Vortex Nation Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 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

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. 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

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

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. 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

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

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. 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

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! 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

Big medicine in a standard-length action pushing a heavy .366 diameter bullet, the 9.3x62 Mauser is legally accepted as a dangerous game option in parts of Africa with a .375 bullet diameter minimum. This cartridge has a storied history and reputation for getting the job done…Big jobs. Commonly referred to as the poor man’s .375 H&H, the 9.3x62 Mauser may just be the coolest cartridge you didn’t know about. 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

All your thermal scanning needs are met with the high-performing, feature-rich, easy-to-use, intuitive, Veil™ 400 Thermal Monocular. Joe Heltemes and Ben Farrell from Vortex’s product development team join Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn to talk through its tech, features, and user-friendly functionality. Hog hunting, predator hunting, game recovery, and more, if you’ve been thinking about getting into the thermal game, the Veil 400™ is your ticket.  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

Vortex’s Reuben Aleckson talks through and demonstrates the ACE Virtual Shooting Simulator. This thing is cool, fun, and has legitimate training merit that will make you better. 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

Maine Moose Biologist, Lee Kantar, joins Mark Boardman to discuss “Winter Tick” and its impact on the region’s moose population. Winter Tick is literally sucking the life out of Maine’s moose until they succumb. Lee talks through the biology of the ticks themselves, research he’s been involved with, and what the future holds. 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

Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn talk forced reset triggers and super-safeties. Once installed, these things still require a single trigger pull per round sent downrange — but do it fast. With no firsthand experience, they chat through their functionality, merit, place in the shooting world and debate if they should give them a shot — more accurately, lots of shots.  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

The video is a wrap, but the discussion isn’t over. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn are back in the podcast studio breaking down their slow-motion copper bullet comparison. Listen as they deep-dive the results, provide opinions, and give final conclusions. 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

OnX Map’s Dylan Dowson navigates his way over to highlight new and useful features to make your hunt more successful start-to-finish. Pre-hunt scouting to in-field execution, OnX is an invaluable tool. Tune in for tips to amplify its capabilities. 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

Hunting legend and Knight & Hale’s very own, Harold Knight, is in the studio. We get the incredible history of this iconic brand, some great stories, and an inside look from the man himself. One of the first content-marketers in the hunting space, his passion for calling critters and the outdoors is palpable. 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

Joel Webster from the TRCP is back on for a quick chat covering current conservation-related issues, what we should be keeping our eyes out for, and how you can make a difference. 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

Enter the Vortex Dream Build Experience When it comes to hunting, Remi Warren is as good as it gets! Mark Boardman sits down with him to find out what a person can be doing in the off-season to make their archery hunts a success. Tune your bow and tune in for great archery tips you can take to the field. 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

Incredible performance, optics, versatility, durability, and new tech make the Strike Eagle® 1-10x24 FFP an absolute contender for any firearm built for speed and quick target acquisition with the need to engage targets at distance. Rob Morell from our product development team drops in to tell us about this awesome addition to the Strike Eagle® lineup. 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

Matt Pederson from Pederson Precision drops by to put his spin on rifling. We cover the different types, their processes, and pros/cons of each. Will the newest method be the future? Only time will tell.  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

This unique wildcat comes at us from listener Chasen Wolfford with a detailed letter, dimensional drawing, and a whole lot of “cool factor.” Listen as we cover the why behind his creation and what we think it’s capable of. 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