Vortex Nation Podcast

Want to fill your freezer more consistently? The moment of truth rarely offers a flat, stable setup. In this episode, Vortex’s Mike Tassoul and Jimmy Jordan break down how practical shooting sports translate directly to real-world big game hunting scenarios. Learn how competing under pressure trains you to manage gear, control your nerves, and make lethal shots when infinite variables are in play. Whether you are preparing for your first elk hunt or looking to tighten your groups under stress, this is your blueprint for better marksmanship. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

What gear do you actually need for a Tactical Urban Sustainment Course (TUSC)? Vortex Edge® instructor, in-house prepper, and survival hobbyist Mike Griffin joins Mark Boardman to break down the TUSC loadout he selected for his recent course with the Direct Action Resource Center (DARC) in Little Rock, Arkansas. Mike walks through the Tactical Urban Sustainment Course gear he brought, explaining the “why” behind each selection—including what worked, what didn’t, and what he would change next time. TUSC is a serious training challenge, both mentally and physically. The program teaches small, cohesive groups how to secure, sustain, and operate effectively in urban environments. The right gear can make a demanding course more manageable, but preparation, grit, and mental toughness ultimately make the difference. If you’re interested in TUSC training, urban survival, preparedness, tactical gear, survival gear, or building a practical course loadout, Mike’s experience can help you understand what gear matters—and what may not be worth carrying. Watch the full TUSC gear breakdown to see what made Mike’s kit—and what didn’t. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The Razor® HD Gen III 6-36x56 adds the new VMR-5 reticle to its lineup for shooters who prioritize a clean field of view. Less can be more for some shooters when it comes to reticles. Andrew Lunde from Vortex’s product development team walks us through the VMR-5. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

What happens when precision rifle shooting meets real-world field scenarios? Mark Boardman sits down with Ken Wheeler, owner of the Precision Rifle Series (PRS), and Vortex’s Tucker Schmidt to explore Ken’s path into long-range shooting, and the story of how he came to purchase the Precision Rifle Series. Then they dive into PRSuit, a brand-new nationwide network of range-and-engage shooting matches designed around practical rifles, real-world scenarios, and an accessible, engaging competition format. If you’re into precision rifle, long-range shooting, practical shooting, or just looking for your next outdoor hobby, PRSuit might be your next obsession. Listen now—but don’t blame us when you find yourself adding another hobby to your life. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The Vortex Optics GeoBallistics® app just got better. In this video, we break down the latest GeoBallistics® updates, new features, technology, and functionality—including what’s changed and how these improvements can make your ballistic calculations and shooting experience more intuitive. GeoBallistics® is a comprehensive, stand-alone ballistic solver app designed to work seamlessly with GeoBallistics®-equipped Vortex products. With every software update, the app becomes more powerful, user-friendly, and feature-rich. Hit play to see what’s new in GeoBallistics® and discover the features you’ll want to know about in the latest update. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Bryan Broderick from Day Six Gear drops by Vortex to drop some serious arrow and broadhead knowledge. Bryan’s archery philosophies are backed by 10 lifetimes of practical field experience and are as sound as the products he’s developed. Tune in to hear about Day 6 Gear’s new products and get Bryan’s thoughts on the “WHY” behind what makes a great bowhunting arrow setup. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

What does it really take to build a successful YouTube channel in the hunting and fishing world? Gone All Season’s Cole Booth and Brett Walker join Mark Boardman to share how they got started, what they’ve learned along the way, and their philosophy on creating content that connects with an audience. Young, hungry, and talented, they’ve built serious momentum in a short time. If you want to start making YouTube videos—or take your hunting and fishing channel to the next level—this conversation is for you. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Packing gear in and game out requires a quality backpack purpose-built for the job. Quick day hunt or a multi-day backcountry adventure, the right backpack can make all the difference. In this episode, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down the hunting packs they've been using lately, what features stand out, how they've configured them, and why they continue to trust them in the field. If you're comparing packs or looking for your next hunting backpack, this conversation covers the features, accessories, and real-world considerations that matter most. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The next evolution of our flagship rangefinder is here. Built from real golfer feedback, the NEW Anarch+ is engineered to help you play with more confidence. Ultrafast distance readings and image stabilization to Pin-Spotter Mode and premium optics, every upgrade is designed to make finding your target faster and easier. In this episode, we break down what's new, and how the Anarch+ can help improve your game on the course. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The .308 SUPER is here—and it might be one of the most interesting new .30-caliber cartridge concepts we've tested. In this episode, we put the Barnes 212-grain LRX Bore Rider to work in a .308-based case and answer the questions everyone is asking: Did we hit our target velocity? How does the .308 SUPER compare ballistically to the .300 SUPER WSM? What does terminal performance look like in 10% ordnance gel at 100 yards—and at extended range? Who is this cartridge built for? What could the future hold with a purpose-built, high-pressure case? And the big question: Could the .308 SUPER outperform Ryan Muckenhirn and Mark Boardman's beloved .300 SUPER WSM? Long-range shooter, handloader, hunter, or cartridge nerd, this episode dives into the data, testing, and where the .308 SUPER could fit in the future of .30-caliber performance. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The perfect blend of velocity, recoil, bullet profile, bullet weight, wind deflection, splash, and versatility. And at press time, there’s not a commercial option. Long range competition to medium-size game, the 25 GT has a lot going for it. Does it make sense for you? Listen to find out! As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The NEW podcast studio is in full effect. In this special listener Q&A, the Vortex Nation and CARE podcast teams join forces to answer your best hunting, shooting, CARE, and just-for-fun questions. A .308 SUPER update to the best beef jerky flavor and more, the guys tackle your hard-hitting questions and have fun doing it! As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Rob Sexton, Senior Vice President of the Sportsmen's Alliance, joins Mark Boardman to explain Oregon Initiative Petition 28, also known as the PEACE Act (People for Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions). It seeks to eliminate long-standing legal exemptions that effectively eliminate hunting, fishing, trapping, livestock production, wildlife management, pest control, and other traditional practices. In this episode, Rob breaks down what the initiative proposes, who could be affected, and why sportsmen and other affected groups across the country are paying attention. If you care about hunting, conservation, fishing, ranching, or wildlife policy, this is an episode you won't want to miss. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Three-time Live World Goose Calling Champion and founder of Quill Creek Calls, Chance Wadsworth, drops into our podcast decoys to talk contest calling, waterfowl hunting tactics, what makes his calls so good, and his entrepreneurial journey. If you’re a waterfowl hunter, competition caller, or looking to get into either, this is the podcast for you! As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The all-new Vortex Crossfire® II Dot Sight delivers fast target acquisition, rugged reliability, and upgraded performance for ARs, rifles, shotguns, and PCCs. In this episode, Vortex director of product development, Rob Morell, breaks down everything you need to know about the latest Crossfire® II lineup, including features, performance improvements, mounting options, and available configurations. Solar/battery-powered, battery-powered, red or green dot reticle, black and tan finishes, there's a Crossfire® II built for you. Learn what makes the new Crossfire® II one of the most versatile and dependable red dot sights for hunting, competition, home defense, and recreational shooting. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Not all tents are built for the same adventure. In this episode, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down tents they've trusted over years of hunting, backpacking, camping, and backcountry travel. They cover different models, styles, material compositions, and best applications for each. Bombproof four-season freestanding tents to ultralight trekking-pole-erected single-wall shelters, get the info you need for your next stay in the great outdoors. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Mark Boardman puts Vortex hunters on the spot with one simple question: What's the one piece of hunting gear you never leave home without? From overlooked hunting essentials to game-changing gear that can save a hunt, you'll hear the items experienced hunters always pack—but most don't. This podcast could change your packing list for good. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

After velocity and gel testing Federal 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak loaded with 130 Grain Terminal Ascent bullets and comparing it to 6.5 PRC, Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn break down everything they learned. Does Federal's innovative Peak Alloy high-pressure case deliver the velocity gains hunters have been waiting for? Does Peak Alloy Launch the 6.5 Creedmoor into an entirely new realm of performance? Is the 6.5 Creedmoor the only cartridge most folks need to handle all their big-game hunting applications? Is high pressure the future of cartridge design? Find out here! As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Quality sleep can make or break a backcountry hunt. When you're covering miles, climbing elevation, and recovering for another full day in the field, your sleep system is one of the most important pieces of gear you carry. Sleeping bags, pads, pillows and cots — Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn run through their sleep systems and what works for them. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The crew from Kifaru steps away from spring turkey season to talk hunting packs, technical fabrics, backpack design, apparel, and the philosophy behind building some of the toughest backcountry gear in the industry. We also recap a memorable turkey hunt, discuss what makes a great hunting pack, share gear insights, and cover down on favorite post-hunt meals. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast