Best Vortex Optics Podcasts (2025)

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12 Minute Talk: Nightforce NX8 1-8x24 Review 16:36

Play Pause

2h ago16:36

16:36

Wade breaks down a long-term, in-the-field review of the Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 with the FC-DMx reticle on 12.5 and 14.5 hunting rifles. From reticle design, 1x performance, eye box and eye relief to low-light limitations, durability, and real coyote and deer stand use, this episode is a deep dive on whether this LPVO is worth the money for serio…

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Meatball by Telegram??? | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 30 42:21

1d ago42:21

42:21

Things get saucy as Mark and Ryan debate why their opponent is on the naughty list, the hunt they’d take Santa on, the cartridge they’d hunt Iowa deer with and more. Are Mark’s answers and Christmas gift for Jim good enough or does Ryan come between him and the threepeat? Tune in to find out! As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if…

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#10MinuteTalk | Mark Got a Suppressor! 22:26

2d ago22:26

22:26

Mark quietly did his research. In silence and unbeknownst to the guys, he finally pulled the trigger. It took everything he had to suppress his secret until the big podcast reveal. Disguised as a revisit to Jimmy’s pizza oven culinary exploits, he surprises them with the big news. Can they believe it? Which one did he pick? As always, we want to he…

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TPH 187: Talking Shop, Velocities and Our Most Common Questions 1:04:59

2d ago1:04:59

1:04:59

Brooke has been answering the Ally Munitions phone, and she’s here with Wade to talk about real customer questions, website product descriptions, and why this isn’t a 24‑hour hotline. They walk through the ammo pages, explain how Ally’s internal velocity model works across barrel lengths and temps, and break down what Coyoterro, Canned Ham, Cull Bu…

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Ep. 426 | Answering Your Questions | A Lot of Them! 2:02:31

3d ago2:02:31

2:02:31

When we asked for questions, you guys delivered! Tune in as the guys tackle cartridges they don’t own but want, tire chains, dream hunts, the high-pressure cartridge they wish existed, and a heck of a lot more. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us…

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12 Minute Talk: One Cartridge to Rule Them All 14:39

7d ago14:39

14:39

Wade pulls back the curtain on how rifle and gear projects actually get done, from summer bench work and viewer barrel tests to winter field time on real animals. He explains why some projects go quiet for months, how bipod and barrel testing never really ends, and how all of it has to make sense alongside Ally Munitions’ day-to-day work. Then he k…

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#10MinuteTalk | Coffee Talk | Will Jimmy Finally Like Coffee? 40:47

9d ago40:47

40:47

Will a heart-felt letter and listener-submitted specialty coffee finally get Jimmy to see the coffee light? Tune in as the guys “pour over” this fun topic aimed at getting Jimmy’s life on the right track. 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 In…

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TPH 186: Modern Whitetail Management: Moultrie, Feed Hubs & Cell Cams 58:39

9d ago58:39

58:39

Wade walks through his switch to Moultrie’s connected ecosystem, using feed hubs, cell cams, and app tools to manage feeders, cameras, and deer data across a big Texas ranch while cutting down on wasted trips and human pressure. www.allymunitions.com

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Ep. 425 | Deer of the Year | 2025 Season Recap 1:57:16

10d ago1:57:16

1:57:16

Arrows flung and bullets sent, a crew of Vortex folks pack the podcast studio for a deer-season recap. Big bucks, medium bucks, young bucks, and doe’s — nothing was safe. Tune in to hear the stories behind the venison. 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 …

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12 Minute Talk: Just Go Hunt: Whitetail Management, Ethics, and Cutting Through the Noise 14:23

14d ago14:23

14:23

Wade dives into whitetail hunting across West Texas, from ranch management and deer population control to stand hunting versus spot-and-stalk tactics. He breaks down trail cam strategies, adapts to a wet year's abundance of forage, and tackles the endless debates about hunting ethics and "real hunting." Whether you're a predator hunter, bowhunter, …

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#10MinuteTalk | Choosing a Binocular Configuration 29:04

