: an in-depth discussion with two guys that did get to experience countless hours comparing these spotters. In this episode, we hear from Jason Wright and Steve Speck and gather their opinions on the best spotting scopes on the market. Whether you are shopping for a spotting scope or just want to learn more about what they have to offer, you will find this episode incredibly helpful. (We also have a special guest for this episode — Steve's two-week-old daughter. Sorry for a bit of crying in the background at a few moments. ;-) Access the show notes and the entire spotting scope review at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/57

Wes Siler has been called a "Professional Wildman" that made a living testing motorcycles and fast cars. As a writer, Wes has been published in Wired, GQ, Rolling Stone, Jalopnik, and Playboy. So what in the world is he doing on our hunting podcast? Good question. Obviously, Wes is also a hunter. Hailing from Hollywood, he is a hunter that is surrounded by those that don't understand hunting, don't support it, and clearly don't participate in it themselves. Wes has found, though, that many people are open to hunting once they understand it better. And Wes is a great voice to help non-hunters understand hunting; we talk a bit about that in this episode. Of course, we also hear about some of Wes' own hunting adventures — including why he almost had to cancel one of his own hunting trips during the whole Cecil the Lion fiasco. We also hear about the important lessons that Wes learned during his own journey of becoming a big game hunter. http://exomountaingear.com/56

When it comes to elk hunting, September gets all of the attention. But just because the most vocal and intense action tends to occur during that period, doesn't mean that hunting later in the season — even after the rut — can't be incredibly productive. Hunting in the late-season does, however, mean that you need to change your tactics. In this episode we are joined by freelance hunting author and successful late-season elk hunter, Mark Kayser. Mark helps us understand an elk's mindset in the post-rut period. We also discuss where and how to locate elk this time of year, what calling strategies can be used with success, and much more. Learn more at http://www.exomountaingear.com/55

Many hunters are proud do-it-yourself guys that scout and hunt public lands on mostly general season tags — working hard for every opportunity and even harder for every punched tag. We know those guys, because we are those guys. But there might be a day when even the proudest DIY guy wants to hunt a certain species, or a certain location, and they discover that a guided hunt becomes a necessity. In this show we interview Chris Maxwell and discuss some of the essential first steps that hunters should know when thinking about choosing to go on a guided hunt. Whether you're in the process of booking now, or simply think that you might go on a guided hunt one day in the future, the information covered in this show will no doubt help you make an informed decision about "going guided." And, even if you are one of those guys that insists on never using a guide (and we do discuss why you shouldn't be so stubborn about that), you'll still find this episode valuable if you ever intend on traveling out of state, or out of the country, for a destination hunt. http://exomountaingear.com/54

Andrew Skurka is an accomplished adventure athlete, speaker, guide, and writer. He is most well known for his solo long-distance backpacking trips, notably the 4,700-mile 6-month Alaska-Yukon Expedition, the 6,875-mile 7-month Great Western Loop, and the 7,775-mile 11-month Sea-to-Sea Route. Skurka has been named “Adventurer of the Year” by both Outside and National Geographic Adventure, as well as “Person of the Year” by Backpacker. National Geographic described him as “a superman among trekkers” and “one of the best traveled and fastest hikers on the planet.” He has been featured by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Fox News Channel, National Public Radio and dozens of local media outlets. In addition to all of that, Andrew has recently become a big game hunter. In this episode of the Hunt Backcountry podcast, Andrew provides us with some excellent information on how to take your backpacking to the next level. We discuss gear, food, and more — including many do-it-yourself alternatives to what the market offers. You will discover how you can make an incredibly lightweight and economical stove, how to pack your own food so that you're not stuck with freeze-dried entrees, why waterproof footwear may not be the right choice for your next adventure, and much more. We also hear why Andrew has lost many fans and followers because of his ventures into hunting, and what we as hunters can do to find common ground with non-hunting outdoor enthusiasts. If you are familiar with Andrew, you know how valuable this interview will be. If you have never heard of Andrew — and many of your probably haven't — you are in for a treat! Show notes and resources at: http://ExoMountainGear.com/53

Exo Mountain Gear co-founder, Lenny Nelson, spent a good portion of September chasing elk around the Idaho backcountry with the Pure Elevation crew. Many bulls were encountered, and many close calls had, but not a single arrow was released over more than a dozen days of hard hunting. That is, until Lenny made a last-chance solo hunt on the final day of Idaho's archery season. Persistence paid off when Lenny found himself in the midst of multiple screaming bulls and was able to punch his tag on a nice bull. In this episode we discuss the ups and downs of Lenny's hunt, the lessons he learned this season, and hear how a surprising new tactic reaped big dividends. http://ExoMountainGear.com/52

It came down to the last hours of daylight on the last day of a week-long hunt, but Mark was able to kill his first bull this year. In this episode Mark and Steve discuss the success that they've each had during elk season this September, as well as the lessons they learned in the process of filling their tags. Have a seat around this virtual, digital "campfire" as we swap hunting stories from the field. Additionally, be sure to share your success with us by emailing your field photos to photos [at] ExoMountainGear.com

The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership has a vision to: "Guarantee all Americans quality places to hunt and fish by uniting and amplifying our partners’ voices to strengthen federal policy and funding." There is a lot for you and for me in that vision, and on today's show we speak with TRCP's President & CEO, Whit Fosburgh about TRCP's work to strengthen the future of hunting. Learn more at http://exomountaingear.com/50

We have all been shooting our bows relentlessly in preparation for that moment we have been dreaming about all year. That moment when time stands still and the only thing in your mind is the sight of your arrow sailing, at what seems to be the speed of molasses on a cold day, towards your quarry. A lot of us have also been paying attention to our physical fitness. Whether we have been hitting the gym or hitting the trail with our packs loaded, it is imperative that we make sure we are up to the task at hand come hunting season. Out of all of this preparation, there is another area though that can be detrimental to a hunt. That is the area that rests between your ears. The mental game of backcountry hunting, and just hunting in general, can really be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. The ability to grind through tough situations is going to be what either sends you back up the mountain after that elk, or sends you back to the truck to head home. Let’s take a look at a few bumps in the road that we all might encounter from time to time. http://exomountaingear.com/49

For the third year straight, Steve Speck killed a solid mule deer on opening day of archery season. In this episode, Steve shares the story of his 2016 Idaho mule deer hunt and how he managed to find success after two failed scouting trips before the season started. We also learn what has helped Steve find so much consistent success over the years and what lessons he is learning as a hunter. To see Steve's buck, follow Exo Mountain Gear on Facebook at http://facebook.com/ExoMountainGear

In this episode Mark and Steve discuss the topics of loading, adjusting, and fitting your hunting pack for optimal comfort and performance. Common questions are answered. Common techniques are explained. We hope you find this episode valuable and that you get to put these tips into practice on a heavy hike out of the backcountry soon. To watch a pack fitting video and get more information, please visit: http://exomountaingear.com/47

You are miles-back and you just arrowed the animal you’ve been hunting for days-on-end. As the adrenaline and elation begin to subside, you quickly realize how much work you have ahead of you. Temperatures are rising and the clock is ticking. How do you process this animal and make sure that you harvest and preserve as much meat as possible? How do you get it back to the trailhead? How do you get it home? How do you get it in the freezer? Those are just some of the questions that we answer on this episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast with guest and author, David Draper. http://exomountaingear.com/46

The Blacktail deer is incredibly elusive. The especially thick forests of the Northwest make hunting this stealthy animal extremely difficult, and incredibly rewarding. In this episode, we speak with a native of the Northwest, Tom Ryle, about his decades of experience hunting blacktail, as well as elk and other game. Tom also has some bonus content to share with us, including a delicious way to prepare your next wild game dinner. Learn more at http://exomountaingear.com/45

You are dropped off in the expansive Frank Church Wilderness. The plane that brought you here is now gone and there is only one way out. You hike, and hike, and hike. Heat, rattlesnakes, and blisters are just a few of your enemies. You question your sanity. Thankfully, you are not alone; there are other guys who were courageous (dumb?) enough to have joined you. This is the Exo Mountain Gear death hike... http://exomountaingear.com/44

Brian Barney is a hard-working, do-it-yourself man that has dedicated himself to hunting the West. He has years of experience hunting trophy mule deer, elk, bears, and antelope, and he loves to share the experiences and lessons he has learned with you and me — everyday guys that are trying to become better hunters. In this episode, Part 2 of our discussion with Brian, we resume the discussion on the topic of Finding Your Next Honey Hole, and dive deep into understanding how Brian finds areas that lead to hunting success. Be sure to listen to Part 1, Episode 042, if you haven’t already. http://exomountaingear.com/43

Brian Barney is a hard-working, do-it-yourself man that has dedicated himself to hunting the West. He has years of experience hunting trophy mule deer, elk, bears, and antelope, and he loves to share the experiences and lessons he has learned with you and me — everyday guys that are trying to become better hunters. In this episode we discuss the topic of Finding Your Next Honey Hole, and dive deep into understanding how Brian finds areas that lead to hunting success. This is just the first part of our discussion with Brian, so be sure to subscribe and come back for part two! http://exomountaingear.com/42

And we're back! In this episode, Mark & Steve open the Pandora's Box of bow setup and tuning. You'll learn the steps that Mark & Steve walk through as they take a brand new (or new-to-you) bow and work through getting it ready for hunting season. Questions answered in this episode include: What is a draw board, why do you need one, and how can you build one? Why is paper tuning a waste of time (or is it)? What is arrow spine and why is it so important? And much more! This is just the first of what will be more episodes on the topic, so be sure to let us know what you want to learn and what questions you want answered by emailing us: podcast@exomountaingear.com. You can find the show notes for this episode, which include links to numerous helpful articles, by visiting: http://exomountaingear.com/41

Heather Kelly is an evolutionary sports nutritionist and certified psychology of eating coach. She is the owner/operator of OPENutrition and the creator of Heather’s Choice backcountry meals. In this episode we discuss what’s wrong with the standard american diet that most of us consume and how our diets affect our hunting performance for better or worse. We answer questions like: What is Paleo and is it right for you? Does eating fat make you fat? What’s wrong with the food you’re taking into the backcountry. And most importantly, what are some of the easiest decisions and choices we can make to improve our diets and our performance the backcountry. Visit http://exomountaingear.com/40 for more.

Corey Jacobsen's new University of Elk Hunting online resource contains everything you need to know about elk hunting. In this podcast episode, Mark speaks with Corey about this new resource. Use our unique discount code "BACKCOUNTRY" and save 40% off of the regular price. To learn more about the course or get immediate access visit: http://elk101.com/onlinecourse/. Mark and Corey discuss more than just this new resource though, as they dive into a variety of elk hunting topics — including what you should be doing right now to have a more successful season this fall.

In this special episode, Mark joins Steve and Lenny to announce and discuss some brand new product offerings from Exo Mountain Gear. Join us for an in-depth discussion on the new K2 Titanium frame, the 2000 Daypack, and more. Whether you're an Exo fan that's interested in the latest and greatest, someone who's in a market for a new hunting pack in the future, or you just want to learn more about the technical design aspects of packs and frames and how they affect function and performance, you'll enjoy this episode. Learn more about the new Exo Mountain Gear products by visiting: http://ExoMountainGear.com/Explore

First, before we get to the show, a BIG announcement — we’re giving away an Exo Mountain Gear pack system! Be sure to visit the giveaway page to enter today. And as a bonus just for you, the podcast listeners, we have an extra way for you to enter the giveaway; so be sure to listen-in and take advantage of this special opportunity to increase your odds at wining the pack system. In this episode, we speak with Paul “Elk Nut” Medel on the topic of calling elk. This is our second part of the conversation, so be sure to catch Part One, if you haven't already. http://exomountaingear.com/37

First, before we get to the show, a BIG announcement — we're giving away an Exo Mountain Gear pack system!  Be sure to visit the giveaway page (link below) to enter today.  And as a bonus just for you, the podcast listeners, we have an extra way for you to enter the giveaway; so be sure to listen-in and take advantage of this special opportunity to increase your odds at wining the pack system. In this episode, we speak with Paul "Elk Nut" Medel on the topic of calling elk.  Specifically, we begin to learn about Paul's theories on calling, which are less about just "making noise" and more about speaking the "language" of elk.  Paul focuses on knowing what to say, and when to say it.  You are sure to learn more about elk in this two-part series with Paul. Visit exomountaingear.com/36 to enter the giveaway and receive more resources from Paul.

Kody Kellom joins the show to talk about this year's Full Draw Film Tour (FDFT). We also dive into some elk hunting topics. You don't want to miss the FDFT, so be sure to check out the show notes and see when the tour will be coming to your area! http://exomountaingear.com/35

In this episode, Steve and Mark discuss the new "What's In Your Pack?" video series and address specific questions that viewers raised after seeing Steve's pack list for September Mule Deer hunting in the high country. With all of his gear — optics, shelter, clothing, emergency items, etc., but not including food and water — Steve's pack weighs just 20lbs! How can that be? Listen in and find out! To make sure you receive future videos and gear lists, please subscribe to Exo Mountain Gear on YouTube or join the Exo Newsletter. To do so, please visit http://exomountaingear.com/34

The Northwest Mountain Challenge is back and better than ever for 2016! This year's events will held in Idaho (Tamarack), Washington (Stevens Pass), and Oregon (Hoodoo). Learn more about what makes this weekend so special, and why you should attend. More information is available at http://exomountaingear.com/33

Maps are maps...until you add the capabilities of onXmaps. Now you not only have a base map, you have hunting boundaries, public land boundaries, private land boundaries with landowner information, and so much more. In this episode we speak with Yana and Ed about the various products that onXmaps in their Hunting GPS Maps line. We learn about how the products enable hunters to become more effective. And we hear about some brand new features and products that you surely don't want to miss. http://exomountaingear.com/32

This timely episode is packed with information to help you on your spring bear hunts. Our guest, Russ Meyer, shares his secrets on how he find, hunts, and kills BIG bears. Whether you are new to bear hunting or a seasoned veteran, you're sure to learn something from Russ in this episode. http://exomountaingear.com/31

Travis Nowotny kills more big game animals in one year than many of us kill in five years. In this episode, we speak with Travis about finding success in the field, even when you're hunting solo. We learn how Travis has faced and overcome the particular mental battles of solo hunting in the backcountry, how he's refined his skills, and what are the advantages/disadvantages of hunting solo vs with a partner. Learn more at http://exomountaingear.com/30

Matt Wymer of RemotePursuits.com grew up hunting in Washington state, but has spent the last 12 years living in and hunting in Alaska. We speak with Matt about the differences between hunting in the Lower 48 and hunting in Alaska. Matt, like us, is a gear junkie, so we spend some time discussing various aspects of gear as well. We also get to talk about the animal that Matt loves to hunt most — Dall Sheep. Enjoy this episode and be sure to check out the show notes at http://exomountaingear.com/29

Hunters have been retelling the stories of their adventures since the dawn of man. In the current age, nearly every hunter will enter the woods with a smartphones or camera and will capture some aspect of their hunt with photos or videos. In this podcast episode, we speak with photographer and videographer John Abernathy about ways to improve the ways that we capture our hunts with photos and video. It doesn't matter if you're someone who takes photos for your personal memories, or you're a videographer that's trying to share hunts with the world — you'll learn something from what John has to share. To see some of John's work, as well as some of John's recommendations for cameras and equipment, visit: http://exomountaingear.com/28

Clay Hayes is an outdoors renaissance man of sorts. His skills are honed in the backcountry, allowing him to survive — even thrive — in harsh conditions. Clay partnered with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers to produce an instructional film series called The Backcountry College. In additional to woodsmanship skills, Clay is a very knowledgable resource in the area of traditional archery. Clay builds his own equipment by hand and has the skills to harvest big game with his simple, hand-crafted stick and string. Whether you want to learn some tips and tricks to help you survive in the backcountry or you want to learn a bit more about traditional archery, you'll enjoy this episode. You can get this episodes show notes, including links to more of Clay's work, here: http://exomountaingear.com/27

In this "UNCUT" episode, Mark, Steve, and Lenny announce some new Exo products that will be coming soon. They also discuss the recent Western Hunting Expo, as well as the results of a hunting survey that gives some insight into how you and other backcountry hunters approach hunting and gear. Be sure to check out the show notes and get a look at the new Exo products by visiting: http://exomountaingear.com/26

This is Part 2 of our discussion with ASAT’s Ben Guttormson. Ben spends countless days in the field hunting numerous species each year. We continue to speak with Ben about specific strategies and tips for hunting from the ground — stalking, cover, concealment, movement principles, reading animal behavior, when to draw your bow, and much, much more. http://exomountaingear.com/25

ASAT’s Ben Guttormson is a wealth of knowledge. Ben spends countless days in the field hunting numerous species each year. In this episode, we speak with Ben about specific strategies and tips for hunting from the ground. We talk about stalking, cover, concealment, movement principles, reading animal behavior, when to draw your bow, and much, much more. Be sure to come back for Part 2 (Episode 25) to learn more from Ben. http://exomountaingear.com/24

In this episode, Mark joins First Lite's co-founder, Kenton Carruth. They discuss First Lite's new gear for 2016, as well as some history of the company. More than just covering new products, they discuss the technical details of fabrics and features that will help you choose the best clothing for your hunting needs. What makes merino so great? How can it be better? Most companies market their outerwear as "waterproof" and "breathable", but can those attributes be tested and independently rated? Those questions, and many more, are answered in this episode. Learn more at http://exomountaingear.com/23

Wolf hunting is a controversial topic that tends to bring up a lot of emotions from advocates for, and against, the issue. In this episode Jason Wright — a wolf hunter himself — shares his opinion on the subject...and its probably not exactly what you'd expect. We also get practical and talk about where, when, and how to hunt wolves. http://exomountaingear.com/22

Mark and Steve are back from ATA Show and have an "uncut" discussion about a variety of topics. Who's the Backcountry Hunters giveaway winner? What's the best new bow in 2016? What's coming from Exo Mountain Gear? And much more... http://exomountaingear.com/21

To hunt hard, to hunt effectively, one must be physically and mentally prepared for the harsh demands of the backcountry. Physical training is critical, but you can't out-work a crappy diet. Many hunters look to workouts and supplements, and afterwards (or if at all), they evaluate their day-to-day nutrition choices. But proper nutrition is really the foundation of quality training and effective hunting. In this episode with Dan Staton of ElkShape.com, we "cut the crap", disregard the dogma, and provide you with a simple outline to improve your daily nutrition. Many people have fitness and weightless goals for the New Year, so now is the time to listen to this episode and put this wisdom to work for you. Be a healthier, stronger, leaner hunter in 2016!

In this episode of The Hunt Backcountry Podcast we speak with Matt Davis of Hoyt Archery and discuss what a bowhunter should look for when they're selecting a new bow — from Hoyt or from any of the numerous other great bow manufacturers on the market. We break down the anatomy of a bow and talk translate the technical specifications — such as speed ratings, brace heights, axle-to-axle length, etc. — and discuss how each one of these technical numbers should guide you in what you're looking for from your next bow. Additionally, we break down numbers traits of the draw cycle and explain terms such as "valley", let-off, and the "wall". Before we dive into that, we also have a brief chat about Matt's role as Hoyt's Pro Staff Manager and what a good industry Pro Staffer is and does. http://exomountaingear.com/19

Robby Denning joins us again in Episode 18 to talk about some very specific tactics that can help you take the best mule deer buck of your life. We're all familiar with the classic spot-and-stalk scenario of hunting high country bucks, but Robby explains that there are other tactics that help hunters take more mulies. If you're a mule deer hunter, or want to become one someday, you'll definitely want to learn about these tactics and become what Robby calls, "the complete hunter." Don't forget to enter the Exo Mountain Gear pack giveaway at http://exomountaingear.com/giveaway. And be sure to listen to the previous episode (017) with Land Tawney of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers to find out how yo can win a $50 gift card from S&S Archery. http://exomountaingear.com/18

In this episode, we speak with Land Tawney, Executive Directory of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA). BHA is an organization that was started by, is run by, and is funded/supported by the organization's namesake — backcountry hunters and anglers. In this episode you'll hear Land explain the organization's grassroots history, current activities, and future mission. As well as how the organization is currently work for you. Yes, you. As an incentive to join BHA and support their great work, we're super excited to tell you about two very important specials! First, if you join or renew your membership to BHA, send us a message with the proof at podcast[at]exomountaingear.com, and you'll be entered to win a $50 gift card from our friends at S&S Archery. Secondly, BHA is running a $15 membership special (normally $25) in the month of December, so the deal is even sweeter! This week's podcast contains a bonus keyword for our Pack Giveaway, so don't miss out on your chance at that bonus entry for a FREE Exo Mountain Gear pack system! http://exomountaingear.com/17

In this episode, we speak with Russ Meyer. Russ is, as Steve puts it, “the most successful hunter I know.” So we talk to Russ about what it takes to be so successful. How has he found consistent success is 30 years of bowhunting? Topics address include… - Physical fitness for hunting performance and longevity as you age. - The importance (and dangers) of experienced hunters mentoring new hunters. - The special sentiments of hunting with your children. - Some of Russ’ keys to hunting success: - knowing your hunting area intimately - finding and hunting areas that other hunters won’t pressure - patience vs aggressiveness - calling vs stalking - positive mindset and confidence - realistic expectations - capitalizing on encounters and opportunities - And, conversely, common mistakes that keep hunters from being success - Russ’ work with Outdoors International Learn more at: http://exomountaingear.com/16

James and Stephen Latrop have over 50 years of specialized foot-care training. Combine that with the fact that they are DIY hunters and outdoorsmen, and you can see why we wanted to talk to them about the very topic that they specialize in — helping hunters select and fit the right boots for their needs. In this episode we talk about the construction and anatomy of boots, how a boot should fit, what’s the best way to break a boot in, how to choose the right sock and insole for your boots and more. Also, be sure to check out Lathrop and Sons site-wide 15% OFF DISCOUNT that is going on through November 30th. Use the code GOBBLE15 to get your savings. You can find more about this show at http://exomountaingear.com/15

In this episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast we talk with Brady Miller of GoHUNT.com. We catch up on Brady’s hunting season, including the heartbreaking story of a GIANT mule deer that Brady shot in Colorado. We also get Brady’s opinions on bow setups for western hunting. Brady is a guy that is meticulous and thorough in his gear choices, testing, and setup — so it is great to hear his opinion on the topic. Finally, we talk with Brady and the founder of GoHUNT.com, Lorenzo Sartini, about the GoHUNT.com service — including a sneak peak at some brand new features that are about to be released to make planning your next hunting adventure more effective than ever. You can find all of the show notes for this episode at http://exomountaingear.com/14. As always, we’d love to get your feedback! Please consider leaving us a review on iTunes, Stitcher, etc; and email us at podcast (at) exomountaingear.com with your questions and comments.

Robby Denning started hunting mule deer in the late 1970’s, only missing one season in 35 years. At 25, he gave up the pursuit of all other big-game to focus on taking the best bucks possible. He began hunting the West on a DIY budget hunting an average of 30 days a year for mule deer. Robby loves the hunt as much as the kill and the entire process from research to scouting to hunting. He’s killed four bucks over 200 inches in the last 15 seasons, mostly on easily-obtained tags. In this episode we talk about what it takes to hunt BIG mule deer. We’ll be having Robby back to dive deeper into the tactics side of things, so be sure and send us your questions for Robby to podcast@exomountaingear.com. LEARN MORE: http://exomountaingear.com/13

Corey Jacobsen is an 8-time World Champion elk call, a magazine publisher and editor, and the founder of Elk101.com. More importantly, Corey is a down to earth, passionate elk hunter that loves to share his passion and knowledge with other elk hunters. In this show, we talk to Corey about a wide range of topics about elk hunting. Including… - After 30+ years of elk hunting, does he still learn from each hunt? And what lessons is hear learning now? - How does elk hunting change after September and what are some tips for pursuing post-September bulls? - How to get youth involved in elk hunting. - Why the bonus point system (for tag procurement) isn’t as helpful as most people think it is. - What the future looks like for Extreme Elk Magazine (now merged with Elk Hunter Magazine) and Elk101.com. - The controversial, yet effective, “frontal shot” on elk. - And more! If you’re an elk hunter, you’ll no doubt love this episode with Corey!

Joseph Skinner is the founder of Veil Camo. Chances are, you've seen Joe's work as First Lite's proprietary camouflage pattern — Fusion. Joe worked with First Lite to develop the pattern, Fusion, to be an incredibly effective hunting pattern for a variety of terrains and environments. In this episode, we talk with Joe about what makes camouflage effective. We discuss what ungulates (deer, elk, caribou, etc) "see" in terms of color. How "macro" and "micro" disruption play a role in effective concealment. And why some of the most popular camo patterns on the market are built to look good to hunters, but are not really ideal for concealment while hunting.

Failure is a great teacher. Well, that's partly true. The real truth in hunting, though, is that if you've learned, you haven't failed. In this episode, Mark and his hunting partner, Jerud, talk about their recent Colorado elk hunt. Steve also joins them on their post-hunt debrief, as well as to discuss his own elk hunting season in Idaho.

Have you ever wanted to hunt a far away place for a majestic animal? Say, Bull Moose in Alaska? That’s exactly what we’re discussing in this episode. BUT, sometimes the dream or anticipation of such a hunt doesn’t live up to the reality of what’s experienced. We talk with Steve, Lenny, and Jason about their recent Alaskan adventure and find out why it was awesome and horrible at the same time. Not only will you be entertained to hear their stories, you’ll learn some valuable lessons that will help inform your future hunting plans. As always, be sure to send your questions and feedback to podcast@exomountaingear.com!

Lenny joins Steve and Mark again this week to discuss a non-typical hunt that led to Lenny killing a 190’s typical buck in “Wyoming”. We also hear about the story of Steve’s recent 2015 Idaho archery buck. We discuss why Lenny has reversed-course on some of his recent gear choices, how the mule deer tactics we discussed in previous episodes played-out in these recent successful hunts, and more…

Mark Kenyon from WiredToHunt.com joins us to talk about his story — how he transitioned from a hardcore whitetail hunter in the midwest to a successful elk hunter in the western backcountry. We talk about the changes in fitness, gear, mindset, and tactics that are necessary to move from whitetail hunting to western big game hunting.

In this episode, Mark and Steve discuss the food that they use to fuel their backcountry hunts. They show that a little bit of thought, research, and analysis will allow you to not only ensure you're meeting the nutritional demands of backcountry hunting, but also allow you to do it by carrying no more than 1.5lbs of food per day. They discuss the key facts that you need to know about a food's weight and caloric density. For example, did you know that there's typically 4 calories per gram of carbohydrate and protein, but 9 calories per gram of fat? You will also hear what their daily menu looks like. And you can find that menu on the Pure Elevation blog at: http://pure-elevation.com/blog/

We all know that hunting the backcountry effectively requires a certain level of physical fitness. But how, specifically, should backcountry hunters train? What are the unique challenges that hunters face? How can hunters train effectively without spending hours and hours in the gym? Rob Shaul, founder of Mountain Athlete, helps us answer these questions and many more. Be sure to check out the Mountain Athlete website at: http://StrongSwiftDurable.com. As always, we appreciate your feedback — consider leaving us a review in iTunes, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to this show.

In this episode, Mark, Steve, and Lenny discuss the gear they take on extended backcountry hunts. From the big items, like packs and tents, down to the nitty-gritty, like first aid and water filtration — it's all covered. The guys each have different styles, philosophies, and thus, gear lists. You're guaranteed to pick up a tip, trick, or learn about something that you can add (or remove) from your pack for your next hunt. Gear lists are available at http://soleadventure.com/elk and http://pure-elevation.com/blog.

In this episode, Jason Wright joins us to take us step-by-step through a pre-season scouting plan for mule deer hunters. We dive deep into selecting an area, evaluating that area, using optics, and much more. Experienced mule deer hunters and those that are new to the pursuit can both learn something from this episode!

In Episode 002, Mark Huelsing and Steve Speck sit down with Lenny Nelson, co-founder of Exo Mountain Gear. We discuss a variety of topics and answer listener questions about elk scouting, mule deer stalking, camera gear for filming hunts, and more. We also learn why tandem mountain biking is the best way to train for hunting season.

In this episode you'll meet the co-hosts of the new Hunt Backcountry Podcast. They answer questions such as... What are the top 2-3 gear items that matter most when it comes to hunting the backcountry effectively? Are trekking poles worth it, or should you leave them to the mall walkers? What is a good goal pack weight for a 5-Day backpack hunt. And how to judge a bull elk’s aggressiveness and know when to make a move vs. when to stay in position and try to draw him in.