Kountryfried Outdoors: Chasing Your Experience

The bow hunting debate everyone still argues about starts with one man, one rhino, and a study that changed Africa forever. Dr. Ed Ashby breaks down the Natal Study, the real story behind the 650-grain threshold, and why so much of what hunters think they know about arrow performance misses the mark.

Sean Smith sits down with the man behind one of the most influential bodies of bowhunting research ever done. Ed Ashby takes you back to the early 1980s, when a personal run of wounded deer pushed him to start collecting terminal ballistics data, then into South Africa, where his work helped prove bow hunting could be legal, effective, and ethical in Natal province and beyond.

You'll discover what the study actually measured, how animals were dissected and evaluated, and why inadequate penetration was the number one cause of non-lethal hits. Ed also explains the surprising failure points that showed up again and again - broadhead damage, weak inserts, bent shafts, poor structural integrity - and why only a few heads survived bone impact intact.

We break down the 12 factors that matter most in arrow performance, including forward of center, broadhead mechanical advantage, shaft diameter, edge finish, single bevel versus double bevel design, and the heavy bone threshold that gets misunderstood more than almost any other concept in archery. Ed makes the case for momentum over kinetic energy, and explains why lighter arrows can look good on paper while underperforming exactly when hunters need them most.

This conversation matters because the difference between a pass-through and a lost animal is not just theory. It affects recovery, suffering, ethics, and success in the field. Whether you hunt whitetails, elk, buffalo, or just want a smarter way to build a hunting arrow, this episode challenges the assumptions that keep hunters stuck in speed-first thinking.

Perfect for bowhunters, trad archers, compound shooters, and anyone who wants the research, the history, and the hard-earned lessons behind truly effective arrow setups.

Guest Credibility

Dr. Ed Ashby is the researcher behind the Natal Study and the Ashby Bowhunting Foundation, known for decades of field testing on terminal arrow performance and bowhunting lethality. His work continues to shape modern discussions around momentum, arrow mass, and broadhead design.

Links and Codes:

Links:

Use Code KFO10 at ScentArmor.com to save some money!

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠⁠⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠⁠⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Most cover scents are made to smell "good." Michael Shaeffer built one to smell like the woods - and hunters are noticing the difference. If you want more confidence in the stand, cleaner routines, and a product line made by a real hunter, this conversation is for you.

Sean Smith sits down with Michael Shaeffer, the Ohio outdoorsman behind Schaeff's Wild Game Sauces and Scent Armor, for a story that starts with deer camp food and ends with a full lineup of natural hunting products. Michael shares how a late start in hunting, a heart attack at 42, and a frustrating busted hunt behind his house led him to create a cover scent that actually feels like fresh earth, pine, moss, and late-season woods.

You'll discover how a runaway pepper jelly recipe became Schaeff's sauces, why COVID forced Michael to rebuild from zero, and how customer demand brought the hot and sweet sauces back. We break down the evolution of Scent Armor from bar soap to lotion, body wash, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, cover spray, laundry detergent, and more - all built with a focus on natural ingredients, better scent control, and real-world hunter feedback.

Michael also explains why his wife Rhonda became the driving force behind the soap-making side of the business, how he tests products with everyday hunters, and why one customer saying "your scent is too strong" helped improve the formula. Along the way, Sean and Michael trade venison recipes, deer camp stories, and plenty of practical talk about what actually builds confidence in the woods.

This episode matters if you care about scent control, hunting confidence, small business grit, or just want to hear how a homegrown idea turns into a brand hunters trust. If you like real stories from real people who still answer the phone, make the product themselves, and stand behind every bottle, bar, and spray - this one belongs in your queue.

Perfect for whitetail hunters, DIY outdoorsmen, and anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes look at the work it takes to build something from scratch.

Links and Codes:

Links:

Use Code KFO10 at ⁠ScentArmor.com⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com⁠⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Most archery debates are really about one thing - whether you trust the shop, the setup, and the person behind the bow. South Louisiana Archery owner Mark Bussell breaks down why the best bow work starts with people, not parts, and why the right answers are often the ones that save you time, money, and frustration.

Host Sean Smith and Mark get into the real-world stuff most archers are arguing about online - from draw length and peep height to kisser buttons, nose buttons, knock sets, and whether your bow is actually tuned for you. If you have ever walked out of a shop with a bow that looked right but never felt right, this conversation will hit home fast.

You’ll discover:

• Why Mark runs SLA as a private, relationship-first shop instead of a turn-and-burn pro shop

• How a bow that is technically “set up” can still be wrong for the archer

• Why too many people are shooting the wrong draw length because they chase IBO numbers

• The practical argument for two knock sets and why emergency D-loop repairs matter in the field

• How Mark thinks about arrow weight, trajectory, FOC, and when lighter is not better

• Why mechanicals, fixed blades, and broadhead choice should be judged by your hunting reality, not internet dogma

Mark also shares how a late-blooming bowhunter became the owner of a growing Louisiana archery shop, why he still works a full-time job, and how his small shop has built a loyal following by actually explaining the why behind every adjustment. Along the way, he and Sean trade stories about brutal humidity, deer season pressure, and the kind of close-range adrenaline that turns casual shooters into lifelong archers.

If you care about tuning, confidence, and getting honest answers from someone who lives this every day, this episode is essential listening. It is equal parts shop talk, field logic, and no-nonsense archery wisdom - with enough debate to make you rethink what you thought you knew.

Mark Bussell is the owner of South Louisiana Archery, a small private archery shop serving Louisiana hunters and bowhunters who want hands-on help, honest guidance, and gear that is tuned for real-world use.

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com⁠⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

The archery advice most hunters repeat is backwards - and it may be costing you pass-throughs, blood trail quality, and recoveries when it matters most. Sean Smith and Troy Fowler, aka the Ranch Fairy, break down why heavier, properly tuned arrows often perform better than the "lighter is faster" crowd wants to admit.

Troy brings the receipts from hard-earned failures on pigs and deer, plus years of testing with LabRadar, arrow builds, and broadhead setups that changed how he hunts forever. If you've ever lost penetration on a shot that should have worked, wondered why some arrows whistle through while others stall out, or questioned whether your setup is actually built for impact, this conversation hits home.

You'll discover:

• Why Troy stopped trusting speed charts and started chasing real-world terminal performance

• What his LabRadar testing shows about speed loss, momentum, and the so-called "happy medium" around the 550 grain range

• Why perfect arrow flight, sharp broadheads, FOC, and structural integrity all matter together - not as isolated fixes

• How single bevel and cut-on-contact heads change what happens after impact

• Why pass-throughs matter so much for recovery rates, especially on bigger game like elk

Sean and Troy also dig into the traps hunters fall into when they chase one variable - point weight, FOC, broadhead design, or raw speed - and ignore the rest of the system. The result is a practical, sometimes brutal conversation about what actually makes an arrow lethal, not just fast on paper.

If you've ever been frustrated by marginal penetration, inconsistent blood trails, or online "rules" that don't match what you see in the field, this episode gives you a better framework for building a setup you can trust. Essential listening for bowhunters who want fewer guesses, more data, and a better chance at getting two holes in the animal.

Troy Fowler is the Ranch Fairy, a bowhunting educator and field tester known for popularizing heavy-arrow thinking, arrow flight tuning, and practical terminal ballistics experiments. Sean Smith hosts Chasing Your Experience and brings the perspective of a hunter who chased the answers after his own failures forced him to ask better questions.

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠⁠⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠⁠⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

The advice most deer hunters get about mock scrapes is backwards. Brian R. Kightlinger breaks down why the right scrape setup can turn a patch of woods into a year-round communication hub - and why the difference between a good buck and a great one often comes down to understanding deer scent, timing, and territory.

If you’re chasing mature whitetails, trying to make sense of antler restrictions, or just want a smarter way to read deer sign, this conversation gives you a practical edge. Sean Smith and Brian go deep on what’s actually happening in Pennsylvania and beyond, from rising deer quality and herd balance to the ethical pressure points that keep dividing hunters.

You'll discover:

• Why mock scrapes work best as communication tools, not just rut-time attractors

• How Brian uses interdigital, forehead, and preorbital glands to make his setups feel real

• Why location matters more than hype, including wind, bedding edges, funnels, and food sources

• The mistakes that kill scrape effectiveness, from overcomplicating the setup to placing it where deer don’t naturally travel

• How Brian thinks about hunting over scrapes without overhunting them

Brian also shares the bigger picture behind Pennsylvania’s deer boom, including antler restrictions, hunter density, changing harvest trends, and why the state may be producing more quality bucks than ever before. He explains how years of trail camera data, field testing, and obsessive attention to detail shaped his approach - and why small changes like artificial leaves, saved scrape dirt, and moving scent sources between farms can trigger surprising results.

Brian R. Kightlinger is a Pennsylvania-based outdoor educator, writer, and field editor for bowhunting.net. He is the founder of Left in the Field Outdoors and the author of multiple books on hunting, including Nonverbal Whitetail Deer Communication: The Power of Glandlore.

Sean and Brian also tackle the ethics problem head-on - what drives hunters to cut corners for a bigger buck, why some people still resist selective harvest, and how the future of hunting depends on passing down better habits, not just bigger antlers. It’s a real-world look at deer behavior, hunting pressure, and the communication systems most hunters never learn to use.

Essential listening if you want to understand whitetails on a deeper level and start building mock scrapes that actually make deer stop, turn, and commit.

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Fitness for hunters does not have to mean extreme diets, brutal workouts, or burning out by midseason. Dillon Frantz breaks down a simpler way to get stronger, feel better, and stay ready for the mountains without giving up the foods and routines that make real life possible.

Sean Smith brings Dillon on after meeting him at Archery Hike, where the two swap stories about steep terrain, heavy packs, realistic shot angles, and why western-style hunting exposes every weakness in your conditioning. From there, Dillon shares the hard lesson that changed his approach to fitness: being too strict does not create lasting results. It usually creates burnout.

You’ll discover:

• Why the "dial system" works better than treating fitness like an on/off switch

• How to start improving your health without wrecking your lifestyle

• The biggest mistake hunters make when they slash calories and pile on cardio

• Why steps, strength training, and recovery matter more than punishment-style workouts

• How cortisol, sleep, and stress quietly shape your energy, fat loss, and performance

• Which foods and supplements are actually worth paying attention to

Dillon explains why carbs are not the enemy, why protein and fats still matter, and why the real problem is usually quantity, not some hidden villain food. He also shares practical adjustments anyone can make right away, from better snack choices in the stand to simple ways to build momentum when motivation is low.

If you have ever told yourself you are "too busy" to get in shape, or if you want to chase elk, drag deer, climb hills, or just have more energy for work and family, this conversation gives you a realistic place to start. No gimmicks. No extremes. Just a smarter path to being more prepared for the life you actually live.

Dillon Frantz is the co-owner of Deep Fit, where he helps people build lasting fitness habits without harsh diets or unsustainable routines. His focus is especially useful for hunters and outdoorsmen who need practical, real-world conditioning that holds up in the field.

Perfect for hunters, bowhunters, and anyone ready to stop starting over and finally make fitness stick.

Links and Codes:

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Does heavier really mean better? The truth about arrow weight, speed, and terminal ballistics might surprise you—and could change how you approach every shot. 

When it comes to hunting with a bow, the common mantra "lighter, faster, more energy" may be missing the mark. On this eye-opening episode, host Sean Smith and Co-Host Samuel Dunlap III peel back the curtain on the science of archery to reveal what really matters when it comes to achieving ethical, effective kills.

They dive into detailed data and real-world testing—including projectile velocity, momentum, and energy transfer—to challenge the myths and misconceptions about arrow weight and speed. Why does a heavier arrow maintain velocity further than a lighter one? How do FOC (Front of Center) adjustments impact accuracy and penetration? And what does the science say about terminal performance on game, from white-tailed deer to dangerous game? You'll discover how different factors—from arrow length and broadhead design to kinetic energy and momentum—affect your success in the field.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make smarter choices—whether it’s about arrow setup, shot planning, or ethical harvest. We break down:

• The impact of arrow weight and velocity on energy and penetration

• How to optimize FOC for accuracy and stability

• The surprising role of momentum in stopping power and tissue damage

• Practical tips to evaluate your gear and improve your shot success

The stakes are high in the field, and understanding these principles could be the difference between a trophy and an empty freezer. Don't fall prey to common myths—get the facts, and arm yourself with science-backed insights. Perfect for archery enthusiasts, hunters prepping for season, or anyone who’s ever wondered if fast really is better.

Sean, a longtime outdoorsman with a passion for data, and Sam, experienced hunter, combine forces in a lively, fact-based conversation. Their shared expertise digs deep into the physics of projectiles and bridges the gap between science and field performance. Whether you're aiming for the next deer or contemplating dangerous game hunts, this episode will help you line up your shot and hunt smarter.

Unlock the secrets to smarter, more ethical hunting. Knowledge is power—hit play now and discover why heavier arrows might just be your best insurance policy in the field.

Note: This episode is packed with practical data, expert insights, and applicable takeaways designed to elevate your hunting game. Tune in—your next successful shot depends on it.

Links and Codes:

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried10 at ⁠HuntCedeerCamo.com⁠ to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3CustomStrings.com

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Imagine being able to see the exact location of an animal’s vitals in augmented reality — before you even draw your bow. The QuivAR app, co-created by tech experts and archery enthusiasts, is revolutionizing how hunters and shooters understand anatomy, improve precision, and train ethically. This breakthrough technology overlays detailed digital anatomy onto your 3D or 2D targets, providing real-time, 360-degree views of vital zones, all through a simple scan of NFC chips on your targets.

In this episode, Levi Perigo, a tech innovator and co-creator of QuivAR, shares the fascinating story behind bringing cutting-edge artificial intelligence and augmented reality into archery practice. You’ll discover how scanning a single arrow can become a game-changing step towards ethical hunting, helping you visualize shot angles and improve shot placement without ever firing a shot. Levi reveals the AI-driven technology that recognizes various targets, scales accurately to different species like deer, elk, bears, and turkeys, and even factors in shot distance, angle, and species-specific size to assign precise scores.

We break down the upcoming features transforming archery training and competitions: from remote multiplayer contests to in-depth analytics tracking your progress over time. Levi explains how the app turns ordinary practice into an interactive, community-driven experience that fosters ethics, skills, and confidence all year round — whether you're shooting solo, with friends, or competing across the country.

And why does this matter? Traditional scoring rings and paper targets don’t capture the complexities of real-world shots. Without understanding anatomy and shot angles, hunters risk missed opportunities, ethical errors, and diminishing success rates. QuivAR closes that gap, making you a smarter, more ethical hunter and archer, whether you’re just starting or a seasoned pro.

Perfect for hunters, archers, coaches, and tech enthusiasts, this episode offers an inside look at a game-changing tool that elevates accuracy, understanding, and community in the modern hunting landscape. Levi’s insights showcase how technology can deepen your connection to the sport, improve ethical shot placement, and add a new layer of excitement and learning to your practice routine.

Get ready to see archery and hunting in a whole new way — because the future of precision is here. If you want the edge in your next hunt or competition, this episode is an absolute must-listen!

Links and Codes:

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried10 at HuntCedeerCamo.com to save 10%

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A3Archery.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Most hunters overlook the crucial details that can make or break their season — and Jason Cowman reveals the innovative design choices and intensive research behind Cedeer Camo that are changing the game. From battlefield-inspired micro and macro patterns to functional gear built for any hunt, this episode is packed with practical insights for every serious deer hunter.

Discover how a 23-year military career and a lifelong passion for hunting inspired Jason to create a camouflage pattern tailored to outsmart deer in any environment. Avoid the pitfalls of typical camo designs and learn how real concealment is achieved through science-backed patterning that works both near and at long range. Jason shares the engineering secrets behind the micro-blotch and macro-blotch layering, including how light-colored spots help you blend into the woods’ natural palette and prevent silhouette outlines—especially crucial when hunting from treestands against a bright sky.

You'll also hear about the evolution of Cedeer’s gear lineup, designed for maximum versatility and function across seasons. From lightweight early-season gear with UPF protection and breathable materials, to waterproof mid-season jackets and ultra-warm, windproof cold weather apparel — all crafted with materials that maximize comfort, durability, and concealment. Jason reveals how meticulous sample testing, strategic design, and the focus on sizing all come together to create gear that hunters can rely on. Plus, get the scoop on innovations like briar-proof pants, strategically placed pockets for saddle hunters, and how the right layering system can make all the difference in avoiding sweat and staying warm.

Why does this matter? Because in hunting, concealment isn’t just about looking good — it’s about fooling the deer’s vision and gaining the advantage in a competitive terrain. Jason breaks down practical tips on layering, packing smart, and choosing gear that adapts to movement and changing weather — whether you’re pushing through thick briars on public land or sitting tight in a treestand. If you want to outperform in the woods while protecting your budget, this episode offers expert advice you can’t afford to miss.

Perfect for hunters seeking innovative gear solutions, camouflage design secrets, and tactical layering strategies, this episode is your behind-the-scenes look at how one veteran turned military discipline into an industry-changing brand. Get inspired by Jason’s journey, learn how science and real-world hunting experience craft better gear, and equip yourself with the tactics to make this season your best yet.

Guest Credentials:

Jason Cowman is founder of Cedeer Camo, a military veteran, and a passionate hunter dedicated to developing affordable, high-performance camouflage and hunting gear based on scientific research and real-world application.

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠⁠⁠A3Archery.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com

Most hunters underestimate the power of strategic scent usage, and Devin Craig is here to change that. Discover how his innovative products, from scrape scents to dominant buck urine, are transforming the way we hunt in the off-season—and how you can apply these tactics to boost your success. Whether you're chasing mature deer or just want to understand their communication, this episode uncovers the science and stories behind effective scent control and how to leverage it in your hunts.

Devin Craig, owner of WhiteTail Addicts and Turkey Tweakers, shares his journey from content creator to booming entrepreneur in the outdoor industry. He talks about his passion for hunting, how he developed his product line, and the crucial role scent plays in year-round deer behavior. Learn how to find natural scrape sites, create social hub scrapes, and use scents to influence deer movement—insights that can give you a serious edge during all seasons.

You'll discover:

• The surprising fact that deer hit scrapes and rubs year-round, not just during the rut, and how to take advantage of this for consistent data and opportunities

• How to effectively use mock and existing scrapes to attract and hold deer, plus tips on scent control—gloves or no gloves?

• The importance of hunting pressure and how mature deer shift their patterns, making strategic scenting even more critical

• Practical advice for integrating scent products into your decoy setup and stand locations to maximize encounters

• The behind-the-scenes challenges of scent manufacturing, legal considerations, and how to navigate regulations in today's environment

Why does all this matter? Because small details like scent placement and understanding deer communication can drastically alter your success, turning frustrating hunts into trophy opportunities.

As the deer herd faces challenges from overpopulation and environmental changes, your knowledge of their habits becomes even more vital.This episode is perfect for hunters who want to sharpen their skills, explore new tactics, and leverage scent products to get ahead.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out, Devin’s insights will help you hunt smarter, not harder. Step up your game with proven strategies that keep deer coming back—often when least expected.

Devin Craig is a passionate hunter and owner of WhiteTail Addicts and Turkey Tweakers, known for innovative scent products and a deep understanding of deer behavior.

Links:

Use Code Kountryfried15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Scrapedoctor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save 15% on your order.

Use Code Kountryfried at ⁠⁠A3Archery.com⁠⁠

Get Chasing Your Experience Merchandise at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bonfire.com