Best Vortex Optics Podcasts (2025)

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#10MinuteTalk - Crossfire® HD Riflescopes — Impressive Quality, Features, and Optics 28:34

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6d ago28:34

28:34

The Vortex Crossfire® HD Riflescope series represents quality, economy and versatility. Boasting features and optics found on more expensive options, a deep lineup of configurations, and reticles to suit a wide range of hunters and shooters, they are truly the every-man’s riflescope series. Luke Roberts from Vortex’s product development team joins …

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The Military Chose THIS Scope (ft. Vortex Optics) 32:31

23d ago32:31

32:31

Join John and Kailey this week for a jam-packed episode as we sit down with Mark from Vortex Optics to talk gear, hunting, and the Second Amendment. From his favorite all-around rifle scope to wild warranty stories, including optics run over by trucks and dropped off cliffs—Mark shares insider knowledge and real-world tips for choosing the right op…

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Ep. 410 | Outside-The-Box Adventure Hunts 1:10:49

2h ago1:10:49

1:10:49

Adventure is what and where you make it. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn chat through outside-the-box adventure hunts they have planned — to hopefully inspire you to plan yours. From multi-state/multi-species upland bird safaris to equipment-intensive back-40 does, this is a fun podcast you won’t want to miss. As always, we want to hear your feed…

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#10MinuteTalk - Fall Hunt Recap — Washington Black Bear 33:55

4d ago33:55

33:55

Zack Ellis from Pacific North Wild takes a break from fall bear hunting to give us a season update. He covers conditions and timing specific to this year, bear encounters thus far, tactics, and what to look for in the coming weeks. Tune in for some solid info and tips you can take to the field. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know …

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What If Ammo Worked Like Bitcoin? (ft. Bullet Vault) 55:37

2d ago55:37

55:37

In this episode of State of the Second, we sit down with Clay from Bullet Vault. He shares insights into his personal firearm preferences, his experience in the gun industry, and how his companies are responding to changes in the market. Throughout the conversation, Clay opens up about the cultural and political challenges facing the firearms indus…

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Ep. 409 | Grouse Biology and More with Meadow Kouffeld 1:26:21

7d ago1:26:21

1:26:21

Ecologist, guide, dog trainer, and taxidermist, Meadow Kouffeld, gives us a rundown on Ruffed Grouse biology and their habits. Knowing your quarry isn’t just interesting, it will make you a better hunter. Quit grousing around and tune in for some great grouse info. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd …

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Why Training Is an Investment in Your Life (ft. Tre’Von Barber) 40:30

9d ago40:30

40:30

In this episode, Kailey and John sit down with Trevon Barber from Right to Bear to talk all things training, competition, and responsible gun ownership. Trevon shares his journey from wrestling to firearms competition, how he built a career teaching others, and why proper education is just as important as owning a firearm. Trevon also discusses the…

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#317 - Using a Thermal Drone to Study Mature Bucks for a Whole Season! - w/Whitetail Research 1:51:27

10d ago1:51:27

1:51:27

In this episode, Zach talks with Derrick from the YouTube channel Whitetail Research about how he decided to take a season off from bowhunting to study mature bucks by following specific deer with a thermal drone. There are a lot of interesting details that Derrick learned about whitetails that other studies may not have been able to document as we…

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#10MinuteTalk - Arrow Setup and Pre-Season Tuning with Erik Barber 42:07

13d ago42:07

42:07

Meticulous, methodical, a stickler for consistency and precision, Erik Barber is serious about his hunting arrows. From component selection to tuning each complete arrow to perfection, he leaves no detail unturned. Tune in to hear what he’s using, why, and what he does to make each arrow hit behind the pin. As always, we want to hear your feedback!…

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Ep. 408 | Elk Hunting Tips with Argali’s Brad Brooks 1:03:33

14d ago1:03:33

1:03:33

Argali’s Brad Brooks drops by to drop some hard-earned elk hunting and backcountry gear knowledge. Years of chasing and consistently harvesting bulls makes his voice a good one to listen to. Weave some of Brad’s elk hunting advice into your tactics tool kit and you just might get your Argali game bags dirty this fall. As always, we want to hear you…

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Gun Content Creator Exposes ATF Overreach (ft. Desk Pop) 41:32

16d ago41:32

41:32

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Desk Pop for an unfiltered conversation about gun culture, navigating restrictive states, and why the firearms community is seeing a cultural shift toward fun, welcoming, and engaging content. From working behind the gun counter to launching a thriving YouTube channel, to being d…

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#10MinuteTalk - Ranger® HD 3000 Laser Rangefinding Binocular — Your Two in One Solution 21:11

20d ago21:11

21:11

Range with precision, minimize kit, save time, spot shots, and glass away — all with the Ranger® HD 3000 Laser Rangefinding Binocular. This 10x42 unit is a two-in-one solution for your observation and rangefinding needs. Tune in to hear all about its impressive features and why it may just be your next optic of choice. As always, we want to hear yo…

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Ep. 407 | Dan Johnson — Sportsmen’s Empire and Life-Related Rabbit Trails 1:35:26

21d ago1:35:26

1:35:26

Dan Johnson from the Sportsmen’s Empire Podcast Network visits Vortex. He and Mark Boardman talk about the Sportsmen’s Empire platform, his personal podcasts, life, kids, time best spent, hunting and more. Tune in for a great conversation with a down-to-earth dude. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd …

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#10MinuteTalk - The .264 Win Mag — Fast, Flat and Nearly Forgotten 26:40

27d ago26:40

26:40

The high-velocity .264 Winchester Magnum built its reputation around flat-shooting performance and its ability to flatten game. Making its commercial debut in 1959, it was soon overshadowed but the 7mm Remington Magnum. Tune in as Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn talk about this incredibly capable yet nearly forgotten cartridge. As always, we want…

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Ep. 406 | Stocks Versus Chassis — What’s Your Pick? 1:20:42

28d ago1:20:42

1:20:42

This round-table discussion takes place around a table loaded with a wide variety of rifle stocks and chassis. Models, features, total wight, and material composition abound. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn and precision-rifle-shooter Mike Tassoul talk through what they like, where each is optimal, and what works best for them. As always, we want to…

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Why the World Is Watching American Gun Culture (ft. GunnyGal) 54:56

1M ago54:56

54:56

Join us this week as John and Kailey sit down with Alyssa (aka @TheGunnyGal) and her husband Tanner for a conversation that blends guns, cars, CrossFit, and content creation into one unstoppable lifestyle. In this episode, Alyssa shares her journey from being intimidated by firearms to becoming a confident 2A educator on YouTube. She and Tanner dis…

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#10MinuteTalk - Backcountry Meal Taste Test — Know Before You Go! 38:19

1M ago38:19

38:19

Food Selection in the backcountry can make or break your hunt. From simply having to choke down what should be a reward at the end of a hard day, to hunt-ruining gastrointestinal issues, it’s good practice to know before you go. Just trust us here! Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn and new-to-the podcast, Rylan Benson, bring their favorites to share. …

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Ep. 405 | Answering Your Questions 1:25:09

1M ago1:25:09

1:25:09

You asked, we answered. Light-hearted to technical, the gang is back answering listener questions. There’s a little bit of everything in this buffet of banter. 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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Why Home Ranges Are the Future (ft. TCRT) 40:08

1M ago40:08

40:08

This week on State of the Second, Kailey and John sit down with Curt from TCRT Targets to talk about the future of range training, self-healing rubber targets, and why fun, flexible home setups are changing the game. Kurt shares his journey from firearms marketing to launching one of the most durable target lines on the market, explains why GOA’s l…

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#10MinuteTalk - Archery Releases for Bowhunting 48:34

1M ago48:34

48:34

Selecting a release for compound bowhunting is a big decision. Styles and opinions abound. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and one of the most consistent whitetail whackers we know, Erik Barber, team up to give their thoughts. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podc…

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Ep. 404 | Advanced Antelope Tactics with Eastmans’ Hunting 1:09:35

1M ago1:09:35

1:09:35

Ike Eastman and Brandon Mason from Wyoming-based Eastmans’ Hunting break down antelope tips and tactics that will have you breaking down your next big buck. On the surface, pursuing these critters may seem simple. That can be true, but when you dive into their biology, habitat, and unique behaviors, there’s more to antelope hunting than meets their…

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#10MinuteTalk - Unlock Hidden Tikka Performance — Economical Aftermarket Upgrades 29:17

2M ago29:17

29:17

Up the performance of your Tikka with aftermarket accessories that don’t break the bank. Small, inexpensive, easy to implement changes can yield big results and options from a wide swath of reputable manufacturers abound. Mark Boardman, Erik Barber and Ryan Muckenhirn talk through several to consider. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let u…

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Ep. 403 | Flintlock Muzzleloader Hunting with Clay Hayes 50:02

2M ago50:02

50:02

Take your muzzleloader hunting to the next level by taking a step back in time with a flintlock. Primitive weapon, hunting, and bushcraft expert, Clay Hayes, sits down with Mark Boardman to talk about flint-lock hunting. They cover what makes them fun, challenging, rewarding, specific hunts, and how they work. As always, we want to hear your feedba…

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What It Takes to Become a Gunsmith in 2025 (ft. SDI) 49:25

2M ago49:25

49:25

Join us for a deep-dive conversation with Jarred from Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) on the State of the Second podcast! From the future of gunsmithing to the importance of hands-on training, Jarred shares what it takes to succeed in the firearms industry today. We talk shop about AR platforms, and why trade education is more vital than ever. Wheth…

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#10MinuteTalk - Cool Guns with Ian Klemm — Double Rifle Made For a Prince 39:10

2M ago39:10

39:10

Vortex’s Ian Klemm, the “King of Collectable Firearms,” drops in with one made for a Prince. Tune in to hear all about this petite double rifle and the sleuthing Ian did to learn its royal heritage. 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 Instagra…

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Ep. 402 | Defending Your Castle — Carbine, Shotgun, or Pistol? 1:00:49

2M ago1:00:49

1:00:49

The drywall dust has settled. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn are back in the podcast studio analyzing their respective home defense firearm choices — and how they performed. Gel, drywall, and a move-and-shoot course made for an interesting test yielding interesting results. What are you selecting to defend your castle? This episode may help guid…

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But is it Actually as Good as Live Fire Training? (Ft. Mantis) 47:22

2M ago47:22

47:22

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Grant from Mantis, the innovative minds behind some of the most advanced dry fire and training tools in the firearm world. From the Blackbeard AR trigger reset system to the upcoming Titan X training pistol and augmented reality environments, Mantis is pushing the boundaries of h…

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#10MinuteTalk - Hunt Stories — The Snake and The Skunk 33:20

2M ago33:20

33:20

Telling the story is 1/3 the hunt. Some stories are memorable for reasons outside of coming home with your quarry. Mark Boardman, Sawyer Briel, and Graham Cronin team up to tell a few funny ones. 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 @…

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Ep. 401 | Raw Horsepower — John Lazzeroni of Lazzeroni Arms Visits Vortex 1:51:39

2M ago1:51:39

1:51:39

Long-range pioneer, innovator, rifle builder, and cartridge designer, John Lazzeroni, drops by to showcase his high-stepping, hard-hitting rifles. The guys shoot his new 7.82 Warbird 110 grain loading at more than 4,000 fps. and the 9.53 Saturn pushing a 300-grain projectile north of 3,000 fps. In-depth history and great stories from a guy who was …

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What the Firearms Industry Gets Wrong About Women. (ft. Tracy Lee) 1:02:26

2M ago1:02:26

1:02:26

In this episode of State of the Second, Tracy Lee joins Kailey and John to share her wild origin story in the 2A space, why real training matters more than just posing with guns, and how to be taken seriously in this industry. She dives into the truth about censorship on social media, what it’s really like to be a female influencer in a male-domina…

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#10MinuteTalk - Hammer Bullets — Do They Hammer? 44:40

2M ago44:40

44:40

Hammer Bullets are a proverbial new kid on the bullet block. But are they built to knock the blocks off big game? Lathe turned with incredible precision, they are uniquely engineered to expand rapidly, shed pedals, and have the shank continue through the animal. Their design subscribes to a terminal-performance philosophy departing from the monolit…

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#316 - Arrow and Broadhead Testing w/Dr. Ed Ashby 1:05:32

2M ago1:05:32

1:05:32

In this episode, Aaron and Troy Fowler (A.K.A. Ranch Fairy) talk with Dr. Ed Ashby. Dr. Ashby has spent decades testing arrow and broadhead lethality on wild animals. https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/ Follow Ranch Fairy - https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchFairy THP MERCH: https://bit.ly/30ZC1rm - Get 10% off THP Merch w/Code ZACH OPTICS - 10% off Vorte…

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Ep. 400 | Left-Handed Shooter Considerations 1:02:21

2M ago1:02:21

1:02:21

It’s unfair, but left-handed shooters are often left out, disregarded, and dismissed when it comes to products designed to accommodate their handedness. High-level competitive shooters and left-handers, Adam Maxwell and Ian Klemm swing by to give us the rundown on left-handed shooter considerations. Firearm features, special equipment, competitive …

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Ep. 399 | Your Public Land is at Risk of Being Sold — MeatEater’s Ryan Callaghan Breaks It Down 46:24

2M ago46:24

46:24

MeatEater’s Director of Conservation, Ryan Callaghan sits down to talk us through current legislation being considered that aims to sell off America’s public lands — and what you can do to make your voice heard. This is a non-partisan issue that impacts anybody who appreciates and enjoys our public lands in any capacity. If this legislation is acce…

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Meet the Founder who SOLVED Concealed Carry for Gym Shorts (ft. Arrowhead Tactical) 46:50

2M ago46:50

46:50

In this episode of the State of the Second Podcast, John and Kailey are joined by Alexander from Arrowhead Tactical — the brand that’s changing how we think about concealed carry apparel. From gym shorts to joggers, fanny packs to full-size pistols, Alexander breaks down what makes carry actually discreet… and where most people are giving themselve…

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#10MinuteTalk - Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission Caught in Gross Misconduct 38:22

3M ago38:22

38:22

Violations of open meetings laws, collusion with animal extremists on policy matters, exclusion of tribal co-managers when legally bound to consult, and more. Todd Adkins from Sportsmen’s Alliance joins Mark Boardman to tell us all about the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission’s gross misconduct — and what Sportsmen’s Alliance is doing to expos…

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Ep. 398 | Daniel Defense H9 — The New Do-All Pistol? 49:59

3M ago49:59

49:59

In this twisty tale of two pistols, Vortex’s Adam Maxwell brings in the original Hudson H9 and the present-day Daniel Defense H9. The overall concept of blending desirable attributes of the beloved 1911 and today’s popular striker-fired pistols is the same, the pistols themselves are very different. We cover the saga, the features, and what it offe…

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How WD-40 Can Ruin Your Gun! (ft. Otis Technology) 37:42

3M ago37:42

37:42

In this episode of the State of the Second John and Kailey are joined by Bill Cleftis, CEO of Otis Technology, to dive deep into the world of gun cleaning, CCW training, and what it’s really like to be a gun owner in post-Bruen New York. Whether you’re a seasoned 2A advocate or a new gun owner, this episode is packed with real talk, expert advice, …

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#10MinuteTalk - Hunting Regulation Changes — In the News 33:51

3M ago33:51

33:51

State fish and game agencies update their regulations every year. Some changes are bigger than others. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn highlight a few sure to elate or infuriate. Tune in and stay in the know. 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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Ep. 397 | Hunting the UK — The Trip You Didn’t Know You Needed 1:38:03

3M ago1:38:03

1:38:03

Hunting the UK is a world apart from hunting North America — which is exactly why you should add it to your hunting to-do list. 5 species of deer, culture, stunning landscapes, tradition, and history are just a few things that make this place special. Rob Gearing from Spartan Precision joins Mark Boardman to tell us all about it! Tune in only if yo…

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What Building Your Own AR Says About You…(ft. Brownells) 55:56

3M ago55:56

55:56

Pete Brownell of Brownells joins State of the Second to talk gun culture, DIY building, and why the firearms industry must stay politically engaged. From suppressors and the HPA to the rise of gunsmithing and trade schools, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the right to build, repair, and protect. Register for GOALS 2025, Aug…

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#10MinuteTalk - Single Shot Rifles — Economical to Extravagant 58:07

3M ago58:07

58:07

Simple, utilitarian, elegant, romantic, inexpensive, exorbitantly priced — single shot rifles run the gamut. They also share undeniable commonalities. Ian Klemm and Ryan Muckenhirn drop by the studio to chat with Mark Boardman about single shot rifles, their charm, and where they sit in today’s rifle landscape. As always, we want to hear your feedb…

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Ep. 396 | The Quarter-Bore Revival 1:16:28

3M ago1:16:28

1:16:28

Quarter-bores like the 25-06 have spent their lives in the shadows of more popular cartridges. Cult followings of folks in the know have kept them alive — barely. Was not reaching their full potential the reason they never got to sit at the cool kid’s table? Could spinning higher weight, higher BC bullets faster breathe new life into old classics —…

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Traveling Armed in America: Why is it so Complicated? (ft. Elite Tactical Systems) 1:02:25

3M ago1:02:25

1:02:25

What happens when your constitutional rights change the moment you cross a state line? In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Eddie Loveday from ETS to talk about the wild reality of navigating America with a firearm. From literally rerouting his road trips through Memphis to avoid anti-gun states, to exposing the myt…

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#10MinuteTalk - 5 Elk Hunting Tips from Elk Shape’s Dan Staton 21:54

3M ago21:54

21:54

Dan Staton has dedicated his life to perfecting his elk-hunting craft. For Dan, 11 months of the year exist for one reason — to get ready for September. The result of his intense focus — bulls on the ground with incredible consistency. Tune in and draft off his hard-earned experience. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there a…

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Ep. 395 | Mule Deer and the Mule Deer Foundation 40:20

3M ago40:20

40:20

Trevor Hubbs from the Mule Deer Foundation jumps on to chat about mule deer, threats they face, and the great work MDF is doing to ensure a prosperous future for these amazing critters. Habitat, overpasses, funding, and the new Blacktail Deer Foundation, he migrates through interesting information you’ll want to know. As always, we want to hear you…

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Lightest Cartridge for Deer | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 26 29:56

3M ago29:56

29:56

All meatballs, all the time, the Spaghetti Shootout season-three finale is loaded with quippy questions from YOU! Jimmy gets kidnapped by thugs, fishing for Nessie, immortality, and more, the guy’s debate topics only true intellectuals dare ponder. Does Mark go out with a bang or shoot himself in the foot? Tune in to find out. As always, we want to…

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Would YOU Trust Your Life to This Mag? (ft. KCI USA) 55:31

3M ago55:31

55:31

This week on State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with KCI USA for a raw and honest conversation about rebuilding trust, improving quality, and standing strong for the 2A community. They talk about brand redemption, product quality, and the fight to restore trust in the gun community—all while tackling big-picture 2A issues like complacenc…

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#10MinuteTalk - The TC Encore is Back 39:09

3M ago39:09

39:09

The TC Encore is back for its encore appearance. After being purchased by S&W and subsequently shelved, some of the original owners are resurrecting the brand. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn talk about the rifles, what they offer a hunter, personal experiences with them, and where they fit in today’s modern firearm and muzzleloader landscape. As…

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Ep. 394 | Wisconsin CWD, Deer and Predator Study — Dissecting the Results 1:16:39

4M ago1:16:39

1:16:39

Wisconsin DNR’s Dan Storm joins Mark Boardman to examine the multi-year Southwest Wisconsin CWD, Deer and Predator Study. He gives us the “why” behind the study, how it was conducted and their findings. Tune in for interesting information on a contentious topic. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd lik…