Podcast
Hunting Gear Podcast
Hosted by Dan Johnson, Sportsmen's Empire · EN
The Hunting Gear Podcast covers just what the title implies, hunting gear and equipment. Host Dan Johnson interviews a variety of companies within the hunting industry as well as hardcore hunters who rely on their equipment to be successful in the field. From discussions on archery and firearms to clothing and accessories, if you are a hunting gear nut, this podcast is sure to hold your attention. Dan is also is joined by co-host Bob Polanic as they share their own experiences with the hunting equipment they use every season.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
XOP Outdoors: Stands, Saddles, Climbing Sticks
5d ago00:52:35Tap to summarizeDiscover how XOP’s philosophy of “attainable adventure” is shaping the future of mobile hunting gear — and why their innovations are perfect for serious hunters who demand safety, quality, and affordability. If you're tired of the industry’s inflated prices and want gear that’s built for real-world hunts, this episode is your insider pass to the brand challenging the status quo.In this episode, Tom Lalonde, part of the XOP team and a utility worker by day, shares the behind-the-scenes process of designing gear that combines safety standards from climbing industries with innovative materials and smart functionality. From the boundary waters to the prairie, he reveals how their products are tested in the toughest conditions and constantly refined based on real hunter feedback. You’ll hear how this iterative approach leads to gear that is lightweight, durable, and versatile — whether you’re packing in a mile, hunting on public land, or chasing big bucks with your kid by your side.We break down the core principles guiding XOP: broad accessibility, adventure-driven design, and a relentless pursuit of quality. Tom shares how their product lineup—from saddle systems and tree stands to versatile packs—is built to fit every hunter’s needs and budget. You’ll discover their unique approach to product development, influenced by cross-industry innovations and a keen focus on safety, simplicity, and lightweight performance. Whether you hunt for fun or for keeps, learn how XOP is creating gear that elevates the mobile hunting game while keeping it attainable for all.Stay ahead of the curve — missing out on well-crafted, affordable gear could limit your adventures, but embracing XOP's visionary approach opens doors to new possibilities. Perfect for the serious hunter who refuses to compromise on safety and performance or anyone looking to simplify their gear without sacrificing quality.If you’re committed to pushing your limits in the woods and want gear backed by real testing, feedback, and innovative thinking, this episode is your blueprint. Join the movement redefining what’s possible in mobile hunting — because adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Gear For The SWAMP
4w ago00:48:34Tap to summarizeUnlock the secret to hunting smarter, not harder—Aaron Berg shares how water access, lightweight gear, and strategic planning help him bag trophy bucks in the most challenging swamp terrains. This episode reveals how thinking outside the box and mastering silence can significantly boost your success rate.Imagine eliminating 95% of other hunters in a crowded public land — Aaron's unique water-based approach makes this a reality. He details how he uses canoes, special gear, and minimal movement to stay unnoticed by wary deer, even in thick Wisconsin swamps. Learn how to leverage natural water routes, adapt gear for extreme conditions, and use innovative techniques like the one-stick climbing method, which takes only minutes to master and keeps you quiet and mobile all day.You'll discover:The pros and cons of different canoe lengths for wet terrain and how to choose the right one for your hunting styleWhy water access can turn the tables on deer movement and reduce pressure on your target bucksThe importance of lightweight, breathable gear—like featherweight canoes and merino layers—to stay comfortable during all-day sitsHow to adapt your footwear and clothing for cold, wet, and buggy conditions without sacrificing stealthThe best trail camera setup for swamp hunting, using lithium batteries and no-fuss strategiesHow to efficiently set up and rappel out of your tree stand using the one-stick systemThe benefits of staying quiet and mobile—plus why some of the most successful hunters prefer paddles over traditional canoe paddles!Why does this episode matter? Because the right access and gear choices can extend your hunting hours, improve your shot opportunity, and give you an edge over other hunters lingering in crowded spots. Whether you hunt wetlands, marshes, or rugged terrain, Aaron’s proven techniques help you hunt smarter, escape the crowds, and finally connect with mature, elusive deer.Perfect for waterfowl hunters, marshland archers, or anyone tired of hunting the same public spots as everyone else — this episode provides the strategic blueprint to transform your approach and harvest more deer with less hassle. Tune in and discover how mastering water access and minimal gear can redefine your season!Guest Credibility: Aaron Berg is a seasoned Wisconsin waterfowl and deer hunter, known for his innovative water access tactics, lightweight gear rigging, and success in heavily pressured swamp habitats. His approach combines years of outdoor experience with practical tech hacks to maximize every hunt.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →From The Vault: Vortex Optics
Jun 1800:21:41Tap to summarizeOn this episode, we go bak in time for an awesome conversation with Ryan Muckenhirn of Vortex Optics about their glass and accessories. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →SoCal Hunting Gear
Jun 1101:03:25Tap to summarizeMost hunters underestimate just how much gear management and travel logistics can make or break their season—until now. Justin Hunold reveals his proven system for hunting across multiple states without doubling your gear or losing your mind, all while staying mobile and efficient.On this episode, Justin shares how living in California shapes his hunting approach—out in the wild, but vastly different from the stereotypical coastal urban myth. You'll discover how he manages gear for trips across Ohio, Kansas, and New York, including his exact packing routines, handling firearms and archery equipment, and the secret to staying organized on the move. We break down his system for switching between stand hunting and saddle hunting, plus his insights on gear durability and the importance of consistency.Justin is a seasoned traveler with a wealth of tips. He discusses the best practices for flying with firearms, the top gear choices that save him time and frustration, and how he balances gear minimalism with preparedness. You'll also learn about his approach to scouting, setting up, and maintaining multiple hunting locations—keeping everything ready for the moment of truth.If you're tired of the chaos that comes with traveling for hunting—especially across state lines—this episode is your blueprint for streamlining your process. Perfect for hunters who chase deer far from home, want to reduce gear clutter, or simply need to hunt smarter, not harder. Tune in to take your travel hunting game to the next level.Justin Hunold is a power sports and outdoor content creator based in San Diego, blending his love for hunting, fishing, and travel into a disciplined and effective system. His insights come from over six years of building partnerships in the outdoor space and countless miles on the road.Whether you're a mobile hunter, a weekend warrior, or a seasoned pro looking to optimize your gear management—this episode will give you actionable tips to hunt with confidence, wherever the season takes you.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Hunting Gear B.S. Talk
Jun 400:45:03Tap to summarizeMost hunters focus on chasing big antlers, but Hunter Thompson shares a radically different approach—filling the freezer with less glamorous, more accessible deer. Discover how prioritizing practicality over prestige can transform your hunting season from a high-stakes game of inches to a reliable source of quality meat.In this episode, Hunter, who hunts across Texas and emphasizes food over trophy, reveals why he spends more time on simple strategies like close-range archery and versatile gear choices rather than chasing the biggest racks. You'll learn how his strategic focus on lethality rather than gear sophistication consistently results in successful seasons, even when the game isn't trophy-worthy.We dive into specific tactics, such as choosing lightweight layering systems for Texas' unpredictable weather, maximizing arrow and boot setups for reliability, and simplifying camouflage use for meat hunting. Hunter shares his insights on the benefits of tinkering with gear on a budget—like experimenting with arrows and accessories—without falling for the marketing hype of the latest gadgets.Most importantly, you'll discover why filling the freezer may be the most rewarding goal for hunters seeking consistent success and satisfying harvests. Whether you're a meat hunter who values efficiency or curious about straightforward gear strategies, this episode offers practical insights to elevate your approach—without breaking the bank or chasing trophy obsession.Perfect for hunters who want a no-nonsense, food-first mindset and gear setup that works season after season. When you focus on the essentials rather than the hype, success is within reach—and this episode shows you how to get there.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Mobility: Climbing Sticks & Stands
May 2900:51:38Tap to summarizeMost hunters overlook the simple hacks that can elevate tree stand safety, comfort, and efficiency—until now. In this episode, seasoned bowhunter Doug Green from Indiana reveals the gear tricks, setup strategies, and safety hacks that can transform your hunting game, especially if you’re balancing mobility with knee issues or chasing big deer on public lands.John, who’s recovering from knee surgery and adapting his tactics, joins Doug to unpack the real-world solutions that make hunting more comfortable, safer, and more successful. From choosing the right climbing sticks with grip and bite to mastering quick, silent setup routines that save you time and noise, this episode dives deep into the details that matter—like why double-step sticks like the XOP X2 could be your gamechanger this season.You'll discover:The comparison between traditional ladders, saddle-specific stands, and hybrid options for all-day comfortHow to select the best sticks and accessories for safety, low noise, and quick deploymentProven methods for securing gear and optimizing mobility with minimal weightThe underrated importance of high-quality hooks, straps, and accessories to avoid frustration and injuryCreative setup hacks that allow seamless gear transfer, leaving more time for that perfect shotIf you're serious about hunting smarter, safer, and more comfortably—whether you’re a weekend warrior or a dedicated run-and-gun pro—this episode is your insider guide. Learn from a seasoned veteran who refuses to settle for mediocre gear or inefficient setups, and take your hunting to the next level.Perfect for saddle hunters, mobile hunters, or anyone looking to maximize their setup while minimizing noise and risk—this is essential listening for the modern hunter. Gear up with these insider tips and stay a step ahead of the herd next season.Doug Green is an experienced hunter from Indiana specializing in mobile setups and gear optimization. His insights stem from years of both out-of-state adventures and hunted-out private land, making him a trusted voice for focus on mobility, comfort, and safety in the tree.Whether you're looking to upgrade your stand, refine your sticks, or simply hunt smarter, this episode is packed with the tactical tips that will keep you safer and more comfortable afield. Hit play now and hunt with confidence.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Habitat IQ & Reveal Trailcameras
May 800:48:22Tap to summarizeUnlock the future of hunting with groundbreaking technology that turns data into deer movements and land management strategies—before you even step into the woods. Gregg Farrell from Reveal Trail Cameras and Tacticam reveals how their latest innovations could transform the way you understand and improve your property, whether you're a seasoned landowner or a weekend warrior.In this episode, you’ll discover how Habitat IQ, a land management tool built for every hunter, provides real-time insights into where deer bed, feed, and travel—without relying solely on traditional scouting or anecdotal guesses. Gregg dives into the intricate algorithms driven by actual deer data, GPS-enabled cameras, and the latest AI advancements, all designed to give you a competitive edge. Imagine adjusting your food plots or stand locations in a virtual environment, then watching your land transform over seasons—saving time, money, and frustration.We break down:How Habitat IQ combines mapping, drone data, LIDAR, and weather analytics to predict deer behavior with unprecedented accuracy.The difference between general predictive apps and Habitat IQ’s personalized, data-driven approach rooted in real-world wild deer activity.The seamless integration between Reveal’s trail cameras and Habitat IQ, providing live updates and actionable insights directly from your equipment.The future of trail camera tech, including upcoming features that promise better reliability, battery life, and unique AI-driven capabilities.How this tech reduces the guesswork for managing small properties, leases, or public land, empowering you to make smarter, more effective decisions.Why does it matter? Because relying solely on intuition is no longer enough—and poor land management means missing out on trophy potential. If you’re serious about maximizing your property’s habitat and deer movement predictions, this episode is essential listening. Gregg emphasizes that these tools aren’t replacing traditional woodsmanship—they’re amplifying it, making good hunters even better.Whether you're curious about how advanced algorithms are shaping hunting, or eager to know how this tech can immediately upgrade your land, this conversation will leave you inspired—and ready to leverage data to your advantage. Perfect for landowners, trophy hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts hungry for innovation, don’t miss out on the future of hunting technology.Gregg Farrell is the Director of Product Strategy at Reveal Trail Cameras, bringing over a decade of experience in the outdoors and tech spaces. His team’s pioneering work in deer predictivity and land management apps is revolutionizing how hunters analyze and improve their properties.The adventure of smarter hunting starts now—hit play and explore the tools that could change everything.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Hunting Packs & Junk Gear
Mar 1900:58:45Tap to summarizeJoin us for a lively chat with Aaron Hepler from the InCamp Podcast, where we explore gear, pranks, and real hunting stories. Whether you're an outdoor newbie or a seasoned hunter, this episode offers practical tips, gear reviews, and entertaining anecdotes to enhance your hunting experience.Key Topics Covered:The importance of testing and practicing with gear before huntingPractical experiences with trail cameras, SD cards, and troubleshootingHunting gear tweaks and upgrades: backpacks, packs, and accessory organizationInsights into cell cams, their evolution, and future trendsReal stories of user errors and safety tips on climbing and gear handlingStrategies for staying hydrated and managing elevation sicknessThe value of brand loyalty versus trying new gearLighted arrow knocks and considerations for electronics in huntingThe significance of ethical scouting and hunting practicesResources & Links:Reveal Cellular Trail Cameras – Advanced cell cams for real-time property monitoringVortex Optics – Trusted binoculars and opticsConnect with Aaron Hepler:InCamp Podcast on InstagramInCamp Podcast on SpotifyThanks for tuning in and don't forget to leave a five-star review on your favorite platform! Catch you on the next episode.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Late Season Western Hunting Gear
Mar 1200:55:05Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Garrison Kinsel shares practical insights on gear selection and strategies for cold weather backcountry hunts, helping hunters stay warm, dry, and successful even in the harshest conditions. Whether you're gearing up for late-season elk or high-altitude adventures, you'll learn tips that make a real difference.Key TopicsHow to manage sweat and layering strategies during cold hikesDifferences between early and late season gear: base layers, socks, and bootsThe importance of proper moisture wicking and drying techniquesUsing Tyvek and ground insulation for sleeping setupsInnovative fire-starting tools like Japanese blowtorches for quick firesThe significance of quality down gear and the buy once, cry once mindsetPractical backcountry tips for wind, snow, and extreme temperaturesThe impact of well-chosen rain gear as an all-weather outer shell Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Hunting Gear Podcast - Montana Knife Company
Mar 601:02:07Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Josh Smith from Montana Knife Company shares his journey from a young knife maker to building a successful American brand. He discusses the importance of craftsmanship, scaling a business without compromising quality, and the values behind his brand. Key Topics:Josh Smith's background and early mentorship in knife makingThe process of becoming a master bladesmith and industry standardsBuilding Montana Knife Company from scratch during economic uncertaintyBalancing quality and scale in manufacturingThe importance of authenticity and American craftsmanship Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →