The Nitro Express Podcast
by The Nitro Express Podcast
Welcome to The Nitro Express Podcast! Join your hosts Matthew Black and Jonathan Davis as they dive into hunting, rifles, ammo, gear, and ballistics. This podcast is designed to explore topics, offer insight, and answer your questions on enjoying all the different types of hunting our world has to offer. https://www.instagram.com/thenitroexpresspodcast?igsh=MTBldHQ1dG1zc2NueA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Episodes
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Listener Q&A #2
In this episode, Matthew and Jon cover some more write in questions ranging from straightway cartridges to pre '64 model 70s and happy wives. Thanks for listening! We appreciate you all and look forward to hearing from you at [email protected]
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News on Ruger and a Changing Tide?
In this episode, Jon and Matthew discuss the disheartening news released from Ruger this week. They shares the production lines that are dying, discontinued and what that may mean for the future of classic sporting rifles. We thank you for listening! We look forward to getting your questions for...
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I Want a Double Rifle, Now What? Part 2
In the closing of this 2 part discussion, Jon and Matthew cover some of the questions you may have as you consider purchasing your first double. We are not world class experts, but we wanted to share what we have learned through our experiences and procurement process. Thank you for listening! We...
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I Want a Double Rifle, Now What? Part 1
In episode 81, Jon and Matthew start laying out the reasons to consider a double, and the thought process you must do before you get serious about buying one. Doubles should be a once in a lifetime purchase, hopefully listening to this will help make it a one-time purchase. Part 2 coming next…
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Top 5 Cartridges for Africa
In episode 80, Jon and Matthew break down what they consider are some of the best choices for African hunting. From Grysbok to Elephant and everything in between. We hope you enjoy and tune in next week for our episode on Double Rifles. Thank you for listening! As always, feel free to reach out…
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Pro Tips in Passing- Bullet Construction 101
In this short, Matthew and Jon share a generic overview of the different types of construction techniques used in bullets and their application. We hope this short episode gives you a better understanding of what makes your projectile tick, their application, and what applications are most...
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Write in Listener Q&A
In episode 79, Matthew and Jon do one of our favorite things, answer your questions! We appreciate everyone who wrote in and hop you continue to do so. If we get more questions, we can do another Q&A episode. We hope you enjoy. Please consider sharing us with a friend, following us on your...
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Pro Tips in Passing- Peep Sights
In this short, Matthew and Jon share some thoughts on peep sights for hunting both close and long range with iron sights. Peeps are a great option for aging eyes and new shooters alike. They are also very durable. If you need a better sighting system for your old poodle shooter and want to stay...
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A Buffet Discussion: 7 RUM Update, 348 Win, Deer Season, and Shotgun Basics
In episode 78, Jon and Matthew jump from topic to topic and give a general overview of several current items. Matthew shares a 7 RUM update, Jon's recent Gunbroker find, some deer season tips, and shotgun basics. We also want to do a listener Q&A episode with things you would like to know. We are...
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Pro Tips in Passing- AmmoSeek
In this short, Matthew and Jon share a hidden gem for shooters and reloaders, ammoseek.com. We are not sponsored, but we use it all the time to find brass, bullets, and ammo for the best prices from a variety of vendors with good reviews. We hope this helps you on your quest for the next piece of...
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Youth Hunting Rifle Recommendations
In episode 77, Matthew and Jon share some deer and plains game class cartridge and rifle recommendations for the young hunter in your life. We list a budget, premium and classic rifle recommendations as well as some tips and pleas for you to get the next generation involved in the American…
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Pro Tips in Passing- 4 Stable Shooting Sticks
In this short, Jon and Matthew break down an absolutely necessary piece of kit for preparing for Safari that still has lots of merit here in the States as well as on the range- 4 Stable Shooting Sticks. If you are in the market for a pair or are looking to do some serious range work with a double...
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A Few Favorite Guns and Busting the Myth You Only Need One
In this episode, Matthew and Jon share a few of their favorites and share some thoughtful words explaining why the concept of only needing one gun is really not true. They share while there is some overlap, there is still a definite need for specialized tools. We hope you've enjoyed and THANK YOU...
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The Adventures and Misadventures of Juan Loco- Granola Bar Elk
In this excerpt of Jon's book The Adventures and Misadventures of Juan Loco, Jon reads for us one of his best stories, Granola Bar Elk. We hope you enjoy and consider planning your next trip with your family. Quit wasting time thinking and talking about it, plan it and savor the moments. You…
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Classic Rifles, Rejuvenation, and Keeping Them in the Field
In episode 75, Matthew and Jon share some of their favorite classic firearms, why they speak to us, and how you can breathe new life into the old family rifle. We cover rejuvenation, not restoration tips, the basic tools needed, and where to source original parts. We hope you enjoy! Cover photo…
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The Adventures and Misadventures of Juan Loco- The Cottonmouth Water Moccasin
In this excerpt of Jon's book, he retells an account from his youth regarding fishing superstitions, borrowed gear, surprise visitors, and lessons learned in youth. We hope you enjoy! If you would like to order a signed copy of Jon's book, send us an email at [email protected]
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7 RUM Project Update
In episode 74, Jon and Matthew break down the basics of action blueprinting, pillar bedding stocks, and glass bedding rifles. This 7 RUM project is coming along nicely, all stock work is done, scope is mounted, and trial loads for load development is complete. As soon as we receive our bolts with...
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The Adventures and Misadventures of Juan Loco- Pop, Uncle Bill, & the Dogs
In this new series, Jon is reading various chapters of his book "The Adventures and Misadventures of Juan Loco". This week's episode is a deeply personal and emotional story we can all relate to about hunting with family. We hope you enjoy, and a special thanks to Nick for this great idea. If you...
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The Best Gear We've Ever Bought
In episode 73, Jon and Matthew share 10 pieces of the best gear they've ever bought. This gear has served them well in the field for years and were bought with cash money. We hope that our suggestions may make you consider some new gear and help you make some decisions on the kit you've been...
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The Worst Gear We've Ever Bought
In episode 72, Jon and Matthew share some of their most questionable, and regrettable purchases. We hope you find the humor in these anecdotes and consider your gear and what may be ready for an upgrade as well. Thanks for listening! We appreciate each and every one of you and hope you will...
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Pro Tips in Passing- Copper Fouling
In this short, Matthew and Jon share a common issue among high velocity cartridges that may be robbing you of performance- copper fouling. They cover what it is, how to identify it, and the product you need to solve it. We are not sponsored by Montana Extreme, but would certainly reckoned their...
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Pronghorn Antelope Rifles and Cartridges
In episode 71, Jon shares some stories of the sunny slopes of long ago and he and Matthew break down some cartridge, rifles set-up, and gear considerations. This concludes this mini-series on western hunting. Thanks for listening! As always, drop us some episode ideas and any other suggestions at...
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Pro Tips in Passing- Ultrasonic Cleaners
In this short, Matthew shares, with much opinion from Jon, a great tool worth adding- ultrasonic cleaners. From suppressors to complicated, fragile parts, and anything in between, ultrasonic cleaners are a great option. Matthew regularly uses his on his suppressor as well as revolver yokes and...
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Black Bear Hunting Basics
In episode 70, Jon and Matthew cover one of Matthew's favorites- black bear hunting. They cover hound and spot and stalk hunting extensively, share some tips on finding spring bears, and some over the counter opportunities for our DIYers. As always, they cover the best rifle and cartridge set ups...
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Mule Deer Rifles & Cartridges
In episode 69, Matthew and Jon spend a few minutes sharing stories and mule deer generalities, but they spend the bulk of this episode focusing on the ballistics. They break down cartridge recommendations and spin some time crunching the numbers so you can form your own opinions based on the…
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Pro Tips in Passing- Double Rifles and Q Tips
In this short, Matthew and Jon share a discovery after spending some serious time with a double in the dry, dusty African bush. While it sounds stupid and simple, a few Q Tips can really help keep your gear up and running. In this instance, your double rifle in situations where it can be a life...
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Elk Rifles and Cartridges
In episode 68, part one of a 4 part mini series on western hunting. Jon and Matthew break down some rifle considerations as well as cartridge options for your upcoming elk hunt. Jon shares some elk hunting stories and Matthew breaks down the numbers as normal. Best of luck afield this fall! Thank...
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Pro Tips in Passing- Gracy Travel
In this short, Matthew and Jon share with you one of, if not the best travel booking agent in the hunting business: Gracy Travel. We are not sponsored in any way, but wanted to give credit where credit is due. Jon has been using them for over 25 years and Matthew has used them on every Safari.…
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2026 Safari Recap
In episode 67, Jon and Matthew break down the good, the bad, and the ugly of their recent hunt. It is always painful to share shortcomings , but truth is a necessity. Cover photo is a buffalo track We hope you enjoyed this episode and thank you for listening! We appreciate each and every one of…
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First Safari Insights and Recap
In episode 66, Matthew sits down with some great new friends, Mason and Nick. The were in camp with the Professor and Matthew at Limcroma in June 2026. This was their first time on Safari, and they have lots of good insight and information for all you first timers. We envy you! Cover photo is…
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Comparing 50 Caliber Safari Cartridges
In episode 65, Matthew and Jon break down the three most common, uncommon cartridges. These are all 50 (1/2 inch) cartridges and include the 505 Gibbs, 500 Jeffery, and the 500 Nitro Express 3". Matthew breaks down some case specs, potential performance, and the availability of rifles, ammo, and...
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The Anticipation of Safari and First Timer Tips
In episode 64, Jon and Matthew share with you the excitement they have for leaving for Limcroma Safaris in just a few days. This episode is full of practical tips about mentally preparing for safari, reasonable expectations, and the general excitement around any upcoming hunting trip. Thanks for...
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We are on INSTAGRAM
Friends, we recently decided to add a little more photo and video to our content. To follow along on our safari at Limcroma and see some of the other fun things we do, follow us on Instagram. Our handle is thenitroexpresspodcast....
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Following Up on Wounded Dangerous Game
Episode 63 is full of pragmatic field experience on the pinnacle of adrenaline- following up on wounded dangerous game. Matthew and Jon lay out, step by step, the process of following up on your dangerous animal. From tips about gear and rifles to the mental state of mind, we hope you enjoy and...
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Things Your Professional Hunter Hates to See
In episode 62, Jon and Matthew break down the "no no" list of safari. From excessive gear, poor practice, and bad physical condition, things can put a damper on your trip of a lifetime. This is a wonderful companion to our other safari prep style episodes and we hope you enjoy. As always, feel…
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Safari Packing List
In episode 61, Jon and Matthew break down their packing list for going on safari. There are some definite items you need and some that are better left at home. Remember to pack light and use the KISS principle. Along the way the hosts share some stories that have changed their packing over the...
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Setting Up a Hunting Rifle- Basic Gunsmithing
In episode 60, Matthew & Jon breakdown their basic process and steps in setting up a new or used rifle to go hunting. Hopefully these processes give you some insight and help you get you rifle field ready. Thanks for listening! As always feel free to reach out to us at...
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Plains Game Cartridge Selection
In episode 59, Matthew and Jon cover a deep dive into specific cartridges for all classes of plains game. Africa is a huge continent that houses game from a something as small as a duiker to as large as an eland. We break down plains game into three categories: small, medium, and large and give…
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Current Projects on the Work Bench
In episode 58, Jon and Matthew shares their recent projects. Matthew has been working on finding the near perfect turkey shotgun and Jon is looking for the near perfect AR-15. The hosts share their thoughts, gear choices, and things they have been working on. Cover photo is the patterns from...
