Hunting Gear Podcast

Dan Johnson, Sportsmen's Empire
  • 4.8 (69)
  • Hobbies
  • Updated Biweekly

The Hunting Gear Podcast covers just what the title implies, hunting gear and equipment. Host Dan Johnson interviews a variety of companies within the hunting industry as well as hardcore hunters who rely on their equipment to be successful in the field. From discussions on archery and firearms to clothing and accessories, if you are a hunting gear nut, this podcast is sure to hold your attention. Dan is also is joined by co-host Bob Polanic as they share their own experiences with the hunting equipment they use every season.

  1. 5d ago

    Run & Gun Mobile Hunting Gear

    Heavy mobile hunting gear gets exposed fast in the field. In this episode, Jake Fleischman breaks down the stand, sticks, boots, clothing, and carry system he trusts for Wisconsin public land, and explains why simpler, lighter gear keeps winning as the miles add up. Dan Johnson and Jake dig into the real-world tradeoffs behind run-and-gun whitetail hunting in bluff country along the Mississippi, where steep terrain, crooked trees, long sits, and constant setup changes punish bad equipment. Jake shares why he moved away from heavier setups, what made him come back to a lightweight tree stand over a saddle, and how he keeps his system stable, quiet, and comfortable all day. They also cover: Why the XOP Fly stood out over heavier optionsHow seat height, boot room, and tooth design affect stand performanceWhy Jake prefers simple, stable climbing sticksHow his layering system changes with wind, cold, and long sitsWhich boots work best for mobile huntingThe small accessories that make a big difference in the woods If you’re building a better whitetail system for public land season, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  2. Aug 7

    What's In Dans Gear Bag?

    The gear you trust in the woods matters more than the latest hype, and Dan Johnson lays out the exact products he actually hunts with, why they earned a permanent spot in his setup, and which upgrades are worth your money before the season opens. If you want a no-fluff breakdown from someone who beats up his equipment and still expects it to work in mud, cold, heat, and last-minute chaos, this episode gives you the shortlist. Dan explains why he stays loyal to certain brands, how he evaluates gear by durability and real-world performance, and why some products are worth paying more for while others are not.You’ll discover: Why a limb-driven Vapor Trail arrow rest earned five years of brutal field useWhat makes Reveal cellular trail cameras so easy to set up that they feel automaticWhy Wasp broadheads stay in his quiver year after yearHow Day Six arrows, Bowtech bows, and Ozonics scent control fit into a serious hunting systemThe boots, socks, optics, and mock scrape products he trusts when the season is on the lineDan also breaks down the thinking behind his gear choices, from total arrow weight and bow setup to rangefinding optics, scent elimination laundry, and the stand and saddle systems he uses now that his hunting style has evolved. If you’ve been wondering what actually survives hard use, what’s marketing noise, and what deserves a real look before opening day, this one is packed with practical answers. Perfect for bowhunters, whitetail hunters, and anyone trying to build a dependable kit without wasting money on gear that won’t hold up. Dan keeps it blunt, specific, and grounded in what he’s actually carrying into the woods this season. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  3. Jul 31

    Gear For Hunting One Buck

    Unlock the secrets to hunting success with Joseph Jones, a dedicated bowhunter who chased a legendary buck for three years—until a game-changing revelation reshaped his gear strategy. From urban hunting tactics to the best gear for close-quarters, Joseph shares how adapting his equipment and mindset led to more effective hunts—and a deeper connection with his kids in the woods. Discover how hunting in tight spaces in North Carolina influences stand choices, the importance of versatility in gear, and the innovative tricks Joseph uses to beat the trees — from DIY tree cover to the perfect climbing stand. We break down his approach to trail cameras, scent control, and the must-have accessories that keep him stealthy and efficient.You'll learn why Joseph prefers certain bows like the Prime NXT for growing with his son, how personal comfort and confidence in your gear can turn a good hunt into a great one, and the latest gear hacks that give you an edge—think bug-repellent clothing and scent-eliminating technology. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, Joseph’s insights on gear, mindset, and patience will motivate you to elevate your hunting game. This episode is essential listening for hunters aiming to refine their tactics, reduce their scent footprint, and learn how small adjustments in gear and strategy can unlock big results. If you're chasing your own legendary buck or simply want to hunt smarter, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your approach and enjoy the process more than ever. Joseph Jones is a seasoned hunter with years of experience in urban and traditional hunting setups, known for his dedication to both his craft and passing down the passion to his kids. He's passionate about leveraging technology and DIY solutions to stay stealthy and effective in the field.Why this works: This episode hooks listeners with a compelling story of perseverance and evolution as a hunter, enticing them with practical tips on gear and strategy. It appeals directly to hunting enthusiasts who want to improve their odds and enjoy the process, blending real-world tactics with insights on mindset and technology for maximum impact. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  4. Jul 23

    XOP Outdoors: Stands, Saddles, Climbing Sticks

    Discover how XOP’s philosophy of “attainable adventure” is shaping the future of mobile hunting gear — and why their innovations are perfect for serious hunters who demand safety, quality, and affordability. If you're tired of the industry’s inflated prices and want gear that’s built for real-world hunts, this episode is your insider pass to the brand challenging the status quo. In this episode, Tom Lalonde, part of the XOP team and a utility worker by day, shares the behind-the-scenes process of designing gear that combines safety standards from climbing industries with innovative materials and smart functionality. From the boundary waters to the prairie, he reveals how their products are tested in the toughest conditions and constantly refined based on real hunter feedback. You’ll hear how this iterative approach leads to gear that is lightweight, durable, and versatile — whether you’re packing in a mile, hunting on public land, or chasing big bucks with your kid by your side. We break down the core principles guiding XOP: broad accessibility, adventure-driven design, and a relentless pursuit of quality. Tom shares how their product lineup—from saddle systems and tree stands to versatile packs—is built to fit every hunter’s needs and budget. You’ll discover their unique approach to product development, influenced by cross-industry innovations and a keen focus on safety, simplicity, and lightweight performance. Whether you hunt for fun or for keeps, learn how XOP is creating gear that elevates the mobile hunting game while keeping it attainable for all. Stay ahead of the curve — missing out on well-crafted, affordable gear could limit your adventures, but embracing XOP's visionary approach opens doors to new possibilities. Perfect for the serious hunter who refuses to compromise on safety and performance or anyone looking to simplify their gear without sacrificing quality. If you’re committed to pushing your limits in the woods and want gear backed by real testing, feedback, and innovative thinking, this episode is your blueprint. Join the movement redefining what’s possible in mobile hunting — because adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  5. Jul 2

    Gear For The SWAMP

    Unlock the secret to hunting smarter, not harder—Aaron Berg shares how water access, lightweight gear, and strategic planning help him bag trophy bucks in the most challenging swamp terrains. This episode reveals how thinking outside the box and mastering silence can significantly boost your success rate.Imagine eliminating 95% of other hunters in a crowded public land — Aaron's unique water-based approach makes this a reality. He details how he uses canoes, special gear, and minimal movement to stay unnoticed by wary deer, even in thick Wisconsin swamps. Learn how to leverage natural water routes, adapt gear for extreme conditions, and use innovative techniques like the one-stick climbing method, which takes only minutes to master and keeps you quiet and mobile all day.You'll discover: The pros and cons of different canoe lengths for wet terrain and how to choose the right one for your hunting styleWhy water access can turn the tables on deer movement and reduce pressure on your target bucksThe importance of lightweight, breathable gear—like featherweight canoes and merino layers—to stay comfortable during all-day sitsHow to adapt your footwear and clothing for cold, wet, and buggy conditions without sacrificing stealthThe best trail camera setup for swamp hunting, using lithium batteries and no-fuss strategiesHow to efficiently set up and rappel out of your tree stand using the one-stick systemThe benefits of staying quiet and mobile—plus why some of the most successful hunters prefer paddles over traditional canoe paddles! Why does this episode matter? Because the right access and gear choices can extend your hunting hours, improve your shot opportunity, and give you an edge over other hunters lingering in crowded spots. Whether you hunt wetlands, marshes, or rugged terrain, Aaron’s proven techniques help you hunt smarter, escape the crowds, and finally connect with mature, elusive deer.Perfect for waterfowl hunters, marshland archers, or anyone tired of hunting the same public spots as everyone else — this episode provides the strategic blueprint to transform your approach and harvest more deer with less hassle. Tune in and discover how mastering water access and minimal gear can redefine your season!Guest Credibility: Aaron Berg is a seasoned Wisconsin waterfowl and deer hunter, known for his innovative water access tactics, lightweight gear rigging, and success in heavily pressured swamp habitats. His approach combines years of outdoor experience with practical tech hacks to maximize every hunt. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  6. Jun 18

    From The Vault: Vortex Optics

    On this episode, we go bak in time for an awesome conversation with Ryan Muckenhirn of Vortex Optics about their glass and accessories. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  7. Jun 11

    SoCal Hunting Gear

    Most hunters underestimate just how much gear management and travel logistics can make or break their season—until now. Justin Hunold reveals his proven system for hunting across multiple states without doubling your gear or losing your mind, all while staying mobile and efficient. On this episode, Justin shares how living in California shapes his hunting approach—out in the wild, but vastly different from the stereotypical coastal urban myth. You'll discover how he manages gear for trips across Ohio, Kansas, and New York, including his exact packing routines, handling firearms and archery equipment, and the secret to staying organized on the move. We break down his system for switching between stand hunting and saddle hunting, plus his insights on gear durability and the importance of consistency. Justin is a seasoned traveler with a wealth of tips. He discusses the best practices for flying with firearms, the top gear choices that save him time and frustration, and how he balances gear minimalism with preparedness. You'll also learn about his approach to scouting, setting up, and maintaining multiple hunting locations—keeping everything ready for the moment of truth. If you're tired of the chaos that comes with traveling for hunting—especially across state lines—this episode is your blueprint for streamlining your process. Perfect for hunters who chase deer far from home, want to reduce gear clutter, or simply need to hunt smarter, not harder. Tune in to take your travel hunting game to the next level. Justin Hunold is a power sports and outdoor content creator based in San Diego, blending his love for hunting, fishing, and travel into a disciplined and effective system. His insights come from over six years of building partnerships in the outdoor space and countless miles on the road.Whether you're a mobile hunter, a weekend warrior, or a seasoned pro looking to optimize your gear management—this episode will give you actionable tips to hunt with confidence, wherever the season takes you. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  8. Jun 4

    Hunting Gear B.S. Talk

    Most hunters focus on chasing big antlers, but Hunter Thompson shares a radically different approach—filling the freezer with less glamorous, more accessible deer. Discover how prioritizing practicality over prestige can transform your hunting season from a high-stakes game of inches to a reliable source of quality meat. In this episode, Hunter, who hunts across Texas and emphasizes food over trophy, reveals why he spends more time on simple strategies like close-range archery and versatile gear choices rather than chasing the biggest racks. You'll learn how his strategic focus on lethality rather than gear sophistication consistently results in successful seasons, even when the game isn't trophy-worthy.We dive into specific tactics, such as choosing lightweight layering systems for Texas' unpredictable weather, maximizing arrow and boot setups for reliability, and simplifying camouflage use for meat hunting. Hunter shares his insights on the benefits of tinkering with gear on a budget—like experimenting with arrows and accessories—without falling for the marketing hype of the latest gadgets. Most importantly, you'll discover why filling the freezer may be the most rewarding goal for hunters seeking consistent success and satisfying harvests. Whether you're a meat hunter who values efficiency or curious about straightforward gear strategies, this episode offers practical insights to elevate your approach—without breaking the bank or chasing trophy obsession.Perfect for hunters who want a no-nonsense, food-first mindset and gear setup that works season after season. When you focus on the essentials rather than the hype, success is within reach—and this episode shows you how to get there. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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4.8
out of 5
69 Ratings

About

The Hunting Gear Podcast covers just what the title implies, hunting gear and equipment. Host Dan Johnson interviews a variety of companies within the hunting industry as well as hardcore hunters who rely on their equipment to be successful in the field. From discussions on archery and firearms to clothing and accessories, if you are a hunting gear nut, this podcast is sure to hold your attention. Dan is also is joined by co-host Bob Polanic as they share their own experiences with the hunting equipment they use every season.

Information

  • Creator
    Dan Johnson, Sportsmen's Empire
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    295
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2019 - The Hunting Gear Podcast
  • Show Website
    Hunting Gear Podcast