The host (Remi Warren) explains why hunting guides almost instinctively say “reload” immediately after a shot, and why every hunter should build the same automatic habit—regardless of whether they think the first shot was perfect.Key ideasCorrect order of operations after shooting: Reload → reacquire/refind the animal → reassess → reshoot if needed. Many hunters do it backwards (“Did I hit it?” first), which wastes the small window where a follow-up shot is possible.Why it matters: Seconds lost to fumbling a reload or searching for the animal can mean:missing a clean follow-up opportunity,turning a quick recovery into a long tracking job,or losing an animal entirely.Guiding stories illustrate the point:A rifle client argues “no way I missed” instead of reloading, and loses a second shot opportunity.A bowhunter misses low, the bull stops again, and the guide has to push “reload” to get the second arrow off—this time it works and the elk is recovered.How to practice (so it becomes automatic)Rifle: Don’t only shoot slow groups from the bench. Practice realistic field positions and deliberately train fast, smooth follow-up shots (reload + get back on target). Also practice at different scope magnifications so you can reacquire quickly.Bow: Practice shooting, nocking another arrow immediately, drawing again, and being ready to shoot—so the reload step happens without conscious thought.Main takeaway“Reload” isn’t about assuming you missed—it’s about being prepared. When reloading and getting back on target becomes muscle memory, you stay calm, make better decisions, and greatly increase the odds of a quick, ethical recovery.