Vortex Nation Podcast

How do you properly fit a hunting pack? What's the best way to pack your backpack for the backcountry? And how did Exo Mtn Gear become one of the most respected names in hunting packs? Exo Mtn Gear founder and lead pack designer Steve Speck joins the podcast to break down pack fit, load distribution, backpack setup, backcountry hunting gear, and the story behind Exo. Whether you're preparing for your first western hunt or fine-tuning your system, this episode is packed with practical advice and proven tips.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Nick Hoffman, experienced international hunter and host of Nick's Wild Ride, shares expert advice on traveling internationally for hunting adventures, including firearm and ammunition regulations, customs paperwork, rifle permits, travel documentation, health precautions, food and drinking water safety, tipping etiquette, and what to expect when hunting in foreign countries. From avoiding common travel mistakes to navigating customs and nearly getting arrested, Nick reveals real-world lessons every hunter should know before heading abroad. 

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The 7.62x39 is one of the most recognizable and widely used rifle cartridges ever created. Paired with AK-pattern rifles, it has earned a reputation for reliability, effectiveness, and global popularity. But what turned this intermediate cartridge into a worldwide phenomenon?

In this episode, AK enthusiast Scott Hollfelder emerges from his bunker to break down the history, performance, military legacy, and enduring appeal of the 7.62x39. From its battlefield origins to its continued popularity among shooters today, discover why this cartridge remains one of the most influential rifle rounds ever designed.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

Federal Ammunition’s Joshua Vickers and Brad Abramowski join Vortex to give us the gouge on their all-new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak ammo. How does a round that’s long been known for efficiency suddenly gain up to 300 fps over comparable brass-cased 6.5 Creedmoor loads and roughly 100 fps over 6.5 PRC? In this episode, Federal explains the technology behind the latest addition to the Peak Alloy lineup, including velocity gains, recoil characteristics, barrel life, pressure management, projectile selection, and real-world hunting and shooting performance. If you’re a fan of 6.5 Creedmoor, curious about 6.5 PRC, or wondering whether +Peak is the next evolution in cartridge design, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast

The most ridiculous concealed carry item you would still carry to finishing the lyrics of popular songs, the season finale of Spaghetti Shootout is sure to hit the spot. Who goes out on a high note? There’s only one way to find out. Grab your fork and dig in.

As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast