The Mindful Hunter Podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Oct 13, 2026 1 hr 23 min

EP 333 - Hornady 4DOF vs. Applied Ballistics: Which One Is Actually Better?

Episode 340

Show notes

🎁 WIN A KOWA 88 SPOTTING SCOPE: Mindful Munitions is officially open. Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry or Mindful Munitions earns one entry to win a Kowa 88 spotting scope. The giveaway ends October 30 at midnight Pacific Time.

👉 Forged in the Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

👉 Mindful Munitions: https://mindfulmunitions.com/

Applied Ballistics vs. Hornady 4DOF — which ballistic solver actually gives you the most accurate firing solution at long range? I tested both at 1,300-1,400 yards and the results may surprise you.

In this video, I break down the head-to-head comparison across five categories: physics modeling, drag models, real-world accuracy, ecosystem & hardware integration, and cost. I cover the difference between 3DOF and 4DOF solvers, why BC-based models fall apart past 600 yards, how Doppler radar custom curves work, and the critical difference between how Applied Ballistics and Hornady 4DOF let you true your data.

This is not a sponsored video. These are my honest findings from real-world use on a shooting course at extended distances.

Drop your questions and hot takes in the comments below — I know this one is going to be controversial!

APPS & GEAR MENTIONED:

Hornady 4DOF App (free): hornady.com/4dof

Applied Ballistics Quantum App

Sig AK Rangefinder

Kestrel 5700 with 4DOF

Leupold Range Finding Binoculars

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - The Most Controversial Video I've Made

0:30 - Applied Ballistics vs. Hornady 4DOF Overview

0:58 - Physics Modeling: 3DOF vs. 4DOF Explained

2:36 - Hornady 4DOF: Spindrift & Aerodynamic Jump Explained

2:52 - Drag Models: BC vs. Doppler Radar

6:26 - Real-World Accuracy at 1,300-1,400 Yards

7:15 - Truing Your Data (The Critical Difference)

9:53 - Giveaway: Win a Custom Guided Hunt

11:10 - Ecosystem & Hardware Integration

13:02 - App Availability & Cost (Free vs. Pay-to-Play)

13:49 - My Final Recommendation: Which One Is Right for You?

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

Forged In The Backcountry

Merch

Newsletter

IG

Podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes

No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Sep 24, 2026 18 min

EP 332 - Can a Down Quilt Save Your Life? Extreme Cold Wet Weather Test (Outdoor Vitals 15f Stormloft Review)

Episode 339

Show notes

🎁 WIN A KOWA 88 SPOTTING SCOPE: Mindful Munitions is officially open. Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry or Mindful Munitions earns one entry to win a Kowa 88 spotting scope. The giveaway ends October 30 at midnight Pacific Time.

👉 Forged in the Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

👉 Mindful Munitions: https://mindfulmunitions.com/

Did this down quilt just save my life? In this extreme backcountry gear test, I push the Outdoor Vitals 15-degree down quilt to its absolute limits. If you've ever been on a late-season mountain hunt, you know that wet gear can end your trip—or worse. To see if this sleep system can truly handle a catastrophic wet-out, I jumped into a freezing river in British Columbia (-7°C) fully clothed, and then relied entirely on my body heat and this down quilt to dry me out.

We cover the critical phases of surviving hypothermia in the backcountry, the "danger zone" of warming up, and why the loft of your sleeping bag matters more than you think. I also break down the rest of my gear, including Stone Glacier apparel and my Durston shelter.

Whether you are a backcountry hunter, an ultralight backpacker, or just someone who wants to know their sleep system won't fail when it matters most, this test reveals the truth about using down insulation in wet conditions.

Gear Featured in this Video:

Outdoor Vitals 15° Down Quilt

Exped Expedition 7R Mat

Durston Tent X-Dome 1+

Stone Glacier Dehavilland Pants

Marsupial Sun Hoodie

OV Hybrid Fleece

Stone Glacier Grumman Puffy

Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more extreme gear tests and backcountry hunting tips!

Timed Chapters

00:00 - The Problem with Down Sleep Systems

00:32 - The Gear: Outdoor Vitals Quilt & Setup

01:34 - My Custom Quilt Modification

02:26 - Jumping into a Freezing River

03:15 - The Hypothermia Survival Plan

04:49 - The "Danger Zone" of Getting Warm

06:02 - Checking Quilt Loft vs. Wet Clothes

07:50 - Prioritizing Survival in the Backcountry

09:06 - 2-Hour Check-In: Is the System Working?

11:10 - Final Results: Can Down Survive a Wet Out?

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

Forged In The Backcountry

Merch

Newsletter

IG

Podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes

No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Sep 21, 2026 17 min

EP 331 – The Truth About BC Elk Hunting, Injury, and Falling Back in Love With the Process with Kevin Toye

Episode 338

Show notes

🎁 WIN A KOWA 88 SPOTTING SCOPE: Mindful Munitions is officially open. Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry or Mindful Munitions earns one entry to win a Kowa 88 spotting scope. The giveaway ends October 30 at midnight Pacific Time.

👉 Forged in the Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/
👉 Mindful Munitions: https://mindfulmunitions.com/

In this episode, Jay sits down with a longtime buddy for a wide-ranging conversation about elk hunting, parenting, fitness, content creation, guiding, and what it really takes to become consistently successful in the field. They start with early-season hunting updates, family time in the outdoors, and the reality of trying to balance hunting with work, kids, and the rest of life.
The conversation gets blunt when it turns to elk hunting. Jay explains why he no longer believes backpacking as deep as possible is an effective elk strategy in many places, why you cannot start hunting elk until you find elk, and why YouTube, podcasts, E-scouting, and fancy gear are not a replacement for actual days in the field. They also talk about aggressive hunting, understanding regional elk behavior, recovering wounded animals, learning not to give up too soon, and why BC may be some of the toughest elk country on the planet.
Later, they get into the mental side of injury and fitness, how identity and ego can get tied up in training, the pressure of making hunting content, and why the best content often comes from simply being yourself. Jay also shares why guiding continues to be so meaningful: helping someone experience their first animal and seeing familiar country through the eyes of a hunter who has never been there before.
🏔️ THE ALPINE MULE DEER + FLOAT BEAR HUNT: This was one of the best BC adventures Jay has ever put together, and it is now being offered every September as an extended 8–9 day hunt. Email jay@mindfulhunter.com for details. One guided Coues deer spot remains for early February 2027, and 2027 Spring Bear openings are also available.
Chapters
0:00:00 Catching Up: New Shop, YouTube Grind & Family Hunting Season
0:08:39 Early-Season Elk Action, Heat & Hunting Aggressively
0:13:18 How to Structure September: Day Hunting vs. Taking a Full Week Off
0:18:37 The Biggest Predictor of Hunting Success: Time in the Field
0:19:00 Forest Fires, Pivoting a Goat Hunt & Why Pre-Season Scouting Matters
0:21:18 You Cannot Podcast Your Way to Dead Critters
0:24:59 Recovering a Bear in Rain, Thick Brush & Crocs
0:27:00 Perspective, Tenacity & Why You Should Not Give Up Too Soon
0:29:40 Why BC Is Some of the Toughest Elk Hunting in North America
0:31:45 Hunt the Hunt You Actually Have—Not the One You See on YouTube
0:33:21 Why Backpacking Deep Is Often a Terrible Elk Strategy
0:36:32 Finding Elk vs. Getting Lucky: How Successful Elk Hunts Actually Happen
0:42:49 Injury, Losing the Ability to Run & the Mental Side of Fitness
0:48:58 Fitness, Ego & Learning to Be Okay With Changing Priorities
0:53:37 Content Creation, Motivation & Finding Your Own Lane
1:01:57 The Ethical Tension of Hunting Content & Why Guiding Matters
1:04:39 Why Jay Still Guides Despite the Time Away From Family
1:06:18 Most People Love the Idea of Hunting—Not the Reality
1:09:08 Why Being Yourself Is the Only Sustainable Content Strategy
1:10:51 Returning to Solo Podcasts & Making Content That Feels Natural
1:15:52 Closing Thoughts: Perspective, Discipline & Doing What You Love

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Sep 14, 2026 1 hr 19 min

EP 330 – A Velvet Mule Deer Buck, a Giant Cinnamon River Bear & Why You Can’t Hack Hunt Prep from Home

Episode 337

Show notes

🎁 WIN A KOWA 88 SPOTTING SCOPE: Mindful Munitions is officially open. Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry or Mindful Munitions earns one entry to win a Kowa 88 spotting scope. The giveaway ends October 30 at midnight Pacific Time.

👉 Forged in the Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/
👉 Mindful Munitions: https://mindfulmunitions.com/

Can a 500-yard shot actually be easier than a 150-yard shot? And is all the E-scouting, gear research, and hunting content in the world just an illusion of preparation if you never put boots on the ground? In this first guided-hunt recap, Jay breaks down a brutal but unforgettable BC combination hunt: an alpine backpack mule deer hunt followed by a float trip for black bear.
Jay’s client Matt came in looking for his first mule deer and first black bear. After forest fires forced a last-minute pivot, the two relied on months of prior scouting, camera intel, route planning, shooting practice, and fitness to make the hunt happen. The result was a velvet mule deer taken at 496 yards from a perfect prone position, followed by a black bear on a river float hunt in a much harder, faster-moving shooting situation
This episode is a full behind-the-scenes look at what actually made the hunt successful: knowing the ridge before the hunt started, understanding when mule deer are visible, trusting intuition while glassing, building a stable shooting position, staying calm around a client at the moment of truth, and having the Zone 2 capacity to grind through a 10.5-hour, 10.5-mile pack-out with a boned-out buck. Jay also explains why he will never blindly take a different route out of a basin again, why an unsupported 100–150-yard shot can be far more difficult than a prone shot at distance, and what made recovering Matt’s first black bear in driving rain and thick river-bottom brush so intense.
🏔️ THE ALPINE MULE DEER + FLOAT BEAR HUNT: This was one of the best BC adventures Jay has ever put together, and it is now being offered every September as an extended 8–9 day hunt. Email jay@mindfulhunter.com for details. One guided Coues deer spot remains for early February 2027, and 2027 Spring Bear openings are also available.
Chapters
0:00:00 Introducing the New Guided Hunt Recap Series
0:01:49 The Ultimate BC Combo Hunt: Alpine Mule Deer + Float Black Bear
0:02:36 The Truth About Hunting Success: You Cannot Hack Preparation from Home
0:05:27 Treat Yourself Like a Guided Client: Scouting, Cameras & Backup Plans
0:06:29 Hiking into the Alpine Mule Deer Basin
0:07:36 Why We Saw Nothing on the Evening Glassing Session
0:08:26 The Morning Window: 35 Deer, 18 Bucks & 4–5 Shooters
0:09:57 Why Boots-on-the-Ground Scouting Beats E-Scouting Alone
0:11:42 The 4.5-Mile Move to the Deer
0:12:23 Why Some Ridges Hold Deer and Others Don’t
0:15:14 The Backside Bench: Trusting a Theory About Evening Mule Deer Movement
0:16:11 Wind Management: Backing Out Before Ruining the Morning Play
0:17:04 Finding the Perfect Glassing Perch
0:18:50 Intuitive Glassing vs. Methodically Gridding a Hillside
0:20:07 How Jay Finds Bedded Mule Deer in the Evening
0:21:26 The Bedded Buck Debate & Finding a Shooter at 496 Yards
0:21:56 Matt’s 22 Creed Setup, Practice & Long-Range Readiness
0:23:35 The Perfect 496-Yard Prone Shooting Position
0:24:18 Why a Lightweight Shooting Bag Matters
0:24:38 Mindful Munitions, Forged in the Backcountry & Kowa 88 Giveaway
0:25:59 Guiding the Moment of Truth: Calm Beats Urgency
0:27:44 The 496-Yard Heart Shot on a Velvet Mule Deer
0:29:30 Processing the Buck & Planning the Pack-Out
0:29:53 Why Zone 2 Training Is the Best Mountain Hunt Preparation
0:31:18 The Mistake: Never Take an Unproven Route Out of a Basin
0:32:07 The 10.5-Mile, 10.5-Hour Mule Deer Pack-Out
0:34:31 Fitness, Attitude & Why Matt Was Able to Finish the Grind
0:35:25 Turning Around for the Float Bear Hunt
0:36:16 Float-Hunt Logistics & Finding Fresh Bear Sign
0:37:19 Why Float Hunts Are One of the Coolest Ways to Hunt
0:37:41 A Black Bear on the Riverbank & a Fast 22 Creed Shot
0:38:42 Why the 150-Yard Unsupported Shot Was Harder Than 496 Yards
0:39:57 How to Tell Whether a Bear Was Actually Hit
0:40:40 Wasp Nests, Driving Rain & Beginning the Recovery
0:41:57 Finding Matt’s First Black Bear in the River Bottom
0:44:28 The Work After the Kill: Rafts, Trucks, Trophies & a 4:30 AM Finish
0:45:25 Pushing the Limits of a Grinder Hunt
0:46:36 Why This May Have Been Jay’s Best Guided Hunt Ever
0:47:06 Making the Alpine Mule Deer + Float Bear Hunt an Annual Adventure
0:48:51 2027 BC, Mexico Coues Deer & Spring Bear Hunt Openings
0:49:50 Outro & Kowa 88 Giveaway Reminder

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Sep 7, 2026 50 min

EP 329 – Why Kifaru’s Meat Shelf Sucks & I Don’t Shoot ELDM Anymore: Q&A

Episode 336

Show notes

🎁 WIN A KOWA 88 SPOTTING SCOPE: Mindful Munitions is officially open. Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry or Mindful Munitions earns one entry to win a Kowa 88 spotting scope. The giveaway ends October 30 at midnight Pacific Time.

👉 Forged in the Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

👉 Mindful Munitions: https://mindfulmunitions.com/

Jay is back to finish the unanswered questions from the last Mindful Hunter Q&A, and this one gets blunt. From Kifaru’s overly complicated meat shelf system to the hard truth about showing up six weeks before a sheep hunt looking for a miracle training plan, this episode is about separating what actually matters from the stuff hunters tell themselves matters.

