The Outdoor Gibbon

Journey into the world of taxidermy with Tom Douglas, known to many as the "Wiltshire Redneck" on social media. Tom pulls back the curtain on a craft that transforms hunting trophies into lasting memories, sharing insights gained from following in his father's footsteps in this 40-year family tradition.

What happens after you take that perfect shot? Tom walks us through proper field care techniques that make all the difference between a stunning mount or a disappointing result. You'll learn why bleeding a deer through the throat can ruin a potential shoulder mount, why field dressing immediately produces cleaner capes, and how to handle your trophy in hot weather. Even experienced hunters will find valuable tips to improve their field practices.

The conversation spans continents as Tom shares his hunting adventures across Africa, including the unique challenges of bow hunting compared to rifle hunting. His perspective on international hunting costs reveals why UK hunters have a different relationship with trophies than their American counterparts – what costs £600 here might command thousands abroad. This economic reality influences everything from hunting practices to decoration choices.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Tom offers fascinating biological insights about deer species variations across regions. Did you know rutting Sika deer can develop skin two inches thick that can actually impede bullet performance? Or that Scottish red deer are considered a different subspecies than English red deer, with distinct characteristics and scoring systems?

Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to better preserve your trophies, a wildlife enthusiast curious about species variations, or simply interested in the art of taxidermy, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into a world where hunting tradition meets meticulous craftsmanship. Subscribe to the Outdoor Gibbon podcast for more insights from fascinating guests across the hunting and outdoor community.

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What happens when someone who once refused to touch dead animals becomes an accomplished hunter and equipment tester? Sarah Miles' remarkable journey unfolds in this candid conversation about finding your authentic path in the shooting world.

Sarah reveals how her transformation began with her father's unyielding passion for shooting, through her early aversion to handling game (wearing gloves to touch pheasants!), to eventually landing a job at a gun shop by offering a freshly-baked chocolate cake. This unlikely beginning set her on a path that would lead to becoming a Highland Outdoors ambassador, testing cutting-edge equipment including thermal scopes and precision rifles.

Throughout our discussion, Sarah's refreshing perspective challenges the notion that you need the "latest and greatest" to succeed. "If it works for me, I'll just stick to it," she explains, countering the caliber debates and equipment trends that often dominate shooting forums. Working at what she describes as "the best shooting range in the UK" – a fully underground facility with electronic target systems – she witnesses firsthand how finding the right fit matters more than the price tag.

We explore the technological evolution in hunting, from the "good old days" of lamping to the digital revolution of thermal imaging, while acknowledging concerns about losing traditional stalking skills. Sarah shares invaluable insights from her pursuit of the UK's six deer species, describing the ghost-like sika deer that have humbled her stalking abilities: "If you can stalk sika deer, you can stalk anything."

The conversation takes an honest turn as Sarah discusses the unseen realities behind social media content – the time-consuming editing, challenging photo shoots, and occasionally disturbing messages that come with building an online presence. For anyone interested in hunting, shooting sports, or navigating the modern outdoor world, Sarah's journey offers wisdom earned through persistence and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.

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What happens when military precision meets artisanal craftsmanship? Richie Nank's journey from Royal Marine commando to sought-after custom knife maker reveals the unexpected parallels between battlefield discipline and the meticulous art of blade making.

Richie shares how a simple bet to make a knife in 2016 transformed into a thriving business built on understanding the specific needs of deer stalkers. With refreshing candor, he explains his detailed approach to customization—considering everything from the stalker's experience level to hand size and target species. "I genuinely call myself the best custom knife maker in the UK," Richie boldly states, backing this claim with explanations of how he tailors each knife's geometry, handle material, and steel selection to create truly personalized tools.

The conversation takes us to County Wicklow, Ireland, where Richie recently hunted the notoriously challenging Sika deer—"the Royal Marines of deer"—offering gripping accounts of these hyper-alert animals that can run substantial distances even after perfect shot placement. His descriptions of the unforgiving Irish terrain and weather conditions highlight why proper equipment matters in extreme stalking situations.

What truly sets this episode apart is Richie's passion for building community through craftsmanship. His "Crew Membership" connects knife owners who share experiences and support each other, reflecting his military ethos of brotherhood. This extends to his touching acknowledgment of mentors and supporters who helped establish his business, demonstrating how traditional crafts create meaningful human connections in our digital age.

Whether you're a seasoned stalker, knife enthusiast, or simply appreciate stories of reinvention and craftsmanship, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of military precision, artisanal skill, and the primal pursuit of deer stalking. Listen now and discover how the perfect edge can make all the difference in the field and in life.

 Link to Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/richie_nankz_knivez/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

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There's something magical about the Scottish Highlands that captures the imagination of outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. When Alex from Hunter Gatherer Cooking reached out about wanting to learn deer stalking, I knew exactly where to take him – to experience both walked-up grouse shooting on the Glorious 12th of August and the chance to stalk his first red stag.

This special podcast episode captures our conversation two weeks after the hunt, as we reflect on an adventure that took us through the full spectrum of Highland weather and emotions. From torrential rain and punishing winds during our grouse day to perfect stalking conditions the following morning, we experienced it all. Alex recounts the nerve-wracking 12.5 minutes waiting for the perfect shot on "Nigel," his first red stag, taken cleanly at 230 yards after just two practice shots at the range earlier that day.

We dive deep into the ethical aspects of field-to-fork hunting, discussing the importance of proper shot placement, the respect given to the harvested animal, and the stark contrast between this type of hunting and industrial meat production. For Alex, this experience marked just the beginning of his journey – with plans to return to Scotland to learn grallocking (field dressing) and butchery skills to complete the full field-to-fork experience.

For listeners interested in experiencing Scottish Highland stalking themselves, we share information about Tom's Wells Sporting, which offers guided stalking trips, walked-up grouse shooting, and even wildlife photography opportunities for non-hunters who want to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Join us for this candid conversation about hunting traditions, ethical harvesting, and the special connection that forms when you truly participate in sourcing your own food. Watch for Alex's upcoming videos documenting the entire experience, from the Highlands to the dinner table.
 
 There is a video available of this podcast and can be found at https://www.youtube.com/live/j9o4HcH6Hrg?si=y7lLUojw8Bs1eVYp

Remember to subscribe so when the videos are released you can see the full days on the hill.

Also check out Tom Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/wells_sporting_and_country/

He can also be found on facebook https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=wells%20sporting%20and%20country%20pursuits

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The magnetic pull of innovation meets wild adventure in this captivating conversation with Rob Gearing, the visionary founder of Spartan Precision Equipment. From the jungles of Bolivia to the frozen expanses of the Arctic, Rob's globe-trotting tales provide the perfect backdrop for understanding how real-world experience shapes exceptional hunting gear.

Rob reveals how a chance encounter with rare earth magnets used on Concorde parts sparked the idea for his revolutionary bipod system—a moment of inspiration that transformed hunting equipment design. With disarming honesty, he shares how Spartan evolved from a simple concept into an internationally recognized brand now embraced by major rifle manufacturers worldwide, including those in the previously skeptical German market.

Beyond gear talk, this episode delves into the profound disconnect between modern society and food sources. Rob articulates the challenges faced by ethical hunters in an increasingly urbanized world, questioning why vegans reject game meat while happily consuming factory-farmed alternatives. His passionate defense of trophy hunting's crucial role in conservation and community support challenges mainstream narratives with firsthand observations from Africa and beyond.

The conversation takes exciting turns as Rob previews upcoming Spartan innovations, including a groundbreaking quad stick system that promises to solve the age-old problem of shooting from uneven terrain. His enthusiasm for upcoming expeditions to Mongolia and New Zealand reflects the adventure-driven spirit that continues to fuel product development.

Whether you're a dedicated hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of innovation and adventure, this episode offers refreshing perspective from someone who's truly lived the experiences that inform his craft. Subscribe now to catch future conversations with outdoor pioneers who are reshaping how we connect with wild places.

Here is a link to there website https://javelinbipod.com/

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Ever felt that deer stalking qualifications were inaccessible due to time constraints or location? You're not alone. This eye-opening conversation with Peter Jones—founder of County Deer Stalking, the Capriolus Club, and creator of the revolutionary PDS certification system—reveals how field sports education is evolving to meet modern needs.

After ten years in the Metropolitan Police specializing in firearms legislation, Peter established businesses that bridge the gap between urban professionals and countryside pursuits. His innovative approach recognizes a fundamental challenge: many city dwellers love field sports but lack the rural connections traditionally needed to participate. Through County Deer Stalking and the Capriolus Club, he's created pathways for these enthusiasts to access quality stalking experiences while building a community around what's typically a solitary pursuit.

The conversation centers on the Proficient Deer Stalker (PDS) qualification system—a Lantra-approved alternative to traditional certifications that leverages e-learning technology. While respecting the long-established DSC route, Peter explains how PDS allows busy professionals to study at their own pace rather than committing to multi-day residential courses. The newly launched PDS-2 requires demonstrating competence twice in the field, striking what he considers an ideal balance between thoroughness and accessibility.

Perhaps most fascinating is the shifting motivation behind hunting participation. Peter notes a significant increase in people seeking to harvest their own sustainable wild meat as an ethical alternative to intensively farmed options. This trend completes a meaningful circle: urbanites reconnecting with food sources, learning essential skills, and bringing clean protein directly to their family tables.

Whether you're a seasoned stalker or curious about getting started, this discussion offers valuable insights into how education in field sports is adapting to contemporary lifestyles while maintaining rigorous standards and sustainability principles. Search "PDS-1" online to learn more about this qualification pathway.

He's created a new deerstalking qualification called the PDS1 and PDS2 very similar to the DSC1 and DSC2. His course is approved by Lantra https://www.lantra.co.uk/

Link to the sites discussed in the pod cast
https://www.countydeerstalking.co.uk/go-stalking
https://www.capreolusclub.co.uk/

The quote you will hear in the podcast is by  Martin Luther King, Jr., “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” 

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The sweltering heat of summer provides the backdrop for our seventh episode, where we pause to reflect on recent adventures and look ahead to the sporting calendar now unfolding before us. The timing couldn't be more significant—just four days after the Glorious Twelfth has ushered in the grouse season, with partridge and pheasant seasons standing ready in the wings for their September and October debuts.

Against this seasonal transition, I'm celebrating a personal milestone: harvesting my first fallow deer during a whistle-stop tour to southern England. Though the stalk itself was straightforward—more about patience in a high seat than challenging terrain—it represents another step toward completing my collection of British deer species. With only Chinese water deer remaining unchecked, plans are already forming for that final pursuit. This exchange of hunting opportunities extends both ways, as I prepare to host several visitors eager to experience their first Scottish deer stalks, embodying the belief that shared adventures create stronger bonds than solitary pursuits.

The countryside pulses with summer activity—the Scottish roebuck rut is tapering off after an active period, while harvest operations clear fields to create perfect conditions for predator control. Our pheasant rearing fields remain busy as birds move to their new homes, thankfully unaffected by the bird flu challenges plaguing many game farms. Our foresight in maintaining a closed flock with on-site incubation capabilities has proven invaluable, allowing us to continue operations while others dependent on French imports have struggled. Join us as we navigate this rich period between seasons, where every day brings new opportunities for those connected to the land and its rhythms.

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Ton Jones, renowned from Auction Hunters and currently serving as Research and Destruction Director for Air Force Airguns, brings his wealth of hunting expertise and outdoor wisdom to this rich conversation about ethical hunting practices, firearms education, and the joys of harvesting wild game.

Beginning with stories of his childhood introduction to shooting—starting with air rifles at just three years old—Ton paints a vivid picture of America's traditional approach to teaching firearms safety as a foundational skill. This early education created respect for weapons and established crucial safety practices that become second nature. His perspective offers a stark contrast to countries where firearms education is often avoided entirely, creating fear rather than responsibility.

The discussion delves into the troubling disconnect between modern society and food sources. "People don't put two and two together that that chicken nugget probably had eyes less than 60 days ago," Ton observes, highlighting how hunters maintain a more honest relationship with their food. This awareness extends to conservation, where Ton passionately explains that "the most money put into land and wildlife conservation comes from hunters"—challenging media narratives that often paint hunters in a negative light.

Ton shares fascinating insights about Air Force Airguns' innovative technologies, including the development of arrow guns and large-caliber air rifles capable of ethically harvesting substantial game. His stories of hunting exotic species in Texas and encounters with wildlife in Australia reveal his deep connection to nature and understanding of animal behavior.

Perhaps most compelling is Ton's call for unity among hunters across different disciplines: "Has anybody ever thought of what the common denominator is? We're all out in the wild, we're all hunting." This sentiment of community and shared purpose exemplifies the true spirit of ethical hunting that transcends method or technique.

Join us for this authentic, unfiltered conversation that captures the essence of hunting as both practical food harvesting and a meaningful way to connect with our natural world. Whether you're an experienced hunter or simply curious about where your food comes from, Ton's perspective will challenge you to think differently about our relationship with wildlife and conservation.

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Many of you will have seen Scott MacKenzie on social media as The Skye Gamekeeper. He is the winner of the Game Keeper of the Year award 2019 and 2022.
He is the Head Keeper at Fearann Eilean Iarmain on the Isle of Skye

Website link here worth a look
http://scottmackenzie-skyegamekeeper.co.uk

I must apologise for the sound quality now it was a wet rainy day and Scott was recording in is truck and I think his device was not working correctly. However, the recording was too good not to use.
 
Hope you enjoy  

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A craft born from curiosity and nurtured through pandemic isolation, my journey into knife making reveals the deeply satisfying process of transforming industrial scrap into functional art. What began with childhood fascination – my grandfather's pipe knife and treasured Swiss Army knife – evolved decades later when I recognized the potential in high-quality spring steel from biomass boiler components at work.

The transformation from materials to finished blade follows no fancy blueprint. With my makeshift backyard forge, a basic belt sander, and techniques learned through trial and error, each knife bears the unmistakable mark of handcrafted uniqueness. These aren't pristine display pieces destined for glass cases – they're working tools designed to perform in the field, with high-carbon steel edges that maintain sharpness through multiple deer processing sessions with just occasional stropping.

My knife making philosophy challenges the common collector's paradox: why own beautiful tools you're afraid to use? After six successful blades and growing interest from potential buyers, I'm considering small-batch production while remaining committed to the approachable craftsmanship that makes each knife special. The high-carbon steel requires more care than stainless alternatives but rewards users with superior performance. Beyond the functionality, these knives represent something increasingly rare – skills worth passing down, tangible creations in a digital world, and the quiet satisfaction of using something shaped by your own hands. Whether crafting custom sheaths next or attempting true forge work in the future, this evolving hobby connects me to ancient traditions while creating potential heirlooms for future generations.

Join our outdoor community by following along on social media where I share images of completed knives and adventures in the field. Your feedback and questions about this craft are always welcome as we celebrate a year of podcast storytelling together.

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