The Barnes Bullets Podcast

Is hydrostatic shock real—or is it one of the most misunderstood myths in hunting ballistics?Hunters constantly talk about hydrostatic shock, knockdown power, energy transfer, shock waves, wound channelsand animals “dropping in their tracks.” But are all those terms describing the same thing—or are we giving hydrostatic shock credit for something else happening inside the animal?In this episode of Ballistics Briefs by Barnes, Dale and Gregg break down what actually happens when a hunting bullet impacts an animal.

Are we on the edge of a ballistics revolution, or are we just burning out barrels?In this episode of the Barnes Bullets podcast, Dale, Gregg, and Mitchell tackle the massive industry shift toward high-pressure ammunition. Fueled by new steel-hybrid and alloy casing advancements, factory loads are suddenly pushing a mind-blowing 80,000 PSI—completely smashing the traditional 62,000 PSI brass safety ceiling.We break down the technology behind the .277 SIG Fury, 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak, and 7mm Backcountry to answer the hard questions every shooter is asking.We’re cutting through the marketing hype, weighing the genuine pros and cons, and looking into our crystal ball of what the next 5-10 years into the future of cartridge design looks like.Hit play and let's talk ballistics!

Are you using the right Barnes bullet for your hunt?In this episode of Ballistics Briefs by Barnes, we break down the differences between four of the most popular Barnes bullet designs: TSX, TTSX, LRX, and TAC-TX. They’re all copper. They’re all built with Barnes’ proven monolithic bullet technology. But they are not all designed to do the exact same job. We dive into how each bullet is designed, where it shines, and why bullet choice matters when it comes to accuracy, expansion, penetration, impact velocity, and real-world terminal performance.

In this episode of the Barnes Bullets Podcast, Dale is joined by Gregg and Mitchell for a full breakdown of their personal hunting rifle systems.From actions and barrels to optics, ammo, bullet selection, and the reasoning behind each choice, this episode dives into what it really means to build a complete hunting system. Each setup is built around real hunting scenarios, personal shooting style, and confidence in the field.If you’re thinking through your own hunting rifle build, dialing in your ammo, choosing an optic, or trying to build more confidence before the season, this episode is packed with real-world insight from hunters who care about every piece of the setup.

Is the .308 Winchester the most versatile hunting cartridge ever developed?In this episode of Ballistics Briefs by Barnes, we make the case for why the .308 Winchester may be the best all-around hunting cartridge ever made.We break down why the .308 Winchester continues to perform on deer, elk, black bear, hogs, antelope, and other big game when paired with the right bullet. We also look at why so many hunters may be overthinking cartridge selection when a proven, practical round like the .308 Win handles more than people want to admit.

Is your current .22 caliber setup holding you back? In Episode 34 of the Barnes Bullets Podcast, we’re diving deep into the massive shift in .22 caliber performance—the move from legacy platforms to fast-twist, high-BC efficiency.We compare the "traditional" workhorses (.223 Rem and .22-250) against the new-age disruptors (22 ARC and 22 Creedmoor). We discuss why twist rate is the most critical variable in your rifle system, how heavy-for-caliber projectiles change terminal performance, and why you should consider making the switch for your next hunt.

Are magnum cartridges actually overrated? Hunters love speed, energy, range, and horsepower — and magnum cartridges look incredible on paper. But in the real world, more power does not always mean better performance. In this episode of Ballistics Briefs by Barnes, we dive into one of the biggest debates in hunting: magnum cartridges vs standard cartridges. Magnums have a place. No question. But if recoil causes poor shot placement, if velocity exceeds your bullet’s ideal performance window, or if the rifle is harder to practice with, are you actually gaining anything? This episode breaks down the truth about magnum cartridges vs standard cartridges, including recoil, accuracy, velocity, bullet performance, terminal ballistics, and practical hunting performance.

In Episode 32, Drew Miles of Tricer Gear joins the Barnes Bullets Podcast for a conversation that covers the story behind Tricer, his family’s work in foster care ministry, and the preparation going into an upcoming Alaska brown bear and black bear hunt.The guys discuss how Tricer Gear started, what drives product development in the hunting industry, and why real-world testing matters. They also dive into rifle and ammo preparation, bullet selection, gear confidence, and the mindset required when heading into remote country for big, tough game.From building gear that solves real problems to preparing for one of North America’s most demanding hunts, this episode brings together the technical, personal, and purpose-driven sides of the hunting lifestyle.

Does muzzle velocity really matter?Hunters and shooters love talking about speed. More feet per second. Flatter trajectory. Bigger numbers on the ammo box. But when it comes to real-world bullet performance, muzzle velocity only tells part of the story.In this episode of Ballistics Briefs by Barnes, we break down why impact velocity may matter more than muzzle velocity when it comes to bullet expansion, penetration, and terminal performance.Your bullet does not perform at the muzzle — it performs when it reaches the animal. By that point, distance, drag, ballistic coefficient, cartridge choice, barrel length, and bullet design all influence how fast that projectile is actually traveling. And if the bullet impacts outside of its intended function window, you may not get the expansion or performance you expected.This conversation explains why understanding impact velocity is critical for hunters choosing the right bullet, cartridge, and effective hunting distance.

In Episode 32, we’re breaking the "CEO wall." For the first time on the Barnes Bullets Podcast, our President and CEO, Jim Bruno joins us for a raw, unfiltered look at the future of the brand. From his roots as a hunter, 30 years in the industry, to the high-stakes world of ammunition innovation, this is a deep dive into where we are, where we’re going, and why the "human-first" approach is the only way forward. Whether you're a hand-loader, a long-range competitor, or a backcountry hunter, this episode offers a rare look at the leadership strategy behind the most trusted name in all-copper projectiles.

When it comes to hunting bullets, the debate never ends—copper vs. lead. In this first edition of Ballistics Briefs, Dale puts Gregg on the clock with one simple challenge: Explain why copper bullets outperform lead—in just 10 minutes. No fluff. No filler. Just straight, hard-hitting insight from decades of experience.From terminal performance and weight retention to penetration, expansion, and real-world hunting results—this is everything you need to know to make the right choice when it matters most. This is Ballistics Briefs—quick hits, deep dives, no wasted time.

In Episode 31 of the Barnes Bullets Podcast, Dale Evans is joined by Gregg and Alan to discuss reloading tips, common customer questions, and practical advice for loading component bullets. With more than 50 years of combined reloading experience, the conversation covers troubleshooting, load development, consistency, and lessons learned from decades at the bench. Along the way, the episode branches into the kind of side conversations and deeper discussions that reloaders and shooters will appreciate.

On this episode of the Podcast, we're doing a Live Event down in Houston, Texas at Gordy & Son's Outfitters. This event is during the week of NRA Show in Houston, where we were invited in to have a reception to interact with local customers.

In Episode 30 of the Barnes Bullets Podcast, Dale Evans and the team introduce the 2026 Harvest Collection line extensions, including the all-new Straightwall Series and Big Woods Bucks Edition.With nine new additions to the lineup, this episode breaks down the thinking behind the expansion, how these offerings build on the success of the original Harvest Collection, and where they fit across different hunting environments. From straightwall cartridge applications to big woods scenarios, the conversation focuses on practical use, design intent, and what’s new for 2026.

In Episode 29, Dale sits down with SilencerCo to discuss suppressor design, evolving industry trends, and key differences in modern suppressor systems. Plus, a look at subsonic ammunition and the Barnes Suppressor Series.

We’re diving deep with the ballistics team to explain the physics behind and technical specs of the 400-350 UpWall. From the self-annealing brass cases to the 72,000 PSI interference seal, this isn't just a new caliber—it’s a new category of internal ballistics. Listen in as we discuss the data following our testing; as this is preliminary and subject to SAAMI certification. - If you tried to swage a .400 bullet into a .350 case after listening to this... we hope you have a good warranty. Happy April Fool's from Barnes!

On this episode; Dale is joined by Andy & Gregg as they welcome Brady Miller to the facility. In this episode, we sit down with Brady Miller to break down his evolution as a hunter—from whitetails in Minnesota to chasing mule deer across the West, coveted tags, and global adventures.We dive into:• Why mule deer over elk• The pursuit of once-in-a-lifetime tags• His passion for long-range shooting and big .30-cal rifles• And what led him to make the switch to copperFor reloaders, western hunters, and anyone obsessed with ballistics and backcountry hunting—this one goes deep.🎧 Listen now and hear how experience, precision, and bullet choice come together when it matters most.

Is the 7mm PRC the ultimate hunting cartridge, or is it just clever marketing? In this episode of the Barnes Bullets Podcast, we cut through the noise to give you the cold, hard facts. We explore the key advantages and disadvantages of the 7mm PRC compared to "traditional" staples like the 7mm Rem Mag, why we chose these specific bullets for the 7mm PRC, and Long Range Performance & Accuracy.

In this episode of the Barnes Bullets Podcast, Dale Evans is joined by Andy, Gregg, and Mitchell to break down the all-new Barnes Suppressor Series—a purpose-built, subsonic line engineered specifically for suppressed arms. This educational conversation dives into: - What makes the Suppressor Series truly purpose-built for suppressor use - Why subsonic optimization matters for consistency, reliability, and sound reduction - How premium Sierra projectiles, paired with Barnes’ exacting loading standards, deliver dependable performance - The role of clean-burning propellants in keeping suppressors cleaner and producing noticeably quieter shots Whether you’re new to suppressed shooting or already running a can, this episode provides a clear, technical look at how the Barnes Suppressor Series was designed—and why those details matter in real-world use. 🎧 Subscribe to the Barnes Bullets Podcast for more educational discussions on design, performance, hunting applications, and technology.

In this episode, we officially launch and break down our entire 2026 product lineup, sharing the engineering, testing, and real-world performance behind every new offering.What we cover:New additions to the Barnes Harvest CollectionExpanded VOR-TX® ammunition optionsNew reloading component bulletsThe all-new Barnes Suppressor SeriesA deep dive into our new Defense JHP lineFrom hunting and reloading to suppressed shooting and personal defense, this episode gives you a clear look at where Barnes is headed in 2026 — straight from the source.

This episode of the podcast, Dale is joined by Tyler Grethen and Ethan O'Keefe on the heels of a successful Wyoming antelope camp. The guys take a deep dive into the development of the 25RPM from Weatherby, and how the 117gr LRX was designed specifically for this cartridge.

On this episode of the podcast, Dale is joined by Gregg and Cagen to discuss the pros and cons of shortening your barrel length. The guys discuss the benefits or detriments it can cause to your ammo selections. They go into the velocity loss or gain, the accuracy issues, and more on this in-depth episode of the Barnes Bullets Podcast!

Today we're launching the all-new TrueData Ballistics App from Sierra and Barnes. Dale is joined by Mitchell and Andy to discuss all the details of how this came together and why you should download it. This app is built for the user, with one of the most comprehensive bullet libraries available for these two iconic brands. With doppler verified ballistics, it's sure to give you TrueData when your shot counts.Check it out here -Apple IOS - https://apps.apple.com/app/truedata/id6755197795Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sierraballistics.truedata

Today, Dale is joined by Mitchell Kukson and Adam Grenda, coming off a fun week hunting Kodiak Island in Alaska. The guys had the opportunity to test new products, before release while chasing Sitka Blacktail deer, Mountain Goats, and more! This is a fun recap, as we learn more about Adam, the guys give hints to new product launches, and tell how weather is always a factor when in Alaska.

Today, Dale is joined by Brady Miller and Roy Holdford to recap their recent Mountain Goat hunt in Alaska. This story is one for the ages, from dealing with terrible weather, finally getting in, doubling up on beautiful billies, and being stuck on the mountain for the night! You're not going to want to miss this wild adventure and story.

On this episode, host Dale Evans is joined by Gregg Sloan and Alan Griffith to discuss a fun topic. If you could only have five hunting rifles in your collection; what would they be chambered in? You'll hear of some oddball cartridges, some unusual suspects, and the tried and true traditional rounds. What would be your top five?

On this episode, Dale is joined by Gregg and Mitchell to take a deep dive into the muzzleloader options from Barnes Bullets. The guys go into the different products, what they would use, funny muzzleloader hunting stories, and more on this weeks episode of the Barnes Bullets Podcast.

Host, Dale Evans is joined by Andy and Gregg as we sit down with Ryan Muckenhirn from the Vortex Nation podcast for an in-depth conversation about all things bullets, accuracy, hunting, and the lifestyle that drives innovation in the shooting world. From getting to know Ryan and how he got into the industry, some behind-the-scenes stories at Barnes to technical deep dives and laughs along the way, this crossover episode brings two trusted voices together for one powerful conversation.

Today on the podcast, Dale is joined by Gregg and Mitchell to discuss why you would choose light or heavy bullets for hunting. The guys dive into the practical, real world experience; the data behind it; how it can change depending on your specific hunting needs; and more. You'll not want to miss this, and make sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Today, we're joined by Colby Adameck, Marketing & Product Manager for Sierra Bullets. We take the time to learn more about what Colby has for fall plans, talk taking kids hunting, and what's to come from Sierra Bullets. We also discuss some of the key similarities and differences of what Barnes and Sierra do.

Today we're joined by Gabe Patterson of the Utah Conservation Officers Association to talk about UCOA. UCOA was formed in 1990 as a non-profit organization in the State of Utah. UCOA was organized exclusively for the purpose of “lessoning the burdens of government” by unifying the Conservation Officers of the State of Utah as a body acting together to protect and conserve Utah’s wildlife resources. To learn more, go to https://www.utahgamewarden.com/about or their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/UTAHWILDLIFEOFFICERS/

Join host Dale Evans and three hunting buddies as they recap an unforgettable Do-It-Yourself Caribou hunt in the far north of the Alaskan tundra. With nothing but grit, gear, and a transporter airboat into the migration corridor, the crew sets out to intercept bulls along their journey south. This podcast was recorded just a day after the hunt took place, while still in Fairbanks before flying their separate ways. Gear up for a storytelling between friends.

Today, Dale is joined by Gregg Sloan and a few new faces. Greg Christensen and Cagen Carter join the podcast to tell a little about what they do at Barnes and all dive into the topic. Best Cartridges for Hunting North American game. The guys go down a long list of animal species found in the US and Canada, and pick some well-known and wildcats as their ultimate cartridge for hunting said game. This is a great entertaining conversation.

In Episode 11, Dale is joined by Mitchell and Gregg to have a fun debate. If you only had one tag this year, would you want an Elk tag or Deer tag in your pocket? The guys discuss what they would select, the pros and cons of each, and which taste better for table fare. Listen in to get pumped up for hunting season, and let us know what you would pick, Elk or Deer?

Today, Dale is joined by Colby Adameck from Sierra Bullets and Andy Sparks to discuss the Harvest Collection by Barnes. The guys dive deep into why Barnes wanted to create this new line of ammunition, specifically targeted for the whitetail deer hunter, and other thin-skinned game. They go in to the Sierra Tipped GameKing and why it's the perfect combination for this ammo, how Barnes came up to their branding piece, and what's to come for 2026.

Dale is joined by Mitchell and Gregg to talk about what it takes to get into Long Range shooting. The guys discuss gear needed, limiting factors, and how even experienced shooters mess up! Enjoy Episode 9 and this fun chat between the guys.

Today, Dale is joined by Andy and Gregg. With Andy having an upcoming Idaho elk hunt coming up, we felt he needed some help prepping for it. The guys go over what to expect, the gear needed, how much shooting he should be doing, and how to train properly for it. Hopefully this also helps anyone out there getting ready for their first western big game hunt!

Today is launch day for the Barnes Reserve line of ammo, and Dale is joined by Andy, Mitchell, and Gregg to discuss how the Reserve line came to be and what people can expect out of it. We’re really excited to launch the Barnes Reserve and offer this to our diehard fan base. It was important to us to have an option for those shooters while listening to consumer feedback for those who want more niche options and haven’t had much manufacturer’s support in the past. This hand-loaded, premium option in perfect time before hunting season to help our consumers have the highest success in the field this season. The new line is now available for purchase exclusively through the Barnes Bullets website. https://barnesbullets.com

In this Episode, we invite Alan our Customer Service lead into the podcast studio. We learn more about his background, shooting competitions, and what a day in the life of Customer Service looks like. We also dive into some Frequently Asked Questions that he receives answering customer's phone and emails throughout the week.

This one will get you excited for hunting season as Dale, Gregg, and Mitchell are talking about the tags they drew and hunts they have planned for this fall. Gear up for a long one, as the guys discuss what they're excited about and the animals they'll be chasing this fall! Wait, did someone say they're going Sheep hunting?? Episode 5 is a doozy!

Today, Dale is joined by Gregg and Mitchell to discuss in depth the wide assortment of ammunition that Barnes provides. The guys have a brief overview of all offerings, while talking in detail of the VOR-TX, Safari, Long Range, Reduced Recoil and Pioneer lines; some of our top selling products we produce. We hope you all enjoy and learn something new during Episode 4.

On Episode 3 we're recapping the recent spring bear hunting trip that Dale and Mitchell went on. Andy joins us to help learn more about bear hunting, pack goats, and to hear the story of how the guys faired. Spoiler Alert, they found success.Also, for July 4th we have Free Shipping on orders of $99 or more. And we are currently running a sale on all shirts, just $9.99. This promotion is through July 7th.

Today Dale is joined by Gregg Sloan and Mitchell Kukson to go on a deep dive into the bullet families that Barnes offers. The guys discuss the differences of the TSX, TTSX, and LRX bullets. The conservation entails why would choose one offering over another, the performance you can expect to see from each, and use case scenarios to pick the right bullet for you. We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy Episode 2.

We're kicking off the all-new Barnes Bullets Podcast. Hosted by Dale Evans, he is joined by Andy Sparks and Gregg Sloan as they discuss the history of Barnes Bullets and why they felt the need to put out another podcast into the universe.