Jay covers late-season muzzleloader mule deer tactics in old burns, calling black bears back after a miss, his favorite hunting-gear organization setup, and when Mindful Munitions will begin offering gunsmithing, Cerakote, Tikka pre-fit barrels, and Raven-action builds. He also covers early-season sleep systems, wide-foot hunting boots, the Aziak Vantage pan head, 6.5 Creedmoor Peak Alloy cartridges, the future of Forged Base Socks, tripod binoculars, and his first impressions of the Kifaru Arc.

The second half gets into ELD-X versus ELD-M hunting bullets, why switching gear does not mean the old product failed, real prep for a Yukon Dall sheep hunt, hot-weather hunting pants, peptides and mountain performance, boot fitting, and the one thing that actually makes hunters consistently successful in a given area: spending consistent time there.

Chapters

0:00:00 Intro, Kowa 88 Giveaway & Mindful Munitions Update

0:02:07 Late-September Muzzleloader Mule Deer: Stalking an Old Burn

0:05:21 Using a Predator Call to Stop or Bring Back a Spring Bear

0:07:42 The Best Hunting Gear Storage System for Home and Travel

0:10:32 When Will Mindful Munitions Offer Gunsmithing, Cerakote & Raven Builds?

0:15:23 My Go-To Early-Season Sleep System for Deer and Elk

0:16:30 The Best Morning Routine for Productivity and Deep Work

0:25:00 The Best Hunting Boots for Wide Feet

0:27:55 Aziak Vantage Pan Head & 6.5 Creedmoor Peak Alloy Cartridge Thoughts

0:30:53 Are Forged Base Socks Lightweight or Midweight? Future Sock Plans

0:36:58 14x52 NL Pure Binos vs. Maven B.5 15x56s for Tripod Glassing

0:37:54 Kifaru Arc First Impressions: Great Suspension, Bad Bags & Meat Shelf

0:40:36 ELD-X vs. ELD-M: Which Bullet Am I Hunting With?

0:46:37 Why I Keep Changing Rifle Stocks

0:48:31 Long vs. Regular Quilts for a 6'1" Hunter

0:49:26 Last-Minute Yukon Dall Sheep Hunt Prep: The Brutal Truth

0:55:37 Rough Ridge Stove Review Update

0:56:02 The Only Two Hot-Weather Hunting Pants I Recommend

0:56:20 Why I Am Not Elk Hunting This Season

0:56:56 Zeiss Conquest Gavia 65, Manners Stocks & MOA Rifles

0:57:23 Do Peptides Help Mountain Endurance?

0:58:41 The Key to Consistently Killing Bears in the Same Area

0:59:44 How to Research and Fit Hunting Boots Before Buying

1:01:50 Building a Budget Backcountry Hunting Gear System That Doesn’t Suck

1:02:13 Outro & Kowa 88 Giveaway Reminder

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

Forged In The Backcountry

Merch

Newsletter

IG

Podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes

No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Aug 28, 2026 1 hr 3 min

EP 328 - Canning, Sausage & Smoking: The Ultimate Wild Game Processing Guide

Episode 335

Show notes

🎁 WIN A KOWA 88 SPOTTING SCOPE: Mindful Munitions is officially open. Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry or Mindful Munitions earns one entry to win a Kowa 88 spotting scope. The giveaway ends October 30 at midnight Pacific Time.

👉 Forged in the Backcountry: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

👉 Mindful Munitions: https://mindfulmunitions.com/

Are you looking to take your wild game processing to the next level? In this ultimate masterclass, we break down exactly how to turn your deer, elk, and bear meat into mouth-watering, shelf-stable provisions. Whether you want to make honey garlic bear snack sticks, cheesy elk summer sausage, classic Italian dinner brats, or incredibly versatile canned deer meat, we cover it all!

We start by discussing the best ways to prep your meat before grinding, the crucial "20% Rule" for adding pork back fat, and why you should never let your butcher pre-grind your sausage meat. Then, we dive step-by-step into four different preservation methods, including the easiest way to pressure can wild game for quick, shelf-stable weeknight dinners. We also share our exact process for mixing spices, stuffing casings, and smoking summer sausage and snack sticks to perfection on a Traeger grill. Finally, we cover the best practices for linking, vacuum sealing, and storing your hard-earned harvest so it lasts all year long.

If you're tired of dry, gamey sausage or just want to learn how to process your own meat like a pro, this video is for you. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment letting us know your favorite way to prepare wild game!

Spice Blends Mentioned:
Stuffer's Game Summer Sausage Mix
PS Seasonings Italian Sausage & Philly Cheesesteak Mix

Equipment Used:
Heavy-Duty Meat Grinder & Sausage Stuffer
Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker (10 PSI for 75 mins at sea level)
Traeger Grill (Smoked at 165°F)
Weston Pro 3000 Vacuum Sealer

Timed Chapters (Max 15)

00:00 - The Ultimate Wild Game Processing Guide
01:07 - How to Prep Meat for Sausage (Don't Pre-Grind!)
02:19 - Essential Ingredients & The 20% Pork Fat Rule
03:55 - How to Calculate the Perfect Fat-to-Meat Ratio
04:58 - The Easiest Preservation Method: Canning Wild Game
07:04 - Packing Jars & Adding Spices for Canning
08:00 - How to Pressure Can Meat Step-by-Step
09:25 - Pressure Cooker Temperature & Cooldown Tips
11:15 - Prepping Fat & Meat for Bear Summer Sausage
13:23 - Mixing Spices, Cure & High-Temp Cheese
15:37 - Stuffing Summer Sausage Casings
17:17 - Smoking Summer Sausage on a Traeger Grill
18:50 - Why We Use Bear Meat for Smoked Sausages
19:32 - Making Elk & Deer Italian Dinner Sausages
22:02 - How to Link & Vacuum Seal Your Sausage

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Kowa TSN-88A Sweepstakes

No purchase required. Contest begins on August 18, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A previously owned Kowa TSN-88A Spotting Scope Body with Eyepiece (APR) $5,500.00 CAD; Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/kowa-tsn-88a-sweepstakes

Aug 26, 2026 29 min

EP 327 – Are You Wasting Your Time E-Scouting? The Truth About Hunting Sows & More: Solocast Q&A

Episode 334

Show notes

We are back after a month and a half hiatus! In this solo Q&A episode, Jay tackles some of the most controversial and highly requested topics from the Mindful Hunter audience.
First up, Jay breaks down the new arrow ballistics study and explains why 90% of hunters are wasting their time agonizing over FOC and vane configuration instead of just practicing under pressure. Then, he dives into a highly debated topic: why bear hunters need to stop avoiding sows if they actually care about predator control.

We also cover the reality of E-Scouting (and why it might be a massive waste of your time if you aren't doing boots-on-the-ground validation), the exact paperwork you need to bring wild game meat across the US/Canada border, and why the Outdoor Vitals box-baffle down jacket failed the wash test. Finally, Jay drops a huge announcement about the official launch of Mindful Munitions and the final open spot for the 2027 Mexico Coues deer hunt.

