First Generation Bowhunter

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, host Adam Buchanan sits down with Brad Brooks, founder of Argali Outdoors, to talk about the unexpected overlap between rock climbing, bow hunting, and building gear that actually works in the backcountry.Adam and Brad dig into how their shared obsession with climbing shaped their approach to bowhunting, why bow hunting has one of the steepest learning curves in the outdoors, and how persistence—not shortcuts—is the real key to success. They also compare the true cost of climbing vs. hunting, why hunters tend to obsess over gear, and how to avoid wasting money when you’re getting started.The conversation goes deep into wild game as a primary food source, from preparation and cooking to why harvesting your own meat changes your relationship with food entirely. Brad also shares insight into how Argali gear is designed, why simplicity matters, and how innovation in hunting apparel and equipment is evolving to better serve serious hunters—not trends.They wrap with a real conversation about balancing family life, work, and hunting, why communication matters, and how learning from failure is unavoidable in both climbing and bowhunting.If you’re a bowhunter, endurance athlete, climber, or someone trying to do hunting the right way—this episode hits.Brad is the founder of Argali Outdoors, known for lightweight, no-nonsense hunting gear built for real backcountry use.👉 Check out Argali gear here: https://argalioutdoors.com(Designed for western hunters who value durability, weight savings, and simplicity.)Rock climbing builds mental toughness that translates directly to bow huntingBow hunting has a steeper learning curve than most outdoor sportsClimbers tend to spend less on gear than hunters—but both obsess over performanceSuccess in bow hunting often comes after repeated failureWild game becomes a staple when hunting is done consistentlyQuality gear matters—but skill and decision-making matter moreCommunication is critical when balancing hunting, family, and workThe hunting gear and apparel industry is shifting toward function over hypeEpisode Chapters00:00 – How rock climbing shaped obsession05:03 – Transitioning from climbing to bow hunting10:52 – Gear advice for new bowhunters18:01 – The steep learning curve of archery21:16 – Adaptability in bow hunting23:04 – Arrows, mistakes, and hard lessons26:29 – Why wild game matters27:56 – Cooking and preparing wild meat30:32 – Balancing hunting with real life31:31 – Communication and family support38:08 – Innovation in hunting apparel and gearbow hunting podcast, archery hunting tips, Argali Outdoors, backcountry hunting gear, bow hunting learning curve, wild game cooking, hunting lifestyle, archery gear recommendations, western bow hunting, First Generation Bowhunter

In this conversation, Adam and Mark Comcowich delve into the world of skiing, sock design, and the evolution of Darn Tough socks for hunters. They discuss the importance of comfort, durability, and the unique properties of Merino wool. Mark shares insights into the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, as well as the community's role in shaping their products. The conversation highlights the significance of investing in quality gear for outdoor activities, particularly focusing on the importance of socks in a hunter's system.Enter GiveawayEnter your email on huntwurx.com for the giveaway!Comment and tag a friend on Giveaway post from https://www.instagram.com/adam_buchanan/Follow Darn Tough on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darntoughvermont/BONUS entry: gain one extra entry by writing a review on Apple Podcasts for FGB podcast" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-generation-bowhunter/id1613568313Skiing roots influence product design and innovation.Darn Tough socks were born from a need for quality.Merino wool offers superior comfort and moisture-wicking properties.The brand's success is tied to its commitment to quality and community.Socks are considered essential equipment for outdoor activities.Cotton socks do not perform well in athletic settings.Darn Tough maintains a low return rate due to product quality.The brand listens to customer feedback for product development.Investing in quality gear enhances outdoor experiences.The hunting community plays a vital role in the brand's evolution.Chapters00:00 Skiing Roots and Industry Insights02:52 The Birth of Darn Tough Socks05:57 Quality and Innovation in Sock Design08:48 The Importance of Merino Wool11:49 Staying Focused on Socks14:58 The Science Behind Sock Performance17:59 Community and Brand Loyalty24:20 The Importance of Quality Gear30:07 Innovations in Sock Technology36:02 Maintaining Comfort in the Field42:02 Community Feedback and Product Development

In this conversation, Ryan Uffens from Hunt Stealth Podcast shares his experiences and insights from his bow hunting journey, discussing the challenges and learning moments he encountered throughout the hunting season. He reflects on the importance of preparation, understanding wildlife behavior, and the thrill of the hunt. Additionally, he introduces his new product, Bison King, highlighting its nutritional benefits and the story behind its creation.Use code [FIRSTGEN] to save on https://bsnkng.com/Ryan shares his first experiences with elk and deer hunting.He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes in hunting.Scent plays a crucial role in hunting success.Preparation and the right equipment are essential for a successful hunt.Ryan launched a new Bison Jerky product with his son, BSN KNG.He encourages new hunters to take opportunities when they arise.The conversation highlights the camaraderie and learning in the hunting community.Chapters00:00 The Watch Connection and Tech Preferences02:50 Bow Hunting: A New Journey Begins06:01 Experiences in the Field: Learning and Growth09:09 The Thrill of the Hunt: First Encounters12:11 The Call of the Wild: Elk and Mule Deer Adventures14:51 The Scent of Success: Recognizing Animal Signs17:58 The Evolution of a Hunter: From Novice to Passionate21:01 The Challenges of Calling: Learning the Sounds of Nature23:56 The Unique Smell of Elk: A Hunter's Perspective28:02 Hunting Experiences and Lessons Learned50:20 Launching Bison King: A New Venture56:57 Podcasting Journey and Community Connections

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam shares his recent hunting experiences, focusing on deer behavior, movement patterns, and the importance of adapting strategies based on observations. He discusses the significance of paying attention to environmental changes and how they affect deer activity. Adam reflects on missed opportunities and the lessons learned from his hunting adventures, emphasizing the joy and excitement of the hunt.Pay attention to deer behavior and environmental changes.Deer movement can be influenced by human activity.Hunting strategies should adapt to observed patterns.Patience is key when observing wildlife.Chasing deer can lead to missed opportunities.Understanding deer patterns can improve hunting success.Experience teaches valuable lessons in hunting.The thrill of the hunt is in the journey, not just the outcome.Wild game hanging is a rewarding experience.Sharing knowledge and tips can help fellow hunters.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hunting Insights03:00 Behavioral Shifts in Deer Patterns06:11 Observations on Deer Movement and Activity09:03 Hunting Strategies and Techniques11:48 Chasing Deer and Missed Opportunities14:57 Learning from Experience and Instincts17:52 Conclusion and Reflections on the Hunt

In this episode, Adam discusses his experiences with hunting, particularly the challenges of taking his son out to hunt deer. He shares a humorous anecdote about an app that predicts deer activity and reflects on the recent closure of BlackOvis and CamoFire, where he worked as a marketing director. Adam expresses his gratitude for the colleagues he worked with and the emotional impact of the company's closure, highlighting the talent and dedication of his team.Chapters00:00 Can you find more deer with this app?07:51 Reflections on BlackOvis and CamoFire

SummaryIn this gear chat episode, Adam discusses the benefits of using a fanny pack for hunting, sharing personal experiences and tips on how to effectively utilize this gear. He explores what to pack, hydration strategies, and innovative gadgets like the Bow Spider that enhance the hunting experience. The conversation also touches on essential gear maintenance, particularly focusing on broadheads, and concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast.TakeawaysThe fanny pack is a game changer for hunting.Being hands-free while hunting allows for better mobility.Hydration is crucial; manage water effectively during hunts.Innovative gadgets like the Bow Spider can enhance the hunting experience.Proper gear maintenance, especially for broadheads, is essential.Packing light with a fanny pack can improve hunting efficiency.Using lightweight game bags is important for transporting meat.Personal experiences can guide gear choices and hunting strategies.Understanding the functionality of gear can lead to better hunting outcomes.Engaging with the hunting community can provide valuable insights.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gear Chat: The Fanny Pack02:49 Hunting with a Fanny Pack: Benefits and Tips06:06 Essential Gear for Hunting: Game Bags and Tools08:58 Water Management and Hydration Tips11:53 Innovative Gadgets: The Bow Spider15:08 Broadheads and Their Importance in Hunting18:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Gear

SummaryIn this episode of Unstrung, Adam discusses the necessity of camouflage in bow hunting, sharing personal experiences and insights. He emphasizes that while camo can be beneficial, factors like scent and noise are far more critical to a successful hunt. Adam also reflects on broader societal issues, including the prevalence of hate and the importance of community engagement. He encourages listeners to be mindful of their reactions and interactions, both in hunting and in life. The episode concludes with a light-hearted review of a beverage and an invitation for feedback.TakeawaysYou don't need camo to bow hunt.Scent and noise are more important than camo.Hunting can be expensive; prioritize your spending.You can successfully hunt in solid colors.Be aware of your impact on others in the community.Anger can influence how we are perceived by our children.It's important to model good behavior for the next generation.Engagement with the community matters in hunting and life.Don't let camo dictate your hunting experience.Feedback is essential for growth and improvement.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Unstrung Episodes02:28 The Camo Debate: Do You Really Need It?06:45 Hunting Realities: Scent, Noise, and Environment10:42 Reflections on Anger and Community Engagement14:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

SummaryIn this episode of First Generation Bow Hunter, Adam Buchanan and Jason Dyer discuss the essential preparations for the upcoming hunting season. They cover everything from gear checklists and navigation strategies to safety measures and food planning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being organized and mentally prepared for the hunt, while also reminding listeners to enjoy the experience and the journey of hunting.TakeawaysHunting season is just around the corner, and preparation is key.Always have a backup release for your bow.Check your gear and make sure everything is packed properly.Know your hunting regulations and unit boundaries.Use navigation apps like Onyx to plan your routes.Have a B plan for your hunting strategy.Safety is crucial; always inform someone about your hunting plans.Pack food in a way that makes it easy to access during the hunt.Time management is essential; don't forget your tag and gear.Enjoy the journey of hunting, it's not just about the kill.Chapters00:00 Hunting Season Countdown06:02 Essential Gear Checklist10:48 Navigating Regulations and Land Access19:22 Safety and Communication in the Field27:49 Final Preparations and Mindset for Hunting34:58 Reflections on the Hunting Experience

In this episode, Adam Buchanan dives into his bow setup for the upcoming hunting season, discussing the Hoyt Alpha bow, quiver preferences, sights, stabilizers, arrows, broadheads, and release aids. He shares personal experiences, tips for selecting gear, and insights into what works best for him as a bow hunter. The conversation emphasizes the importance of comfort and accuracy in archery, while also addressing budget considerations for hunters.The Hoyt Alpha bow is stable and fun to shoot.Having a backup bow can be beneficial.A quiver that holds more arrows is preferred for backcountry hunting.The Spot Hog Boonie sight is easy to dial in.Stabilizers should be lightweight and unobtrusive.Gold Tip arrows are reliable and effective.Broadheads like Sever provide excellent blood trails.Release aids should feel comfortable and familiar.Budget considerations are important when selecting gear.Footwear is a critical investment for hunters.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bow Hunting Season02:24 Bow Breakdown: Hoyt Alpha and RX-106:05 Quiver Choices and Preferences09:04 Sights: Exploring the Spot Hog Boonie13:47 Stabilizers and Their Importance15:46 Arrow Rest: Transitioning to Hamski18:04 Arrow Selection: Gold Tip and Fletching Choices21:51 Broadheads: Sever and G5 Striker24:20 Release Aids: Finding the Right Fit26:41 Conclusion and Future Topics

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam Buchanan shares essential tips for new bow hunters, focusing on scouting, shooting techniques, gear preparation, and food strategies for a successful hunting season. He emphasizes the importance of thorough scouting, effective shooting practice, and proper gear tuning, while also discussing personal experiences and challenges faced during recovery from knee surgery. Adam encourages listeners to prepare adequately and stay focused to enhance their hunting experience.TakeawaysThe main goal is to help new bow hunters punch their tag.Scouting is crucial; spend time in areas you can hunt.Digital scouting can save time and enhance preparation.Trail cameras can provide valuable insights but require careful management.Practice shooting in various positions to prepare for real-life scenarios.Gear tuning is essential; seek help from trusted professionals.Broadheads should be tested and maintained for optimal performance.Meal prepping can keep you out in the field longer.Stay focused and avoid distractions during the hunt.Breathing techniques can help manage nerves before a shot.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Update02:00 Scouting and Patterning Strategies10:07 Shooting Techniques and Practice12:02 Gear Preparation and Bow Tuning17:20 Food and Meal Prep for Hunting20:45 Final Thoughts and Season Preparation

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam Buchanan discusses effective techniques for bow hunting practice, emphasizing the importance of focus and confidence. He shares insights from a recent shooting session, highlighting how shooting at smaller targets can enhance concentration and improve shooting accuracy. The conversation also touches on the mental aspects of archery, including the need for muscle memory and mental discipline, ultimately aiming to prepare hunters for successful hunts.Maximize practice time by focusing on smaller targets.Shooting at small targets improves focus and accuracy.Mental discipline is crucial for successful hunting.Building confidence is key to effective archery.Practice helps train the brain to focus better.Shooting at short distances exposes form issues.Real-world practice simulates hunting scenarios.Confidence boosts performance in archery.Understanding arrow tuning is essential for accuracy.Consistent practice leads to better hunting outcomes.Chapters00:00 Maximizing Bow Practice Time09:39 Building Confidence and Focus in ArcheryBowhunting Topicsbow hunting, archery practice, focus training, confidence building, shooting techniques, hunting tips, target practice, mental discipline, bow tuning, hunting preparation, Keep Hammering, BlackOvis

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam Buchanan dives into the world of fletching options for archery, discussing the differences between 3-fletch and 4-fletch setups, tuning for 3D archery, and the importance of choosing the right broadhead. He shares personal experiences and insights on arrow setups, aiming to help both novice and experienced bow hunters make informed decisions for their hunting and 3D archery needs.There are many fletching options available for archery.3-Fletch setups are lighter and provide flatter shooting.4-Fletch setups offer better steering for longer distances.Tuning your bow is crucial for accuracy in 3D archery.Choosing the right broadhead can significantly impact your success.Budget considerations are important when selecting arrows.Fixed broadheads are recommended for beginners.Mechanical broadheads can be easier to work with in the field.It's essential to practice with your broadheads before hunting.If you're feeling overwhelmed, it means you're pushing yourself.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fletching Options01:21 3D Archery vs. Hunting: Finding the Balance03:18 Three-Fletch vs. Four-Fletch: Key Differences09:42 Choosing the Right Setup for Your Needs15:28 Broadheads and Fletching: Making the Right Choice

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam Buchanan discusses essential springtime activities for bow hunters to prepare for the upcoming hunting season. He emphasizes the importance of practicing archery, focusing on fitness and nutrition, and engaging in scouting and shed hunting. Adam shares personal experiences and tips to enhance shooting accuracy, improve physical conditioning, and effectively scout hunting areas. He also highlights the excitement of spring turkey hunting and encourages listeners to connect and share their experiences.TakeawaysYou can practice shooting at short distances to improve accuracy.Focus on your shot process, including stance and grip.Strengthening hips is crucial for injury prevention during hunting.Using AI for meal planning can enhance nutrition.Shed hunting can be combined with practice and scouting.Pay attention to animal behavior during spring scouting.Utilize binoculars for spotting and glassing techniques.Spring is a great time to prepare for hunting season.Consider the importance of water sources in scouting.Engage in spring turkey hunting for a fun challenge.Chapters00:00 Springtime Preparation for Bow Hunters06:57 Shed Hunting and Scouting Strategies13:05 Spring Turkey Hunting Insights

In this episode, Adam Buchanan explores the mindset of a first-generation bow hunter, emphasizing the importance of resilience, curiosity, and confidence. He shares personal experiences and insights on overcoming challenges, building confidence, and the significance of community in the learning process. The conversation extends beyond bow hunting, offering valuable lessons applicable to various aspects of life.There are three key elements in your mindset: resilience, curiosity, and confidence.Resilience is about adaptability and pushing through challenges.Curiosity drives the desire to learn and seek knowledge.Confidence can be built through resilience and curiosity.Imposter syndrome can affect first-generation hunters; it's important to recognize it.Community and camaraderie are essential for growth and learning in hunting.First-generation hunters have a unique perspective and can bring fresh insights.Asking questions and being humble can lead to valuable learning experiences.Success in bow hunting doesn't always mean killing an animal; it's about personal growth.The mindset discussed is applicable to various life situations beyond bow hunting.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the First Generation Bow Hunter Mindset08:45 Key Elements of Resilience, Curiosity, and Confidence15:43 Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Building Confidence22:42 The Importance of Community and Learning Together30:39 Applying the Mindset Beyond Bow Hunting

SummaryIn this episode of First Generation BowHunter, Adam Buchanan provides a comprehensive guide for beginners in bow hunting. He discusses the differences between compound and traditional bows, the importance of draw length and weight, budgeting for equipment, essential accessories, and tips for selecting the right bow brand. Adam emphasizes the significance of coaching and developing good habits early on in the bow hunting journey, aiming to equip listeners with the knowledge needed for a successful hunting experience.Shop big discounts on top hunting gear on Camofire.comGet custom arrows on BlackOvis.com through Arrow ID use code SPEED25 to get free lightning express service to get them quick!Shop Gold Tip arrows on BlackOvis.comTakeawaysBow hunting can be overwhelming for beginners.Choosing between a compound and traditional bow is crucial.Draw length and weight significantly impact shooting performance.Budget wisely for your bow setup and accessories.Invest in quality arrows for better accuracy.A drop away rest enhances shooting performance.Selecting the right bow brand can improve your experience.Coaching can help develop good shooting habits early on.Don't rush into buying a bow; take your time to choose.Enjoy the process of selecting your first bow.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bow Hunting Basics07:01 Importance of Draw Length and Weight13:14 Choosing the Right Accessories20:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Summary In this episode of First Generation Bow Hunter, Adam discusses his ambitious goal of shooting 10,000 arrows in a year. He shares insights on habit formation, the importance of gear adjustments, training routines, and nutrition strategies to support his archery journey. Adam also touches on products from MTN OPS and BLK FLG, emphasizing the significance of wellness in achieving his goals. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to join him in this challenge and improve their bow hunting skills together. Takeaways Shooting 10,000 arrows is a way to integrate archery into daily life. Habit formation is crucial for achieving long-term goals. Adjusting gear can significantly impact shooting performance. Physical training and recovery are essential for archers. Nutrition plays a vital role in overall wellness and performance. Using products that support health can enhance training outcomes. Community and support can motivate individuals to reach their goals. Setting a single goal can simplify the path to success. Understanding equipment is key to improving shooting accuracy. Engaging with fellow bow hunters can enhance the learning experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the 10,000 Arrows Challenge 04:49 The Importance of Habit Formation 10:05 Training and Gear Adjustments 21:34 Nutrition and Wellness Strategies 32:49 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

Summary In this episode, Adam Buchanan shares his recent hunting experiences, focusing on a deer drive he participated in. He discusses the importance of understanding deer movement, influenced by factors like temperature and moon phases. Adam recounts the excitement of driving deer towards a fellow hunter and reflects on the lessons learned from the experience, emphasizing the need for intuition and strategic positioning. He also expresses his enthusiasm for future hunts and encourages listeners to engage with their own hunting experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Hunt 05:58 The Deer Drive Experience 11:47 Lessons Learned from the Drive

Summary In this episode of First Generation Bow Hunter, Adam discusses the importance of not selling your bow after experiencing failure during hunting season. He shares personal experiences and insights on dealing with feelings of frustration, the significance of understanding your equipment, and the necessity of practicing and tuning your arrows. Adam emphasizes that bow hunting is a numbers game, requiring patience and persistence, and encourages listeners to keep trying and enjoy the journey of bow hunting. Takeaways Don't rush to sell your bow after a tough season. Feelings of failure are common among hunters. Understanding your equipment is crucial for success. Practice makes perfect; keep shooting your bow. Ranking your arrows can improve accuracy. Bow hunting requires patience and persistence. Recap your hunts with someone to gain insights. Don't give up too quickly; give it time. Invest in learning about your gear and tuning. Enjoy the experience of bow hunting, regardless of outcomes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Not Selling Your Bow 08:09 Equipment Familiarity: Knowing Your Gear 14:19 Ranking and Tuning Arrows for Better Accuracy 20:08 The Numbers Game: Time in the Field

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam recounts his exhilarating experience of hunting a buck in Utah during the 2024 archery season. He shares insights into the quick nature of the hunt, the mistakes he made, and the lessons learned throughout the process. Adam emphasizes the importance of preparation, mental calmness, and the joy of hunting with others. He also discusses the gear he used and reflects on his journey as a bow hunter, highlighting the significance of each hunting experience in his growth as an outdoorsman. Hunting experiences are cumulative, not singular. Preparation is key to a successful hunt. Mistakes can lead to valuable lessons. Mental calmness is crucial when taking a shot. Hunting with others enhances the experience. The right gear can make a significant difference. Tracking and recovery are essential after a shot. Each hunt contributes to personal growth as a hunter. Opportunistic hunting can lead to unexpected success. Reflecting on past hunts helps in future planning. Podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the 2024 Archery Buck Hunt 02:51 The Quick Hunt Experience 05:57 Mistakes Made During the Hunt 11:28 The Shot and Its Aftermath 17:33 Mental Preparation for Hunting 23:01 Equipment Insights and Preferences 28:37 The Gutless Method of Field Dressing 33:52 Reflections on the Hunting Journey 39:47 Future Hunting Plans and Closing Thoughts

Summary In this episode of the First Generation Bow Hunter podcast, host Adam shares his experiences from the recent elk hunting season, emphasizing the importance of learning from others, the challenges faced in the wilderness, and the joy of wildlife interactions. He reflects on the dynamics of hunting with a partner, the significance of scent and sound in elk hunting, and the lessons learned from both successful and challenging moments in the field. Adam also discusses the excitement of deer hunting and the beauty of nature, encouraging listeners to appreciate their experiences in the wild. Takeaways Elk hunting presents unique challenges compared to deer hunting. Hunting with others can significantly enhance learning and experiences. Altitude sickness can impact performance during high elevation hunts. Scent control is crucial when hunting elk, as they are sensitive to it. Interactions with other hunters can vary, highlighting the importance of communication. It's essential to stay self-aware and navigate carefully in the wilderness. Taking breaks from technology can enhance the hunting experience. The thrill of wildlife interactions is a key part of hunting. Preparation and adaptability are vital for successful hunts. Reflecting on experiences can lead to personal growth as a hunter. Hope you enjoy the stories and as always, if you've got questions about bowhunting, share them with me on Instagram at @adam_buchanan or you can also record your question through this link on Spotify and actually get the question featured on an upcoming episode! Check out blog posts and FGB gear over at Huntwurx.com. Make sure to sign up for the email list to get updates on new episodes and bowhunting content to make you a more successful bowhunter. Review First Generation Bowhunter on Apple Podcasts here Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elk Hunting Adventures 02:47 Lessons from the Elk Hunt 05:40 The Importance of Hunting with Others 09:02 Navigating the Challenges of Elk Hunting 11:52 Interactions with Other Hunters 14:47 The Thrill of Bugling Elk 17:44 Reflections on Hunting Etiquette 20:49 Self-Awareness in the Wilderness 23:40 Final Thoughts on the Elk Hunt 26:34 Deer Encounters and Nature's Beauty 29:58 Conclusion and Listener Engagement