The Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast
The Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast (formerly the Double Barrel Podcast) with host, Reid Bryant brings you hunting and shooting tips for more success and fun in the field.

Reid and his old friend Jeremy Hatch go deep in exploring the mysteries of buying (and selling) guns at auction. Jeremy comes at the topic after a career in wingshooting and firearms which has culminated in his current position as firearms consultant for Morphy Auction House. Morphy’s is one of the premier auction houses for exceptional and collectible sporting arms in the US, and Jeremy’s daily work includes assessing individual guns and collections, assisting would-be buyers, and supporting consignors. In this episode he deciphers the firearms auction process, and clarifies both the pitfalls and potential opportunities of buying guns at auction. See https://www.morphyauctions.com/

Direct download: Buying_and_Selling_at_Auction_with_Jeremy_Hatch.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:30pm EDT

In this episode, Reid spends some time housekeeping, and answering a smattering of listener questions that are long overdue. He also digs into some critical recommendations and reminders about gun safety in and out of the field. Finally, he provides some great resources for shooting enthusiasts, namely TGS. To cap it all off, Reid announces the launch of his updated website at www.reidbryant.com"

Direct download: Odds_and_Ends_as_Winter_Arrives.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:58pm EDT

Reid joins Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello for another deep dive into guns. In this episode Reid and Greg discuss the realities of gun resale, aftermarket upgrades/customization, and the managing of expectations around pricing a gun for sale.

Direct download: The_Value_Proposition.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:04am EDT

In early November Reid reflects on what his fall has looked like and what remains. He shares a reflection about food, hunting, land, and childhood. With hunting seasons in full swing, it is a time to appreciate the gifts that hunting gives us!

Direct download: On_a_November_Morning.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:20pm EDT

Reid joins Tyla Kuhn of Sunsage Sporting Dogs to discuss the health and genetic testing criteria and standards that should accompany a new puppy. Tyla, a longtime breeder of both English Cocker Spaniels and German Shorthair Pointers explores how puppy buyers can best educate themselves, and so doing maintain the integrity and health of the breed. Some great resources and comments included in this discussion.

 

Direct download: The_Finer_Points_of_Picking_a_Pup_with_Tyla_Kuhn.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:04pm EDT

In this episode, Reid welcomes Lee Kjos, noted outdoor photographer, brand guru, and creative force behind BOSS Shotshells https://bossshotshells.com/ . Kjos discusses his origin story, his views on woodsmanship, and the necessity of acknowledging that in being a hunter it is vital to be intentional, restrained, and knowledgeable about the limits of both equipment and personal ability. Kjos further shares his views on the hunting landscape and its participants through the lens of an artist, and one who has spent a career composing and capturing moments.

Direct download: Old_School_Ethics_and_Innovation_with_Lee_Thomas_Kjos.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:37pm EDT

In this installment of the Podcast, Reid again collaborates with Purina Pro Plan to explore the topic of supplementation and nutritional support for both physical and psychological wellbeing in dogs. Reid is joined by two esteemed experts, Dr. Kurt Venator DVM, PhD Chief Veterinary Officer at Purina and Dr. Joe Wakshlag DVM, PhD, renowned veterinary nutritionist, founding member of the American College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, and Chief Medical Officer for Ellevet, the leading CBD company in the pet space. The trio go deep on the ways in which particular supplements can impact performance, cognition, and joint health in dogs, and address a specific question about supplementing to alleviate stress in traveling gundogs


In reflecting on the passing of Leigh H. Perkins, Sr., Reid shares a story he wrote about the legacy of the Perkins family, and the history of Orvis under their ownership. This story, first published in Covey Rise Magazine, Dec/Jan 2017 was the result of several interviews and conversations with three generations of Perkins family members. It describes their genuine love of adventure, dogs, outdoor pursuits, and family, and discusses the legacy of which LHP was justifiably proud.

Direct download: In_Memoriam__Leigh_H._Perkins_Sr.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:43pm EDT

In a podcast that is LONG overdue, Reid chats with his close friend and collaborator Brian Grossenbacher. Brian, who is widely regarded as among the finest photographers in the outdoor space, has shot extensively for brands such as Orvis, Simms, Case Knives, Gordy & Sons, and is a regular contributor to Field & Stream, Covey Rise, Gray’s Sporting Journal, and Shooting Sportsman Magazine. Brian discusses his travels, the unique demands of photography in the field, and his non-typical journey into the world of photography. He is also good for a few funny stories about Reid which are worth a listen. More about Grossenbacher and his work at www.grossenbacherphoto.com and in the pages of The Orvis Guide to Upland HuntingTraining Bird Dogs with Ronnie Smith Kennels, and in the upcoming Trout with Tom Rosenbauer.

Direct download: An_Eye_for_Detail_with_photographer_Brian_Grossenbacher.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:08am EDT

In this episode, Reid chats with Ronnie Boehme (The Hunting Dog Podcast) and Justin McGrail (Black Creek Dog Training) about the launch of their shared venture, The Upland Institute, which uses a series of short videos to provide a linear, comprehensive dog training program. Coupling Ronnie’s experience around dogs and video and Justin’s unique skill as a communicator and teacher, the program focuses on incremental tools that can make training a gun dog successful, enjoyable, and logical. With signature humor, Ronnie and Justin describe their approach to the project and to dog training, and they discuss the problems that their program set out to solve. Learn more at https://www.uplandinstitute.com/
 
Direct download: The_Upland_Institute_with_Ronnie_Boehme_and_Justin_McGrail_.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:20am EDT

On this episode of the Podcast, Reid chats with Charlie Jordan of the website and social media platform Missing Sucks. Charlie grew up hunting internationally, and has retained a passion for incorporating bird hunting and shooting into his travels to this day. He is a gourmand, oenophile, and one who appreciates old-world style gundogs. He and Reid discuss the ways in which our hunting and interest in game cooking can make the travel experience more immersive.

Direct download: Food_Travel_and_Why_Missing_Sucks_with_Charlie_Jordan__.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:58pm EDT

In this installment of the podcast, Reid and Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello seek answers to a listener question, namely about available options for new/contemporary entry-level side-by-sides. Greg and Reid dive into specific option from Orvis and elsewhere, discussing guns of current manufacture as well as guns that have come and gone over the past half century. A great resource for the shooter in the market for a first side-by-side gun.

Direct download: New_and_Contemporary_Side-by-Sides_with_Greg_Carpiniello.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:45pm EDT

In this podcast, Reid and Del Whitman of D.C. Whitman Custom Gunsmithing go deep on the firing pins, discussing function, failures, and the related fixes. This podcast fleshes out a collaborative article the duo wrote for an upcoming issue of Shooting Sportsman Magazine, and Del lends his technical know-how to explain the inner workings of firing pins. For those double-gun enthusiasts interested in gaining a better understanding of how these beautiful machines work, this podcast walks through the sequence of hammer fall, impact, and detonation, making matters a bit more clear.

Direct download: Firing_Pins_Explained_with_Del_Whitman.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:44pm EDT

In this episode, Reid again sits down with Durrell Smith of The Gundog Notebook to discuss the complex role that race has played, and continues to play, in the bird hunting culture of the American Southeast. Recognizing the sensitivity of the subject and a history that has indeed included racial stratification, Reid and Durrell lean into some tough questions. The duo take an honest look at the roles relegated to African American men in southern quail hunting, the value of that heritage, and how to learn from and celebrate beautiful aspects of a nuanced culture while acknowledging elements that are ripe for change. They also discuss the common ground that a love of hunting and dogs can cultivate.

Direct download: A_Complex_Racial_History_with_Durrell_Smith.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:06pm EDT

In the second collaborative effort between Orvis and Purina Pro Plan, Reid chats with Veterinarian RuthAnn Lobos about the myths and misconceptions that surround the pet food industry. RuthAnn is a dog owner, upland hunter, and Lead Veterinarian for Merrick Pet Care. Prior to her role at Merrick she spent 15 years with Purina Pro Plan, working closely with veterinary and scientific thought leaders to promote research into canine and feline nutritional science. Dr. Lobos calls addresses a list of common ideas about pet food, some true and some misguided. She also provides the following resources for additional reading:

o            https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Selecting-a-pet-food-for-your-pet-updated-2021_WSAVA-Global-Nutrition-Toolkit.pdf

o            https://acvn.org/

o            https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/petfoodology/

o            https://www.petdiets.com/

o            https://secure.balanceit.com/index.php

o            https://www.merrickpetcare.com/blog/getting-to-know-dr-ruthann-lobos/


Reid and Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello engage in a “State of the Union” conversation, reviewing the trends in the firearms and shooting industries over the past year. Central to the conversation is a look at increased demand and decreased supply that arose as a result of the pandemic, followed by some assessment of what the future holds. Reid and Greg also dig into their thoughts on what the future might hold with regard to firearm and ammunition availability.

Direct download: Supply_and_Demand_with_Greg_Carpiniello.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:32am EDT

This episode of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast is the first in an ongoing series of shows delivered in collaboration with Purina Pro Plan. Pro Plan is an institution in the sporting dog world, and Purina’s network of veterinarians, researchers, behaviorists, trainers, and handlers is without parallel in that space. In this series Reid will welcome a range of these professionals to discuss topics such as nutrition for sporting dogs, myths and misconceptions regarding dog food, emergency veterinary medicine for field application, sports injuries, and more. In this inaugural episode, Reid is joined by Keith Schopp, retired VP of Corporate Public Relations for Purina, and Karl Gunzer, former pro trainer and Purina’s Director of the Sporting Dog Group. The trio pulls back the curtain a bit, discussing the Purina origin story, how Pro Plan evolved to focus on sporting dogs specifically, and the standards to which the brand holds itself accountable. The first in the series, this conversation should provide a backdrop for what is to come. Learn more at www.purina.com

Direct download: The_Purina_Pro_Plan_Series_Episode_1-_A_History.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:28pm EDT

Reid explores a question posed by listener Steve Harris about non-toxic alternatives for vintage guns. Reid is joined by Phil Bourjailly, who sheds some light on the evolution of non-toxic ammunition options for upland and waterfowl, and why certain shot types are ill-advised for use in older guns. Phil is a font of knowledge, and he draws from personal experience with a broad spectrum of ammunition and shot types to arrive at some clear solutions for shooters like Steve who wish to safely shoot their classic guns.

Direct download: Non-Toxic_Shot_with_Phil_Bourjailly.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:51pm EDT

Reid sits down with Karen Syron and Nance Ceccarelli to discuss the unique opportunities and challenges encountered by women in the hunting space. Karen serves as Marketing Manager and Nance serves as a wingshooting guide at Idaho’s Flying B Ranch. Both Nance and Karen describe their pathway into hunting and the role it plays in their lives. They also discuss the way in which great mentorship can help bring more women into the shooting sports, and the wonderful community that can be cultivated by women in the field. Enjoy!


In this episode of the Podcast, Reid is joined by his friend Mike Neiduski, Director of Regional Development – Southeast for the Ruffed Grouse Society / American Woodcock Society. Mike and Reid share much in common: New England childhoods, previous work in education, and a love of grouse and woodcock. They discuss the aims of RGS under recent leadership changes, the necessity of a dynamic forest ecosystem, and the way in which diversity, both from a human and an ecologic standpoint, is vital to our collective future in the uplands. Enjoy!

 


In this episode of the podcast, Reid is joined by Ryan O’Shaughnessy of West Texas Quail Outfitters. A regular on the podcast, Ryan brings a strong science background to his guiding and hunting. Ryan and Reid explore some sensitive questions, most notably how hunting pressure can impact limited populations of Mearns quail during challenging weather events, the pros and cons of hunting pressure on public lands, and how social media can impact the decisions we make in the field. It’s a conversation that is sure to elicit some opinions. Enjoy!

Direct download: Protecting_What_You_Love_Fixed.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:37pm EDT

With an eye on Turkey season, Reid joins Phil Bourjailly, Shooting Editor for Field & Stream Magazine and Ducks Unlimited. Phil, an Iowa native, shares his thoughts on hunting spring gobblers. He discusses preferred guns and chokes, sight options, decoys, and calls. He even delves into the ammunition options currently on the market, and the advances in shot composition that have drastically enhanced the efficacy of modern turkey loads. Enjoy!

Direct download: Spring_in_Sight.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:21pm EDT

In this final installment of the Hunt, Hike, Hook series, Reid is joined again by Michael Vargas and Chuck Coolidge. With the Arizona quail season officially wrapped, the trio discusses Mike and Chuck’s last few forays down to southern Arizona to chase the trifecta of Mearns, Scaled, and Gambel’s quail. Discussion wanders from the differing characteristics between the species, their descriptive habits and habitats, and the reason that Mearns have become the “it” upland bird species of the day. Enjoy!

Direct download: Round_Four_with_Hunt_Hike_Hook.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:07pm EDT

In this episode, Reid delves into his personal history buying and selling guns, and the reasons why some guns stick with us, and others don't. He shares an old article on the subject that describes the process of acquisition, and then the process of letting go. He further discusses how tastes in guns can change over time as our shooting ability, and identity, evolves. Enjoy!

Direct download: On_the_Sale_of_a_Hard-Earned_Gun.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:08pm EDT

Reid is joined by friend and fellow bird hunter Pat Berry to discuss late season grouse habitat. Pat is the former Commissioner of Fish & Wildlife for the state of Vermont. He is an avid grouse and woodcock hunter, and an active trainer and handler of flushing spaniels. Pat is also incredibly well-versed in the seasonal changes that face New England grouse, and therefore face New England Grouse Hunters. He and Reid discuss the best tactics for finding grouse throughout the season as the available food and cover types change.

Direct download: _Tips_and_Tricks_for_Late_Season_Grouse_with_Pat_Berry.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:21am EDT

Reid and podcast regular, Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello, sit down to address a couple of questions posed by listeners. Specifically, the duo address, or perhaps defend, the cost of a decent double gun. With the hope of shedding some light on why and how to get what you pay for, Greg and Reid explore new vs. used, country of origin, and why at times a lower purchase price can result in a headache rather than a bargain. Enjoy!

Direct download: You_Get_What_You_Pay_For.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:01pm EDT

Reid sits down with Del Whitman of DC Whitman Custom Gunsmithing. Among the finest gunsmiths at the bench today, Del has a particular interest in fine double guns, and the craft and artistry that defines them. Del and Reid discuss guns, mentorship, craft, and the responsibility of understanding what makes a gun exceptional.

Direct download: An_Uncommon_Talent.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:25pm EDT

In this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast, Reid spans two continents to talk guns with Tobi Nisse of Germany and Dr. George Inge of Mobile, AL. Tobi and George are the principals behind T&G Imports and Save the Fine Guns https://www.save-the-fine-guns.com/ which represents an effort to import guns from Germany that would otherwise be destroyed. Tobi and George, both of whom are passionate about the artistry and engineering represented by older continental guns (largely drillings), noticed some time ago that changing tastes in hunting guns as well as stringent legislation around gun ownership in Europe was bringing an excess of fine old guns to the market. These guns, were they not licensed to an individual or dealer, were destined for the scrap pile. The duo discusses the unique business model that has enabled them to save these guns and transfer them into the hands of hunters and shooters in North America. Enjoy!

 

Direct download: Save_the_Fine_Guns.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:20am EDT

Reid once again sits down for a conversation with Chuck Coolidge and Michael Vargas of Hunt, Hike, Hook. The fellows have been getting after it: Michael has been chasing pheasants and bobwhites in his native Kansas, and Chuck has been in south Georgia for bobs and Louisiana for ducks. Beyond simply sharing their tales of adventure, the group talks about the diverse habitats in which bobwhite quail thrive, and the differences between bobs and the desert-dwelling cousins. Enjoy!

Direct download: Round_Three_with_Hunt_Hike_Hook.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:55pm EDT