Hunting Gear Podcast

By Dan Johnson, Sportsmen's EmpireSports Leisure Wilderness Hobbies

Hunting Gear Podcast episodes

April 03, 2025 Vortex Week - New Product Lineup
On this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, Dan talks with product specialists Ryan and Mark from Vortex Optics about new products for 2025. Recently Vortex launched several new red dot options for pistols and shotguns, including compact spotting scopes, bino harnesses, and rifle scopes. All topics of discussion in todays episode. Other topics include their superior customer service, product development through customer feedback, and new products moving forwards. Enjoy!

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1 hr 15 min
March 26, 2025Thermal Optics
In this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Drake Adams and Dustin Harding from Athlon Optics about the evolution of optics in hunting, focusing on thermal optics. They discuss the differences between first and second focal plane scopes, the impact of rising costs on hunting, and the growing interest in thermal technology. The conversation also covers the demographics of thermal optics users and the environmental considerations for using these devices. In this conversation, Drake Adams discusses the intricacies of thermal optics, focusing on their functionality, user experience, and the growing popularity of these devices in hunting. He addresses common concerns regarding the use of thermal optics, emphasizing the importance of responsible hunting practices. Adams highlights the advantages of choosing Athlon thermal optics, including their competitive pricing, customer support, and warranty services. The conversation also touches on the technological aspects of thermal optics and their manufacturing processes.

Takeaways:
Dan Johnson introduces the podcast and guests from Athlon Optics.
Drake Adams shares his experience and role at Athlon Optics.
Dustin Harding discusses his role in product development and marketing.
The importance of listening to consumer needs in optics design.
The shift from second to first focal plane optics in hunting.
The impact of rising costs on hunting and optics purchases.
The growth of thermal optics and its appeal to hunters.
Understanding the differences between thermal and night vision optics.
The calibration process for thermal optics is automatic.
Thermal optics are weatherproof but have limitations in high humidity. Detection range decreases with humidity.
Thermal optics have a built-in battery system.
Battery life can last up to 10 hours.
User-friendly features make thermal optics accessible.
Thermal hunting extends the hunting season.
Concerns about poaching are addressed by responsible use.
Athlon offers competitive pricing for performance.
Customer service is a priority for Athlon.
Thermal optics can be powered externally.
Manufacturing quality has improved over time.

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54 min
March 21, 2025Shoot From The Hip BS Session
In this episode, Dan Johnson and Pierce Nelles discuss the intricacies of podcasting, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the evolving landscape of the hunting industry. They delve into the impact of corporate ownership on product quality, the importance of customer service, and the influence of tariffs on hunting gear. The conversation also touches on the balance between influencers and product owners, the role of innovation in hunting gear, and advice for new hunters on selecting the right equipment. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Pierce Nelles explore the nuances of hunting gear, emphasizing the importance of experience over the latest technology. They discuss how personal preferences and hunting goals shape gear choices, the nostalgia associated with older equipment, and the balance between traditional and modern hunting practices. The conversation also touches on scent management strategies and the effectiveness of various products in the field, ultimately reflecting on the essence of hunting beyond just the gear.

Takeaways:
Podcasting is a passion for both hosts.
Delegation can be challenging for entrepreneurs.
Success doesn't require being cutthroat.
The hunting industry is becoming saturated.
Quality of products may decline with corporate ownership.
Customer service is crucial for brand loyalty.
Tariffs could impact the pricing of hunting gear.
Product quality is perceived to be slipping.
Innovation in hunting gear is constant but may not always be significant.
New hunters should seek advice from experienced friends. Start with what you have before buying new gear.
Friends and experienced hunters are the best resources for advice.
Understanding your hunting goals is crucial for gear selection.
You can be successful with older equipment.
The excitement of new gear diminishes with frequent upgrades.
Nostalgia plays a role in hunting equipment choices.
Scent management is a science worth exploring.
Mock scrapes can be effective for inventorying deer.
Deer behavior is complex and varies by environment.
The essence of hunting lies in the experience, not just the gear.

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1 hr 12 min
March 14, 2025Spring Products For Next Deer Season
In this episode, Dan Johnson discusses essential products and strategies for springtime deer hunting preparation. He emphasizes the importance of setting up mineral sites early, utilizing trail cameras for inventory, and establishing mock scrapes to attract deer. Additionally, he shares insights on the tools needed for tree stand preparation and offers final product recommendations for hunters gearing up for the season.
Takeaways:
Spring is the best time to set up mineral sites for deer.
Trail cameras are crucial for monitoring deer populations.
Mock scrapes should be established early for best results.
Pole saws and hand saws are essential for clearing shooting lanes.
Regular maintenance of gear, like trail cameras, is important for success.
Understanding local regulations on mineral sites is key.
Using scents can enhance the effectiveness of mock scrapes.
Investing in quality gloves is a must for hunters.
Discounts on hunting gear are common in spring.
Preparation now leads to better hunting experiences later.

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24 min
March 07, 2025Turkey Gear For The Cheapskate
In this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Jace Greer, a musician and turkey hunting enthusiast. They discuss the balance between Jace's music career and his passion for turkey hunting, exploring the challenges and decisions he faces during hunting season. Jace shares his cheapskate approach to hunting gear, emphasizing the importance of practicality over expense. He recounts his early experiences with minimal gear and how he gradually invested in essential equipment, including a shotgun and binoculars. The conversation also touches on the significance of camouflage choices and finding budget-friendly gear, highlighting the value of generosity in the hunting community. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jase Greer discuss various aspects of turkey hunting, including the cost of gear, the differences between turkey and deer hunting, mastering turkey calls, and the importance of comfort and functionality in hunting equipment. They also touch on the significance of decoys and share personal anecdotes about their hunting experiences, emphasizing that success in hunting often comes down to experience and adaptability rather than just gear.
Takeaways:
Jace Greer balances a music career with turkey hunting.
He prioritizes turkey hunting over music gigs during the season.
Jace's first turkey gear was hand-me-downs from his father.
Investing in a good shotgun made a significant difference for Jace.
He believes in starting with basic gear and upgrading gradually.
Camo choices are often based on practicality rather than brand.
Good binoculars are essential for turkey hunting success.
Jace finds deals at outlet stores for hunting gear.
He encourages others to get into hunting without overspending.
Generosity in the hunting community can help newcomers get started. Investing in hunting gear should prioritize functionality over brand names.
Turkey hunting requires less gear and preparation compared to deer hunting.
Mastering turkey calls can significantly improve hunting success.
Comfortable footwear is essential for long days in the field.
Using decoys can enhance the chances of attracting turkeys.
It's important to adapt your calling techniques based on the turkey's behavior.
A good backpack can help manage gear effectively during hunts.
Hunting experiences are often unpredictable, regardless of preparation.
The right gear can make a difference, but experience is key.
Turkey hunting is a dynamic experience that varies with each outing.

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1 hr 1 min
February 28, 2025Evolution Of Ani-Logics
In this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes back Tim Neuman from Ani-logics to discuss hunting experiences, product innovations, and the importance of food plots in wildlife management. They delve into personal hunting stories, the evolution of Analogics' product line, and the significance of research and development in creating effective food plot seeds. Tim shares insights on popular blends, easy planting solutions, and the importance of putting effort into food plots for better results. The conversation wraps up with resources available for hunters looking to improve their food plot strategies. In this conversation, Tim Neuman discusses the importance of attractants and baits for deer, emphasizing the diversity of flavors that appeal to deer based on regional preferences. He also addresses the challenges posed by Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), highlighting the need for innovative products to support deer health. The discussion further explores nutritional strategies that can enhance deer health and antler growth, underscoring the relationship between nutrition and overall deer well-being.
Takeaways:
Tim Neuman shares his successful hunting season experience.
The importance of setting realistic hunting goals is emphasized.
Ani-logics has diversified its product line to include various deer attractants.
Food plots are becoming increasingly important due to regulations on attractants.
Research and development are crucial for effective food plot seeds.
The Perfect 10 blend is the most popular food plot option.
Caveman blend is designed for easy planting with minimal effort.
Amazing grains can grow well even in late planting conditions.
Effort put into food plots directly correlates with deer attraction.
Resources are available online for best practices in food plot management. Diversity in attractants is crucial for deer attraction.
Wild berries are a preferred forage for deer.
Liquid attractants should be used strategically.
CWD is challenging to study in free-range environments.
Banning mineral sites may lead to illegal feeding practices.
EHD survival is linked to the deer's nutritional status.
Healthy deer have a better chance of surviving EHD.
Nutrition plays a vital role in antler growth.
Ani-logic aims to improve deer health through nutrition.
Investing in herd health yields exceptional deer.