16d ago29:04

29:04

Choosing a binocular configuration shouldn’t be a daunting task. Vortex’s binocular expert, Mike McDowell, joins Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn to talk through the pros and cons of various models. Compacts, to “Big Eyes”, they cover them all. What binocular is right for you? Tune in to find out. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us k…

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TPH 185: My Antelope Hunt: Solo Strategies & Gear Lessons 30:02

16d ago30:02

30:02

Join Wade for a full rundown of this year’s antelope adventure in Northwest Texas! Today’s quick episode wraps up our pronghorn season opener. a trip packed with memories, lessons, and laughs. Hear how a simple solo plan turned into a hunt full of glassing, gear tests, and unpredictable moments. From prepping a side-by-side to dial-in shooting with…

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Ep. 424 | Vortex Holiday Gift Guide 40:30

17d ago40:30

40:30

Need the perfect gift? Vortex has you covered. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn highlight select Vortex products sure to keep you on everyone’s “nice list.” 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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12 Minute Talk: Gray Fox Calling Masterclass | FoxPro X24 Live Seminar 30:56

21d ago30:56

30:56

Learn how to build deadly‑simple but highly effective gray fox stands using 12‑minute sequences, high‑pitch prey distress, and fox distress sounds that trigger aggressive responses. In this live‑recorded seminar, we walk through lipsqueaks, rodent squeaks, bird and rabbit sounds, volume control, and when to switch into gray fox distress to seal the…

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#10MinuteTalk | 7mm Backcountry Reloading Dies and Data 37:15

23d ago37:15

37:15

As we hit the launch button on a bunch of 7mm Backcountry content, Federal hit the launch button on reloading dies and load data. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn cover what’s new and what it means for this cartridge. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by a…

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TPH 184: 437 Yards to Confidence: Dad's Antelope Hunt 1:55:04

23d ago1:55:04

1:55:04

Daddy tags an antelope at 437 yards, and Wade follows it up from the roof of a side‑by‑side, turning this Texas trip into a masterclass on real‑world long‑range hunting. They break down pre‑hunt practice to 600+ yards, shooting through grass, and why a confident 400‑yard shot can be just as ethical as a 100‑yard chip shot. They also dives into Dad…

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Ep. 423 | Pedersoli Rocky Mountain Hawkin | Muckenhirn’s Traditional Muzzleloader 1:09:14

24d ago1:09:14

1:09:14

Ryan Muckenhirn brings in his Pedersoli Rocky Mountain Hawkin muzzleloader. He and Mark Boardman talk through its features, the story behind it, and what makes it so cool. A link to our mountain-man past, traditional muzzleloaders are intrinsically awesome in every way. This podcast may just inspire you to purchase one of your own. As always, we wa…

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12 Minute Talk: Let's Talk Rumble | The Podcast's Move From YouTube 11:37

28d ago11:37

11:37

Wade discusses the sudden removal of the podcast from YouTube after repeated strikes, the uncertainty of creating firearm and hunting content on major platforms, and the future of the show on Rumble and Spotify. Listeners get updates on where to find episodes, why some content may be lost, and how to connect for support. www.allymunitions.com…

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Deer Drives, Ye or Nay | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 29 37:26

30d ago37:26

37:26

Lights, camera, spaghetti! The ethics of deer drives, Adam Sandler movie characters, and more. Can Mark make a coherent argument and come away with another win? Does Ryan noodle around for the right words only to slip in the spaghetti sauce of life? Tune in to find out. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics y…

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TPH 183: Vortex Razor Gen 3 4-24x44 | Optic Review 50:40

1M ago50:40

50:40

This episode brings a hands-on review of the new Vortex Razor Gen 3 4-24x44, offering real hunting feedback and technical insights. Wade details the show’s recent boot from YouTube, why content is shifting to Rumble and Spotify, and gives honest, no-nonsense opinions on scope performance, practical use, and market competition in the hunting optics …

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Ep. 422 | Ryan Muckenhirn’s New .300 SUPER WSM | Cow Elk Hunt Plan 1:09:45

1M ago1:09:45

1:09:45

After talking about and testing the .300 SUPER WSM, Ryan had to build one of his own. Tune in for the breakdown of his new rifle and get the scoop on his and Mark’s plan to put their .300 SUPER WSM’s to the test on a late-season cow elk hunt. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vor…

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12 Minute Talk: Thoughts on Building Your Very Own 6 ARC | Q&A 30:07

1M ago30:07

30:07

Looking to build your next 6MM ARC? This episode is for you! Please send all questions to [email protected] #texaspredatorhunting #allymunitions #podcast #outdoors Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allymunitions/ https://www.instagram.com/allyoutdoors/ https://www.instagram.com/wade.thejudge/ https://www.instagram.com/texaspred…

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Ep. 421 | Remi Warren | Is the 7mm Backcountry the New .300 WSM? 36:52

1M ago36:52

36:52

Remi Warren talks about his personal hunting experience with the 7mm Backcountry and its impressive performance. Like Mark Boardman, he is a big fan of the .300 WSM. They’ve even podcasted about the many fine attributes of the .300 WSM previously. But is the 7mm Backcountry claiming the crown as Remi’s big-game go-to? Listen and find out. As always…

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The Woods & Water Podcast | Talking 6 ARC, 22 ARC, & All Things Coyote 1:35:36

1M ago1:35:36

1:35:36

Join Wade on the Woods and Water Podcast, as he dives deep into the best AR-15 cartridges for coyote hunting, shares insights on rifle builds, and discusses the latest in predator hunting gear and tactics. This episode is a must-listen for hunters looking to optimize their setups and learn from one of the industry’s leading voices. www.allymunition…

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Ep. 420 | 7MM Backcountry | The Short-Barreled Big Game Do-all? 1:10:02

1M ago1:10:02

1:10:02

Back from the range shooting every Federal loading through two 7mm Backcountry rifles (Proof Research and Weatherby), Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn have a lot to digest. They analyze the chronograph data, bullet offerings, factory rifle options, and overall performance. Is owning a 7mm Backcountry in their future? Listen and find out. As always…

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12 Minute Talk: QC Over Quick Cash: Why Integrity Still Matters 30:18

1M ago30:18

30:18

Wade cuts through industry excuses on this episode, sharing why owning mistakes and quality control aren’t optional at Ally Munitions. Hear how every AR-15 barrel gets fully tested and why even big brands get rejected if they don’t measure up. If you care about real customer service and gear you can trust, this episode shows how it should be done. …

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#10MinuteTalk | Folds of Honor | Crafted Impact 16:33

1M ago16:33

16:33

Folds of Honor provides scholarships to the children and spouses of military and first responders fallen or disabled in the line of duty. Listen and learn more about this great organization and the Vortex/Folds of Honor Crafted Impact collaboration. Together, we can raise money and support their life-changing cause. As always, we want to hear your …

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TPH 182: Jared Niblett | PT.2 | Deep Dive into Precision Hunting & Ballistics. 1:44:43

1M ago1:44:43

1:44:43

In Part Two, Jared Niblett dives deep into the practical side of long-range hunting and precision shooting. He discusses the ballistic performance of various bullet types, including detailed critiques and testing experiences with both traditional and monolithic bullets. Jared shares insights on custom rifle builds, emphasizing key components like a…

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Ep. 419 | 7mm Backcountry | The Full Story from Federal 54:02

2M ago54:02

54:02

Federal’s Eric Miller gives a detailed rundown on their 7mm Backcountry cartridge and Peak Alloy case technology. High pressure coupled with short barrels optimal for suppression and magnum performance just might have you headed to your local gun shop. Tune in to get the gouge on this more than intriguing cartridge. As always, we want to hear your …

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12 Minute Talk: Viewer Q&A | 6mm ARC Handloads, Velocity Myths, and Powder Truths 13:12

2M ago13:12

13:12

In this episode, Wade digs into a viewer Q&A from listener Cole M., who just picked up his first suppressor and AR build. The conversation goes deep into 95-grain SST handloads for the 6mm ARC. What to expect, how powders like Varget and Leverevolution stack up, and why burn rate charts matter more than hype. Wade also shares thoughts on clean vs d…

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#10MinuteTalk | Muzzy Bullet Breakdown 48:06

2M ago48:06

48:06

Muzzleloader bullets come in all shapes and sizes. Round balls to polymer-tipped and custom-swaged, there are a lot of options to choose from. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn run through the different styles, advantages they offer, and which may be the best for you. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you…

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TPH 181: Debunking Long Range Myths: Ethics, Ballistics, and Real-World Hunting Lessons with Jared Niblett 1:29:36

2M ago1:29:36

1:29:36

In this episode, Jared Niblett from the Long Range Hunting Group joins for a deep-dive into the controversies and realities of long range hunting. The crew breaks down common misconceptions about ethical shooting distances, the impact of cartridge and bullet choices, and why internet debates often get it wrong. With candid stories from the field, h…

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Ep. 418 | Semi-Auto Deer Rifles, Princes of Pie-Plate Precision? 59:08

2M ago59:08

59:08

Semi-auto deer rifles are the Kings of fast follow-up shots, the Dukes of deer drives, and Princes of pie-plate precision (kidding on that last part). A cultural norm in some regions and nearly absent in others, semi-autos often prove much more accurate than many folks give them credit for. Tune in to this podcast where Mark Boardman and Ryan Mucke…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap | Early October Big Buck Down 27:51

2M ago27:51

27:51

Vortex’s Maggie Carsello gives us the rundown on her early October archery whitetail. The biggest buck she’s shot to date, her story is proof positive it pays to strategically target bucks through every stage of the 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…

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12 Minute Talk: MasterPiece Arms .308 | Range Report 13:56

2M ago13:56

13:56

Wade is back with a range report, testing the Masterpiece Arms .308 Winchester. A sturdy chassis rifle that’s winning over even the skeptics in the world of predator hunting. In this episode, Wade breaks down real-world test results with a lineup of hard-hitting ammo, including Sig Sauer Elite, Hornady Match, Federal Gold Medal Match, and custom Al…

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The WORST Piece of Hunting Advice You Still Hear | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 28 43:11

2M ago43:11

43:11

The gang is back with their spaghetti six shooters slinging meatballs and mild insults. Can Mark Boardman take down the all-knowing Ryan Muckenhirn or does he fall face first in his plate of pasta shame. Optimal rifle barrel length to hunting advice that’s just plain wrong, tune in as they battle it out in the name of spaghetti glory. As always, we…

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TPH 180: Building the Ultimate AR | PWS Innovation & the Suppressor Trends. 1:47:27

2M ago1:47:27

1:47:27

This episode welcomes Justin Rainey (VP of Sales, PWS and Lone Wolf Arms) and Jose Oñate (Sales Coordination, PWS/Lone Wolf Arms) for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of AR platforms, the design logic behind mod 1 vs. mod 2, and how PWS balances industry innovation with consumer confusion. The session covers: The history and technic…

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Ep. 417 | Thermal Drone Deer Research — Unlocking Whitetail Secrets 1:21:22

2M ago1:21:22

1:21:22

Derrick Dixon, founder of the Whitetail Research YouTube channel, buzzes by virtually like a thermal drone to talk about his self-documented, year-long, thermal-drone-based deer study. If you’re interested in mature buck behavior, tune in to hear what he learned monitoring these mysterious creatures from above. As always, we want to hear your feedb…

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#10MinuteTalk | South Dakota Deer, Cattle, Mosquitos and Miles 29:37

2M ago29:37

29:37

Dan Johnson joins Mark Boardman to report back on his SD muley hunt. He gives his take on an area that’s historically produced and why it was just plain tough this year. Successful or not, we learn from every hunt. This one is no exception. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vorte…

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12 Minute Talk: CVA Cascade 22-250 Range Report & MORE 10:03

2M ago10:03

10:03

Wade reports in on the CVA Cascade in .22-250 Remington. He tests four types of ammo from Hornady to Ally Munitions. Sharing group sizes and velocity results, and explains why “On the Bench” videos are moving from YouTube to Rumble. Tune in for rifle insights, ammo comparisons, and a discussion on what makes a true MOA rifle. www.allymunitions.com…

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#10MinuteTalk | Ryan Muckenhirn’s Pet .308 Load 33:46

2M ago33:46

33:46

Ryan Muckenhirn loves the .308 Winchester and Barnes Bullets. These two facts combine making a podcast all about his pet .308 load and the compelling argument as to its incredible effectiveness. Tune in and prepare to buy a box or two for yourself. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on t…

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TPH 179: Talking Suppressors with Jimmy Bell of Kovix 1:38:06

2M ago1:38:06

1:38:06

In this episode, Wade sits down with Jimmy Bell from Kovix, a premium outdoor brand redefining the world of lightweight titanium silencers. Jimmy shares the Kovix story; from the company’s origins to its obsession with craftsmanship, precision, and doing things the right way. We dive into the evolution of suppressor technology, the meaning of quali…

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Ep. 416 | The Vortex Origin Story with President and CEO, Joe Hamilton 1:44:01

2M ago1:44:01

1:44:01

Joe Hamilton, President and CEO of Vortex, sits down with Mark Boardman to give Vortex’s gritty origin story, shed light on the philosophies that make Vortex what it is, and let you know about a brand-new podcast he’ll be hosting. If you like inspiring stories, great information, and want a sneak peek into a platform that may be exactly what you an…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap - Scottish Highlands Red Stag, Sika Deer and Salmon 1:13:23

2M ago1:13:23

1:13:23

Mark Boardman travels to the Scottish Highlands to meet up with the Spartan Precision team. Together, they tackle its rugged terrain and inclement weather in pursuit of red stag, sika deer, and if the stars align, an Atlantic salmon. The landscape breathtaking, Kildermorie Estate Lodge historic, people amazing, and culture rich, this hunt exceeded …

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12 Minute Talk: Whats Next For Us? 17:42

2M ago17:42

17:42

A candid discussion about channel strikes, adapting to YouTube’s evolving content rules, and how we can safely navigate platform changes in 2025. Subscribe for more updates and gear deep dives! www.allymunitions.com

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12 Minute Talk: What's Next For Us | Navigating YouTubes Rules and Policies 17:42

2M ago17:42

17:42

A candid discussion about channel strikes, adapting to YouTube’s evolving content rules, and how we can safely navigate platform changes in 2025. There are no demonstrations, and no links to firearm sales. Just real talk about podcasting, gear, and keeping your channel safe and growing on YouTube. Subscribe for more updates and gear deep dives!…

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#10MinuteTalk | Vortex Triumph HD 3-9x40 Riflescope and 850 Rangefinder 24:33

2M ago24:33

24:33

The price/performance ratio bar has been set again. The Vortex Triumph HD 3-9x40 Riflescope and 850 Rangefinder are built to impress without depleting your pocketbook. Perfect for budget conscious hunters, casual hunters, and new hunters, these optics round out the Triumph series and will get you in the game. Listen as Luke Roberts and Shane Callag…

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TPH 178 | Live Q&A: 338 ARC Reality Check, 22 Creed vs 6 ARC, and MORE! 1:24:34

2M ago1:24:34

1:24:34

Wade dives into real-world cartridge talk: 338 ARC, 22 Creed, 6 ARC, and more. Sharing honest thoughts and Q&A from a live Instagram session. 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/055rJxAY9EIbVue8ZYyzPR 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-texas-predator-hunting-podcast/id1620132105 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tph…

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Ep. 415 | 5 Listener-Requested Optics-Ready Pistols Tested 1:20:16

2M ago1:20:16

1:20:16

You selected 5 optics-ready pistols. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn shot them. Listen as they run through the features, what they liked, didn’t like, and points to consider. 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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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap - Clay Hayes Alaska Adventure 56:01

3M ago56:01

56:01

Clay Hayes joins Mark Boardman to talk through his month-long Alaska adventure. Moose hunting with his self-bow, fishing, bears, and more made this trip one to remember. Tune in to hear all about it. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagr…