The Mindful Hunter Podcast

Latest Episodes:

EP 294 - MSR Pocket Rocket vs MSR WindBurner | Ultralight vs Efficiency – Which Stove Wins? Mar 02, 2026

Show notes

Is an ultralight backpacking stove really lighter when you factor in the extra fuel it burns? In this video, I put the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 head-to-head against the MSR WindBurner to find out. I ran extensive lab tests, measured fuel efficiency, compared total system weights, and looked at real-world packability to help you decide which stove is best for your backcountry hunts and backpacking trips.

Whether you’re a hunter shaving ounces for a goat hunt, or a backpacker planning a 10-day alpine trip, this review gives you the data and context you need to make the right call.

If you enjoy in-depth, no-nonsense gear breakdowns, subscribe for more content like this.
Chapters / Timestamps

0:00 – Is ultralight really lighter?
0:18 – The contenders: Pocket Rocket 2 vs WindBurner
0:37 – My experience with both systems
1:12 – Stove & pot weight breakdown
2:05 – Why I chose the Oli Camp XT pot
2:32 – Total system weight comparison
2:43 – Testing setup & protocols
3:29 – Fuel burn results (Pocket Rocket vs WindBurner)
4:22 – Realities of flame control in the field
5:23 – What the data means for hunters
5:42 – Packability & wind performance
6:56 – System weight vs fuel weight trade-off
8:19 – My go-to stove for most hunts
9:23 – When the Pocket Rocket makes sense
10:14 – Why the WindBurner stands out in the field
11:20 – Final thoughts & viewer Q&A
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry
https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/
Merch
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop
Newsletter
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact
IG
https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/
Podcast
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast
Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

EP 293 – The Importance of Storytelling in Modern Hunting with Robby Denning Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Robby Denning for a raw and honest conversation about storytelling, hunting, and what really matters.

We dive deep into how hunting stories shaped us growing up — from books and campfire tales to modern films and YouTube. Are we telling better stories today? Or have we lost something in the shift toward short-form content and constant cameras?

We talk about:

Why written stories hit differently than video
The evolution of hunting content over the last 15 years
Ego, burnout, and the pressure to always create
Finding balance between documenting the hunt and being present
Mentorship, community, and the mistake of going it alone
Recovery, masculinity, and how the outdoors can reshape a man

This isn’t a gear episode. It’s a conversation about identity, legacy, and why storytelling might be the most important thing hunters can do right now — especially as ballot initiatives and public perception continue to shape the future of our lifestyle.

Robbie Denning

https://www.instagram.com/robbydenning/

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

EP 292 - Best Budget Hunting Gear? King’s Camo Elevation Hoodie & Ridge Pant Review Feb 23, 2026

Show notes

Is King’s Camo the best bang for your buck in hunting apparel right now? In this video, I put the Elevation Quarter Zip Hoodie and Ridge Pants through real backcountry testing—scouting trips, goat hunts, and long training hikes.
I break down the fit, function, and feel of each piece, compare them directly to Sitka and Stone Glacier, and share whether these budget-friendly options can truly hang with the premium brands.

🔍 What you’ll learn in this review:
• Price breakdown & comparisons (up to 50% cheaper than Sitka/Stone Glacier)
• Features & materials explained (breathability, stretch, odor control, durability)
• Real-world performance on tough hunts
• Final verdict: Are they worth your money?

If you’re a value-minded hunter, new to backcountry hunting, or just tired of paying top-dollar for gear, this review will help you decide if King’s Camo deserves a place in your kit.

👉 Drop your questions or budget gear recommendations in the comments below—I’m working on a budget backcountry gear list and your input will help shape it.

Please like, comment, share, and subscribe if you find this review helpful. It really helps push this content further in the algorithm. Thanks for watching and stay tuned for more gear deep dives.

Chapters:
00:00 – Is King’s Camo the best bang for your buck?
00:12 – Introducing the Elevation Hoodie & Ridge Pants
00:33 – Best season and layering use cases
01:00 – Field testing & hunts
01:21 – How I evaluate gear (Fit, Function, Feel)
02:05 – Review framework (Price, Features, Fit/Feel/Function)
02:17 – Hoodie price & comparisons (Sitka, Stone Glacier)
03:00 – Pants price & comparisons
03:34 – Hoodie features breakdown
04:41 – Ridge Pants features breakdown
07:00 – Fit & sizing overview
08:10 – Hoodie fit & hood performance
10:19 – Ridge Pants fit & mobility
12:12 – Hoodie field performance (drying, odor, durability)
15:02 – Pants field performance (fit, durability, crampon test)
18:17 – Final thoughts & value verdict
19:41 – Kings Camo stamp of approval
20:00 – Future reviews, budget gear list, and sign-off
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

EP 291 – Haters, Hangar Houses & 70-Inch Bulls | Adam Grenda Unfiltered Feb 19, 2026

Show notes

Adam Grenda is known for killing giant moose and flying Super Cubs into wild places — but that’s only half the story.

In this episode, we go deep.

We talk about:

Calling in a 71” bull moose to 12 yards with a bow
The intensity of Alaskan moose hunting (and why it hits different)
The reality of internet hate and how to not let it own your headspace
Building a dream hangar house in remote Alaska from the ground up
Why fear is the wall between you and freedom

This isn’t just a hunting conversation.

It’s about risk. Ownership. Growth. And building a life most people are too scared to chase.

Adam lives an incredible life — but not an easy one. And that’s the point.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure of comparison, dealt with criticism, or wondered what it really takes to build something meaningful… this one’s for you.

Adam Grenda

https://www.instagram.com/grenda89/

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

EP 290 - MTN Gear Mountain Stick 4.1 Review | The Reason I No Longer Use Trekking Poles Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

I've got three spots left open for spring black bear hunts in BC and two spots left for archery mule deer in Alberta. For any outfitting info, email me jay@mindfulhunter.com

I avoided the Mountain Stick 4.1 from MTN Gear for years because I assumed it was just a trekking pole with an ice axe head. I was wrong. After putting it through the ultimate test on a mountain goat hunt in brutal terrain, I can confidently say this tool is in a league of its own.
In this review, I cover:

• Why my first impressions were dead wrong
• How the Mountain Stick performs in real-world backcountry hunting conditions
• Features like the carbide tip, pommel grip, climbing hooks, digging ability, rifle mount, and saw attachment
• Pros, cons, and whether it’s worth the $300 price tag

If you’re a mountain hunter, backcountry hiker, or gear junkie wondering if the Mountain Stick 4.1 is hype or a legit game changer, this deep dive is for you.

👉 What do you use instead of trekking poles in the mountains? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

🔔 Subscribe for more no-BS gear reviews, optics tests, and backcountry hunting insights.
⸻
📍 Chapters
00:00 – Why I avoided the Mountain Stick 4.1
00:31 – First assumptions vs. reality
01:08 – Build quality & durability (vs. trekking poles)
01:55 – Stability in steep terrain
02:57 – Pommel grip advantage
04:03 – Carbide tip & footing on tough slopes
05:16 – Climbing with hooks & ice axe function
06:14 – Digging, water, and camp uses
08:08 – Rifle mount & shooting stability
09:28 – Saw attachment & versatility
10:42 – Materials, specs & weight
12:39 – Downsides: grip, price, and weight
14:24 – Why it’s more than a trekking pole
14:51 – The “battle axe” factor
15:20 – Final thoughts & viewer questions
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

EP 289 - GoHunt Apparel Review Update | After a Season Guiding Black Bear Hunts in BC Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

Four months ago, I gave my first impressions of the new GoHunt apparel lineup. Now, after a full season of guiding black bear hunts in British Columbia, attending a shooting course, and weeks of scouting, I’ve put these pieces through serious abuse.
In this video, I give you my honest, unsponsored, and unfiltered feedback on four key pieces:
• Atmosphere Jacket
• Blackrock Hoodie
• Basin Hoodie
• Approach Hoodie
No marketing hype — just real-world results from months in the field. Some pieces impressed me, others fell flat. If you’re considering GoHunt gear, this review will help you make a smarter decision before dropping your cash.
👉 Do you agree with my take, or has your experience been different? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Intro & Why This Review Matters
01:01 – Atmosphere Jacket (Sitka Ambient Comparison)
03:23 – Blackrock Hoodie (Best Grid Fleece?)
04:58 – Basin Hoodie (Merino Durability Issues)
06:33 – Approach Hoodie (Favorite Piece)
08:45 – Overall Thoughts on GoHunt Apparel
10:52 – What’s Next from GoHunt (Approach Light, Pants)
11:28 – Community, Giveaways & Closing
If you appreciate unbiased, no-BS gear reviews, support the channel at MindfulReviews.com and join a growing community of backcountry hunter👍 Like • 💬 Comment • 🔔 Subscribe

Card:
0:28 – First review

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

EP 288 - Ollin vs. Kapture Digiscoping Adapter Review – Which One Actually Works Best in the Field? Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

Looking for the best digiscoping adapter for your spotting scope? In this video, I put the Kapture Digiscoping Adapter head-to-head against the industry leader, the Ollin adapter. After six weeks of guiding bear hunts in British Columbia, I tested both products in real hunting conditions to see which one holds up when it matters most.
We compare:
• Price
• Build quality & installation
• MagSafe accessory compatibility
• 5x iPhone lens support
• Field usability & reliability
If you’re serious about filming your hunts, digiscoping wildlife, or capturing backcountry footage with your iPhone, this review will save you money, frustration, and missed shots.
👉 Which adapter do you trust — Ollin or Kapture? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more unbiased hunting gear reviews.

00:00 – Intro & Previous Digiscoping Review
00:20 – New Player on the Market: Kapture
01:10 – 6 Weeks of Field Testing in BC
02:05 – How Ollin Works
02:44 – How Kapture Works
03:50 – Price Comparison ($175 vs. $310)
05:00 – Adapter Compatibility & Installation
05:35 – Leaving Adapters On While Glassing
06:20 – Phone Install & MagSafe Compatibility
07:21 – Portrait vs. Landscape Mode
07:45 – The 5x iPhone Lens Advantage
09:50 – User Experience Scores
10:45 – Final Category Rankings (Dead Tie)
11:10 – What Really Matters: Field Experience
13:20 – Why Convenience Beats Features
16:40 – Design Flaws with Kapture’s Adapter
20:00 – Build Quality & Stability Issues
21:00 – Everyday Use with Bino Harness & Pockets
22:10 – Why Ollin Wins for Reliability
23:05 – Wrap Up & Final Verdict
23:50 – Support Mindful Hunter Reviews

Cards:
0:07 – Digiscoiping review
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

EP 287 - 2025 Durston X-Mid Tent Review – Brutally Honest Field Test in Harsh Conditions Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

In this in-depth review of the 2025 Durston X-Mid 2 Solid, I take this ultralight trekking pole shelter into true mountain hunting terrain to find out whether it can handle real-world backcountry abuse. Wind, rain, poor ground conditions—you name it. No sponsor bias, no marketing fluff—just hard-earned experience and honest feedback.

We cover everything from specs, setup, and weather resistance to real-time in-field performance and packability. I also break down whether this tent belongs in your hunting toolkit—or if it’s better left for more casual trips.

🔔 If you’re tired of gear reviews that feel like commercials, hit subscribe. This is the Mindful Hunter way: practical, honest, no-BS reviews to help you make smarter gear choices.

📌 Join the Community: https://www.mindfulreviews.com

⸻

🕒 Timestamps / Chapters

00:00 – Intro from the Field (Hawaii Update)
00:38 – Initial Setup and Wind Prep Strategy
01:50 – Tent Design and Geometric Benefits
02:50 – Gear Testing and Scouting Trip Overview
03:45 – Guided Hunt Openings + Booking Info
04:14 – Tent Review Criteria Explained (11 Metrics)
05:22 – Weight, Price & Materials Deep Dive
06:05 – Weather Resistance and Rain Performance
06:54 – Condensation, Build Quality & Packability
07:58 – Setup Techniques and Pro Tips
09:18 – Small Footprint Trade-offs
10:10 – Real-World Interior Space Test
11:49 – Vestibules: One of the Tent’s Biggest Wins
13:20 – In-Field Footage
16:54 – Final Verdict & Use Case Recommendations
18:54 – Support Independent Reviews

Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

EP 286 - Thermarest NeoAir Xlite NXT vs. Big Agnes Zoom UL – Best Ultralight Sleeping Pad For Big Guys Jan 08, 2026

Show notes

Are you a bigger guy looking for the best ultralight sleeping pad that won’t bottom out on rocky ground or cold nights? In this in-depth comparison, I put the Thermarest NeoAir Xlite NXT and the Big Agnes Zoom UL head-to-head to find out which one truly delivers for tall and heavy hunters and backpackers.

This review goes beyond marketing fluff. I field-tested both pads in real backcountry conditions, evaluated their warmth, comfort, durability, and packability, and broke down the specs in a way that actually matters when you’re over 6 feet tall and 200+ pounds.

If you’re tired of vague reviews and want real answers from a mindful, no-BS perspective—this one’s for you.

0:00 – Intro

2:28 – Testing Protocol

3:17 – Spec Comparison Table

8:03 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting

8:51 – In-field Testing Footage

13:15 – Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Jay Nichol

jay@mindfulhunter.com

https://www.mindful-reviews.com/

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Forged In The Backcountry

https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/

Merch

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop

Newsletter

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact

https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/

Podcast

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast

Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide

https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

EP 285 - The Truth About the New Sig Sauer Oscar 6 HDX Pro | Image Stabilizing Spotting Scope Review Jan 05, 2026

Show notes

Is the Sig Sauer Oscar 6 HDX Pro worth the hype? In this no-nonsense review, I take a deep dive into Sig’s latest image-stabilized spotting scope and stack it up against the competition in real-world hunting and glassing conditions.

📌 Chapters:
0:00 – Intro
3:09 – Limitations of digiscope footage for competitive reviews
4:45 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting updates
5:38 – 3-way Digiscope Analysis
12:29 – 3-way Category Scoring
15:50 – Conclusion & Recommendations

🧠 What You’ll Learn:
• Real-world pros and cons of the Oscar 6 HDX Pro
• Where it excels—and where it falls short
• How it compares to other high-end stabilized spotters
• Who should (and shouldn’t) invest in this optic

🎯 Whether you’re a backcountry hunter, long-range shooter, or glassing geek, this breakdown delivers the insights you need—no marketing fluff, just honest field-tested results.

📈 Support the Channel:
Subscribe for weekly gear reviews and hunting content rooted in real-world experience and mindful critique.
Jay Nichol
jay@mindfulhunter.com
https://www.mindful-reviews.com/
https://www.mindfulhunter.com/

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

The Mindful Hunter Podcast

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected