If you want something done right, sometimes you have to do it yourself—and that’s exactly why I created the Forged Base Series. A complete redesign from the ground up, this next-to-skin base layer system was built for unmatched comfort, durability, and performance in the backcountry.

🔥 Why I Built It:

For years, we searched for the perfect pair of base layers—especially boxers—that could withstand the grind of multi-day hunts. After brands cut corners and changed fabrics, I decided to create my own.

⚡ What Makes It Different?

✅ Premium Fabric Blend – We tested multiple materials before landing on a Modal & Spandex blend:

✅ Dialed-In Fit

✅ Built for Performance

This is base layer apparel designed for the modern backcountry hunter—because when the foundation is strong, performance follows.

🎯 GIVEAWAY ALERT! Every $5 you spend on merch at https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ gets you 1 entry to win a Swarovski 85mm Spotting Scope.

No purchase required. Contest begins on February 1, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on April 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) 1 previously owned Swarovski ATX 85mm Spotting Scope (approximate retail value $5,900.00 CAD). Skill testing question required. Open to legal residents of Canada, excluding Quebec, who are age of majority in their province or territory of residence at time of entry.  Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No entry limit. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/swarovski-atx-85mm-spotting-scope-giveaway

0:00 – Intro

Aziak Equipment has been making waves in the hunting industry with their innovative, lightweight designs that are built for hardcore backcountry hunters. Rydell’s approach to gear isn’t just about cutting weight—it’s about maximizing efficiency without sacrificing durability. Today, we’ll get into the story behind Aziak Equipment, the challenges of designing high-performance hunting gear, and what’s next for the brand. Plus, we’ll pick Rydell’s brain on his own hunting experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Aziak Equipment

https://www.aziakequipment.com/

https://www.instagram.com/aziakequipment/

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Timmy has spent years guiding hunters through some of the most extreme conditions Alaska has to offer—chasing giant moose, Dall sheep, and brown bear in remote backcountry that few ever get to experience. We’ll talk about what it takes to be a successful Alaskan outfitter, the toughest hunts he’s been on, and what hunters need to know before stepping into the last frontier. Plus, we’ll get into my archery brown bear hunt planned for spring of 2026 and the mindset, gear, and preparation required to make an Alaskan hunt a success.

Timmy Winslow

https://www.instagram.com/timmy.winslow/

https://arizonatrophyoutfitters.com/

https://bushwhackalaska.com/

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

It’s no secret I am a big fan of small innovative companies that produce great products and MTN Gear is definitely one of those. Matt made a big splash with his ultralight bipods a few years ago and has continued to improve their design until recently selling the rights to MDT. We had a great chat covering ground from his humble beginnings to what he plans to do with the new found funding from the sale of the bipod.

MTN Gear

https://www.mtngear.nz/

https://www.instagram.com/mtngear.nz/

Nick

https://www.instagram.com/b1isters/

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Winter goat hunting isn’t for the faint of heart, and this trip proved why. From 60mm of freezing rain to failed sleep systems and broken snowshoes, this hunt was a brutal test of both gear and grit. As miserable as it was, I learned a ton and put some new gear through its paces—some of it held up, and some didn’t. In this episode, I break down the highs and lows of the trip, share what worked (and what didn’t), and offer tips for planning your own winter hunt. Tune in for hard-earned insights and a look at what it takes to chase goats in the harshest conditions.

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Dylan is well-known in the hunting community in Vancouver for his generous spirit and endless drive to help foster growth in the newer hunter community. We had a great chat about Dylan’s history, how Eat Wild got started and even squeezed in a few good hunting stories.

Dylan Eyers

https://eatwild.ca/

https://www.instagram.com/eatwild/

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I was able to get in two late season hunts before the close of 2024 for mule deer and whitetails. In this podcast I go over the gear I took with me on those two hunts and share the results of testing the new Sevr 1.5 Ti Hybrid out in the field.

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I am always on the lookout for better boots. For years I have been unable to find a replacement for my Schnees Beartooth’s as my go-to all-purpose mountain boot. Well, I think I finally found an upgrade. I have been running the Scarpa Ribelle HD all season and am very impressed with their performance in various hunting scenarios. I review all the features that impressed me about this boot and share who I think it might be a great fit for.

Chapters:

1:15 – Testing Process

2:43 – My Previous Favorite

3:55 – Tech Specs

5:53 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting

8:02 – What I Love About These Boots

12:51 – Water Resistance

16:12 - Takeaways

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I’ve been eager to have Connor on the podcast for some time now. Not only is he an incredibly talented photographer and videographer, but he also leads a fascinating life. His content stands out as some of the best in highlighting the reflective side of hunting and the importance of being fully present in the outdoors.

Connor Gabbott

https://www.instagram.com/connorgabbott.photo/

Jay Nichol

[email protected]

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

IG

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

There has been significant innovation in tripod technology over the last few years and both Aziak and Outdoorsmans have updated their carbon fiber offerings. I have considerable experience testing gear from both companies and have always been impressed. Unfortunately, I had a catastrophic failure on this recent trip with one of these tripods. Watch the video for a detailed comparison of these tripods and hear the story of why I will never bring one of these tripods to the field again.

Chapters:

0:00 – Intro

Jay Nichol

Forged In The Backcountry

Merch

IG

Podcast