Big Game Hunting Podcast - Hunting Africa, North America, & More!
Welcome to The Big Game Hunting Podcast where host John McAdams discusses subjects like caliber comparisons, Africa hunting, terminal ballistics, intense hunting stories, and more – featuring a wide variety of guests from industry experts to listeners of the show from all over the world. No fluff, no baloney, just one serious big game hunter doing his best to learn, grow, and have fun alongside his listeners. New episodes release every Thursday. Join us to learn more about subjects ranging from cape buffalo hunting in Africa to hunting deer, elk, bear, and antelope in North America from internationally recognized experts in their fields. Contact me with your questions or feedback via email at: [email protected] Or visit the searchable archive of all Big Game Hunting Podcast episodes published since 2019 at https://thebiggamehuntingblog.com/podcast/
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368: 300 H&H: The Original .30 Caliber Magnum With JvB
04/24/2025
368: 300 H&H: The Original .30 Caliber Magnum With JvB
Joseph von Benedikt shares some insights on the 300 Holland & Holland Magnum in this podcast interview, focusing on the history of the cartridge, its performance specifications, and some fascinating stories involving hunters using the cartridge on game ranging from deer up to Alaska brown bear. Sponsor: Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast Patreon community for the potential opportunity to have a future podcast guest answer one of your questions on the air along with access to all my bonus material at Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. In this episode of The Big Game Hunting Podcast, host John McAdams sits down with Joseph von Benedikt. Unlike past discussions with Joseph focusing on hunting specific animal species, this interview dives into the legendary 300 Holland & Holland Magnum. Joseph recalls how he fell in love with the cartridge, drawn by its pedigree, rich history, and association with sharp looking vintage rifles. He details a few instances of taking deer, African plains game, and elk with various .30 caliber bullets from the cartridge, to include one shocking instance of a bullet failure. Joseph’s takeaway? The 300 H&H certainly isn’t for everyone, but despite its age, the cartridge remains a solid performer for use on a wide spectrum of big game. Plus, it's the perfect round for those who appreciate vintage cartridges and rifles! Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Resources – Previous interview with Joseph – Previous interview with Joseph – Previous interview with Joseph – Previous interview with Joseph – Previous interview with Joseph – Previous interview with Joseph 1) Joseph's Page 2) Check Out The Backcountry Hunting Podcast on , , &
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367: Aoudad Hunting With Phil Massaro
04/17/2025
367: Aoudad Hunting With Phil Massaro
Phil Massaro shares insights on hunting aoudad out in west Texas in this podcast interview, focusing on the story of the hunt, bullet terminal performance on auodad, general tips, and equipment recommendations. Sponsor: Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. In this episode of The Big Game Hunting Podcast, host John McAdams sits down with Phil Massaro. Unlike past discussions with Phil about hunting Africa, they discuss Phil’s recent west Texas aoudad hunt. Phil recounts the story of this hunt, the gear he used, shares a few fascinating tidbits about things that have happened on this hunt and a previous hunt, and a few tips for those considering making the journey out to the desert to hunt these creatures. The big takeaway? Aoudad hunts are a fun, and cost effective way to hunt a mountain species, but they can be physically challenging and appropriate gear and preparation beforehand are essential. Please hit that “SUBSCRIBE” or “FOLLOW” button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Resources Follow Phil on Instagram . – Podcast referenced in episode – One of Phil’s previous appearances on the show
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366: Modern Cartridge Design-Why The 6.5 Creedmoor Is Better
04/10/2025
366: Modern Cartridge Design-Why The 6.5 Creedmoor Is Better
John Snow of Outdoor Life shares insights on modern cartridge design in this podcast interview, explaining why rounds like the 6.5 Creedmoor have a crucial edge. Sponsor: Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. In this episode of The Big Game Hunting Podcast, host John McAdams welcomes John Snow, Outdoor Life’s shooting editor, for his first appearance on the show. They discuss modern cartridge design and focus on how the polarizing 6.5 Creedmoor embodies many of these design principles and how those characteristics distinguish the 6.5 Creedmoor from similarly performing cartridges like the 260 Remington and 6.5x55 Swede. They also discuss John Snow’s experiences with the cutting edge 7mm Backcountry and some of the pitfalls and potential game changing benefits of that brand new design. The big takeaway? There's a reason why cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor are so popular and effective and it's not limited just to Hornady's aggressive and effective marketing (though that certainly plays a part too). Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Resources Read John's article on Outdoor Life about Follow John on Instagram .
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365: 338 Lapua Unleashed with Tyler Freel
04/03/2025
365: 338 Lapua Unleashed with Tyler Freel
Tyler Freel shares insights on hunting big game with the 338 Lapua Magnum in this podcast interview, focusing on terminal performance, favorite loads, and recoil management. Sponsor: Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. In this episode of The Big Game Hunting Podcast, host John McAdams sits down with Tyler Freel to explore the 338 Lapua Magnum—a cartridge renowned for its power and extended range performance. Unlike past discussions with Tyler on smaller rounds, this interview dives into the mighty 338 Lapua Magnum’s big game hunting potential. Tyler recounts how he first got hooked on the 338 Lapua, drawn by its long-range ballistics and ability to anchor massive animals like moose. He details a few instances of taking moose with a 285gr Hornady ELD Match (SD: 0.356) performed on moose at ranges from 200-550 yards. Tyler compares the 338 Lapua to the 338 Win Mag and 300 PRC, noting its edge in energy retention, but also in recoil. On reloading, Tyler favors slow-burning powders like Retumbo, H1000, and RL-26 to achieve ~2,700 fps of muzzle velocity with 285-grain Hornady ELD Match bullets that slip gracefully through the air, but still perform incredibly well on even the biggest moose. Tyler’s takeaway? The 338 Lapua isn’t for everyone, but it's a solid performer for use on really big game at extended range. Plus, it's tough to beat the cool factor that comes with this round! Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Resources Read Tyler's article on Outdoor Life about Subscribe to Tyler's . Follow Tyler on Instagram . – Podcast referenced in episode – Podcast referenced in episode – Article related to episode – Article related to episode
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364: 2025 Thompson/Center Update With Gregg Ritz
03/27/2025
364: 2025 Thompson/Center Update With Gregg Ritz
I have Gregg Ritz on the show with me again today to talk about the latest updates from Thompson/Center. T/C is literally shipping guns out the door right now and Gregg and I discuss the stuff that’s currently available, what other products will be shipping later this year, what other products are coming soon from the company, and what the future holds for Thompson/Center in 2026 and 2027. Sponsor: Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. Resources Check out the , subscribe to their , and follow , , .
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363: Bergara Crest Carbon Rifle Review
03/20/2025
363: Bergara Crest Carbon Rifle Review
How would you like it if you could find a hunting rifle that shoots accurately without an extensive barrel break-in, is lightweight and easy to carry, contains a bunch of premium features, and comes in at under $2,000? Well, the Bergara B-14 Squared Crest Carbon might just fit the bill in all of those areas. In this episode, I conduct a detailed analysis of the Bergara Crest Carbon where I tell you all about this rifle so you can make an informed decision regarding whether or not it fits your needs as a hunter. to receive a 10% off promo code for all products Bergara sells directly from their web site (to include, but not limited to, the Bergara Crest Carbon). Take the (everyone who completes the survey by 23 March 2025 will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Cabela’s gift card) Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all my bonus material (including a larger 15% off Bergara discount code I provide to Patrons at the highest level of support) at
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362: 45-70 vs 308 Winchester Caliber Comparison
03/13/2025
362: 45-70 vs 308 Winchester Caliber Comparison
Today we’re going to talk about two completely different rounds: the 45-70 Government and the 308 Winchester. Comparing these two cartridges is a great example of how a person who doesn’t know any better can get a wildly distorted view of how two cartridges compare to each other by simply looking at their performance on paper. We’ll discuss the overall design characteristics and performance specs of each round then compare how they stack up next to each other. I’ll also cover how they each perform in some ballistic gel tests and discuss the situations where each one excels. Take the (everyone who completes the survey by 23 March 2025 will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Cabela’s gift card) Sponsor: Go to and sign up to receive my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. Resources – Blog article referenced in podcast – Ear protection recommendations - Rifle scope recommendations - Rifle sling recommendations - 308 Winchester ammo recommendations - 45-70 ammo recommendations
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361: Wyoming Horseback Elk Hunt with Hunter McWaters
03/06/2025
361: Wyoming Horseback Elk Hunt with Hunter McWaters
I got the chance to sit down with Hunter McWaters from The Hunter’s Quest in this episode. We discussed how he got interested in western hunting along with the story of a cool, horseback elk hunt he went on in Wyoming during 2024. Hunter lives in Virginia, so his tale may seem familiar to those of you who from that part of the country who are interested in breaking into the western hunting world. Take the (everyone who completes the survey will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Cabela’s gift card) Sponsor: Go to and sign up to receive my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. Follow Subscribe to of his New Mexico muzzleloader elk hunt Episodes referenced:
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360: 22 Creedmoor vs 22-250 Caliber Comparison
02/27/2025
360: 22 Creedmoor vs 22-250 Caliber Comparison
Today we’re going to talk about two high octane 22 caliber centerfire cartridges: the 22-250 Remington and the 22 Creedmoor. We’ll discuss the overall design characteristics and performance specs of each round, then compare how they stack up next to each other. I’ll also cover how they each perform in some ballistic gel tests and discuss some interesting aspects of how they each performed at the range. Take the (everyone who completes the survey by 23 March 2025 will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Cabela’s gift card) Sponsor: Go to and sign up to receive my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. Resources – Blog article referenced in podcast – Ear protection recommendations - Rifle scope recommendations - Rifle sling recommendations
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Bonus 18: Upcoming Veteran Safari Hunt Announcement
02/25/2025
Bonus 18: Upcoming Veteran Safari Hunt Announcement
I have a few announcements to share with you on this unusual mid-week episode regarding our upcoming hunt for the military veteran we're conducting in June of 2025 and a special request for all listeners regarding future episodes. Resources See video of Take the (everyone who completes the survey will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Cabela's gift card) Donate money for the veteran hunt (put "Matt" or "Veteran" in the memo section) Donate money for the veteran hunt (put "Matt" or "Veteran" in the memo section)
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359: Bullet Selection 101 with Aaron Davidson of Gunwerks
02/20/2025
359: Bullet Selection 101 with Aaron Davidson of Gunwerks
I got the chance to sit down with Aaron Davidson from Gunwerks at the DSC convention in Atlanta and we discussed the ins and outs of bullet selection, external ballistics, and terminal performance. I felt like I was drinking from a firehose talking to Aaron, but he does a fantastic job of breaking down why he uses various bullets for certain situations, why he opts for certain shot placement with certain bullets, how various bullets behave differently with different impact velocities and shot placement, why Gunwerks offers certain bullets but not others in their ammo, what he thinks about the new 7mm Backcountry, and much more! And of course, he shares a couple of great stories to illustrate the points he makes as well. Learn more about Gunwerks products on their , subscribe to their , and subscribe to their . Sponsor: Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday.
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358: 35 Caliber Cartridges: The Ultimate Guide
02/13/2025
358: 35 Caliber Cartridges: The Ultimate Guide
I discuss all of the 35 Caliber SAAMI standardized cartridges (plus a couple of other noteworthy rounds) in this episode. As always, I’ll talk about their history, design characteristics, performance specs, their strengths and weaknesses, and their recommended uses in detail. Where appropriate, I’ll also share some personal anecdotes involving these rounds as well as some observations involving various cartridges by noteworthy gun writers as well. Cartridges covered: 348 Winchester, 357 Magnum, 35 WSL, 351 WSL, 35 Winchester, 350 Legend, 360 Buckhammer, 35 Remington, 356 Winchester, 358 Winchester, 350 Remington Magnum, 35 Whelen, 358 Norma Magnum, 350 Rigby, 35 Nosler Sponsor: Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material at Resources – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast
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Bonus 17: Reforming The NRA With Buz Mills
02/10/2025
Bonus 17: Reforming The NRA With Buz Mills
Today Buz Mills from the National Rifle Association joins me on the show to talk about the upcoming election for the NRA board of directors. In any case, I’m a life member of the NRA and I’m saddened and disappointed with what has happened with the organization in recent years. Well, Buz Mills is spearheading an effort at reforming the National Rifle Association and bringing the focus of the organization back to its original core values. That's what we discuss in detail in this episode. Resources Learn more about the "NRA 2.0" slate of endorsed candidates at
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357: Kevin Robertson’s Two Near Death Experiences From Sable
02/06/2025
357: Kevin Robertson’s Two Near Death Experiences From Sable
Kevin Robertson is back again today to talk about sable hunting. Just like we’ve done on the past we dive right into the details of sable: how big they get, where they live, why they’re different from other species of plains game, and how to hunt them. As always, we talk about cartridge and bullet selection as well as terminal ballistics. Kevin also shares two stories of extremely close calls he personally has had with sable over the years. Contact Kevin through his web site if you're interested in purchasing the original photographs and anatomy diagrams for The Perfect Shot II. Sponsor: Get in touch with me to make your Africa hunting dreams come true at in South Africa’s Limpopo Province where we offer outstanding hunting safaris, simplified hunt logistics, assistance with many of the pain points associated with a hunt, and up front pricing with no extra fees. Visit or contact me directly at to learn more. Go to and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. I highly recommend purchasing a copy of Kevin Robertson's books It Shouldn’t Happen and The Perfect Shot II. You will not be disappointed with either book. Get copies of each one (affiliate link, commissions earned). Pick up a copy of to read the full story of how things turned out with the sable vs two lions I referenced in the episode (affiliate link, commissions earned). Resources Below are links to Kevin's previous appearances on the show:
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356: PH Interview-French Foreign Legion To Rowboat Surrounded By Crocs
01/30/2025
356: PH Interview-French Foreign Legion To Rowboat Surrounded By Crocs
I sat down with one of my South African Professional Hunters, Johan Seyffert, at the Dallas Safari Club convention and recorded a short interview about how he got started in this line of work and some funny and noteworthy experiences he has had over the years, like how he went from serving in the French Foreign Legion to floating in a rowboat surrounded by crocodiles. We also talk about misconceptions people have about hunting Africa, common mistakes visiting hunters make, and how to make the most out of a hunt in Africa. Subscribe to Sponsor: Get in touch with me to make your Africa hunting dreams come true on a hunt with Johan or Kobus in South Africa. We offer outstanding hunting safaris, simplified hunt logistics, assistance with many of the pain points associated with a hunt, and up front pricing with no extra fees. We are full for 2025 and June/July 2026, but still have some openings remaining otherwise next year. Visit or email me at to learn more.
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355: Bongo At 5 Yards In The Rainforest With Hancke Hudson
01/23/2025
355: Bongo At 5 Yards In The Rainforest With Hancke Hudson
My ongoing Africa hunting mini-series continues this week with another special guest: Hancke Hudson. Hancke is a South African Professional Hunter who has spent the past 30 years hunting in the rainforests of Central Africa for animals like bongo, dwarf buffalo, sitatunga, and the numerous species of small antelope that live there. The rainforest is a special place and these hunts are like nothing anywhere else in the world. While these hunts are not for the faint of heart, those brave enough to take the plunge and hunt the rainforest will be rewarded with a unique adventure few others will ever get to experience. Subscribe to Sponsor: Get in touch with Hancke Hudson to book that bongo hunt you've always dreamed of. He is a top notch Professional Hunter who has access to some of the best bongo hunting ares in all of Africa. Contact him via WhatsApp at +263 77 326 0977 or visit to learn more. Be sure to tell him you heard about him from The Big Game Hunting Podcast and be sure to email me at to tell me how your hunt went!
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354: Hunting Leopard Up Close & At Night With Tanya Blake
01/16/2025
354: Hunting Leopard Up Close & At Night With Tanya Blake
This is the first episode in my winter 2025 Africa hunting mini-series and I have a special guest on the show with me today: Tanya Blake. Depending on how long you’ve been listening to the show, you may recognize that name because she was Phil Massaro’s PH on the leopard hunt he and I discussed in episode 293. Tanya is a Zimbabwe based Professional Hunter who hunts a number of different species, but leopard are her specialty and we'll be talking all about hunting Mr. Spots in this episode. Subscribe to Sponsor: Get in touch with Tanya Blake to book that leopard hunt in Zimbabwe you've always dreamed of. She is a top notch Professional Hunter who has access to some fantastic leopard hunting areas. Email her at or call her at +263 77 326 0977 to learn more. Be sure to tell her you heard about her from The Big Game Hunting Podcast and be sure to email me at and let me know how your hunt went!
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353: Is Federal's New 7mm Backcountry A True Game Changer?
01/09/2025
353: Is Federal's New 7mm Backcountry A True Game Changer?
I have Eric Miller on the show with me today to talk about Federal's brand new 7mm Backcountry rifle cartridge. As you’ll learn here shortly, the 7 Backcountry utilizes an innovative design that produces some impressive ballistics and it could possibly be a true game changer that kills off my beloved 7mm PRC. Learn more about Subscribe to Sponsor: Get in touch with me to make your Africa hunting dreams come true at in South Africa’s Limpopo Province where we offer outstanding hunting safaris, simplified hunt logistics, assistance with many of the pain points associated with a hunt, and up front pricing with no extra fees. We have 2 openings remaining for 2025, plus most of 2026. Visit to learn more.
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352: Elk & Antelope Hunting In Arizona With Grant McCune of Zona Guides
01/02/2025
352: Elk & Antelope Hunting In Arizona With Grant McCune of Zona Guides
It’s January 2025 and you know what that means: it’s time to start planning hunts for later this year. The Arizona elk and antelope draw is up first and I have Grant McCune from Zona Guides on the show to talk about this in detail. I hear from podcast listeners pretty frequently asking for recommendations on outfitters to hunt species like elk in particular. Well, Grant McCune and Zona Guides are my #1 recommendation for Arizona. I’d go back with him in a heartbeat and I recommend you check out his service if you’d like to hunt Arizona in the future. Grant actually guided me on my 2022 Arizona elk hunt and I was thoroughly impressed with how he did things and still had a great time even though I didn’t end up killing an elk on that hunt. Here's why. Subscribe to Sponsor: Get in touch with Grant at to book an elk, antelope, deer, or bear hunt in Arizona. I've hunted with Grant personally and cannot recommend him highly enough: he's trustworthy, hard working, and will work his tail off to ensure you have a quality hunt. I recommend that you contact him before the February 2025 draw deadline to discuss what specific hunts and units you should apply for, but you can also get in touch with him after you pull a tag. Visit his web site, email him at , or call him at (928) 713-3412 to learn more.
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351: 22 Creedmoor With Derrick Ratliff Of Horizon Firearms
12/26/2024
351: 22 Creedmoor With Derrick Ratliff Of Horizon Firearms
Is the new 22 Creedmoor just the latest fad? Or does it offer significant benefits to hunters compared to more established 22 caliber centerfires like the 22-250 Remington? Today, Derrick Ratliff from Horizon Firearms joins me on the show as we talk about this new hot rod 22 caliber and he shares some insights on why he first started wildcatting the 22 Creedmoor, what uses he thinks the best use cases are for it, what his favorite bullets are for the cartridge, what factory rifle and ammo availability is like right now, and what the future holds for the 22 Creedmoor. Subscribe to Giveaway: Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for two boxes of 300 Win Mag Nosler Ballistic Tip ammo. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. All citizens or legal permanent residents of the USA who are over the age of 21 and who are not otherwise prohibited form possessing a firearm, and who lives in a state I can ship to is eligible to enter. You have until 11:59pm central time on 1 January 2025 to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions to receive both boxes. Sponsor: Get in touch with me to make your Africa hunting dreams come true at in South Africa’s Limpopo Province where we offer outstanding hunting safaris, simplified hunt logistics, assistance with many of the pain points associated with a hunt, and up front pricing with no extra fees. We have 2 openings remaining for October and November 2025, plus most of 2026. Visit to learn more. I'm hosting a get together for podcast listeners and past/future clients during the Dallas Safari Club Convention at a conference room in the Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown 6-10pm on Friday, 10 January 2025. Email me if you'll be attending. Watch the and Watch my Check out Follow Horizon Firearms on
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350: Whitetail Hunting Secrets With Larry Weishuhn
12/19/2024
350: Whitetail Hunting Secrets With Larry Weishuhn
Larry Weishuhn, also known as "Mr. Whitetail" joins me on the show today to talk about some of the finer points of whitetail deer hunting. I’ve always wanted to sit down with an accomplished deer hunter and wildlife biologist Larry and pepper him with specific questions about how to take my deer hunting game to the next level. Well, that’s what we do today and we discuss all sorts of burning questions I’ve had about deer hunting like whether or not it’s really a good idea to urinate on deer scrapes, how to determine the exact day that’s best for tagging a mature buck during the rut, what exactly is going on during the October lull, and much more. Subscribe to Giveaway: Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for two boxes of 7mm PRC Outfitter ammo. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. All citizens or legal permanent residents of the USA who are over the age of 21 and who are not otherwise prohibited form possessing a firearm, and who lives in a state I can ship to is eligible to enter. You have until 11:59pm central time on 25 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions to receive both boxes. Sponsor: Get in touch with me to make your Africa hunting dreams come true at in South Africa’s Limpopo Province where we offer outstanding hunting safaris, simplified hunt logistics, assistance with many of the pain points associated with a hunt, and up front pricing with no extra fees. We have 2 openings remaining for September, October, and November 2025, plus most of 2026. Visit to learn more. I'm hosting a get together for podcast listeners and past/future clients during the Dallas Safari Club Convention at a conference room in the Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown 6-10pm on Friday, 10 January 2025. Resources: Follow Larry on . Check out his TV show Check out And pick up one of his
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349: The ugly truth about bullet failures
12/12/2024
349: The ugly truth about bullet failures
Today, we’re going to talk about bullet failures. Bullet failures are a hot topic, especially when they involve certain, very polarizing bullets and/or cartridges. I absolutely believe they do occur, but I think they get blamed unfairly for a lot of wounded and lost game. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve had tell me they made a perfect shot, but the bullet “blew up on the shoulder” and the animal ran off, never to be seen again. Like I said, bullet failures do occur though and I’ve compiled a giant list of those sorts of stories to share with you in this episode. Please hit that “SUBSCRIBE” or “FOLLOW” button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Watch the video of the Berger bullet gel test I described in this episode . Sponsor: Get in touch with me to make your Africa hunting dreams come true at in South Africa’s Limpopo Province where we offer outstanding hunting safaris, simplified hunt logistics, assistance with many of the pain points associated with a hunt, and up front pricing with no extra fees. We have 4 openings remaining for September, October, and November 2025, plus most of 2026. Visit or contact me directly at to learn more. I'll be at the Dallas Safari Club convention in Atlanta 9-12 January 2025 with 2 of my African PHs (Johan and Kobus) and we'd love to meet you if you'll be attending the show. We're hosting a get together for podcast listeners and past/future clients at a conference room in the Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown 6-10pm on Friday, 10 January 2025. Address is: 431 Marietta Street, NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 Pizza and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) will be provided. Space is limited, so please RSVP by emailing me if you plan on attending! Giveaway: I’m giving away 2 boxes of Federal Fusion ammo for the 308 Winchester. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for this ammo. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. All citizens or legal permanent residents of the USA who are over the age of 21 and who are not otherwise prohibited form possessing a firearm, and who lives in a state I can ship to is eligible to enter. You have until 11:59pm central time on 18 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 19 December to receive both boxes.
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348: 223 Remington vs 22 ARC Caliber Comparison
12/05/2024
348: 223 Remington vs 22 ARC Caliber Comparison
Today we’re going to talk about 2 22 caliber cartridges designed for use in America’s favorite gun in the AR-15 platform: the 223 Remington and the 22 ARC. As always, we’ll discuss the overall design characteristics and performance specs of each round, then compare how they stack up next to each other. I’ll also cover how they each perform in some ballistic gel tests and discuss some interesting aspects of how they each performed at the range. Please hit that “SUBSCRIBE” or “FOLLOW” button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Sponsor: I’m giving away 2 boxes of Barnes VOR-TX LR ammo for the 6.5 Creedmoor loaded with the 127gr Barnes LRX bullet. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for this ammo. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. Anyone over the age of 21 who is not otherwise prohibited form possessing a firearm, and who lives in a state I can ship to is eligible to enter. You have until 11:59pm central time on 11 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 12 December to receive both boxes. Resources – Blog article referenced in podcast - 223 Remington hunting ammo recommendations – Ear protection recommendations - Rifle scope recommendations - Rifle sling recommendations
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347: Ultimate Guide To The "Other" 30 Caliber Cartridges
11/28/2024
347: Ultimate Guide To The "Other" 30 Caliber Cartridges
Today, I discuss all of the other .30 caliber cartridges I didn't cover in episode 286. None of these rounds use a .308" bullet, but all are still .30 caliber cartridges and most fill a similar niche as the .308 Winchester and 30-06 Springfield in various parts of the world. As always, I’ll talk about their history, design characteristics, performance specs, their strengths and weaknesses, and their recommended uses in detail. Where appropriate, I’ll also share some personal anecdotes involving these rounds as well as some observations involving various cartridges by noteworthy gun writers as well. Cartridges covered: 7.5x55 Swiss, 7.62x39mm, 7.62x54R, 7.62x53R, 7.65x53 Argentine Mauser, 303 British, 7.5x54mm MAS, 7.7x58mm Arisaka, 32-20 Winchester Join me at the Dallas Safari Club Convention in Atlanta 9-12 January 2025. More details are forthcoming, but I'll be hosting an event for listeners and past, present, and future African safari clients at the show. Sponsor: I’m giving away a set of AXIL Trackr electronic ear muffs. This is a brand new in the box set literally identical to what I use at the range and sometimes out hunting. The TRACKR muffs provide hearing protection and hearing enhancement, so you can carry on a conversation with the person next to you at the range or hear the sounds of an approaching deer without exposing your ears to damage from gunshots or other loud noises. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for these muffs. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. You have until 11:59pm central time on 1 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 2 December to receive those muffs. Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material at Resources – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast
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346: Listen For A Special Announcement!
11/25/2024
346: Listen For A Special Announcement!
Join me at the Dallas Safari Club Convention in Atlanta, Georgia 9-12 January 2025. I will be attending the show with 2 of my African PHs (Johan and Kobus) and we'd love to meet you in person if you'll be at the show. We will be hosting an event for podcast listeners and past/future safari hunters Friday or Saturday (10 or 11 January). Stay tuned for more details! Email me at if you have suggestions for a venue to host this event in Atlanta. Check out my new video on the best hunting rifle slings here: Have you ever had a bullet truly fail you on an animal? Email me at with any details of bullet failures you've experienced on game in the past so I can include your story in an upcoming episode on bullet failures. Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Sponsor: I’m giving away a set of AXIL Trackr electronic ear muffs. This is a brand new in the box set literally identical to what I use at the range and sometimes out hunting. The TRACKR muffs provide hearing protection and hearing enhancement, so you can carry on a conversation with the person next to you at the range or hear the sounds of an approaching deer without exposing your ears to damage from gunshots or other loud noises. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for these muffs. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. You have until 11:59pm central time on 1 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 2 December to receive those muffs.
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345: 7mm Cartridges: The Ultimate Guide
11/21/2024
345: 7mm Cartridges: The Ultimate Guide
I discuss all of the 7mm CIP and SAAMI standardized cartridges (plus a couple of other noteworthy rounds) in this episode. As always, I’ll talk about their history, design characteristics, performance specs, their strengths and weaknesses, and their recommended uses in detail. Where appropriate, I’ll also share some personal anecdotes involving these rounds as well as some observations involving various cartridges by noteworthy gun writers as well. Cartridges covered: 7x57, 7x64mm Brenneke, 280 Remington, 280 Ackley Improved, 7mm Weatherby Magnum, 7x61 Sharpe & Hart, 7mm Remington Magnum, 7mm STW, 7mm STE, 7-30 Waters, 7mm-08 Remington, 284 Winchester, 7mm WSM, 7 SAUM, 7mm RUM, 28 Nosler, 7mm PRC Learn more about the rounds I discuss in this episode in Ron Spomer's excellent book Sponsor: I’m giving away a set of AXIL Trackr electronic ear muffs. This is a brand new in the box set literally identical to what I use at the range and sometimes out hunting. The TRACKR muffs provide hearing protection and hearing enhancement, so you can carry on a conversation with the person next to you at the range or hear the sounds of an approaching deer without exposing your ears to damage from gunshots or other loud noises. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for these muffs. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. You have until 11:59pm central time on 1 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 2 December to receive those muffs. Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material at Resources – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast – Episode referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast - Article referenced in podcast
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344: Moose Hunting With A 22 ARC?
11/14/2024
344: Moose Hunting With A 22 ARC?
Tyler Freel is back on the show today to talk about a recent moose hunt where he cleanly killed a nice bull with the new 22 Advanced Rifle Cartridge using his AR-15. I Feel like I owe it to my audience to give them the best and most accurate information possible and sometimes that involves challenging previously held beliefs about what people think you “need” to hunt certain animals. This is one of those episodes. So was one of Tyler’s previous appearances on the show with me in ep 282 where he talks about killing a grizzly bear with the 6.5 Creedmoor. You are of course welcome to disagree with us, all I ask is that you keep an open mind as Tyler and I discuss this hunt in detail. As you’ll discover shortly, the little 22 ARC delivered surprisingly good terminal performance on a big Alaskan bull moose and we discuss why that was the case in great detail today. Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Sponsor: I’m giving away a set of AXIL Trackr electronic ear muffs. This is a brand new in the box set literally identical to what I use at the range and sometimes out hunting. The TRACKR muffs provide hearing protection and hearing enhancement, so you can carry on a conversation with the person next to you at the range or hear the sounds of an approaching deer without exposing your ears to damage from gunshots or other loud noises. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for these muffs. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. You have until 11:59pm central time on 1 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 2 December to receive those muffs. Resources Read Tyler's article on Outdoor Life about his & see the . Subscribe to Tyler's . Follow Tyler on Instagram .
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343: Have you ever had a bullet fail on a hunt?
11/11/2024
343: Have you ever had a bullet fail on a hunt?
I have request for your assistance with an upcoming project. I’m planning an episode on December where I discuss so called “bullet failures.” I have a couple of examples I have experienced myself I’ll share with you in that episode, but I’d also like to do some crowd sourcing on this topic as well and share some noteworthy examples from the audience. Have you ever had a bullet truly fail you on an animal? If so, please email me and share the details on what happened. Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Sponsor: I’m giving away a set of AXIL Trackr electronic ear muffs. This is a brand new in the box set literally identical to what I use at the range and sometimes out hunting. The TRACKR muffs provide hearing protection and hearing enhancement, so you can carry on a conversation with the person next to you at the range or hear the sounds of an approaching deer without exposing your ears to damage from gunshots or other loud noises. Sign up at to be entered in a random drawing for these muffs. Be sure to confirm your email address if you’re asked to do so after you sign up. You have until 11:59pm central time on 1 December to sign up. I will randomly select one lucky listener from all the submissions on 2 December to receive those muffs.
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342: How Nosler Bullets Perform Afield With Cable Smith
11/07/2024
342: How Nosler Bullets Perform Afield With Cable Smith
Cable Smith joins me on the show again as we talk about some of his recent experiences hunting with the legendary Nosler Partition and AccuBond along with the Solid Base bullet from their new Whitetail Country line. Sponsor: Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast tribe and get access to all our bonus material at Go to and Sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday (along with my weekly ammo supply updates). Subscribe to the
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341: Last chance to help me test some ammo!
11/05/2024
341: Last chance to help me test some ammo!
Today is the last chance to throw your name in the hat to potentially receive some free Nosler Whitetail Country ammunition to test out this fall. To enter the random drawing for the chance to test and evaluate Nosler Whitetail Country ammo, by 11:59pm on Tuesday, 5 November 2024. Resources
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