🇲🇽 MEXICO COUES DEER: One spot left for a guided Coues deer hunt in Mexico in Jan/Feb 2027. All-inclusive, fully guided. Email jay@mindfulhunter.com to claim it.

🇨🇦 MINDFUL MUNITIONS: Launching next week! Rok Stocks, EXO packs, Wiser Precision, ASC, Full Frame Outdoors, and more — all shipping within Canada with no duties. Stay tuned for the massive launch giveaway.

Timed Chapters
0:00:00 Intro: Where I've Been & The "Feel It To Make It" Rule
0:01:10 Mexico Coues Deer Hunt Update (1 Spot Left)
0:02:06 BC Bear Outfitting & Mindful Munitions Launch Announcement
0:05:12 The New Arrow Ballistics Study: Does It Actually Matter?
0:09:05 Fall Bear vs. Spring Bear: Which is Better?
0:10:22 The Best Spotting Scope for High Country Mule Deer (Kowa 88 vs. Swarovski)
0:13:18 How to Tell a Boar from a Sow (The Ankle Test)
0:14:42 The Controversy: Why Bear Hunters SHOULD Be Shooting Sows
0:18:20 The Best BC Towns for Raising a Hunting Family
0:19:46 Why Every BC Hunter Needs Top Notch Navigator
0:21:50 Mule Deer vs. Whitetail: Which Would You Choose?
0:22:36 The Best "Stupid" Gear: Flextail Pump & Yates Jack Pad
0:26:28 Tricer Bipod: Why I Switched Back to the Short Legs
0:28:33 The Outdoor Vitals Down Jacket Wash Failure Explained
0:31:11 How to Legally Bring Meat and Skulls Across the US/Canada Border
0:34:58 Bullet Velocity vs. Weight: 130gr TMK vs. 250gr SPT
0:36:09 Why E-Scouting is Overrated (And What You Should Do Instead)
0:40:09 Do You Actually Need Cushion in Your Hunting Socks?
0:44:11 Solo Shelter Recommendations for Alaska Moose/Caribou
0:46:36 Spring Bear Elevation Strategy: Chasing the Snow Line
0:53:01 Looking for Aoudad Leases in Texas & Mexico
0:53:53 Will I Keep Using the MDT Carbon Stock?
0:54:59 How to Shoot RAW Video for Digiscoping
0:56:08 My Favorite Sleeper Gear: The Zpacks 7x9 Tarp
0:57:59 Will I Ever Design a Hunting Boot?
0:58:39 Best 65mm Spotting Scope Recommendation
0:59:09 Outro & Upcoming Content

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jake_d_downs/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Aug 10, 2026 1 hr 1 min

EP 326 - The Truth About Training for Mountain Hunting

Episode 333

Show notes

DOWNLOAD THE FREE 4-MONTH TRAINING PLAN PDF:

👉 https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

🎁 THE ULTIMATE GUIDED HUNT GIVEAWAY: Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry (including the new camo Forged Base Boxers) earns one entry to win an all-expenses-paid custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting. You pick the hunt: BC Black Bear or Mule Deer, Alberta Archery Mule Deer, or Rifle Coues Deer in Mexico. 👉 https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

The truth about backcountry hunting fitness. If you are doing CrossFit, high-intensity intervals, or heavy lifting to get ready for the mountains, you might actually be hurting your performance. In this video, I break down the 10 core principles of mountain endurance, heavily inspired by the groundbreaking book Training for the Uphill Athlete.

Learn why cardiovascular capacity isn't the real goal, why you need to build a fat-burning aerobic engine, and why "Zone 2" is the secret to endless energy in the backcountry. Whether you're training for an elk hunt, a sheep hunt, or just want to carry a heavy pack without gassing out, this is the exact system I use to spend 140 days a year in the field at 47 years old.

What we cover in this video:

• Why "Metcon" workouts create Aerobic Deficiency Syndrome
• The 80/20 rule for Zone 2 training
• How to build Muscular Endurance (ME) with heavy rucking
• Why having too much muscle mass hurts mountain performance
• A complete 16-week periodized training plan
• The best cardio machines if you live in a flat or urban area

If you want to arrive at the trailhead fresh, durable, and capable without paying for a monthly fitness subscription—this video is for you.

Chapters:

00:00 - Why Most Hunting Fitness Programs Are Flawed

01:01 - The Book That Changed My Endurance Training

02:40 - Principle 1: Endurance is a Metabolic Problem

06:50 - Principle 2: Zone 2 is the Foundation

09:01 - Principle 3: Specificity is King (The SAID Principle)

10:25 - Principle 4: Muscular Endurance is the Secret Weapon

11:44 - Principle 5: Continuity and Gradualness

12:33 - Principle 6: Periodize Your Training Year

13:30 - Principle 7: Separate Aerobic and Anaerobic Work

16:01 - Principle 8: Respect Global Fatigue Cost

17:25 - Principle 9: Avoid the Gym Bro Trap

19:11 - Principle 10: Train to Hunt, Don't Hunt to Train

21:15 - How Fatigue Destroys Your Marksmanship Accuracy

23:15 - Free 4-Month Backcountry Training Plan Breakdown

26:33 - No Mountains? The Best Cardio Machines for Hunters

Reels

5:00 – condense video and frustrated with other programs

Jake Downs

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

Forged In The Backcountry

Merch

Newsletter

IG

Podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jul 17, 2026 34 min

EP 325 – 25 Creedmoor, Negative Comb Stocks & The Future of Precision Hunting Rifles with Jaden from West Elk Precision

Episode 332

Show notes

This week Jay sits down with Jaden from West Elk Precision to nerd out on all things custom rifles, precision shooting, and long-range hunting. Jaden shares his journey from a Colorado kid hunting with a factory Remington 700 to attending gunsmithing school and launching his own custom rifle shop focused on the rapidly growing pre-fit barrel market.
They dive deep into the philosophy of building the perfect hybrid hunting/competition rifle, the rise of the 25 Creedmoor, and why negative comb stocks are going to change the way hunters shoot. Jay also shares his controversial take on why you should never buy a mid-tier spotting scope, and they discuss how shooting NRL Hunter matches with heavy gear can actually make you more lethal in the backcountry.
Whether you're looking to upgrade your factory Tikka with a pre-fit barrel, trying to figure out barrel break-in procedures, or just want to know how to build a better shooting position using a tripod as a rear rest, this episode is packed with actionable advice for the precision-minded hunter.
🎁 THE GIVEAWAY: Only three weeks left! Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry earns you one entry to win a fully custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting — BC Black Bear or Mule Deer, Alberta Archery Mule Deer, or Rifle Coues Deer in Mexico.
🏕️ OUTFITTING: Mindful Hunter Outfitting South is now live — fully guided rifle Coues deer hunts on private ranches in Old Mexico during the rut. Just get yourself to Tucson and we handle everything else. Email jay@mindfulhunter.com for details.

🏕️ 2026 BC OPENINGS: Jay just opened four new spots — Archery Mule Deer, Early Season Alpine Mule Deer, Alpine Black Bear, and a late September Float Bear hunt. Email j@mindfulhunter.com to book.

Timed Chapters
0:00:00 Intro & The Final Week of the Giveaway
0:01:11 Meet Jaden: Colorado Mule Deer & Gunsmithing School
0:15:21 What Does "Blueprinting an Action" Actually Mean?
0:23:28 Launching West Elk Precision & The Pre-Fit Barrel Market
0:30:29 The New "Hybrid" Guided Hunter
0:33:29 Why You Should Never Buy a Mid-Tier Spotting Scope
0:40:15 Top Scope Recommendations for 600-Yard Hunting
0:47:44 Rifle Barrels: Contours, Carbon Fiber vs. Steel, and Weight
0:55:07 Why You Need to Spot Your Own Shots (Recoil Management)
0:58:11 The Future of Rifle Stocks: Negative Comb Explained
1:00:52 Building a Hybrid Rifle for NRL Hunter Matches
1:11:00 Using a Tripod as a Rear Rest (Modified Prone)
1:12:42 Why You Should Carry a 1-Pound Shooting Bag on a Hunt
1:16:08 How to Build a Shooting Position Correctly
1:20:06 Caliber Talk: Is the 25 Creedmoor the Sweet Spot?
1:31:20 Barrel Break-In & Cleaning Philosophy
1:34:25 Outro & Where to Find West Elk PrecisionJay Nichol

Jaden Miller
https://www.instagram.com/west_elk_precision/
https://westelkprecision.com/

jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Forged Ultimate Guided Hunt Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jul 9, 2026 1 hr 35 min

EP 324 - Outdoor Vitals Hybrid Pursuit Fleece vs. Sitka Ambient: Field Tested Review

Episode 331

Show notes

There is only two weeks left in The Ultimate Custom Guided Hunt giveaway from Forged In The Backcountry. Head on over to https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ and for every $5 you spend, you will get one entry to win an all-expenses-paid custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting

In this final instalment of the Outdoor Vitals Mountain Pursuit series, I review the Hybrid Pursuit Fleece, a dynamic insulation piece designed for all-season use. How does it stack up against the Sitka Ambient—my long-time favourite? I dig deep into warmth, layering performance, sizing tips, and long-term durability. If you’re serious about technical layering for backcountry hunts, you won’t want to miss this.

🧠 Honest. Unbiased. Field-tested.
🧢 Visit: https://mindful-reviews.com for in-depth gear analysis & support the channel.

⏱️ Chapters
00:00 - Intro & Review Series Recap
00:20 - Hybrid Pursuit vs Sitka Ambient
00:45 - Specs & Materials Breakdown
01:49 - Price & Athletic Fit Overview
02:04 - Body-Mapped Fabric Design
03:21 - Real-World Performance
04:13 - Moisture Management & Layering
05:04 - Warmth Comparison to Sitka Ambient
06:00 - Durability & Early Signs of Pilling
06:45 - Fit Tips & Sizing Walkthrough
09:01 - Why Fit Impacts Performance
10:15 - Final Thoughts & Long-Term Use
11:06 - Support & Outro

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Jul 6, 2026 13 min

EP 323 – The Brutal Reality of Hunter Marksmanship These Days: Bear Guiding Season Wrap-Up with Jay & Dimitri

Episode 330

Show notes

After seven straight weeks of guiding spring black bears in British Columbia, Jay sits down with Mindful Hunter Outfitting guide Dimitri to wrap up the season. It was a grind of a year — 18 clients, endless rain, and some truly brutal pack-outs — but the final tally tells the story: 11 bears killed, 3 wounded, and 6 missed.

In this episode, Jay and Dimitri break down the week-by-week action, from tracking down a 20-year-old toothless boar to packing out triple-digit loads in the dark. But the most important takeaway from the season is a harsh reality check on hunter marksmanship. They discuss why a 50% hit rate is probably the industry average, the importance of practicing off-hand and uncomfortable shots, and the controversial fact that every single miss in camp this year came from a hunter using a chassis rifle. The bottom line? Stop worrying about upgrading your gear and start putting in the reps.

🎁 THE GIVEAWAY: Only three weeks left! Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry earns you one entry to win a fully custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting — BC Black Bear or Mule Deer, Alberta Archery Mule Deer, or Rifle Coues Deer in Mexico.

🏕️ OUTFITTING: Mindful Hunter Outfitting South is now live — fully guided rifle Coues deer hunts on private ranches in Old Mexico during the rut. Just get yourself to Tucson and we handle everything else. Email jay@mindfulhunter.com for details.

🏕️ 2026 BC OPENINGS: Jay just opened four new spots — Archery Mule Deer, Early Season Alpine Mule Deer, Alpine Black Bear, and a late September Float Bear hunt. Email j@mindfulhunter.com to book.

0:00:00 Intro, Mexico Coues Hunts & Giveaway Updates
0:01:23 Meet Dimitri: From Fish Guiding to Bear Camp
0:03:29 Growing Up Hunting the Traditional BC Way
0:12:00 The Transition to Hunting Guide & The Client Experience
0:44:51 The Reality of Wounded Bears & Missed Shots
0:47:12 Spiking Out & Daryl's Monster Cutblock Bear
0:52:32 Tom's Bear & The Brutal Midnight Pack-Out
1:01:35 Week 5: Freezing Rain, Slide Alder & Peter's Heart Shot
1:07:31 Quinlan's Close Calls & The 115-Yard Miss
1:12:47 Week 6: Why Unprepared Hunters Miss Easy Shots
1:15:49 Week 7: Bo's 20-Year-Old Toothless Bear
1:20:24 Scott's First Bear & Why Trophy Size Doesn't Matter
1:23:37 The Final Stats: 11 Dead, 9 Missed or Wounded
1:25:14 Why Every Single Miss Came From a Chassis Rifle
1:28:13 The Mental Grind of Guiding 7 Weeks Straight
1:32:24 Stop Buying New Gear & Learn to Shoot
1:34:08 Outro & Final Hunt Openings
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Forged Ultimate Guided Hunt Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jul 2, 2026 1 hr 36 min

EP 322 - Outdoor Vitals Vantage Alpine vs. Stone Glacier Grumman: Field Tested Review

Episode 329

Show notes

The Outdoor Vitals Vantage Puffy Jacket steps into the ring against the well-established Stone Glacier Grumman. In this in-depth review, I compare warmth, weight, durability, and overall field performance after over 40 days of real-world use across a full hunting season. Whether you’re building a lightweight system or looking for a late-season insulation upgrade, this video breaks down which jacket makes sense — and when.

🧠 Mindful Reviews are always unsponsored and field-tested. For more, visit mindful-reviews.com

🎁 THE ULTIMATE GUIDED HUNT GIVEAWAY: Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry (including the new camo Forged Base Boxers) earns one entry to win an all-expenses-paid custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting. You pick the hunt: BC Black Bear or Mule Deer, Alberta Archery Mule Deer, or Rifle Coues Deer in Mexico. 👉 https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

📌 Chapters
00:00 - Intro: The Next Piece in the Mountain Pursuit Series
00:37 - Specs & Build Quality
02:11 - Why the Grumman is the Benchmark
02:36 - Weight, Warmth & Packability Comparison
03:29 - Wind Resistance and Warmth Difference
03:41 - Price Comparison
04:00 - Sizing and Fit
06:47 - Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
08:19 - Who Should Consider the Vantage

🦉 Hunt with Me:
Interested in booking a 2026 hunt?
📧 Email me at: jay@mindfulhunter.com

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jun 30, 2026 11 min

EP 321 – Is Private Equity Ruining Hunting Brands? Plus: The Truth About Long-Range Hunting with Zack Boughton

Episode 328

Show notes

Welcome back to the Mindful Hunter Podcast! In this episode, Jay sits down with Zach from Montana Wild — a guy who has been a fixture in hunting media for over a decade and played a massive role in the early creative direction of Stone Glacier.
In the first half, Jay and Zach dive deep into the history of hunting media, from the early days of YouTube to the "golden era" of founder-led, design-centric companies like Stone Glacier, First Lite, and Sitka. They have a candid conversation about what happens when Private Equity buys out these beloved brands, why the culture always changes, and why companies like Exo Mountain Gear are some of the last ones doing it right.
In the second half, the conversation shifts to rifles, marksmanship, and the current state of long-range hunting. They pull no punches on the marketing BS behind "1,000-yard out-of-the-box" rifles, why ultralight rifles are a terrible choice for most hunters, and why the biggest reason hunters miss isn't their gear — it's their ego. Jay also shares the brutal statistics from his recent bear guiding season: a 50% effective lethality rate on shot opportunities, and what he's doing to fix it next year.

🎁 GIVEAWAY — 3 WEEKS LEFT: Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry earns one entry to win an all-expenses-paid custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting — BC Black Bear or Mule Deer, Alberta Archery Mule Deer, or Rifle Coues Deer in Mexico.

🇲🇽 MINDFUL HUNTER OUTFITTING SOUTH: Now booking fully guided Coues Deer hunts on private ranches in Old Mexico. Fly into Tucson and we handle everything else. Email j@mindfulhunter.com.

🏕️ 2026 BC OPENINGS: Jay just opened four new spots — Archery Mule Deer, Early Season Alpine Mule Deer, Alpine Black Bear, and a late September Float Bear hunt. Email j@mindfulhunter.com to book.

0:00:00 Intro, Mexico Coues Hunts & Giveaway Updates
0:01:20 Zach's Background: From Ski Bum to Montana Wild
0:06:47 The Early Days of YouTube Hunting Media
0:10:24 Working at Stone Glacier & The Sitka Gear Era
0:11:50 Did We Miss the Heyday of Founder-Led Hunting Brands?
0:16:43 How Private Equity Changes Hunting Companies
0:27:01 Leaving Corporate Hunting & Returning to Montana Wild
0:30:30 Archery vs. Rifle: Why Zach Prefers Shooting Guns
0:37:39 Rifle Philosophy: Why You Shouldn't Shoot Past 400 Yards
0:38:05 The Problem with Ultralight Hunting Rifles
0:40:51 The Brutal Truth: 50% of Hunters Miss or Wound Animals
0:44:46 Why Ego is the Biggest Reason Hunters Miss
0:51:46 The Marketing Lie of the "1,000-Yard Out-of-the-Box" Rifle
0:55:17 How to Get Better at Shooting: NRL Hunter Matches Explained
1:01:03 Caliber Selection: Why the 6.5 PRC is the Sweet Spot
1:03:10 Bullet Selection: Match Bullets vs. Hunting Bullets
1:11:10 Wind Calls & Long-Range Hit Rates: What Actually Matters
1:16:05 The Ethics of Long-Range Hunting & Accepting Risk
1:21:43 Outro & Final Thoughts

Zack Boughton
https://www.instagram.com/zackboughton/
https://www.instagram.com/montanawild/

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Forged Ultimate Guided Hunt Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jun 25, 2026 1 hr 24 min

EP 320 - The Truth About Outdoor Vitals Altura Pants (After 40 Days In The Field)

Episode 327

Show notes

Are the Outdoor Vitals Altura Pants the ultimate lightweight hunting pants — or do they fall short in critical areas? After 40+ days of hunting and guiding in a range of conditions, I put these pants through a brutal real-world test. In this review, I cover fit, durability, field performance, and how they stack up against industry staples like the Sitka Ascent and Stone Glacier De Havilland Lite.

This is part 1 of a 3-part series covering the new Outdoor Vitals Mountain Pursuit apparel line.

👀 What you’ll get in this video:
• Deep dive into the Altura pant’s features and flaws
• Honest thoughts on durability and wear issues (like pilling)
• Why knee pads and real hip vents matter
• Side-by-side fit examples (36 vs 38)
• Final grade and who these are really for

📦 Product Info:
Outdoor Vitals Altura Pants
✔ 175g/m² double-weave 4-way stretch nylon
✔ 14 oz weight (36x32)
✔ Built-in belt, mesh hip vents, cargo + rear pockets
✔ MSRP: $135 USD

🦉 Hunt with Me:
Interested in booking a 2026 hunt?
📧 Email me at: jay@mindfulhunter.com
💥 December Booking Discount Ends Jan 2!

⏱️ Chapters
00:00 - Intro: OV x Exo Collab and Expectations
01:09 - 40 Days of Field Testing
01:41 - Quick Sale Announcement (Guiding Discount)
02:45 - Materials & Specs Breakdown
03:32 - Pocket Design Thoughts
04:06 - Why Knee Pads Matter
04:35 - Hip Vents: A Missed Opportunity
05:25 - Fit, Sizing & Stretch (36 vs 38 Comparison)
09:43 - Sizing Limitations for Tall Guys
09:59 - Durability & Pilling Discussion
11:25 - Long-Term Durability Caveats
11:35 - Sitka Ascent vs Altura vs SG De Havilland Lite
13:26 - SIG Oscar Giveaway Info
14:34 - Final Verdict & Grade (B+ to A−)
16:07 - What’s Next in the Review Series

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Jun 23, 2026 18 min

EP 319 – Bo’s First Black Bear & Launching Guided Coues Deer Hunts in Mexico at Mindful Hunter Outfitting South

Episode 326

Show notes

Welcome back to the Mindful Hunter Podcast! In this episode, Jay is in the basement with returning guest Bo Campbell, fresh off his first-ever bear hunt in British Columbia with Mindful Hunter Outfitting. They debrief the trip, talk through the realities of a 49-day guiding season, and make a big announcement: the launch of Mindful Hunter Outfitting South — guided Coues deer hunts in Mexico.

Jay gets radically honest about the 2026 spring bear season. While the season was a massive success overall (11 bears across 18 clients), he breaks down the frustrating reality of a 55% lethality rate on shot opportunities — and explains why he's implementing mandatory pre-hunt shooting drills and what he expects from clients moving forward. They also get into the fascinating "heart shot phenomenon" where perfectly shot bears take off on a mindless, adrenaline-fueled dead sprint.

In the second half, Jay and Bo officially announce their new guided Mexico Coues deer hunts. Jay explains exactly why the DIY Mexico hunting model is flawed, why it often costs just as much as a guided hunt for a subpar experience, and how they've secured three premier ranches for the 2027 season. If you want to hunt the rut in January/February with incredible food, dialed logistics, and giant deer — this is the hunt for you.

🎁 GIVEAWAY: Every $5 spent at Forged in the Backcountry earns one entry to win an all-expenses-paid custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting (valued at $10,000).

🏕️ 2026 BC OPENINGS: Jay just opened four new spots — Archery Mule Deer, Early Season Alpine Mule Deer, Alpine Black Bear, and a late September Float Bear hunt. Email j@mindfulhunter.com to book.

0:00:00 Intro & Catching Up with Bo Campbell

0:02:28 Bo's First BC Bear Hunt: Expectations vs. Reality

0:05:55 The 49-Day Bear Season Wrap-Up

0:08:44 Why Jay is Implementing Mandatory Pre-Hunt Shooting Drills

0:13:36 Bo's Bear Hunt Story: Spotting from Camp

0:16:43 Sizing Up Bears & The 20-Year-Old Toothless Sow

0:19:52 The Brutal Pack Out & Why Bear Hunting is So Physical

0:26:00 Jay's Client Hunt: The Bear Spotted from the Road

0:28:47 The Heart Shot Phenomenon: Why Dead Bears Sprint

0:32:48 The Brutal Truth About Client Marksmanship & Missed Shots

0:38:23 How to Build a Better Shooting Position Under Pressure

0:44:46 Why You Need to Stay in the Scope After the Shot

0:48:46 The Big Announcement: Mindful Hunter Outfitting South (Mexico)

0:51:09 Why DIY Mexico Hunts Are Overrated & Overpriced

0:54:55 The Details: What a Guided Mexico Coues Hunt Looks Like

0:56:46 The Reality of Glassing for Coues Deer (The Hardest Animal in North America)

1:02:38 Giveaway Details & 2026 BC Hunt Openings

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

Forged In The Backcountry

Merch

Newsletter

IG

Podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

Free Training Guide For Mountain Hunting

Forged Ultimate Guided Hunt Sweepstakes

No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jun 18, 2026 1 hr 5 min

EP 318 - Updated Hunting Gear List for 2026 | Field-Tested Choices

Episode 325

Show notes

This is my updated base gear list heading into the 2026 hunting season. In this video, I go through everything I’m running—packs, shelters, optics, insulation, boots, rifles, water filtration, and more. This isn’t sponsored hype—just real-world gear that works.

🎁 THE GIVEAWAY: For every $5 you spend at Forged in the Backcountry you'll receive one entry to win a custom guided hunt from Mindful Hunter Outfitting. I will personally work with the winner to build the hunt of their dreams — Black Bear or Mule Deer in British Columbia, Archery Mule Deer in Alberta, or Coues Deer in the rut in Mexico. This is not a sponsored giveaway. This is me giving directly to you.

📥 Download my full 2026 gear spreadsheet at: https://www.mindfulreviews.com

🎯 Everything here has been tested across multiple seasons. I also cover what’s getting replaced, what gear disappointed, and what I’m still evaluating. If you want the raw truth about what’s worth your money, this video is for you.

👇 CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro & Spotting Scope Giveaway
00:13 - Backpacks (XO K4, Initial Ascent, Kifaru)
00:58 - Rain Covers & Pack Rain Strategy
01:30 - Shelter Options (X-Dome, TP, Zpacks)
02:23 - Sleeping Pads (Big Agnes Zoom vs Therm-a-Rest Xlite NXT)
03:45 - Sleeping Bags & Quilts (EE Enigma, Outdoor Vitals)
05:02 - Ground Sheets, Pillow, Base Layers
06:20 - Hunting Pants Overview (Stone Glacier, Outdoor Vitals)
08:13 - Boots (Hanwag, Meindl, Scarpa)
09:21 - Hat, Socks (new project announcement)
10:01 - Trekking Poles, Gaiters, Watch (Bridger Rec)
11:01 - Knife (Benchmade Mini TaggedOut)
11:16 - Active & Static Insulation (Outdoor Vitals, Stone Glacier)
12:31 - Rain Gear (Sitka Dew Point)
12:55 - Puffy Pants, Gloves, Beanie
14:35 - Crocs
14:44 - Spotting Scopes (Kowa TSN-88A, Maven S.1.2)
15:36 - Binoculars & Harness (SIG Zulu, Maven B.5, Stone Glacier Sentinel)
17:13 - Rangefinders (SIG Kilo, Gen 2 pending)
17:24 - Tripods & Pan Heads (Asiack, Wiser Nighthawk)
18:11 - Digiscoping (Mountain Mag vs All-In)
18:40 - Rifle System (Tikka 6.5 PRC + Upcoming Core Ax Rifle)
20:04 - Sling, Shooting Bags, Tracer Bipod
21:00 - Water Purification Systems (BeFree, SteriPen, Pump Filters)
22:11 - One-Offs: Glassing Pads, Knives, Game Bags, Messenger, Batteries
24:52 - Cooking Stove Update (Rough Ridge)
27:04 - Headlamps (Fenix, Petzl, Peaks)
27:51 - Final Thoughts + How to Win the SIG Oscar6

🧠 Get More Reviews & Deep Dives:
Subscribe to the channel and explore gear, mindset, and performance from a critical, mindful perspective.

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jun 16, 2026 29 min

EP 317 - 6 Supplements To Improve Performance & Recovery For Hunters

Episode 324

Show notes

🎯 This is your no-BS guide to supplements that actually improve performance, recovery, and focus for serious hunters. Whether you’re training hard in the offseason or heading deep into the backcountry, these are the only supplements I personally use — with product examples and clinical dosing recommendations.

👊 Focused on real-world benefits like strength, hydration, joint support, and endurance — no fluff, no marketing hype.

📦 Supplements Covered:
• Whey Protein Isolate
• Creatine Monohydrate
• Electrolytes
• Fish Oil (Omega-3s)
• EAAs (Essential Amino Acids)
• Pre-Workout (Optional)

🎯 All backed by research and years of personal experience in training, backpack hunting, and bodybuilding.

🎁 THE GIVEAWAY: For every $5 you spend at Forged in the Backcountry you'll receive one entry to win a custom guided hunt from Mindful Hunter Outfitting. I will personally work with the winner to build the hunt of their dreams — Black Bear or Mule Deer in British Columbia, Archery Mule Deer in Alberta, or Coues Deer in the rut in Mexico. This is not a sponsored giveaway. This is me giving directly to you.

👉 Shop the Forged Base Series Socks: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/collections/forged-base-series

🕒 Chapters (Timestamps)
0:00 - Intro & why I don’t do BS supplement reviews
1:06 - The criteria for this list (what actually works)
2:04 - Why protein is #1 for hunters
5:38 - Why creatine is tied for #1
9:19 - Electrolytes: the most underrated supplement
12:44 - Fish oil: joint support + inflammation
15:09 - EAAs vs BCAAs — why BCAAs are trash
20:00 - Optional: Pre-workouts (and what to look for)
22:51 - Final thoughts + giveaway info

🎁 GEAR GIVEAWAY + OUTFITTING DISCOUNT
👉 Join https://www.mindful-reviews.com and you will be automatically entered to win a Sig Sauer Oscar6 Spotting Scope.

For the month of December all Mindful Hunter Outfitting bear and deer hunts are discounted by $500 and an additional $250 if two people book together. Email jay@mindfulhunter.com for more info.

🧠 Get More Reviews & Deep Dives:
Subscribe to the channel and explore gear, mindset, and performance from a critical, mindful perspective.

#SupplementsForHunters #HuntingFitness #BackcountryHunting #ProteinForHunters #Creatine #Electrolytes #FishOil #EAAvsBCAA #MindfulHunter

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Forged Ultimate Guided Hunt Sweepstakes
No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jun 11, 2026 25 min

EP 316 - A Rugged Mountain Boot With One Surprising Ability

Episode 323

Show notes

Are the Meindl Glockner GTX boots the perfect choice for alpine hunters — or just too much boot for most terrain? After 100+ days in the field, I put these boots through their paces across goat hunts, creek crossings, and even a glacier with fully automatic crampons. This is a real-world, no-BS review for serious hunters who want gear that performs when it matters.

🟫 Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & Spotting Scope Giveaway
00:22 – Why Boot Reviews Are Personal
01:00 – First Impressions & Fit
02:00 – Toe Box, Heel Lock & Sole Width
03:00 – Fit vs. Scarpa & Schnees
03:45 – Weight, Build & Durability
04:30 – Stiffness Rating (3 of 4) Explained
05:00 – Use Cases: Mountain vs. Moderate Terrain
05:35 – High-Cut Ankle Support
06:00 – Full Leather Performance & Fit Molding
06:30 – Crampon Compatibility (DIY Mod)
08:30 – Guided Hunt Sale
09:30 – Pros & Cons Rundown
11:05 – Who This Boot Is (and Isn’t) For
12:35 – How to Win the SIG Oscar 6 Spotter
13:01 – Final Thoughts on Fit, Terrain & Boot Choice

🧰 Gear Mods:
I modified these boots to accept fully automatic crampons using a Dremel. It’s a niche trick, but if you’re chasing goats in steep glacial terrain, it might be a game-changer.

🎯 Who Should Watch:
• Mountain hunters chasing sheep, goats, mule deer
• Hunters comparing Meindl vs. Lowa, Scarpa, or Kenetrek
• Anyone debating stiff vs. more flexible mountain boots

🎁 THE GIVEAWAY: For every $5 you spend at Forged in the Backcountry you'll receive one entry to win a custom guided hunt from Mindful Hunter Outfitting. I will personally work with the winner to build the hunt of their dreams — Black Bear or Mule Deer in British Columbia, Archery Mule Deer in Alberta, or Coues Deer in the rut in Mexico. This is not a sponsored giveaway. This is me giving directly to you.

🇺🇸 US CUSTOMERS: We now have drop shipping set up in the United States — no duties, no customs fees, and faster shipping. If you've been holding off, now's the time.

📌 Affiliate Disclaimer: No sponsorships. No affiliate links. Just real gear reviews based on hard field use.

#MeindlGlockner #HuntingBootReview #MountainHuntingGear #MindfulHunter #GoatHuntingBoots #AlpineHunting #FullLeatherBoots #BootReview #BackcountryHunting

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Forged Ultimate Guided Hunt Sweepstakes

No purchase required. Contest begins on May 17, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. PST and ends on July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. There is a total of 1 prize available to be won consisting of: (i) A custom guided hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting including travel and tip (APR) $$10,000.00 CAD); Skill testing question required. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, The District of Columbia, Canada (excluding Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand, Finland, France and Switzerland. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received before contest closes. No limit on entries. For full rules and entry details visit: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/blogs/resources/the-ultimate-custom-guided-hunt-giveaway-open-until-july-17-2026

Jun 8, 2026 15 min

EP 315 - Hunting Smarter, Not Harder: 3 Important Lessons Learned My First Year of Outfitting

Episode 322

Show notes

In this video, I break down the most important lessons I learned during my first full year as an outfitter across Alberta and British Columbia. From scaling my business to guiding 12 clients across three different territories, this year taught me more than I ever expected—about hunting, decision-making, pressure, and staying focused under stress.

Whether you’re a new guide, an aspiring outfitter, or just a dedicated hunter looking to level up, this video offers real-world insight, hard-earned advice, and a deep dive into the psychology behind better hunting decisions.

🔎 What You’ll Learn:
• The importance of hunting the same ground repeatedly
• Why “don’t leave animals to find animals” is a golden rule
• How pressure and system one thinking can sabotage success
• Cognitive biases that hurt decision-making in the field
• How to plan hunts to reduce mental fatigue and improve outcomes

📍 Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & Background: My First Year Outfitting
00:43 – How I Got Started (Alberta & BC Concessions)
02:35 – 2026 Hunts & Booking Info
04:42 – Lesson 1: Know Your Ground
07:17 – Lesson 2: Don’t Leave Animals to Find More Animals
09:48 – Lesson 3: Just Go to Work
10:23 – System 1 vs System 2 Explained
13:13 – Heuristics & Hunting Biases
15:22 – Choice Fatigue in the Field
17:06 – Pressure vs Performance: Managing the Mental Game
18:18 – Final Thoughts & Thank You
19:07 – SIG Oscar6 Spotting Scope Giveaway
20:00 – Subscribe & Support Mindful Reviews

🎁 THE GIVEAWAY: For every $5 you spend at Forged in the Backcountry you'll receive one entry to win a custom guided hunt from Mindful Hunter Outfitting. I will personally work with the winner to build the hunt of their dreams — Black Bear or Mule Deer in British Columbia, Archery Mule Deer in Alberta, or Coues Deer in the rut in Mexico. This is not a sponsored giveaway. This is me giving directly to you.

🇺🇸 US CUSTOMERS: We now have drop shipping set up in the United States — no duties, no customs fees, and faster shipping. If you've been holding off, now's the time.

👉 Shop the Forged Base Series Socks: https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/collections/forged-base-series

🦉 Hunt with Me:
Interested in booking a 2026 hunt?
📧 Email me at: jay@mindfulhunter.com
💥 December Booking Discount Ends Jan 2!

✅ Support Independent Content:
No sponsors. No hype. Just honest reviews and real-world experience.
Subscribe on MindfulReviews.com starting at $5/month.

🔔 Like / Comment / Subscribe
If this content brings you value, hit like, leave a comment, and subscribe to the channel. It helps me keep producing videos with zero sponsor bias.
#Outfitting #HuntingLessons #MindfulHunter #Guiding #System1Thinking #BackcountryHunting #BCHunting #AlbertaHunting #SpotAndStalk #DecisionFatigue #HeuristicsInHunting
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/