For years there was one cartridge question a deer hunter had to ask themselves. .270 or 30-06? Both have strong merits. Is there a right answer? Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn sent rounds down range into gel to tackle this highly debated cartridge comparison. The results might surprise you. Frankly, neither of them like the outcome. And that’s where this podcast begins.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

For years there was one cartridge question a deer hunter had to ask themselves. .270 or 30-06? Both have strong merits. Is there a right answer? Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn sent rounds down range into gel to tackle this highly debated cartridge comparison. The results might surprise you. Frankly, neither of them like the outcome. And that’s where this podcast begins.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

Ep. 299 | 30-06 Springfield vs .270 Winchester — The Superior Deer Cartridge Is?

There’s nothing worse than attempting to dial in your bow at the last minute. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Erik Barber tackle a pre-season checklist to help ensure you have stories about the one that didn’t get away.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

There’s nothing worse than attempting to dial in your bow at the last minute. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Erik Barber tackle a pre-season checklist to help ensure you have stories about the one that didn’t get away.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

#10MinuteTalk - Is Your Bow Hunt Ready?

Prepping for war on a budget. Is that even possible? Mark Boardman and Jimmy Hamilton seek the answer to this question with the help of Vortex Edge® instructors, Justin Lipska and Mike Griffin. These guys have seen some things and run through a lot of gear in their day. Tune in to find out if you can thrift your way to becoming a battle-ready bad ass.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

Prepping for war on a budget. Is that even possible? Mark Boardman and Jimmy Hamilton seek the answer to this question with the help of Vortex Edge® instructors, Justin Lipska and Mike Griffin. These guys have seen some things and run through a lot of gear in their day. Tune in to find out if you can thrift your way to becoming a battle-ready bad ass.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

Ep. 298 | Prepping for War — On a Budget?

A hunt-ready rifle ensures optimal performance and rock-solid confidence when the moment of truth arrives. There are several things you can check to make sure your prince of projectile precision is ready for the field this year. Some of which should happen before you even mount that new riflescope. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn run through a rifle-related checklist that can eliminate potential frustration, as well as promote the accuracy and consistency you demand.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

A hunt-ready rifle ensures optimal performance and rock-solid confidence when the moment of truth arrives. There are several things you can check to make sure your prince of projectile precision is ready for the field this year. Some of which should happen before you even mount that new riflescope. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn run through a rifle-related checklist that can eliminate potential frustration, as well as promote the accuracy and consistency you demand.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

#10MinuteTalk - Hunt Ready: A Rifle Checklist Rundown

The small versus large rifle primer experiment continues. Ammo was loaded, the weather machine engaged, and rounds sent down range. What did the boys see regarding accuracy, velocity, and reliability? Listen and watch 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 small versus large rifle primer experiment continues. Ammo was loaded, the weather machine engaged, and rounds sent down range. What did the boys see regarding accuracy, velocity, and reliability? Listen and watch 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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

Ep. 297 | Small Versus Large Rifle Primers - Part II

A curious observation leads to multiple hypotheses and an interesting discussion on small rifle primer use in intermediate cartridges like the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor. Could there be an advantage to bucking the trend and using small rifle primers? Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Jimmy Hamilton pontificate primers and come up with a test for their hypothesis.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

A curious observation leads to multiple hypotheses and an interesting discussion on small rifle primer use in intermediate cartridges like the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor. Could there be an advantage to bucking the trend and using small rifle primers? Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Jimmy Hamilton pontificate primers and come up with a test for their hypothesis.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

#10MinuteTalk - Advantages to Using Small Rifle Primers? Maybe.

Some states protect albino deer, white deer, and in some instances partially white deer – prohibiting take during legal hunting seasons. Should that be the case? Most states treat white deer like any other deer. What makes white deer so special? Should we manage wildlife based on appearance or science? Jeffrey Pritzl and Kevin Wallenfang from the Wisconsin DNR (Wisconsin is a state that protects white deer) join Mark Boardman and Erik Barber to chat about what for hunters and non-hunters, can be a white-hot issue.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

Some states protect albino deer, white deer, and in some instances partially white deer – prohibiting take during legal hunting seasons. Should that be the case? Most states treat white deer like any other deer. What makes white deer so special? Should we manage wildlife based on appearance or science? Jeffrey Pritzl and Kevin Wallenfang from the Wisconsin DNR (Wisconsin is a state that protects white deer) join Mark Boardman and Erik Barber to chat about what for hunters and non-hunters, can be a white-hot issue.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

Ep. 296 | White Deer – Should They Get Special Treatment?

“Team Tripod” is back. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Paul Neess talk tripods and what a person may want to consider when making their selection. They cover lever locks, twist locks, heads, height, shooting, personal preferences, and at-release of this podcast a new model, to give you a leg up when it’s time to get your first or next tripod.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

“Team Tripod” is back. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn, and Paul Neess talk tripods and what a person may want to consider when making their selection. They cover lever locks, twist locks, heads, height, shooting, personal preferences, and at-release of this podcast a new model, to give you a leg up when it’s time to get your first or next tripod.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

#10MinuteTalk - How to Choose a Tripod

A forever ban on wolf hunting in Minnesota seems preposterous and counterintuitive to any semblance of sound wildlife management, but that’s exactly what was on the table for Minnesota residents. Lucky for all hunters, organizations like the Sportsmen’s Alliance stand guard to fend off anti-hunting groups who prey on the emotions and money of the uninformed, aiming to dismantle the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, our hunting traditions, and balanced ecosystems. Mark Boardman and Brian Lynn from the Sportsmen’s Alliance sit down to chat about what happened, how it happened, where the issue stands, and most importantly, the path forward – which looks solid, and shows promise. If you hunt, this issue affects you. Learn what to look out for and what you can do.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

A forever ban on wolf hunting in Minnesota seems preposterous and counterintuitive to any semblance of sound wildlife management, but that’s exactly what was on the table for Minnesota residents. Lucky for all hunters, organizations like the Sportsmen’s Alliance stand guard to fend off anti-hunting groups who prey on the emotions and money of the uninformed, aiming to dismantle the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, our hunting traditions, and balanced ecosystems. Mark Boardman and Brian Lynn from the Sportsmen’s Alliance sit down to chat about what happened, how it happened, where the issue stands, and most importantly, the path forward – which looks solid, and shows promise. If you hunt, this issue affects you. Learn what to look out for and what you can do.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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

Ep. 295 | Forever Wolf Hunt Ban?

Chris Hodgdon from the Hodgdon Powder Company Joins Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn to chat about the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) and the incredible impact it has on youths who participate. This organization develops character as much as it does shooting skills. And let’s not forget the scholarship opportunities for higher education. Parent or youth – listen to hear how you can get involved and possibly change the trajectory of 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

Chris Hodgdon from the Hodgdon Powder Company Joins Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn to chat about the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) and the incredible impact it has on youths who participate. This organization develops character as much as it does shooting skills. And let’s not forget the scholarship opportunities for higher education. Parent or youth – listen to hear how you can get involved and possibly change the trajectory of 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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vortexnationpodcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@vortexnationpodcast</a>

#10MinuteTalk - Life Changing Impacts – The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation

Welcome to the Vortex Nation Podcast. Brought to you by lovers of hunting, shooting, public lands, the Second Amendment and dang good food.

I love this podcast and I love Vortex! Keep up the great work!

My favorite podcast!!

Best podcast out there!!! Need more food episodes!

Best podcast

Vortex Nation Podcast

Shooting a tiny bullet at a small piece of steel 1000 yards away might look easy when the pro's do it, but there's a lot that goes into each shot before the shooter even pulls the trigger. Fortunately, none of it is overly complicated. It just takes a little time, skill, patience and the right equipment for the job. Jimmy, Mark, Ryan Muckenhirn and Paul Neess dive into a "1001" level explanation of getting yourself outside the 100-yard-sight-in range and into some long range scenarios. From terminology to equipment, and the precision art of dialing your shots, this should get you on the right path to maxing out your range's linear capability. Listen in and let us know what you'd like to hear for our next, "1002" level course - where we go into a deeper dive relating to how our environment can affect our shots and how we can compensate to remain on target. Already listened, but want the show notes for reference afterwards? You can find them here: https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Shooting a tiny bullet at a small piece of steel 1000 yards away might look easy when the pro's do it, but there's a lot that goes into each shot before the shooter even pulls the trigger. Fortunately, none of it is overly complicated. It just takes a little time, skill, patience and the right equipment for the job. Jimmy, Mark, Ryan Muckenhirn and Paul Neess dive into a "1001" level explanation of getting yourself outside the 100-yard-sight-in range and into some long range scenarios. From terminology to equipment, and the precision art of dialing your shots, this should get you on the right path to maxing out your range's linear capability. Listen in and let us know what you'd like to hear for our next, "1002" level course - where we go into a deeper dive relating to how our environment can affect our shots and how we can compensate to remain on target. Already listened, but want the show notes for reference afterwards? You can find them here: <a href="https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast</a> As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 06 | Long Range Shooting 1001 - The Foundation

The hunter in pursuit of whitetail east of the Mississippi requires a different arsenal of optics than the elk or mule deer hunter in the American West. Likewise, both those two have different needs than the Alaskan caribou or moose hunter, and the Southwestern elk or coues deer hunter. Jimmy and Mark are joined by Paul Neess and Ryan Muckenhirn, each given a region of the country to speak to in terms of optic recommendations for the bulk of their hunts, to explain what our top recommendations are and why. Performance, budget, weight and convenience considerations are all taken into account and this conversation gives you the fully in-depth look into the mind of one of our optics experts when they make a recommendation for what is often someone else’s hunt of a lifetime.Already listened, but want the show notes for reference afterwards? You can find them here: https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcastAs 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 any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

The hunter in pursuit of whitetail east of the Mississippi requires a different arsenal of optics than the elk or mule deer hunter in the American West. Likewise, both those two have different needs than the Alaskan caribou or moose hunter, and the Southwestern elk or coues deer hunter. Jimmy and Mark are joined by Paul Neess and Ryan Muckenhirn, each given a region of the country to speak to in terms of optic recommendations for the bulk of their hunts, to explain what our top recommendations are and why. Performance, budget, weight and convenience considerations are all taken into account and this conversation gives you the fully in-depth look into the mind of one of our optics experts when they make a recommendation for what is often someone else’s hunt of a lifetime.Already listened, but want the show notes for reference afterwards? You can find them here: <a href="https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast</a>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 any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 95 | Which Optics For Which Hunt? Midwest, West, Southwest, and Alaska

So right off the bat, we should tell you this isn’t going to be a series of “If/then” statements about “If you do _____, then you should get _____ scope”. Truth is, the possibilities there are endless and it would get pretty boring pretty fast. What Jimmy, Mark and Ryan M really wanted to get at in this episode is how do you determine exactly what it is that you’re going to be doing with your rifle and scope, and then how do you determine exactly what features, level of optical quality, and price range, to name just a few of the variables, you really and truly need to accomplish that task. We see bad advice all over the internet about choosing optics – many times putting down new comers to hunting and/or shooting or making them feel like the sport/lifestyle simply can’t be done without a huge budget or gobs of time and an optical engineering degree. Perhaps a few times we got in “Rant” mode here because of it, but just know, it’s all in the name of helping everyone figure out what’s best for them and simply being comfortable with that choice being different from what another person may want/need. As always, if you have any questions about what riflescope you should choose for your very specific application and situation, we’re more than happy to chat that over with you and you can contact us on social media, via phone, e-mail, or in person if you stop by our showroom here in Barneveld, WI.   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

So right off the bat, we should tell you this isn’t going to be a series of “If/then” statements about “If you do _____, then you should get _____ scope”. Truth is, the possibilities there are endless and it would get pretty boring pretty fast. What Jimmy, Mark and Ryan M really wanted to get at in this episode is how do you determine exactly what it is that you’re going to be doing with your rifle and scope, and then how do you determine exactly what features, level of optical quality, and price range, to name just a few of the variables, you really and truly need to accomplish that task. We see bad advice all over the internet about choosing optics – many times putting down new comers to hunting and/or shooting or making them feel like the sport/lifestyle simply can’t be done without a huge budget or gobs of time and an optical engineering degree. Perhaps a few times we got in “Rant” mode here because of it, but just know, it’s all in the name of helping everyone figure out what’s best for them and simply being comfortable with that choice being different from what another person may want/need. As always, if you have any questions about what riflescope you should choose for your very specific application and situation, we’re more than happy to chat that over with you and you can contact us on social media, via phone, e-mail, or in person if you stop by our showroom here in Barneveld, WI.   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

Ep. 116 | Choosing the Right Riflescope

Mike McDowell, our in-house binocular expert and collector, sits down with Jimmy and Mark to discuss the topic of binoculars. What are they, how do they work, what are the tradeoffs as you move between configurations, which one is the right one for any given user and how can you even tell the difference between different models at different price points? We also get the chance to pick his brain about the new Razor UHD’s and their comparison to the current Razor HD’s, as well as the newly upgraded Crossfire HD’s and Diamondback HD binoculars. If you ever have any questions about binoculars, give us a call and ask for Mike! He’s one of our fantastic technical support staff who has been with the company for the last 30 years and is a wealth of optical knowledge. 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 any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Mike McDowell, our in-house binocular expert and collector, sits down with Jimmy and Mark to discuss the topic of binoculars. What are they, how do they work, what are the tradeoffs as you move between configurations, which one is the right one for any given user and how can you even tell the difference between different models at different price points? We also get the chance to pick his brain about the new Razor UHD’s and their comparison to the current Razor HD’s, as well as the newly upgraded Crossfire HD’s and Diamondback HD binoculars. If you ever have any questions about binoculars, give us a call and ask for Mike! He’s one of our fantastic technical support staff who has been with the company for the last 30 years and is a wealth of optical knowledge. 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 any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 84 | Binoculars: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know

