Join us for an exhilarating episode of the Elk Hunt podcast, where host Cody Rich revisits a gripping 2018 interview with Todd Orr, a seasoned Montana hunter who survived a harrowing double grizzly bear attack. Todd shares his incredible story of resilience and survival, detailing the intense moments of the bear encounter and his recovery. Beyond the attack, Todd dives into his unique approach to hunting elk with a pistol, offering insights into tracking techniques, animal behavior, and the challenges of late-season hunting in Montana’s rugged terrain. This episode is packed with thrilling stories, practical hunting tips, and lessons on staying prepared in bear country. Perfect for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this episode will leave you inspired and ready for your next adventure.

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Time Stamp Chapters

00:00 - 02:30: Introduction and Context for the Archive Episode

Cody explains why this 2018 episode with Todd Orr is being re-released, referencing a recent podcast with Jade and the demand from listeners to hear Todd’s epic story.

02:30 - 08:00: Todd Orr’s Background and Pistol Hunting Journey

Todd shares his transition from bow hunting to pistol hunting after a snowboarding injury, discussing his passion for the challenge and his use of a .44 Magnum and 10mm pistol.

08:00 - 24:00: Elk Tracking Techniques and Strategies

Todd details his approach to tracking elk in late-season snow, including reading tracks, identifying mature bulls, and navigating terrain to outsmart elk.

24:00 - 48:00: Grizzly Bear Attack Story

Todd recounts the terrifying double grizzly bear attack on October 1, 2016, describing the encounter, his use of bear spray, and the aftermath of surviving two charges.

48:00 - 58:00: Lessons from the Attack and Hunting in Bear Country

Todd reflects on how the attack changed his hunting practices, offering advice on bear safety, the importance of preparation, and maintaining awareness in grizzly country.

58:00 - 62:00: Closing Thoughts and Todd’s Knife-Making Business

Cody and Todd wrap up with reflections on the joy of hunting, the thrill of tracking, and a shoutout to Todd’s custom knife-making business, Skyblade Knives.

Mastering Elk Tracking Requires Patience and Observation: Todd’s methodical approach to tracking elk in late-season snow highlights the importance of reading subtle signs, such as track size, dew claw impressions, and weaving patterns, to identify mature bulls and predict their behavior.

Preparation is Critical in Bear Country: Todd’s survival of a double grizzly attack underscores the necessity of carrying and practicing with bear spray, maintaining situational awareness, and being mentally prepared for unexpected wildlife encounters.

Pistol Hunting Adds Unique Challenges and Rewards: Hunting elk with a pistol, as Todd does, combines the precision of rifle hunting with the close-range intensity of bow hunting, requiring hunters to get within 100-200 yards and master their weapon for ethical shots.