The Hunt Backcountry Podcast · by Exo Mtn Gear

MM 285 | Making Memories, Gear Upgrades, & Losing Animals

October 6, 2025·57 min·5 clips

Why does time feel slower during a hunt? Mark reveals how new experiences change your perception.

This solo episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast's Monday Minute features host Mark answering listener questions while co-host Steve is on a moose hunt. Mark opens by reminding listeners about the XO Experience Photo Story Contest, which focuses on storytelling over trophy photos. He then delves into a listener's observation about how time feels slower during multi-day backpack hunts compared to daily life. Mark argues this altered perception stems from novel, demanding experiences that require heightened awareness and presence, whether hunting or in other challenging situations like a long mountain bike ride with a mechanical failure. He connects this to the creation of lasting memories, suggesting that actively seeking new experiences makes life feel fuller. Mark provides a detailed gear review, comparing Swarovski's ATS 65 spotting scope to the newer, more compact STC and ATC models. He states that for most hunters, the best scope is the one you'll actually carry, and he would trade his ATS for a compact model without hesitation. In response to a question about flying home with mule deer meat and antlers, Mark outlines methods including checking a properly cleaned and wrapped skull, using Alaska Air Cargo (if registered as a known shipper), or carrying on frozen meat in a compliant cooler. For a headlamp recommendation, he highlights the Fenix HM50R V2 for its balance of features, weight, and the utility of its swappable battery, which is also compatible with his air pad pump. He also mentions the new BioLite Range series headlamp with its fast-charge technology. Addressing a question about puffy jackets, Mark advises that one high-quality, versatile jacket is often better than multiple specialized ones. He explains how to compare jackets objectively by examining fill power, total fill weight (in ounces), and shell denier, using the Outdoor Vitals Alpine Down Jacket and KUIU Super Down series as examples. A surprising insight is that the perceived slowness of time during hunts is not unique to hunting but a psychological effect of any novel, demanding activity that forces full engagement. Mark also notes that for most hunters, a compact spotting scope is more practical than a larger, optically superior model because it will be carried more often. The episode's tone is informal, educational, and conversational, reflecting the solo "Monday Minute" format. Backcountry hunters and gear enthusiasts seeking practical advice on equipment and hunting philosophy will appreciate this episode. Listeners looking for a narrative hunting story or a debate-driven format might want to skip it.

As heard by us

A short Q&A with practical guidance on photo-story entries and flying frozen meat home.

The episode keeps its attention on listener questions, with Steve off on a moose hunt in Idaho with Justin and the solo setup making the pace looser and shorter.

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Why you'd press play

You need fast answers on hunt photos and flying frozen meat home.

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