Let’s face it – without reticles, riflescopes would just be gun-mounted spotting scopes. Reticles are supremely important to shooters and hunters by delivering critical data from 100 yard zeroes to bullet drop, range estimation to improved speed and accuracy up close. They’re also one of the biggest question marks when it comes to purchasing a new riflescope or learning how to use one you already have. Jimmy, Mark, Jimmy (Not a typo) and Nick do a deep dive on reticles from traditional and simple duplex-style reticles to the most complex “Christmas Tree” First Focal Plane precision reticles and everything in between. We also touch on caliber-specific BDC’s, MOA vs MRAD and clever tricks for using some of the Vortex reticle offerings in different scopes. If you’ve ever wanted to get the maximum potential from your scope’s reticle, check out this episode, read up on the reticle manual for your scope if you haven’t already and get to the range to get shooting! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Let’s face it – without reticles, riflescopes would just be gun-mounted spotting scopes. Reticles are supremely important to shooters and hunters by delivering critical data from 100 yard zeroes to bullet drop, range estimation to improved speed and accuracy up close. They’re also one of the biggest question marks when it comes to purchasing a new riflescope or learning how to use one you already have. Jimmy, Mark, Jimmy (Not a typo) and Nick do a deep dive on reticles from traditional and simple duplex-style reticles to the most complex “Christmas Tree” First Focal Plane precision reticles and everything in between. We also touch on caliber-specific BDC’s, MOA vs MRAD and clever tricks for using some of the Vortex reticle offerings in different scopes. If you’ve ever wanted to get the maximum potential from your scope’s reticle, check out this episode, read up on the reticle manual for your scope if you haven’t already and get to the range to get shooting! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 28 | Reticles: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know

Some do it for therapy, some for precision and others for mass quantity. Reloading or just regular loading ammunition is nothing new to the industry, but looking from the outside in, it can seem like an intimidating task to take on. Our two newest guests, Jimmy Jordan and Tom Leatherberry, as well as Ryan Muckenhirn have all been reloading for years and all for different reasons. We chat with them about what it is, why someone would want to do it, how you can get started and why "Saving money" is probably the worst reason you could ever get into the hobby. As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Some do it for therapy, some for precision and others for mass quantity. Reloading or just regular loading ammunition is nothing new to the industry, but looking from the outside in, it can seem like an intimidating task to take on. Our two newest guests, Jimmy Jordan and Tom Leatherberry, as well as Ryan Muckenhirn have all been reloading for years and all for different reasons. We chat with them about what it is, why someone would want to do it, how you can get started and why "Saving money" is probably the worst reason you could ever get into the hobby. As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 23 | Reloading 101: What is it and Should You do it?

There could be infinitely many more podcasts dedicated to reloading and its seemingly countless talking points, but we did our best to cram some more advanced reloading knowledge into this 201 level reloading podcast with Mark, Jimmy, Paul Ness and in-house reloading guru Scott Parks. Ever wonder how ambient temperature can effect your load and its accuracy? Can having the highest possible BC bullet actually cause problems with your accuracy and consistency? Should reloaders choose a rifle first, then develop a cartridge around it, or is the opposite order of operations the best course of action? One of the most asked for episodes is finally here. If you haven't listened to our first episode as part of this "Mini series" yet, check out Reloading 101 for a basic introduction to the topic before Scott Parks infiltrates your brain with some serious knowledge in 201. As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

There could be infinitely many more podcasts dedicated to reloading and its seemingly countless talking points, but we did our best to cram some more advanced reloading knowledge into this 201 level reloading podcast with Mark, Jimmy, Paul Ness and in-house reloading guru Scott Parks. Ever wonder how ambient temperature can effect your load and its accuracy? Can having the highest possible BC bullet actually cause problems with your accuracy and consistency? Should reloaders choose a rifle first, then develop a cartridge around it, or is the opposite order of operations the best course of action? One of the most asked for episodes is finally here. If you haven't listened to our first episode as part of this "Mini series" yet, check out Reloading 101 for a basic introduction to the topic before Scott Parks infiltrates your brain with some serious knowledge in 201. As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 45 | Reloading 201 - Powders, Bullets, BC and More

You’ve seen it at the range, your local gun store, long range matches, and now you’re even seeing it in the military - it’s hard to deny 6.5’s are here in a big way. But while we all look to prom-king cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor as a new and totally exciting, 6.5mm rounds have actually been a part of the cartridge landscape for quite some time - and there are seemingly countless variants of cartridges all pushing 6.5 mm bullets down  barrels. Ryan Muckenhirn, the cartridge version of a beautiful mind, joins Jimmy and Mark to discuss where all the fuss of the 6.5 revolution comes from, some interesting bullet history and also gets into some proper bullet selections for hunting that may surprise some people. If you’re a cartridge nerd, want some clarity on which 6.5 is right for you, or just enjoy learning things about the shooting sports we all love while getting a bit of history, this is most certainly one you don’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

You’ve seen it at the range, your local gun store, long range matches, and now you’re even seeing it in the military - it’s hard to deny 6.5’s are here in a big way. But while we all look to prom-king cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor as a new and totally exciting, 6.5mm rounds have actually been a part of the cartridge landscape for quite some time - and there are seemingly countless variants of cartridges all pushing 6.5 mm bullets down  barrels. Ryan Muckenhirn, the cartridge version of a beautiful mind, joins Jimmy and Mark to discuss where all the fuss of the 6.5 revolution comes from, some interesting bullet history and also gets into some proper bullet selections for hunting that may surprise some people. If you’re a cartridge nerd, want some clarity on which 6.5 is right for you, or just enjoy learning things about the shooting sports we all love while getting a bit of history, this is most certainly one you don’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

Ep. 101 | The 6.5 Revolution

How much farther can we take the long range 100_ series? There are plenty more long range topics to cover out here, but this one might be the grand finale for the series, discussing simply shooting out to 1000 yards to now sitting down with Ian Klemm and Jeff Heeg, Extreme Long Range (ELR) competitor, to discuss taking rifles out to some truly mind-boggling distances. Whether it’s a .22 beyond 500 yards or a souped up CheyTac cartridge at 2 miles and beyond, this particular shooting sport requires a great deal of science, excellent team communication and some pretty neat guns. Give Long Range 1004 a listen and let us know what you think! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

How much farther can we take the long range 100_ series? There are plenty more long range topics to cover out here, but this one might be the grand finale for the series, discussing simply shooting out to 1000 yards to now sitting down with Ian Klemm and Jeff Heeg, Extreme Long Range (ELR) competitor, to discuss taking rifles out to some truly mind-boggling distances. Whether it’s a .22 beyond 500 yards or a souped up CheyTac cartridge at 2 miles and beyond, this particular shooting sport requires a great deal of science, excellent team communication and some pretty neat guns. Give Long Range 1004 a listen and let us know what you think! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 70 | Long Range 1004: ELR

The long-standing perception amongst shooters is that bolt guns hands-down out shoot gas guns in terms of accuracy and long range capability. In the past this was certainly true, and gas guns were simply held to a lower standard in accuracy than bolt guns were. But now, have gas guns made enough strides to match their bolt gun counterparts? Are they a more viable solution for long range precision shooting? We grabbed Dillen Easly, competitive shooter of many disciplines, and Garrett Grover of Rise Armament, manufacturer of gas guns, to chat about this very topic. You’ll also learn the difference between mechanical and “practical” accuracy (A term admittedly just made up by Garrett on the spot) and how they affect your groups and performance at long range, as well as how it may even affect the barrel life for your gun for you individually. As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

The long-standing perception amongst shooters is that bolt guns hands-down out shoot gas guns in terms of accuracy and long range capability. In the past this was certainly true, and gas guns were simply held to a lower standard in accuracy than bolt guns were. But now, have gas guns made enough strides to match their bolt gun counterparts? Are they a more viable solution for long range precision shooting? We grabbed Dillen Easly, competitive shooter of many disciplines, and Garrett Grover of Rise Armament, manufacturer of gas guns, to chat about this very topic. You’ll also learn the difference between mechanical and “practical” accuracy (A term admittedly just made up by Garrett on the spot) and how they affect your groups and performance at long range, as well as how it may even affect the barrel life for your gun for you individually. As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 75 | Gas Guns Vs. Bolt Guns for Long Range

Jimmy, Ryan Muckenhirn, Paul Ness and Scott Parks further expand upon the topic of long range shooting from our first "Long Range Shooting 1001" podcast. If you've overheard the pro's talk about BC's, G1 vs. G7, wind, mirage, the importance of leveling your riflescope or density altitude before and wondered "What the h%ll are they talking about?" - This "1002" level discussion might just answer that question. Most importantly, we can't stress enough that arguably the most important thing you can know and do to become a better long range shooter is gain more experience... That means SHOOT MORE! There are a million and one variables that go into each and every shot. The only real difference between an "OK" shooter and a great shooter is the great shooter has thousands of rounds worth of previously gained knowledge to base their estimation upon, making them more likely to be more accurate. No one will ever truly master long range shooting to the point of perfection, but with enough trigger time, you can gain a level of intuitiveness that will greatly help your long distance accuracy. Listen here and get shooting, Vortex Nation! Already listened, but want the show notes for reference afterwards? You can find them here: https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Jimmy, Ryan Muckenhirn, Paul Ness and Scott Parks further expand upon the topic of long range shooting from our first "Long Range Shooting 1001" podcast. If you've overheard the pro's talk about BC's, G1 vs. G7, wind, mirage, the importance of leveling your riflescope or density altitude before and wondered "What the h%ll are they talking about?" - This "1002" level discussion might just answer that question. Most importantly, we can't stress enough that arguably the most important thing you can know and do to become a better long range shooter is gain more experience... That means SHOOT MORE! There are a million and one variables that go into each and every shot. The only real difference between an "OK" shooter and a great shooter is the great shooter has thousands of rounds worth of previously gained knowledge to base their estimation upon, making them more likely to be more accurate. No one will ever truly master long range shooting to the point of perfection, but with enough trigger time, you can gain a level of intuitiveness that will greatly help your long distance accuracy. Listen here and get shooting, Vortex Nation! Already listened, but want the show notes for reference afterwards? You can find them here: <a href="https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-nation-podcast</a> As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 11 | Long Range Shooting 1002

We didn’t expect to need two parts for this topic, but there’s just so dang much to talk about when it comes to riflescopes! Lightweight Dave joins Mark and Jimmy once again, this time not to talk about sawing his toothbrush in half, but to discuss all things riflescopes. How they’re made, how their optical systems work, how our eyes interact with the light they funnel through their many lenses, what parallax is and what parallax adjustable scopes do when you spin their dials, and so much more! Minds were blown for this one as usual and we’d love to hear from you about what further riflescope topics we can discuss in Part 2. Let us 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 on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

We didn’t expect to need two parts for this topic, but there’s just so dang much to talk about when it comes to riflescopes! Lightweight Dave joins Mark and Jimmy once again, this time not to talk about sawing his toothbrush in half, but to discuss all things riflescopes. How they’re made, how their optical systems work, how our eyes interact with the light they funnel through their many lenses, what parallax is and what parallax adjustable scopes do when you spin their dials, and so much more! Minds were blown for this one as usual and we’d love to hear from you about what further riflescope topics we can discuss in Part 2. Let us 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 on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Ep. 102 | Riflescopes – Everything you ever wanted to know (Part 1)

Our original intent was to have just a podcast about the sport of F-Class shooting, but when you get these brainiacs (Ian Klemm and Niles Richardson) talking about their obsession... er... "Hobby" you better believe it's going to turn into a full on long range shooting information assault to the brain. Fact of the matter is, in F-Class, the only thing that matters is long range accuracy - and when we say "Accuracy", we're talking about sub-MOA groups on paper at 1000 yards with .308's. Every single aspect of an F-Class competitor's game is completely dialed in for long range accuracy. We talk about the guns, their bipods, wind, mirage, barrel harmonics and the special scopes F-Class competitors need for their rifles. Ian even goes so far as to tell us how much his rifle has moved prior to the bullet leaving his 30 inch barrel. Just a simple equation involving acceleration, terminal velocity, moment of inertia of the rifle and coefficient of friction of the bipod and rifle on the ground. Kindergarten stuff. Prepare to learn more about ultra-precision long range shooting that you ever thought possible! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Our original intent was to have just a podcast about the sport of F-Class shooting, but when you get these brainiacs (Ian Klemm and Niles Richardson) talking about their obsession... er... "Hobby" you better believe it's going to turn into a full on long range shooting information assault to the brain. Fact of the matter is, in F-Class, the only thing that matters is long range accuracy - and when we say "Accuracy", we're talking about sub-MOA groups on paper at 1000 yards with .308's. Every single aspect of an F-Class competitor's game is completely dialed in for long range accuracy. We talk about the guns, their bipods, wind, mirage, barrel harmonics and the special scopes F-Class competitors need for their rifles. Ian even goes so far as to tell us how much his rifle has moved prior to the bullet leaving his 30 inch barrel. Just a simple equation involving acceleration, terminal velocity, moment of inertia of the rifle and coefficient of friction of the bipod and rifle on the ground. Kindergarten stuff. Prepare to learn more about ultra-precision long range shooting that you ever thought possible! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 57 | Long Range 1003: We Got the F-Class Guys

Reuben and Scott Parks (Back from our Long Range series some time ago!) join Jimmy and Mark to discuss the topic of making your rifle fit you. This is a broad topic that can really go in a lot of different directions – proper stock/chassis choice and setup, proper optic setup, and probably most importantly – a good understanding of the fundamentals of marksmanship and plain good shooting. Scott also talks natural point of aim and the fact that shooting a heavier recoiling rifle can often times immediately point out any shooting fundamentals you’re doing wrong or have gotten a little lazy 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

Reuben and Scott Parks (Back from our Long Range series some time ago!) join Jimmy and Mark to discuss the topic of making your rifle fit you. This is a broad topic that can really go in a lot of different directions – proper stock/chassis choice and setup, proper optic setup, and probably most importantly – a good understanding of the fundamentals of marksmanship and plain good shooting. Scott also talks natural point of aim and the fact that shooting a heavier recoiling rifle can often times immediately point out any shooting fundamentals you’re doing wrong or have gotten a little lazy 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

Ep. 113 | Make Your Rifle Fit You – Not the Other Way Around

Why suppressed? Consider the fact that if you’re listening to this podcast, that’s courtesy of your functioning ears, which we should all be doing everything in our power to maintain. For some the answer to the question of “Why suppressed?” is obvious, but due to some unfortunate misinformation in popular and social media, suppressor ownership and use can be scary, seemingly unnecessary or just plain confusing to a great deal of hunters, shooters and budding enthusiasts. In this episode, Jimmy, Mark, Reuben Aleckson and Adam Maxwell discuss why shooting suppressed should be looked at as a great benefit to shooters, hunters, our neighbors and even the habitat which we hunt in. We discuss generally how most states go about their suppressor transfers, how a suppressor works and all the many benefits of owning and using a suppressor in a wide variety of shooting scenarios. Then when you’re done… Get one… or two… Or a bunch for all your firearms! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Why suppressed? Consider the fact that if you’re listening to this podcast, that’s courtesy of your functioning ears, which we should all be doing everything in our power to maintain. For some the answer to the question of “Why suppressed?” is obvious, but due to some unfortunate misinformation in popular and social media, suppressor ownership and use can be scary, seemingly unnecessary or just plain confusing to a great deal of hunters, shooters and budding enthusiasts. In this episode, Jimmy, Mark, Reuben Aleckson and Adam Maxwell discuss why shooting suppressed should be looked at as a great benefit to shooters, hunters, our neighbors and even the habitat which we hunt in. We discuss generally how most states go about their suppressor transfers, how a suppressor works and all the many benefits of owning and using a suppressor in a wide variety of shooting scenarios. Then when you’re done… Get one… or two… Or a bunch for all your firearms! As always - let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.

Ep. 60 | Why Suppressed?

Remi Warren

Remi Warren is an all-around badass, so when we get the chance to podcast with him following up a bizarre conversation over sushi about the time he tried eating a slug as part of a survival course he was doing “Just for fun”, we had to jump at the opportunity. When he’s not remembering last minute that slugs aren’t exactly… “Edible”… Remi is a master at surviving in the wilderness. It’s not just the gear that he carries with him (In fact, you’ll find he doesn’t carry a whole lot) but simply the know-how of how to use his surroundings to keep him alive. So hunker down and “Get bushy” with Remi here for this great episode!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

Remi Warren is an all-around badass, so when we get the chance to podcast with him following up a bizarre conversation over sushi about the time he tried eating a slug as part of a survival course he was doing “Just for fun”, we had to jump at the opportunity. When he’s not remembering last minute that slugs aren’t exactly… “Edible”… Remi is a master at surviving in the wilderness. It’s not just the gear that he carries with him (In fact, you’ll find he doesn’t carry a whole lot) but simply the know-how of how to use his surroundings to keep him alive. So hunker down and “Get bushy” with Remi here for this great episode!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

Ep. 106 | Remi Warren Talks Survival in the Wilderness

Could the .22LR actually be considered “America’s cartridge”? Ryan Muckenhirn and new guest Seth Toy (From our engineering department) join Jimmy and Mark to talk all about rimfire cartridges, NRL precision .22 LR matches and a brand new scope from Vortex that might just so happen to have the perfect set of features for precision rimfire shooters. If you’ve always been the kind of person to take a fun game and get really competitive about it in a quest to beat literally everyone else on the planet, you’d make a great competitive rimfire guy/gal and should totally listen to this one. Also, if you watch on YouTube, stick around after the podcast to hear Ryan and Seth go on a completely interesting and nerdy tangent about making their own ELR .22 cartridge. Truly revolutionary.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

Could the .22LR actually be considered “America’s cartridge”? Ryan Muckenhirn and new guest Seth Toy (From our engineering department) join Jimmy and Mark to talk all about rimfire cartridges, NRL precision .22 LR matches and a brand new scope from Vortex that might just so happen to have the perfect set of features for precision rimfire shooters. If you’ve always been the kind of person to take a fun game and get really competitive about it in a quest to beat literally everyone else on the planet, you’d make a great competitive rimfire guy/gal and should totally listen to this one. Also, if you watch on YouTube, stick around after the podcast to hear Ryan and Seth go on a completely interesting and nerdy tangent about making their own ELR .22 cartridge. Truly revolutionary.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

Ep. 120 | All Things Rimfire and Long Range .22’s!

Adam Maxwell and Rob Morell join Jimmy and Mark to talk all about LPVO’s (Riflescopes that go from 1x to a higher magnification) their rise to huge popularity with the shooting community these days and one very exciting new product coming out from Vortex in the category for 2020. If you like to be in the know on new and exciting stuff, you won’t want to miss this one!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

Adam Maxwell and Rob Morell join Jimmy and Mark to talk all about LPVO’s (Riflescopes that go from 1x to a higher magnification) their rise to huge popularity with the shooting community these days and one very exciting new product coming out from Vortex in the category for 2020. If you like to be in the know on new and exciting stuff, you won’t want to miss this one!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

Ep. 107 | Let’s Talk LPVO’s (Low Power Variable Optics)

Jimmy and Mark are joined by Reuben Aleckson and Adam Maxwell to talk SBR’s (Short Barreled Rifles). Why are they so hot right now? Why do so many people assume they’re impossible to attain? With pistol brace “Technology” making pistol AR’s closer and closer to their rifle counterparts these days, is it still worth it to SBR your lower? Do people just do it to be cool or are there serious practical applications to a shorter barrel? And of course – WHAT ABOUT VELOCITY?!? Answers to these questions and so much more are ready to fill your ears in this episode! 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

Jimmy and Mark are joined by Reuben Aleckson and Adam Maxwell to talk SBR’s (Short Barreled Rifles). Why are they so hot right now? Why do so many people assume they’re impossible to attain? With pistol brace “Technology” making pistol AR’s closer and closer to their rifle counterparts these days, is it still worth it to SBR your lower? Do people just do it to be cool or are there serious practical applications to a shorter barrel? And of course – WHAT ABOUT VELOCITY?!? Answers to these questions and so much more are ready to fill your ears in this episode! 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

Ep. 111 | To SBR or Not to SBR?

Ian Klemm, previous guest from some some of our most popular podcasts of all time in the Long Range series, joins Mark and Jimmy to talk all about barrels. Are these the most important parts of your gun? Why are there so many different kinds? Materials, fluting, twist rates, types of rifling, lengths, coatings, tuning, free floating, the list goes on and on! Ian discusses all these topics in-depth in the way only a mega-genius gun-nerd engineer could. Whether you’re looking for a barrel to complete your ultra-custom long range rifle or simply want to know what all the hubbub is around these things, this podcast is perfect for all you gun nuts!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

Ian Klemm, previous guest from some some of our most popular podcasts of all time in the Long Range series, joins Mark and Jimmy to talk all about barrels. Are these the most important parts of your gun? Why are there so many different kinds? Materials, fluting, twist rates, types of rifling, lengths, coatings, tuning, free floating, the list goes on and on! Ian discusses all these topics in-depth in the way only a mega-genius gun-nerd engineer could. Whether you’re looking for a barrel to complete your ultra-custom long range rifle or simply want to know what all the hubbub is around these things, this podcast is perfect for all you gun nuts!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

Ep. 105 | Barrels – The Most Important Part of Your Gun?

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