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Explore every episode of the podcast Vortex Nation Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for Vortex Nation Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
#10MinuteTalk | Down Insulation Explained with Argali’s Brad Brooks06 Oct 202601:18:05

What makes down insulation so warm, lightweight, and packable—and how do you know what you’re actually buying?

Argali’s Brad Brooks takes us deep into the world of down insulation, explaining everything from fill power and feather-to-down ratios to water-resistant down, temperature ratings, baffle design, regional origin, and testing protocols.

We also cover how down compares across products, what to look for when buying a down jacket or sleeping bag, and best practices for down care and longevity.

If you’re trying to understand down insulation, compare down products, or make a more informed outdoor gear purchase, this episode breaks down the details you need to know about this incredible natural fiber.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 466 | Cool Guns with Ian | Historic Swiss Pistols05 Oct 202601:01:20

Vortex’s resident cool-gun expert, Ian Klemm, is back with another deep dive into some seriously fascinating Swiss pistols. This time, he’s bringing out a selection of historic Swiss firearms known for exceptional craftsmanship, innovative engineering, and some truly unique designs.

Ian breaks down the history and significance of the Swiss Ordnance Revolver Model 1882, Swiss 1906/24 Luger, and Swiss P49, explaining what makes each of these iconic Swiss guns so interesting—and why they deserve a place in any firearms history conversation.

From Swiss precision engineering to military history and unusual firearm design, this episode explores some of the most distinctive pistols ever made.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | The .30 TC | The Lead Ballon that Made Other Cartridges Famous29 Sep 202600:26:46

.30-06 performance out of a highly efficient short-action case wasn’t enough to slingshot the .30 TC into cartridge glory. It should have been. That said, the engineers at Hornady saw its promise, tweaked it, and created one of the most popular cartridges of all time — along with others that make the A-list for competition, hunting, and more. Tune in to hear about the high-performing, incredibly interesting, .30 TC and the inspiration it provided.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 465 | Heckler & Koch Pistol x Vortex Red Dot Packages28 Sep 202601:46:59

Heckler & Koch’s James Williamson and Tommy Brooker are back to chat about their incredible VP9 pistols, CC9 pistols, pairing them with Vortex Defender Red Dots, and the purpose-built pistol packages being offered.

H&K has a reputation for doing things right. The products themselves and the shared product ethos of both companies made the collaboration match as good as the performance you get from these systems.

Hear what makes these H&K and Vortex combinations stand out, get an inside look at the collaboration, and learn more about the packages available for shooters looking to pair H&K pistols with Vortex Defender Red Dots. WARNING: Tune in only if you want to hear about your next pistol package!

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Modern Suppressor design and Two Paths to Suppressor Ownership | Exigent Defense22 Sep 202601:33:53

Exigent Defense suppressor manufacturer, lawyer, and Kentucky Gun Owners of America representative, Evan Wilson, stops in to talk through modern suppressor design and the current suppressor ownership landscape. The tax stamp going to $0, a lawsuit filed against the ATF, and a recent ruling have made suppressor ownership easier, but possibly more confusing than before. Different rules for different groups of people and interpretive ambiguity have left some folks scratching their heads. Throw in regulation at the state level and well, that’s why we’re having this conversation. Tune in to hear about a cool company doing cool stuff, an explanation of what’s going on with the two paths to suppressor ownership, and a prediction of where we are headed.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 464 | H&K’s Most Iconic Firearms | James Williamson and Tommy Brooker21 Sep 202602:24:26

H&K’s James Williamson and Tommy Booker join Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn for an unforgettable range session featuring some of the coolest and most legendary firearms ever made by Heckler & Koch (H&K).

From the HK MP7 and MP5SD to the legendary P7, MK8, and more, this episode of the Vortex Nation Podcast dives into the history, engineering, stories, and real-world performance behind these iconic H&K firearms.

You’ll hear the background on the company itself, and some of H&K’s most recognizable guns while getting an up-close look at what makes these firearms so interesting, effective, and storied.

Press play, turn the volume up, and put life on full-autopilot.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Hunting Riflescope Magnification | Is Less More?15 Sep 202600:49:11

How much riflescope magnification do you really need for hunting? Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn get into a “healthy discussion” about the best hunting scope magnification and whether more power actually means better performance in the field.

Is there one magnification range that can handle nearly every hunting situation? Kinda. Do Mark and Ryan agree on what that range is? Absolutely not.

Tune in as they break down hunting riflescope magnification, low vs. high magnification, practical scope ranges, shot distances, field of view, and what magnification should top your hunting rifle. Whether you’re choosing a new hunting scope or wondering if you’re running too much or too little magnification, this episode has plenty of opinions to consider.

What’s the best hunting scope magnification? Hit play and decide for yourself.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 463 | Behind the Scenes Stories of Wildcatting the 6.5 BC14 Sep 202601:05:43

The 6.5 Bitchcat (6.5 BC) is back—and this wildcat cartridge is getting a serious deep dive.

In this episode of the Vortex Nation Podcast, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn have put their new custom 6.5 Bitchcat rifle through its paces, testing three custom handloads across a range of real-world scenarios.

They break down the origin and history of the 6.5 Bitchcat, its latest developments, and what they learned from testing bullet velocities, paper targets, ballistics gel, and long-range performance.

From the custom rifle and handloads to velocity data and distance testing, this episode covers what makes the 6.5 Bitchcat / 6.5 BC such an interesting wildcat cartridge—and whether this latest iteration lives up to its big expectations.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Practical Shooting Sports for Hunters: Build Real-World Marksmanship08 Sep 202600:59:51

Want to fill your freezer more consistently? The moment of truth rarely offers a flat, stable setup. In this episode, Vortex’s Mike Tassoul and Jimmy Jordan break down how practical shooting sports translate directly to real-world big game hunting scenarios. Learn how competing under pressure trains you to manage gear, control your nerves, and make lethal shots when infinite variables are in play. Whether you are preparing for your first elk hunt or looking to tighten your groups under stress, this is your blueprint for better marksmanship.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 462 | TUSC Loadout: Tactical Urban Sustainment Course Gear & Kit07 Sep 202601:55:11

What gear do you actually need for a Tactical Urban Sustainment Course (TUSC)? Vortex Edge® instructor, in-house prepper, and survival hobbyist Mike Griffin joins Mark Boardman to break down the TUSC loadout he selected for his recent course with the Direct Action Resource Center (DARC) in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Mike walks through the Tactical Urban Sustainment Course gear he brought, explaining the “why” behind each selection—including what worked, what didn’t, and what he would change next time.

TUSC is a serious training challenge, both mentally and physically. The program teaches small, cohesive groups how to secure, sustain, and operate effectively in urban environments. The right gear can make a demanding course more manageable, but preparation, grit, and mental toughness ultimately make the difference.

If you’re interested in TUSC training, urban survival, preparedness, tactical gear, survival gear, or building a practical course loadout, Mike’s experience can help you understand what gear matters—and what may not be worth carrying.

Watch the full TUSC gear breakdown to see what made Mike’s kit—and what didn’t.

 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Razor® HD Gen III 6-36x56 | The NEW VMR-5 Reticle01 Sep 202600:10:14

The Razor® HD Gen III 6-36x56 adds the new VMR-5 reticle to its lineup for shooters who prioritize a clean field of view. Less can be more for some shooters when it comes to reticles. Andrew Lunde from Vortex’s product development team walks us through the VMR-5.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 461 | PRSuit: The New Precision Rifle Hobby You Didn’t Know You Needed31 Aug 202601:07:24

What happens when precision rifle shooting meets real-world field scenarios? Mark Boardman sits down with Ken Wheeler, owner of the Precision Rifle Series (PRS), and Vortex’s Tucker Schmidt to explore  Ken’s path into long-range shooting, and the story of how he came to purchase the Precision Rifle Series.

Then they dive into PRSuit, a brand-new nationwide network of range-and-engage shooting matches designed around practical rifles, real-world scenarios, and an accessible, engaging competition format.

If you’re into precision rifle, long-range shooting, practical shooting, or just looking for your next outdoor hobby, PRSuit might be your next obsession.

Listen now—but don’t blame us when you find yourself adding another hobby to your life.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | What’s New with GeoBallistics®? | Features, Tech, Functionality25 Aug 202600:26:45

The Vortex Optics GeoBallistics® app just got better. In this video, we break down the latest GeoBallistics® updates, new features, technology, and functionality—including what’s changed and how these improvements can make your ballistic calculations and shooting experience more intuitive.

GeoBallistics® is a comprehensive, stand-alone ballistic solver app designed to work seamlessly with GeoBallistics®-equipped Vortex products. With every software update, the app becomes more powerful, user-friendly, and feature-rich.

Hit play to see what’s new in GeoBallistics® and discover the features you’ll want to know about in the latest update.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 460 | New Gear and Arrow Setup Secrets with Day Six Gear | Ft. Bryan Broderick24 Aug 202601:41:39

Bryan Broderick from Day Six Gear drops by Vortex to drop some serious arrow and broadhead knowledge. Bryan’s archery philosophies are backed by 10 lifetimes of practical field experience and are as sound as the products he’s developed. Tune in to hear about Day 6 Gear’s new products and get Bryan’s thoughts on the “WHY” behind what makes a great bowhunting arrow setup.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | How to Become a Successful YouTube Creator | Hunting & Fishing with Gone All Season18 Aug 202600:27:38

What does it really take to build a successful YouTube channel in the hunting and fishing world? Gone All Season’s Cole Booth and Brett Walker join Mark Boardman to share how they got started, what they’ve learned along the way, and their philosophy on creating content that connects with an audience. Young, hungry, and talented, they’ve built serious momentum in a short time. If you want to start making YouTube videos—or take your hunting and fishing channel to the next level—this conversation is for you. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 459 | Packs We Like | Features, Accessories, Considerations17 Aug 202600:52:31

Packing gear in and game out requires a quality backpack purpose-built for the job. Quick day hunt or a multi-day backcountry adventure, the right backpack can make all the difference. In this episode, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down the hunting packs they've been using lately, what features stand out, how they've configured them, and why they continue to trust them in the field. If you're comparing packs or looking for your next hunting backpack, this conversation covers the features, accessories, and real-world considerations that matter most.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | NEW Product Alert | Anarch+ Golf Rangefinder11 Aug 202600:11:48

The next evolution of our flagship rangefinder is here. Built from real golfer feedback, the NEW Anarch+ is engineered to help you play with more confidence. Ultrafast distance readings and image stabilization to Pin-Spotter Mode and premium optics, every upgrade is designed to make finding your target faster and easier. In this episode, we break down what's new, and how the Anarch+ can help improve your game on the course.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 458 | .308 SUPER is Better Than .300 SUPER WSM???10 Aug 202600:57:22

The .308 SUPER is here—and it might be one of the most interesting new .30-caliber cartridge concepts we've tested.

In this episode, we put the Barnes 212-grain LRX Bore Rider to work in a .308-based case and answer the questions everyone is asking:

  • Did we hit our target velocity?
  • How does the .308 SUPER compare ballistically to the .300 SUPER WSM?
  • What does terminal performance look like in 10% ordnance gel at 100 yards—and at extended range?
  • Who is this cartridge built for?
  • What could the future hold with a purpose-built, high-pressure case?

And the big question: Could the .308 SUPER outperform Ryan Muckenhirn and Mark Boardman's beloved .300 SUPER WSM?

Long-range shooter, handloader, hunter, or cartridge nerd, this episode dives into the data, testing, and where the .308 SUPER could fit in the future of .30-caliber performance.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | The 25 GT | Most Versatile Quarter Bore and it’s NOT Commercially Available!04 Aug 202600:28:52

The perfect blend of velocity, recoil, bullet profile, bullet weight, wind deflection, splash, and versatility. And at press time, there’s not a commercial option. Long range competition to medium-size game, the 25 GT has a lot going for it. Does it make sense for you? Listen to find out!

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 457 | New Studio Reveal + Listener Q&A03 Aug 202602:19:26

The NEW podcast studio is in full effect.  In this special listener Q&A, the Vortex Nation and CARE podcast teams join forces to answer your best hunting, shooting, CARE, and just-for-fun questions. A .308 SUPER update to the best beef jerky flavor and more, the guys tackle your hard-hitting questions and have fun doing it!

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Could Oregon Ban Hunting, Fishing & Ranching? The PEACE Act Explained28 Jul 202600:47:54

Rob Sexton, Senior Vice President of the Sportsmen's Alliance, joins Mark Boardman to explain Oregon Initiative Petition 28, also known as the PEACE Act (People for Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions).

It seeks to eliminate long-standing legal exemptions that effectively eliminate hunting, fishing, trapping, livestock production, wildlife management, pest control, and other traditional practices.

In this episode, Rob breaks down what the initiative proposes, who could be affected, and why sportsmen and other affected groups across the country are paying attention.

If you care about hunting, conservation, fishing, ranching, or wildlife policy, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 456 | Waterfowl Competition Calling, Quill Creek Calls, and Hunting Tactics | Chance Wadsworth27 Jul 202601:07:38

Three-time Live World Goose Calling Champion and founder of Quill Creek Calls, Chance Wadsworth, drops into our podcast decoys to talk contest calling, waterfowl hunting tactics, what makes his calls so good, and his entrepreneurial journey. If you’re a waterfowl hunter, competition caller, or looking to get into either, this is the podcast for you!

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | NEW Crossfire® II Red Dots | Features, Performance & Models Explained21 Jul 202600:18:18

The all-new Vortex Crossfire® II Dot Sight delivers fast target acquisition, rugged reliability, and upgraded performance for ARs, rifles, shotguns, and PCCs. In this episode, Vortex director of product development, Rob Morell, breaks down everything you need to know about the latest Crossfire® II lineup, including features, performance improvements, mounting options, and available configurations. Solar/battery-powered, battery-powered, red or green dot reticle, black and tan finishes, there's a Crossfire® II built for you. Learn what makes the new Crossfire® II one of the most versatile and dependable red dot sights for hunting, competition, home defense, and recreational shooting.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 455 | The Best Tents We've Used: Backpacking, Hunting & Camping20 Jul 202601:15:30

Not all tents are built for the same adventure. In this episode, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down tents they've trusted over years of hunting, backpacking, camping, and backcountry travel. They cover different models, styles, material compositions, and best applications for each. Bombproof four-season freestanding tents to ultralight trekking-pole-erected single-wall shelters, get the info you need for your next stay in the great outdoors. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | The Hunting Essential Your Buddies Never Pack14 Jul 202600:43:19

Mark Boardman puts Vortex hunters on the spot with one simple question: What's the one piece of hunting gear you never leave home without? From overlooked hunting essentials to game-changing gear that can save a hunt, you'll hear the items experienced hunters always pack—but most don't. This podcast could change your packing list for good.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 454 | 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Velocity and Gel Test | Full Report!13 Jul 202600:52:47

After velocity and gel testing Federal 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak loaded with 130 Grain Terminal Ascent bullets and comparing it to 6.5 PRC, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down everything they learned. Does Federal's innovative Peak Alloy high-pressure case deliver the velocity gains hunters have been waiting for? Does Peak Alloy Launch the 6.5 Creedmoor into an entirely new realm of performance? Is the 6.5 Creedmoor the only cartridge most folks need to handle all their big-game hunting applications? Is high pressure the future of cartridge design? Find out here!

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Backcountry Sleep Systems — Sleep Your Way to the Top of the Mountain07 Jul 202600:31:33

Quality sleep can make or break a backcountry hunt. When you're covering miles, climbing elevation, and recovering for another full day in the field, your sleep system is one of the most important pieces of gear you carry. Sleeping bags, pads, pillows and cots — Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn run through their sleep systems and what works for them.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 453 | Kifaru Packs, Hunting Gear & Backpack Design | Behind the Brand06 Jul 202601:26:01

The crew from Kifaru steps away from spring turkey season to talk hunting packs, technical fabrics, backpack design, apparel, and the philosophy behind building some of the toughest backcountry gear in the industry. We also recap a memorable turkey hunt, discuss what makes a great hunting pack, share gear insights, and cover down on favorite post-hunt meals.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Model 307 MZY | Weatherby's First Muzzleloader30 Jun 202600:16:59

Weatherby enters the muzzleloader arena in a big way with the ultra-premier Model 307 MZY. Blending features of a high-end rifle with state-of-the-art ignition technology, the Model 307 MZY delivers impressive performance and accuracy. Adam Weatherby and Luke Thorkildsen give us a primer on the features, performance, and design philosophy behind the Model 307 MZY, explaining what sets Weatherby’s first muzzleloader apart from the competition.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 452 | Boots We Like — Best Hunting Boots for Mountain Hunts to Whitetails29 Jun 202600:47:41

Mark Boarmdan and Ryan Muckenhirn lace up for a podcast all about boots they’ve used, trust and would recommend. Mountain hunts to farmland whitetails, your footwear can make or break the entire experience. Tune in to get the rundown on boot models to consider for your upcoming season.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Pack Fit, Backpack Setup & Backcountry Hunting Tips with Exo Mtn Gear Founder Steve Speck23 Jun 202600:42:48

How do you properly fit a hunting pack? What's the best way to pack your backpack for the backcountry? And how did Exo Mtn Gear become one of the most respected names in hunting packs? Exo Mtn Gear founder and lead pack designer Steve Speck joins the podcast to break down pack fit, load distribution, backpack setup, backcountry hunting gear, and the story behind Exo. Whether you're preparing for your first western hunt or fine-tuning your system, this episode is packed with practical advice and proven tips.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 451 | International Hunt Tips You Need to Know with Nick Hoffman22 Jun 202601:50:36

Nick Hoffman, experienced international hunter and host of Nick's Wild Ride, shares expert advice on traveling internationally for hunting adventures, including firearm and ammunition regulations, customs paperwork, rifle permits, travel documentation, health precautions, food and drinking water safety, tipping etiquette, and what to expect when hunting in foreign countries. From avoiding common travel mistakes to navigating customs and nearly getting arrested, Nick reveals real-world lessons every hunter should know before heading abroad. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | The 7.62x39 | Most Popular Rifle Cartridge in the World?16 Jun 202600:29:52

The 7.62x39 is one of the most recognizable and widely used rifle cartridges ever created. Paired with AK-pattern rifles, it has earned a reputation for reliability, effectiveness, and global popularity. But what turned this intermediate cartridge into a worldwide phenomenon?

In this episode, AK enthusiast Scott Hollfelder emerges from his bunker to break down the history, performance, military legacy, and enduring appeal of the 7.62x39. From its battlefield origins to its continued popularity among shooters today, discover why this cartridge remains one of the most influential rifle rounds ever designed.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 450 | Federal’s 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Changes Everything15 Jun 202601:29:49

Federal Ammunition’s Joshua Vickers and Brad Abramowski join Vortex to give us the gouge on their all-new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak ammo. How does a round that’s long been known for efficiency suddenly gain up to 300 fps over comparable brass-cased 6.5 Creedmoor loads and roughly 100 fps over 6.5 PRC? In this episode, Federal explains the technology behind the latest addition to the Peak Alloy lineup, including velocity gains, recoil characteristics, barrel life, pressure management, projectile selection, and real-world hunting and shooting performance. If you’re a fan of 6.5 Creedmoor, curious about 6.5 PRC, or wondering whether +Peak is the next evolution in cartridge design, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Most Ridiculous Concealed Carry | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 3411 Jun 202600:34:54

The most ridiculous concealed carry item you would still carry to finishing the lyrics of popular songs, the season finale of Spaghetti Shootout is sure to hit the spot. Who goes out on a high note? There’s only one way to find out. Grab your fork and dig in.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Drawing from Concealed and More with Pro Shooter Hunter Constantine09 Jun 202601:32:21

Check out the limited edition Constantine Carry Belt here on hunterconstantine.com

Hunter Constantine is a USPSA Grand Master, competitive shooter, professional firearms instructor, entrepreneur, successful YouTube host, inventor of the Constantine Carry Belt, and pro shooter for Team Smith & Wesson. To say he’s an expert is an understatement. We get his more than interesting story and walk through his process for drawing from concealed.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 449 | How to Choose the Right Hunting Shelter | Argali Founder Brad Brooks Explains08 Jun 202600:26:00

What hunting shelter should you buy? Argali founder Brad Brooks joins Mark Boardman to break down the pros and cons of hunting tents and backcountry shelters. Learn how tent size, weight, materials, weather protection, and intended use impact performance in the field. They also discuss the latest shelter innovations from Argali and help hunters determine which shelter best fits their needs. Whether you're planning a backcountry elk hunt, mule deer adventure, or extended wilderness trip, this episode will help you choose the right shelter with confidence.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Train How You Hunt: Build Mountain-Endurance with Pack Training02 Jun 202600:41:42

Your ability to hike and hunt hard for multiple days is directly dependent on your fitness and mental toughness. If you do one thing to prepare for your hunt, rucking/pack training may just be your best bet. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn show their current systems and talk through how they weave rucking into their pre-season training regimen. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 448 | Cool Guns with Ian Klemm — Rare Old Sako’s01 Jun 202600:48:29

Vortex’s in-house firearm historian, collector, and extreme enthusiast, Ian Klemm, drops by the studio with two rare vintage Sako’s. Obscure chamberings. Classic Finnish craftsmanship. Ian Klemm breaks down the history behind an early L46 in .25-20 WCF and a unique L461 Vixen in 6x45mm.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | The Smith & Wesson 1854 — Born from Lever Action Legacy26 May 202600:23:00

Lever-action rifles may be a new category for Smith & Wesson, but the company’s connection to lever guns goes back to the very origins of the platform itself. In this episode, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn explore the history behind the legendary action and take a closer look at the classic styling and modern performance of the Smith & Wesson 1854.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 447 | You Don't Have to Be Rich to Hunt International | Nick Hoffman25 May 202601:11:09

The international hunt of a lifetime may be way more within reach than you think. New Zealand to Scotland and much more, Nick Hoffman walks us through economical hunts around the globe. The flight might be long, but life is short. Book it!

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

#10MinuteTalk | Mark Boardman’s Long-Range Ruger 10/22 Squirrel Setup and Hunt Recap19 May 202600:20:03

Mark Boardman proved out his long-range Ruger 10/22 squirrel sniping setup. He and videographer Cole Booth talk through the rifle, suite of advanced kit used, and how it worked in the field.

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Ep. 446 | Slow Motion Terminal Performance Breakdown18 May 202601:18:21

Firing cup and core, bonded, and monolithic bullets into ordnance gel is cool. Documenting it with a high-speed camera to analyze terminal performance is cooler. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn unpack their findings after getting a unique look in slow motion.

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#10MinuteTalk | Three Words Could Save Your Life12 May 202600:23:14

The What3Words App may save your life. It helped do just that for Jared Leuzinger who suffered a freak broadhead-induced injury while hunting deer. Tune in to hear his story and learn what you may want to do to add an extra layer of safety to your outdoor adventures. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 445 | Unknown Suppressors and Unknown Munitions — Get to Know Them11 May 202601:27:09

Unknown Suppressors is a fast-moving company making innovative suppressors. Unknown Munitions specialize in aftermarket Tikka components, custom Tikka rifles, ammunition and more. If you don’t know them, this podcast is your chance.

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#10MinuteTalk | Sim-X Pistol Ammo — Low Weight, Ultra-High Velocity05 May 202600:16:14

Sim-X Pistol ammunition bucks convention with its low mass/high velocity offerings for both target and defensive applications. Mark Boardman shoots some Sim-X 9mm at the range, compares it to standard loads, and he and Ryan Muckenhirn chat through this interesting ammo.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 444 | West Texas Aoudad Cull Hunt & .300 SUPER WSM Report04 May 202601:23:40

Vortex’s Travis Jones and Ryan Muckenhirn sit down with Mark Boardman to recount their one-of-a-kind west Texas aoudad hunt. A cull hunt moderated by biologists and orchestrated to put a dent in the burgeoning aoudad population, allowed the group to get a lifetime’s worth of reps and product testing in three days… including the inaugural fielding of Ryan’s .300 SUPER WSM.

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Bearded Hen…Smash or Pass | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 3330 Apr 202600:34:12

Shooting bearded hens, name your opponent’s outdoor brand, a meatball in a bottle, and more. Tune in for a full scoop of Spaghetti Shootout!

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#10MinuteTalk | Subsonic Cartridges — Pleasant, Practical, Tactical28 Apr 202600:30:19

Subsonic cartridges are fun, pleasant to shoot, practical and tactical. Specialized military applications, personal defense, hunting, discrete pest control, and more, subsonic cartridges serve multiple roles. Damon Zito from Vortex’s product development team joins Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn for a fun discussion on subsonic cartridges, their versatility, and how they are using them.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 443 | Q Rifles27 Apr 202601:06:57

Cody Osborn from Q sits down with Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn for an in-depth discussion about Q, their ethos, and some very cool products. Known for their engineering, bucking the status quo, and personality, Q is a unique company doing impressive things in the firearms space.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

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