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Pro Tip in Passing- Finding Safari Rifles on a Budget
In this short, Jon and Matthew break down some bargain, quality rifles Jon has found lately, how your deer rifle may be the perfect plains game rifle, and tips for buying off the internet. Cover photo is a picture of Jon's Whitwortth 375 H&H he bought for $1,200. Thanks for listening! As always,...
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A Brief Overview of Hunting Southern African Countries
In episode 57, Matthew and Jon answer a listener question: comparing the different African countries' hunting. This is by no means a comprehensive discussion, but rather a general overview. Jon shares his rhino story as well. Thanks for listening! Make sure to follow us, share us with a friend…
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Live at SCI: Swift Bullet Company
Friends, in these new segments that will drop every Wednesday starting on February 25, 2026 we sit down with some of the best from the 2026 SCI National Convention in Nashville. Again, we are not in any way sponsored, we just wanted to share some of who we believe are the best with you. In this...
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Safari Rifles on a Budget
In episode 56, Matthew and Jon want to dispel a common myth, safari rifles must cost $10,000 or more. We cover plains game and dangerous game rifle recommendations as well as ammo suggestions. We break it down into three categories: new, used, and classic. Cravat, dangerous game rifles are not...
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Live at SCI: Hunt the West
Friends, in these new segments that will drop every Wednesday starting on February 25, 2026 we sit down with some of the best from the 2026 SCI National Convention in Nashville. Again, we are not in any way sponsored, we just wanted to share some of who we believe are the best with you. In this...
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The Psychology of Hunting
In episode 55, Jon and Matthew sit down with Dr. Brian Bilderback, a double Doctorate with degrees in both Law and Psychology. Brian dives into the brain and the neurological and psychological aspects of what makes us enjoy hunting, the positive re-enforcements, the cultural and physical health...
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Live from SCI: Cooper Rifles and Nighthawk Custom
Friends, in these new segments that will drop every Wednesday starting on February 25, 2026 we sit down with some of the best from the 2026 SCI National Convention in Nashville. Again, we are not in any way sponsored, we just wanted to share some of who we believe are the best with you. In this...
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Spring Turkey Hunting Special
In episode 54, Jon and Matthew sit down with one of the best local turkey hunting experts, LE. LE has over 45 years of turkey hunting expertise. LE breaks down strategy, calls, gear, shotguns, ammunition, and general know how. We hope you enjoy and hope you considered subscribing/following and...
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Live at SCI: Van Hale Trophy Outfitters/White Mountain Trophy Outfitters
Friends, in these new segments that will drop every Wednesday starting on February 25, 2026 we sit down with some of the best from the 2026 SCI National Convention in Nashville. Again, we are not in any way sponsored, we just wanted to share some of who we believe are the best with you. In this...
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Captive Bred Lions: Boots on the Ground Perspective
Episode 53 is a special look at a hot topic. In this episode, Jon and Matthew sit down with Christo of Mabula Pro Safaris to share some real truth and experience with you from a lion breeder and safari operation. We encourage you to listen with an open mind and focus on facts, not opinion. This…
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Live at SCI: Jack Atcheson and Sons
Friends, in these new segments that will drop every Wednesday starting on February 25, 2026 we sit down with some of the best from the 2026 SCI National Convention in Nashville. Again, we are not in any way sponsored, we just wanted to share some of who we believe are the best with you. In this...
About this show
Welcome to The Nitro Express Podcast! Join your hosts Matthew Black and Jonathan Davis as they dive into hunting, rifles, ammo, gear, and ballistics. This podcast is designed to explore topics, offer insight, and answer your questions on enjoying all the different types of hunting our world has to offer. https://www.instagram.com/thenitroexpresspodcast?igsh=MTBldHQ1dG1zc2NueA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Hosted by
The Nitro Express Podcast