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1 hr 9 min
February 21, 2025Turkey Gear B.S. Session
In this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, host Dan Johnson and turkey hunting enthusiast Kevin Creeley dive deep into the world of turkey hunting. They discuss the differences between turkey and deer hunting, the cultural aspects surrounding turkey hunting, and the excitement of the upcoming turkey season. Kevin shares insights from the NWTF convention, highlighting new gear and products that caught his attention. The conversation also covers the importance of choosing the right calls and evaluating hunting gear for effectiveness and comfort. In this engaging conversation, Kevin Creeley shares his extensive knowledge and experiences in turkey hunting, covering various aspects such as calling techniques, the importance of shot gobbling, effective decoy strategies, and essential gear for a successful hunt. He emphasizes the significance of understanding turkey behavior and adapting one's approach based on the season and environment. The discussion also touches on personal preferences in camo patterns, the necessity of packing the right gear, and tips for beginners to enhance their turkey hunting experience.
Takeaways:
Turkey hunting is a passion for many, including Kevin.
Patience is a key difference between turkey and deer hunting.
The culture around turkey hunting is more relaxed compared to deer hunting.
Virginia is known for its excellent turkey hunting opportunities.
Southern states have a strong turkey hunting culture.
Investing in quality gear enhances the hunting experience.
Locator calls can significantly improve turkey hunting success.
Different types of calls serve unique purposes in turkey hunting.
Understanding mouth call mechanics is crucial for effective calling.
A good turkey hunter adapts their gear to various hunting conditions. An alcohol is essential for turkey calling.
Mastering the eight count hoot can attract turkeys.
Shot gobbling can be triggered by various sounds.
Conservative calling can be effective for beginners.
Decoys can simplify the hunting process, especially for kids.
Setting up in a way that conceals the hunter is crucial.
Camo patterns should mimic the environment, like the base of a tree.
Permethrin bug spray is vital for comfort during hunts.
Extra socks can make a significant difference in comfort.
A mouth call is the most versatile tool for turkey hunting.

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55 min
February 07, 2025New Products From The ATA Show
In this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Cameron Stover discuss their recent hunting experiences, particularly focusing on a successful deer hunt in Ohio. They delve into the challenges of tracking wounded deer and the emotional journey of hunting. The conversation then shifts to the ATA show, where Cameron shares his observations about the current state of hunting gear innovation, the lack of groundbreaking new products, and the evolution of existing products. They explore the trends in the hunting gear market, including the rise of mobile hunting gear and the importance of comfort and convenience in hunting accessories. In this conversation, Camron Stover and Dan Johnson discuss various innovations in hunting gear, focusing on new products showcased at a recent trade show. They explore advancements in pole saws, waterproof clothing, mobile hunting systems, and unique 3D targets. The discussion highlights the importance of marketing in the hunting industry and the challenges faced by smaller brands in gaining visibility. The conversation also touches on the practicality and effectiveness of new products, emphasizing the need for thorough testing and user feedback. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Camron Stover discuss various innovations in hunting gear, the challenges of censorship in social media platforms for hunters, and the potential of new technologies like e-bikes and apps tailored for the hunting community. They also delve into the evolution of archery equipment, highlighting the advancements in bow technology and the importance of user comfort and performance.
Takeaways:
Cameron successfully tracked and harvested a deer after a challenging two-month pursuit.
The emotional weight of hunting is significant, especially after wounding a deer.
The ATA show showcased a lack of innovative products this year.
Many hunting products have reached a plateau in terms of innovation.
Consistency in gear is crucial for hunters, especially with bows and broadheads.
The market is saturated with similar products, making it hard to find truly innovative gear.
Comfort and convenience are becoming more important in hunting gear design.
Mobile hunting gear is on the rise, with companies like Arsenal leading the way.
Tethered is gaining traction in the mobile hunting market with innovative products.
Hunters often feel pressured to buy the latest and most expensive gear due to FOMO. Innovation often comes from smaller brands that lack marketing power.
Many products are rebranded versions of older technologies.
Waterproof clothing needs to be both functional and quiet for hunting.
Mobile hunting systems are evolving to be more user-friendly.
3D targets can add fun to practice but may lack durability.
Quality and price are often correlated in hunting gear.
Testing products firsthand is crucial for understanding their effectiveness.
Unique designs can enhance the hunting experience.
Smaller companies can compete with larger brands through innovation.
Consumer feedback is essential for product improvement. The direct-to-consumer market is not always cheaper.
Censorship on social media affects the hunting community.
E-bikes are becoming essential tools for hunters.
New apps are needed for the hunting community.
Innovations in archery equipment are improving user experience.
Comfort in gear is crucial for performance.
The hunting community needs a dedicated social media platform.
Censorship may not deter hunters from sharing their experiences.
Bow technology has evolved significantly in recent years.
The market for hunting gear continues to grow despite challenges.

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1 hr 29 min
January 31, 2025The Rebirth of Knight & Hale
In this episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes Matt Wade and Jimmy from Knight & Hale, a historic brand in turkey hunting gear. They discuss the brand's origins, its revival after a period of dormancy, and the strategies they are implementing to appeal to both older and younger generations of hunters. The conversation highlights the passion behind turkey hunting, the importance of community, and the excitement surrounding the launch of new products. In this conversation, the team from Night and Hail discusses the importance of customer feedback in product development, emphasizing their commitment to quality and innovation. They highlight their focus on creating unique turkey calls and accessories that cater to a wide demographic, including the next generation of hunters. The conversation also touches on the brand's legacy and their plans for revitalization at upcoming events.
Takeaways:
Nightingale is a cornerstone brand in turkey hunting.
The brand was founded in 1972 by Harold Knight and David Hale.
Harold and David remain actively involved in product development.
The turkey hunting community is passionate and engaged.
Reviving the brand involves reconnecting with its roots.
Social media plays a crucial role in reaching younger hunters.
The camaraderie of turkey hunting sets it apart from deer hunting.
New product launches are focused on quality and heritage.
The old Yeller call is being relaunched due to high demand.
The excitement around turkey hunting is being reignited with new generations. Customer feedback is crucial for product success.
Quality control ensures each call is unique.
The brand aims to cater to all demographics.
Innovative products are designed for comfort and usability.
Reviving the brand's legacy is a key focus.
The team values the input of experienced hunters.
Handcrafted products stand out in a crowded market.
Building memories is central to the brand's mission.
Upcoming launches will showcase new and exciting products.
The NWTF show is a pivotal event for brand engagement.

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54 min
January 24, 2025Latitude Outdoors In 2025
In this episode, Dan Johnson speaks with Kevin Leach from Latitude Outdoors about the evolution of their brand, the importance of building a strong team, and how they navigate competition in the hunting industry. They discuss product development, handling business challenges, and the significance of customer experience. Kevin shares insights on their collaboration with Realtree and highlights new product launches for 2024. In this conversation, Kevin Leach discusses the latest innovations in saddle design and hunting gear, focusing on comfort, packability, and user experience. He highlights the new Maverick and Lone Star saddles, the Profile platform, and the Ranger backpacks, emphasizing their unique features and benefits for mobile hunters. The discussion also touches on layering systems for cold weather hunting and future product developments at Latitude.
Takeaways:
Latitude Outdoors started selling products in July 2020.
The COVID-19 pandemic increased interest in outdoor activities.
Building a strong team is crucial for business growth.
Innovation is driven by customer experience, not just competition.
The company has a long-term product roadmap.
Communication with customers is key during challenges.
Celebrating milestones boosts team morale.
Saddles should be tried before buying for the best fit.
Collaboration with Realtree offers new options for customers.
New product launches include single panel saddle offerings. The Maverick saddle is lightweight and comfortable for beginners.
The Lone Star saddle offers enhanced comfort for larger individuals.
Packability is as important as weight for mobile hunters.
The Profile platform packs down to an inch and a quarter thick.
Layering systems need to retain heat even when compressed.
Merino base layers are effective for cold weather hunting.
New backpacks are designed for customization and versatility.
The Operator pouch allows for single-hand operation.
Future products will include an XL version of the Profile platform.
Latitude is focused on customer feedback for product development.

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56 min

About Hunting Gear Podcast

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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…