Podcasts about ranged

In this full-send episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, Matty returns from one of the most action-packed fallow rut seasons yet—and he's brought a truckload of stories with him. From adrenaline-pumping close calls and wild stalks to busted bows and unexpected dog encounters, this one captures all the highs, lows, and bush-beaten realities of bowhunting in peak 2025 rut. You'll hear from a solid crew of legends as they break down their hunts, share hard-earned lessons, and relive the moments that made this rut unforgettable. We dive into: - Bedded buck stalks, spike chaos, and a textbook 30-yard shot while shaking like a leaf - Sprinting into a gully to arrow a big wild dog mid-howl—plus what happened when the pigs showed up - Blown stalks, lucky arteries, and what happens when your bow gets knocked mid-hunt - Arrow deflections, gear tune-ups, and the moment you realize a missed shot was never the deer's fault - Campfire banter, rums with jet fuel, and how the right crew makes every rut one for the books - Fallow behavior insights, calling tactics, and what really happens when you hunt bucks on scrapes Whether you're reliving your own season or gearing up for the next one, this episode is a wild ride through the heart of the fallow rut—chock full of learnings, legends, and the kind of bush time we all dream about. Find The Guests:  Matty Moore - @mooreofmatt Grant Rand - @grant_randy_rand Cam Rand - @cameron_cambo_rand Corey Seymonsbergen - @corey_seymo Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee – Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off.Kayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads – Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off.Venture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting – Gear up for your next hunt.Jab Stick Outdoors: @jabstickoutdoors – Precision-engineered carbon shafts. Use code BAB10 for $10 off.

Dear listeners We are in sura 37 Alsafast/ Arranged in Rows الصافات Reflection :True success comes through sincere devotion, perseverance against opposition, and complete trust in God's plan — even when the path seems painful or unclear.The Lord of Glory and Honor guide us

Long-time listener Uygar sent this in. "why did ancient armies, especially Greek phalanx-heavy ones, have relatively few ranged units like archers and slingers compared to line infantry? How did an ancient army determine the right number of ranged units for their army? And did the ranged units fight in a scattered manner in between the formations of the heavier line infantry rather than in rigid formations?'   Join us on Patron patreon.com/ancientwarfarepodcast  

In this milestone episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, we're flipping the script. Instead of the usual one-on-one chat, this episode features a powerful collection of real rut stories straight from the bowhunting community. Host @MattyAfter put the call out for listeners to share their most memorable moments from the 2025 rut—and after some cat-herding and chasing down voice memos, eight legends stepped up to the plate. From misty mornings and busted gear to blood-trailing heartbreaks and first-stag triumphs, this episode is packed with raw, real, and sometimes hilarious tales from the bush. You'll hear: Matty's soggy and fogged-up gear lessons from the Brisbane ValleyHard-earned wins from hunters battling tough weather and tougher stagsCreative meat-saving tricks for rut-tainted venisonThe highs, lows, and chaos of calling in reds and fellow in the thick stuffGear tips, meat care hacks, and calls that actually worked Whether you're reminiscing on your own rut or looking for inspiration to keep grinding, this episode is a celebration of persistence, community, and the wild ride that is bowhunting in the rut.

In this episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, Matty sits down with Bailey Simmons (@_bailey_simmons_), a New England-based bowhunter who's been slinging arrows since he was nine. From stalking big reds to chasing Billy goats through the hills, Bailey shares a real-deal look into the highs and lows of his 2024 rut season. We dive into how a tight-knit crew of bowhunters from Armidale pushes each other forward, the lessons learned from missed shots and meat pack-outs, and Bailey's deep knowledge of his local terrain, goat behavior, and scrape strategies. With multiple bucks already down and more to come, this one's full of stories, laughs, and gold for any bowhunter gearing up for the next hunt. Podcast Topics: Red Deer & Fallow Rut Tactics: Bailey explains the 3 successful hunts from this years rut, showcasing how he's successfully taken 2x Fallow Bucks and 1 x Red Stag Assessing all possibilities: A raw look into how deer have a mind of their own (especially in the rut) and how you truly need to be prepared for every possible outcome.Stalking Billys Year-Round: Insights into goat behavior, bachelor group patterns, and hunting pressure.Gear Talk: Compound vs. recurve, Clicker systems, hinge vs. thumb releases, set up for a multi-day backpack hunt, and more.Access & Landowner Trust: Bailey's experience securing new properties through relationships.Douglass Point Scoring System: Bailey wen't and did his scoring course with the trophy takers crew earlier this yearMeat, Mounts & More: Packing out heavy reds, cooking goat curry, and his passion for Euro mounts. And heaps more. Find Bailey Simmons: Instagram: @_bailey_simmons_ Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee - Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Dog and Gun CoffeeKayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads - Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Kayuga BroadheadsVenture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting - Gear up for your next hunt. Venture Hunting Jab Stick Outdoors: jabstickoutdoors - Precision engineered carbon shafts. Jab Stick Outddos

In this episode of Become a Bowhunter, we sit down with George Ryals, a renowned archery coach and the founder of ImproveMyArchery.com. George shares his wealth of knowledge on how to build a solid foundation in archery and bowhunting, emphasizing the importance of precision, practice, and maintaining proper form. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned bowhunter, George provides valuable insights into improving your shooting accuracy and mental focus for consistent success. Topics Covered: The Foundation of Archery: George's approach to teaching archery from the ground up, focusing on developing a consistent and repeatable shot process.Common Mistakes in Bowhunting: Key issues bowhunters face with form and technique, and how to correct them to ensure better accuracy in the field.Training for Consistency: How practicing target archery can improve your ability to handle the adrenaline of a real hunt and maintain focus under pressure.The Psychology of Shooting: George's advice on managing anxiety and muscle tension during the shot process and how to overcome target panic.The Importance of Equipment Fit: How ensuring your bow fits you properly is crucial for avoiding injury and improving shooting accuracy. Archery Coaching Secrets: George's tried-and-tested methods for improving form and precision, including his "Big Four" process that has helped athletes elevate their performance. Plus much, much more. Find George Ryals:  Instagram: @georgeryalsiv Website: ImproveMyArchery.com Find Becoming a Bowhunter:  Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee - Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Kayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads - Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Venture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting - Gear up for your next hunt. Jab Stick Outdoors: @jabstickoutdoors - Precision engineered carbon shafts.

In this episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, we welcome back Harry Watson (@ihuntnfish) to unpack his detailed strategies for hunting red deer during the rut. Known for his incredible ability to get close to animals, Harry shares decades of knowledge and practical insights to help you make the most of this exciting hunting season. We dive deep into: Red Deer Behaviour & Rut Timing: Understanding the full cycle of red deer from antler growth, velvet shedding, to rutting behavior.Early Season Tactics: Harry's approach to hunting in mid-to-late March, including finding and stalking stags before they become vocal.Close Encounters: Closing the gap not only increases your chances of a successful hunt but also enhances your overall bowhunting experience.Advanced Calling Techniques: The importance of starting with hind calls, when to switch to roars, and specific calling scenarios to attract wary stags.Setting Up for Success: Proven tactics for positioning yourself to maximize shot opportunities, including Harry's unique approach to using landscape and vegetation.Gear Essentials & Field Processing: Efficient methods for handling your deer after the harvest, including Harry's preference for boning out in the field.Hunting Stories & Lessons Learned: Insightful anecdotes, successes, and lessons from Harry's personal hunts, including close calls and memorable stalks. Whether you're preparing for your first red deer rut or seeking advanced techniques to refine your hunting style, this episode is loaded with practical tips and detailed strategies to help you become more successful this season. Find Harry Watson: Instagram: @ihuntnfish Website: https://www.jackall.com.au/ Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee - Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Dog and Gun CoffeeKayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads - Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Kayuga BroadheadsVenture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting - Gear up for your next hunt. Venture Hunting Jab Stick Outdoors: jabstickoutdoors - Precision engineered carbon shafts. Jab Stick Outddos

Sometimes, you've just gotta shoot them. The gang sit down with Nassim Fouchane of Warmasters/ Team England to chat about mastering a ranged army in 40k! Come join the party in the chat :D Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/JcFMpcYvkV Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYwPTgmHC5VWu4Xn-qMg31g/join All our Links in one handy place: https://linktr.ee/6plusplusgaming

In this episode of Become a Bowhunter, we sit down with Kristian Gerathy—an adventurer, gold prospector, and passionate bowhunter—to discuss his journey from searching for gold in Australian rivers to chasing deer in the bush. Kristian shares his evolution from a casual shooter to a dedicated bowhunter, offering valuable insights into persistence, access challenges, and the mental game needed to succeed. From finding gold nuggets to landing his first hard-earned stag, his stories highlight the relentless determination that defines true hunting. Topics Covered: From Prospecting to Bowhunting: Kristian's transition from gold-digging rivers to chasing deer in dense bushland.The Struggle for Access: Hard-earned lessons on how to secure hunting spots and build relationships with landowners.Persistence Pays Off: The challenges and triumphs of solo hunting trips, including finding success in remote, unforgiving environments.The Mental Game: How setbacks, failed hunts, and personal grit contribute to hunting success.Gold Prospecting 101: A surprising crossover of hunting and prospecting—tips for finding gold in Australian rivers.Rutting Tales: Kristian's most challenging and rewarding hunts during the rut season. And loads more Find Kristian Gerathy: Instagram: @followingabrokencompass YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FollowingABrokenCompass Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee - Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Dog and Gun CoffeeKayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads - Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Kayuga BroadheadsVenture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting - Gear up for your next hunt. Venture Hunting Jab Stick Outdoors: jabstickoutdoors - Precision engineered carbon shafts. Jab Stick Outddos

Summer Camp Mayhem.By FinalStand. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.The miracle is not a person jumping into a torrent to save another. It is the dozen who form a chain to pull them both out.(Midnight in the Grotto of Good and Evil)We were in one of the underground pools at the bottom of the mesa. Our tour guide had informed us there were nine known caves and the complex had never been fully explored due to the remaining waterways being totally submerged. It was well past midnight, all my little friends had crashed out and I had wisely ditched my security after Miyako silently woke me up with her hand over my mouth.She pulled my hand to her lips and sucked deeply on two of my digits. I took this to be an indicator to me she was in dire need of loving. The grotto was my idea. I was inspired by my desire to see her naked and I couldn't risk a light source any place but underground. The tool shed and garage lacked a certain appeal. The fuel depot and septic tank were also ruled out."Is the chaos in your mind still raging, Cáel?" Miyako asked in Nipponese, with enough worry to doubly enhance her cuteness."Which of the twenty-seven unexplained languages rolling around in my head do you want me to answer you in?" my toothy grin barely visible in the darkness.Around half way through my sexual enlightenment in college, I had a revelation. The two guys I had gone road-tripping with took me to a bar in Portsmouth. I caught a woman looking us over. I already had my one-night stand lined up and she was looking most agreeable to my nefarious skullduggery (i.e. she had come with some other guy who preferred beer and darts with his buddies over keeping his attention on what mattered).And then my awakening."Nah, she's too fat," he remarked. For one thing, my friend who said that could have stood to lose ten to fifteen kilograms himself. Next, we were dressed like middle class college kids, jeans, shirts that were most likely clean when we picked them out of the laundry basket, light jackets and the shoe thing.This girl was dressed up for a good night out. Nice makeup, her clothing choices were, eh, not stunning, but this wasn't a stunning nightclub/bar. She looked fun, she smiled and yes, she was overweight. It dawned on me that not only did I not care, I never cared. I was a sexual omnivore and that meant any lady interested in sex with me was fine in my book.So, I turned the tables on him."If you can score her number, I'll give you my watch," I dared him. The wristwatch was really nice, one of those $500 handmade German ones. One of my Ex's great-granddad had swiped it off some Nazi pilot in World War II, and the same girl gave it to me twice. See, by accident, as I was exiting the (thankfully) first floor window of the Natural Sciences building, she threw a pitcher at me.It had been sitting in an ornamental display case close by. I caught it, nodded to the flabbergasted female professor-type gawking at the semi-naked me, handed her the projectile, then fled like the responsibility-dodging coward that I was. It turned out that that bit of crockery was from the mid-1600's; the woman I'd surprised was the item's owner.That older lady wasn't a teacher. She was a major benefactor in charge of one of the school's larger endowments. Had it shattered, the Ex most likely would have been expelled. Instead, after watching me round the Chancellor's residence, the mature chick turned to the totally naked chick leaning out the window, still screaming at me."Is he on the track team?" she inquired as she handed the artifact back. They talked, agreed I was a miserable human being, a cad and had firmly developed buttocks. Well, I guess that makes me a pig with nice hams. The next day, I showed up to return the watch, it was just an excuse for one more round of sex.She explained the whole incident to me, took back the watch and sent me on my way. I hurried back to my dorm room, changed the sheets and picked up a bit. An hour later she was quietly knocking at my door. Rather epic make-up sex followed, she gave me the watch as a keepsake and I swore off intercourse in classrooms for two whole months. I'm a tower of resolute willpower, I know.Back at the bar, my buddy snorted, made some comment about her being obviously desperate and promised me he'd nail in her in one of the back rooms. They talked a little, he got 'friendly', then said something that really hurt the girl's feelings. She looked our way, steadied herself with a shot of bourbon and came over to me and my other bud."Did you tell that guy you would give him fifty bucks if I put a lipstick ring on his cock?" she confronted us."No, I told him you were too good for him and if he could get your phone number, I would give him this watch," I showed her the watch. The girl's face flashed back to 'cautiously curious'."Is it a nice watch?" she asked."It is a family heirloom. My great-grandpa brought it back from World War II after taking it off some high ranking kraut officer," I embellished. "I knew he didn't have a chance with you.""Thanks," she grinned. "I agree. Let me get my sister and we can get a bite to eat." Sex.Two guesses of who her sister was. If you guessed the girl I had been cultivating since I got there, you would be right. I am too damn lucky. Lads, the next time you blow a sure thing, blame me for sucking all the good karma away from you, and nine of your friends. I got a three-way. The guy I made the challenge to, got his revenge. He bailed and I had to hitchhike back to school. You know, female truckers, oh, back to Miyako.After stashing our clothing and weapons (all of mine anyway), I took a small fluorescent lantern and slipped into the water. Cold, but doable. Miyako joined me and then, by moonlight, we swam to the point where the guide had said we'd find a passage to a secluded grotto. Down we went. My motivation wasn't sex.That was coming no matter what. Seeing my Nipponese sweetie completely nude directed my course of action. Security protocols meant no lights after 11 p.m. My solution was to cut on a light that couldn't be seen from outside, the grotto. We felt our way along the rather wide submerged passage emerging well before air became an issue. I raised the lantern and cut it on.Our tour guru had forgotten to mention that the algae patches along the sides and bottom as well as the quartz veins on the roof and walls reflected the light over what must have been an eight by ten meter cavern. Gorgeous. We glided to a shelf that met our needs, climbed up and shared a high school 'nervous virgin' moment. She broke the spell by pulling herself out of the water and, standing on her tippy-toes, touched one of the roof veins.I drank in every inch of my little ninja babe's lithe, finely tuned body. Once she got over the newness of my voyeurism, she became playful, giving me a variety of silhouettes and poses. I stripped and returned the favor, which earned me a giggling fit. As I took a minute to sit down and stare into the tranquility of the still surface, she snuck up on me.She said it all with her eyes. I tried to speak, but she put a forefinger to my lips. 'Hold me forever,' her eyes relayed her intentions. 'Love me for all eternity and think of no one else but me.' My elbows were locked, supporting my upper torso as she hovered over my lap. She was a lone feather falling upon the unyielding stone.With one hand behind her, she guided my cock into the wet, luxurious vice that was her cunt. We took it in increments. A sigh more at home in whispered Nirvana than on mortal tongues escaped her lips as she nestled all the way down. We didn't fuck. We rocked back and forth in a timid motion.As Miyako became accustomed to me once more, she would lean farther back with each pulse until an in and out rhythm was achieved. I took the occasion of her victory to pluck her left nipple into my mouth. Experience had taught me that was her more sensitive one. For several seconds, she fought it before knowledge caught up with instinct, then she loosed her passion.After her vibrations subsided, she rested her body tightly against mine. I still impaled her and she was returning a fraction of that warmth."Do you ever think you will find true love?" she whispered into my ear, in Nipponese. I was drawing my finger through her damp hair as it trailed down her back."As in love one over all others, no," I confided. "Even if I did, I could never admit it.""Why not?" she asked in Mandarin.In French I explained; "My life is a mad race through the forest and I don't know if I am a hound or the stag. I don't dare slow down until I know, and that is no way to repay such devotion.""When do you think the race will end for you?" she moaned softly, in English."I would really like to hold a child of mine. I don't regret my life's path up until now, yet I leave so very little of me behind if it ends soon," I muttered in Nipponese, and then chuckled. "It used to be at the first sign of a pregnancy test, I would panic. The World turns very rapidly."A minute passed as she went from warm to heatedly sensuous."Less talk, more babies," she sacrificed her emotions for my well-being with her oh so naught Baby Metal band voice and questing fingers. How could I say 'no' to that?"I don't think it works that way," I teased."Let's find out." She implored me in NipponeseSometime later, I was lying on my back, Miyako's body extended over mine so that not one precious inch of her touched the cool slick rock surface. Considering our position and location, it took me a bit longer to notice the intruder. I thought she was all kinds of strange. Twin memories and perception joined forces for once.The woman moved through the water, yet she was only hip deep in a place I knew the bottom was three meters below. As she entered our isolated love nest, I noticed she had sent forth not a single ripple in the water. Memory filled in the rest. Her eyes, when her gaze met my own, had that void that comes from a tortured life punctuated by horrors you witness as well as ones you are forced to perform.That was from "me". The electron swarm inside my mind provided another crucial piece of the puzzle. Utukku, phantoms, dead denied entrance to the Nether Realms, trapped between, until some sin had been lifted. The spirit gave me a look of shock, then turned and fled."We are in danger," I hissed to Miyako in Nipponese, before cutting off the lantern.I dove in, angling for the tunnel we'd entered by. I was close enough not to jab my fingers into the stone surface as I clawed my way through. I didn't burst noisily to the surface on the other side. My approach was that of an alligator, slowly letting my head crest the surface so I could look around. No one was in evidence. Miyako was soundless at my side as we scramble to the hiding place of our gear.Miyako held my hand back until she was sure our belongings hadn't been booby-trapped. I had to make quick judgment call: how time critical was this? I went the 'clothes and weapons' route."What is going on?" Miyako spoke quietly."Back there, I saw a feminine Asian ghost and the last time I witnessed such a pained, hopeless look, I was confronting the Seven Pillars," I told her. "Their slave had that same doomed stare.""There are only two things here of value," Miyako made her assessment. "You and the children. You are far more accessible in New York City, so it must be the children." We pressed ourselves tightly to the cave sides when we heard the sound of footsteps coming our way. It was Charlotte, my minder for evening, with her bow notched and ready.Firearms were kept to a minimum after hours, so bows were the order of the day, except for the snipers on the mesa top. My movements must have alerted her. I sat down and continued dressing."Charlotte, the Seven Pillars know we are here, they know the camp is here," I told her."How imminent is the threat?" Charlotte knelt beside me. I didn't know."They must be close, to be making a reconnaissance of the caves," Miyako said with tactical certainty."It was drawn to you, Charlotte, you were out of place, so this thing looked further. Otherwise these caves are irrelevant," she added. Miyako had the mindset of a seasoned professional spy."The cavern and spring have a night guardian," Charlotte countered. "I saw her when I was following you two here."I had on my light bulletproof vest (no shirt), shorts (no underwear) and shoes (no sox)."Let's go check on her to see if she's seen anything," I suggested/ordered.What I had assumed was some sort of bedroll brought by Miyako turned out to be a Ninja Survival pack. This allowed me to weapon up while she dressed up. The amount of time we were taking still ate at my nerves. Charlotte stopped me from heading out first, only to be stopped by Miyako. The ninja slipped out like a cool desert breeze.(Friend, Enemies and those In Between)Thirty seconds later, a plastic BB bounced off my right shoulder. This time, I was leading Charlotte out. No one spoke. We couldn't see Miyako anyway, now dressed in her black pajamas and her face being reduced to just one slit for her eyes. We found the Amazon dead at her post. She was in a cunningly crafted blind not easily spotted from any direction.A quick sweep for 'gifts' left behind revealed nothing, but the corpse yielded plenty. She was shot multiple times with two separate flash and sound suppressed submachine guns. The woman had been alive when we came down and if there had been a firefight, Charlotte would have heard the shots, if not seen them; thus the suppression. The bullet holes suggested a small caliber weapon.Miyako stepped up, held up three fingers. Every piece of the Amazon's gear was still on her. The attackers had shot up her phone box. Wireless communications were deemed too risky so all the outposts had buried land lines. At this point, a few seconds of extra effort stood between the Seven Pillars and success; that and the Goddess Paranoia.Had the assailants yanked up the box and cut the phone line, it would have been rendered useless. Instead, they shot up the device and moved on so that when Charlotte pulled out the cache of concealed goodies, including the spare phone box, we were back in business. As Charlotte got to work switching out the busted for the back-up, I studied our situation.Advanced teams taking out the perimeter guards, and most likely the snipers, didn't make much sense. The camp had 300 highly motivated Amazons. Cutting them off temporarily from their armory and vehicles didn't make any sense, since all Amazons were armed anyway. That left timing. But timing meant nothing if I didn't have the goal of their attack.It came as a double-whammy. The Chinese place a high premium on family and the Seven Pillars had mastered a sadistic art form of turning young foreign women into their concubine/assassins. The Condotteiri would have slaughtered the entire camp. The Seven Pillars would want to kidnap the children, both as current bargaining chips and as future tools.500 girls, 400 could be kidnappable. The oldest would go down fighting with their sisters. How did you get 400 kids out of here? Helicopters? That would be a fuck load of helicopters taking out their team and the children. Besides, helicopters alone couldn't dig them out of their cave and cliff-face strongpoints.Desert, no waterways. That left the road. You couldn't use ATVs, not enough carrying capacity. The smart move would be to have tractor-trailers parked alongside the hard top state road. They would use smaller, more rugged trucks to ferry their captives out to the semis. That suggested some sort of 'cover/support' vehicles.2 half ton trucks with weaponized Hummers providing fire support a la 'Blackhawk Down' and that meant the bridge and the BBQ pit. That objective would solve both of the Seven Pillars problems, moving the main assault group into close contact with the Amazons so the Amazons couldn't organize a defense, and removing their hostages in a prompt manner so they all could be gone before anyone else could react.The Seven Pillars had to have secured the bridge and were mostly likely replacing the missing piers. It was the choke point of their battle plan. Worse for them, it wasn't part of a barricade where they could attrition the Amazon numbers with vehicle mounted heavy weapons. The ditch ran north-south, bow shaped with the arch to the west and was over a kilometer from the camp.The flanks were purposefully strewn with huge boulders that limited traffic to horse and motorcycles, no four-wheelers. They had to have control of the bridge, so that's where I went."Charlotte, I'm going to the bridge," I whispered before slipping out of the blind. I didn't order Miyako to follow me and I was sure Charlotte wanted strangle me for departing from her protective custody.There are four kinds of fights, be they between armies, or individuals. Set-piece (sparring), assaults, ambushes and meeting engagements. I was about to be in the latter one. Meeting engagements happen when opposing forces are set on goals that unknowingly intersect one another. One of the most famous battles in US history, Gettysburg, was a meeting engagement.I was using the bone-dry culvert because we feared the Seven Pillars had replaced our snipers. Miyako was, somewhere else. The enemy commandos used the same conduit to avoid having the remaining Amazon pickets spot them and raising the alarm. I had little doubt that the three men speedily moving south were heading for the grotto and its three inhabitants (Charlotte, Miyako and me).Not knowing that I could both see ghosts and guessed who its demonic masters were, they assumed we were still in the caverns. Me not knowing how this whole ghost-scout thing worked, I assumed that I had a chance of surprising them at the bridge if I moved fast enough. In a final prick of irony, they misinterpreted the role their snipers played in our engagement.They believed that their snipers would alert them if anyone moved on the bridge, ignoring the fact that the snipers didn't have a complete view of the gulch. I was only using the big ditch because I was afraid they had taken out the Amazon snipers and now had the high ground, which turned out to be true. Thank you, Goddess Paranoia.My first tomahawk was in my left hand and my Glock-22 was in my right. My fear of snipers and the bend in the gully saved my life. We literally ran into each other, me and the first 7P soldier. His long barreled Type-05 was pointing past my left, his torso slammed into my pistol, ramming his front armored plate against it as it discharged.The proximity muffled the sound of the gunshot. The bullet failed to punch through his impressive body armor, but the resulting force knocked him down and out. Unfortunately, our shared momentum knocked my gun out of my grasp. My right hand went for tomahawk two. The flattened man's team mates swung their submachine guns my way.Halfway through his shift, a black dart flew out of the western darkness, past the first one, then snapped back. The action caused the hardy thread to wrap around the barrel of his weapon. I couldn't see her, but I knew it was Miyako with her flying wedge with the thread attached. The middle guy was startled and not moving as his training dictated.That allowed me to use him as a shield against the third guy. Right as 7P #2 decided to release his weapon, I kicked him hard into the confused man behind him. Neither man went down, but I still got what I wanted.Guy number three's main weapon was trapped to his right as I rushed his left. Vainly he tried to get an arm up to defend himself. My right tomahawk shattered his forearm at the elbow joint. Only the body armor on the inside of the blow stopped the appendage from falling off. My rational mind was catching up with my instincts.These men had on head-to-toe ballistic body suits with knee guards and solid ballistic inserts for the front and back of the torso. They had on some sort of dull, dark-grey respirator mask which was why the armless guy wasn't screaming his head off. They also had matte black circular ear protections and a type of high tech visor on the ears and eyes respectively.The sole survivor was falling back, drawing his silenced pistol while trying to put some distance between us and find Miyako at the same time. Dummy, tomahawks are designed for throwing. A bit of Amazons indignation was behind that toss. His visor was cut in two as my anger drove the blade 6 cm/2+ inches into his skull.I heard a sharp crack of a rock being shattered. Miyako's graceful flip landed her at my side. I ran to the last victim, put my foot on his chest and put my right hand on the tomahawk's shaft. The guy reached up and grabbed the thigh of the foot on his chest with both hands. Shit, the fucker wasn't dead!

In this episode of Become A Bowhunter, we sit down with Jim McWilliam. We discuss his transition from hunting with dogs to bowhunting in the rugged Northern Territory. Jim shares insights into hunting the massive boars of Darwin and its surroundings, the challenges of bows and living rurally, hunting in the heat, and much more. With a down-to-earth and humble perspective and a passion for continuous learning, Jim gives us a raw and unfiltered look at what it takes to become a better hunter. Topics Covered: From Dogging to Bowhunting: The mindset shift and what drew Jim to archery.Pigs in the NT: Characteristics and habits Jim's picked up on while hunting boars in the NT.Tuning & Equipment: Why Jim took bow tuning into his own hands and the importance of understanding your gear.Shot Placement on Bedded Boars: The nuances of finding the right angles for a clean kill.Shot Placement for Better and Faster Dispatch: Jim share how he changed his thinking on shot placement and the better outcomes the perspective has brought. Buffalo & Banteng Encounters: The intensity of hunting these massive, powerful animals.Community & Clubs: The value of archery clubs and the benefits of competing in ABA shoots. This episode is packed with knowledge for bowhunters of all experience levels, from those just starting out to seasoned hunters looking to refine their skills. Whether you're interested in tuning your own bow, understanding Northern Territory hunting dynamics, or just hearing some incredible hunting stories — this is an episode you won't want to miss. Find Jim McWilliam: Instagram: @topendoutdoors Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast  Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee - Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Dog and Gun CoffeeKayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads - Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Kayuga BroadheadsVenture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting - Gear up for your next hunt. Venture Hunting

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, please consider visiting the following resources: The Samaritans helpline: 116 123 Refuge domestic abuse helpline: 0808 2000 247 (live chat is also available at https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Contact-us *times apply) Safeline domestic abuse helpline: 01926 402 498 Safeline national male survivor helpline: 0808 800 5005 Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999 (help is also available at live chat at https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-help/live-chat-helpline/ *times apply) Sexual Assault Support Line: 01708 765200

In this episode we welcome back Graham Cahill, one of 2024's fan favorites, for an insightful and entertaining conversation about his bowhunting journey and overcoming target panic.  Known for his down-to-earth and highly positive personality, Graham shares the ups and downs of mastering the mental game of archery to overcome a multi-year battle with target panic. We dive into topics such as: The Reality of Target Panic: Graham explains how it feels like "a weight pulling your arm down" and how he battled this challenge through methodical practice.Building Better Habits: From daily routines to tools like release trainers, Graham details his transformative six-week training regimen that made all the difference.Gear Insights: Graham discusses his transition to a Bowtech SR bow, the advantages of single-pin sights, and the game-changing impact of rangefinder binoculars.The Importance of Doing the Work: Practical advice from seasoned bowhunters, including daily exercises that helped Graham rebuild his form and confidence.Hilarious Anecdotes: From whistling at strippers to chewing wires in the bush, Graham doesn't hold back on stories that make this episode as entertaining as it is informative. Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter or just starting out, this episode offers invaluable advice for overcoming mental hurdles, refining your technique, and rediscovering the joy of hunting. Find Graham Cahill: Instagram: @ecomuseimages Watch Graham on 4WD 24/7: https://www.youtube.com/user/4wdaction Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Dog and Gun Coffee Kayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Kayuga Broadheads • • Venture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting Gear up for your next hunt. Venture Hunting

In this unique episode of Become A Bowhunter, we explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of camel hunting in Australia with Pete Griffiths.  Known for their resilience and intelligence, Australia's wild camel population poses distinct challenges for bowhunters. Pete brings his wealth of experience to the table, sharing in-depth knowledge about these animals, their behavior, and how to successfully hunt them.  From understanding their grazing habits to navigating the expansive Australian outback, this episode is packed with actionable insights and intriguing stories on camels. And then the adventure begins when Pete starts to unleash some jaw-dropping stories of the most pain he's ever suffered whilst bowhunting, multiple near misses with crocodiles, and much more. Topics Covered: - The history of Australia's wild camels and their unique purity as a species. - Key behaviors of camels and how to use them to your advantage when hunting. - Strategies for tracking camels, even in the vastness of the outback. - The challenges of bowhunting camels include their sharp eyesight and tendency to roam. - Fun and surprising facts about camels, like their rutting calls and the use of their fat in cooking. - Stuff the Crocs — Donkeys are what you have to look out for - Horses don't attack, do they? Think again. - Do you know those stingray barbs? Well, they're sharp as hell and leave you in a lot of pain - Look, hear me out — Crocodiles aren't too bad And much, much more Find Pete Griffiths: @ihunt_downunder Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: Fuel your hunt with the best coffee for bowhunters. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit Dog and Gun Coffee Kayuga Broadheads: For precision, power, and reliability in every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Visit Kayuga Broadheads Venture Hunting & Outdoors: Your one-stop-shop for hunting gear. Get ready for your next adventure with the best products. Visit Venture Hunting

In this episode of Become Your Bowhunter, we're joined by Ayden Doumtsis for a deep dive into Chital deer hunting strategies both in and out of the rut.  Ayden shares his extensive experience in North Queensland, covering topics from rut behavior to the best hunting approaches in varying conditions.  We discuss key signs of Chital activity during the rut to look for — such as rub trees and the significance they play in scouting and area.  Some of the highlights from this episode include: Chital Rut Insights: Ayden explains how the rut can vary based on rainfall and the condition of the hinds.Patience Pays Off: Learn why taking your time is crucial when hunting Chital deer, especially when working with multiple stags and hinds.Hunting Tactics: Do you call them? Can you rattle them in? We discuss all possible methods to use when chasing these skittish animals, the importance of wind direction, and how to handle both lone stags and rutting mobs.Deer Behavior: Discover how Chital deer's interaction with their environment and each other influences hunting tactics, including strategies for calling and stalking.Practical Tips: Ayden shares his process for assessing properties, understanding deer patterns, and maximizing the hunting experience. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to Chital deer hunting, this episode offers valuable knowledge to help you make the most of your next hunt.  Tune in and get ready for some incredible insights from one of the best in the game for Chital/Axis Deer. Find Ayden Doumtsis: @aydendoumtsisoutdoors @twinelements @spottedsafaris Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Episode Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: Fuel your hunt with the best coffee for bowhunters. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit Dog and Gun Coffee Kayuga Broadheads: For precision, power, and reliability in every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Visit Kayuga Broadheads Venture Hunting & Outdoors: Your one-stop-shop for hunting gear. Get ready for your next adventure with the best products. Visit Venture Hunting

The party fight the Ranger god

This episode is packed with experiences and lessons learned from a first-time bowhunter, Grant Muir, as he takes on his first-ever hunt.  Joined by host Matty, Grant navigates through equipment setbacks, unexpected challenges, and the intense emotions of the hunt.  From a cracked bow to the powerful moments of stalking animals, they discuss the trials and triumphs that come with the journey. Topics Covered: The journey of a first-time bowhunterEquipment woes: From bow failure to upgrading setupsThe science behind bow setup, tuning, and arrowsThe adrenaline dump and the emotional rollercoaster of bowhuntingStalking techniques: Lessons learned in the fieldEthics in bowhunting and respecting the animalThe importance of preparation and gear: What worked and what didn'tOvercoming mistakes and the value of patience in the huntThe lessons learned about bow hunting after the first shot and the first animalOvercoming a bow malfunction on the eve of a big huntLessons on stalking and shot placementThe emotional highs and lows of bowhunting for the first timePractical tips for first-time hunters on setting up their gear and expectations Find Grant Muir: @grantjmuir369 Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Visit Dog and Gun Coffee Kayuga Broadheads: For precision and reliability in your hunting gear. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Visit Kayuga Broadheads Venture Hunting & Outdoors: For all your hunting gear needs. Visit Venture Hunting

This week, Matty is joined by Sean Chick, a dedicated hunter who shares the unique story of gaining access to a property with a struggling deer herd and taking steps to boost its numbers and quality. Sean's journey highlights the practical challenges and rewarding outcomes of managing deer populations while balancing ethical hunting practices. If you, too, have deer numbers dwindling on your block, the information provided by Sean could be the information you need to completely turn the deer numbers around, just like Sean was able to do. Despite being limited in his bowhunting due to a shoulder injury, Sean's passion for the outdoors and commitment to herd improvement shines through. Podcast Topics: - Sean's bowhunting origins and evolution - The impact of wild dogs on deer herds - Ethical and sustainable deer management practices - Managing genetics: Why “mong heads” need to go - Balancing the herd: The importance of mature does - Strategies to create a thriving hunting block - Wild dog trapping: Methods, tools, and insights - Navigating the of herd dynamics year-round (when to shoot and not shoot what) - Filming The Season And much, much more. Find Sean Chick: @src_huntntrap Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Venture Hunting & Outdoors @venturehunting For all of your hunting gear and needs head over to https://venturehunting.com.au/

Hosts: Shane, Pyrnassius, and Thaxy Wood spirits are added to more drops, the Blood Reaver is nerfed but the Unicorn saves the day, and tank armour gets a juicy life point boost. Are the Nex armours the new hot sauce? Plus Group Ironman mid-level Ranged and porter math. For detailed show notes visit update.rsbandb.com. You can also check out the forums for detailed discussion on each episode.Duration: 1:46:15

Hosts: Shane, Tanis, HIACliff, and The Knight The 110 Runecrafting Right Click Examine brings news of combination rune changes, imbuing staves for Runecrafting XP, and the T100 staff. We also sit down with The Naabes and discuss Group Ironman plans, Ranged inadequacy, and some tips and tricks. For detailed show notes visit update.rsbandb.com. You can also check out the forums for detailed discussion on each episode.Duration: 1:55:48

This week Matty is joined by living legend Dr. Ed Ashby. Dr. Ashby was the man who helped to reinstate bowhunting in South Africa. The man documented over 630+ animals that he took with his bow and arrow. Each time trialing different arrows, broadheads and total weight setups to come to a conclusion of best setups for bowhunters which is all documented and shared through “The Ashby Bowhunting Foundation.” https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/ “The goal of every bowhunter should be to achieve the most penetration possible on an animal, with the intent of a full passthrough.” - Dr. Ed Ashby  |  Founder Podcast topics: - The Science of Bowhunting: Ethical Hunting Redefined - Heavy Bone Thresholds and Their Impact on Success - Stalking Skills: The Lost Art of Close-Range Hunting - Lessons from 631 Animals: Dr. Ashby's Bowhunting Insights - Mechanical vs. Fixed Broadheads: The Ultimate Debate - Conservation Through Bowhunting: A Hunter's Role in Wildlife Management - The Physics of Penetration: Why Momentum Matters Most - The Future of Bowhunting: Innovations and Challenges Ahead And much, much more… Find Dr. Ed Ashby's Work: https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/ Make a donation to the foundation: https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/make-a-donation Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week Matty is joined by Joel Turner from Shot IQ. Joel has cracked the code to override the human instinct and safety mechanisms that we have in place can negatively affect your accuracy inside of shooting.  Whether you're shooting a gun or shooting your bow, this system is an easy-to-implement process that removes target panic and makes a repeatable process every time. Podcast Topics:  - The Australian paddy melons - how did this all come to fruition - The Science and psychology behind the shot process - Open and closed loop systems - Thoughts are not thinking - How to override your thoughts and take back control - Applying the system to each style of release aid  - Compound Vs. Trad Shot - An elk hunt to remember - The trick to calling in Bull Elk and Red Stags And much, much more. Find Joel Turner: @joelturneractual https://www.turnermodel.com/ https://www.shotiq.com/home https://www.mindiq.com/enroll Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week is another solo episode in which Matty does his best to bring you a beginners' guide to bowhunting. Inside this episode, Matty takes you through the A-Z of everything you'll need to know to get started in bowhunting in 2024 and beyond. Think of this episode as an open letter to anyone looking to get into bowhunting, new to bowhunting, or even someone still looking for their first success with the bow.  Episode topics:  Buying a bowAccessories Arrow weights and spinesBroadheadsPerfect practice - develop a repeatable processGain access (paid, public or private)How to approach a new hunting block on your first visitThe stalkAnimal behaviour Field dressing - different approachesMeat careMeat processing.  Relevant Episodes: #1 - Buying the perfect bow with Ian Summers  #133 - Using Wilderness First-Aid To Save Your Life with Christie Pisani #115 - Gaining Hunting Access w/ Matty Turner #98 - Liam's Rut Recap and Perfect Shot Placement with Liam Woods #43 - Meat Safety When Hunting with Bevan Blacklock  #97 - Cooking Wild Meat with Ross O'Meara Videos Worth Watching:  Home-made target:  https://youtu.be/uvy2-lWB9sI?si=GI9kcmhB0HGV1cnA Shot placement for Australian Bowhunters with Liam Woods: https://youtu.be/nKSvR4_2RSU?si=2lmnTlHwTbeeh91o Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

In this episode, Matty is joined by renowned traditional bowhunter Ben Maher.  Ben has been pursuing his passion for traditional archery and bowhunting for decades. But it hasn't always come easily, which sent Ben on a pursuit of gaining coaching and becoming the best shooter he can be. A lot of great tips and tricks were shared inside this one that helped Ben to overcome his target panic. Ben is a very passionate lover of all things traditional bows and bowhunting and has been a helpful pillar of the traditional community for a long time. Podcast Topics: - Ben's early introduction to archery and bowhunting through his father - Stuff your wheels, give me recurves & longbows - Bowhunting turkeys in New Zealand - Target panic: Overcoming mental hurdles and embracing a triggerless shot - Many mentors make light work — unless you're Ben Maher (or so Tom Clum, Rod Jenkins, and Joel Turner would say) - Key lessons and takeaways from the best in the biz - Bowhunting transforms lives - Sometimes, the best hunts are the unsuccessful ones - Promoting positive perceptions of bowhunting to the wider community - The growing popularity of traditional archery and bowhunting in Australia And much more... Find Ben Maher: @benmaher73 Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads

In this episode, Matty is joined by Jordan De Jong and Adam Barter as they recap the hunt that was on their drive home. This hunt was Jordan's first-ever experience of bowhunting. Matty and Adam made it their goal to help fast-track Jordy's hunting abilities and get him his first animal with the bow. They were successful; however, they didn't come without challenges. This recap gives great insights into what worked well, what didn't work at all and what each member of the hunting party would have done differently to make good of the opportunities that weren't fruitful. Podcast Topics:  - How'd we get here?  - The excitement that new blocks bring - Seeing your first critters in the wild - The first stalk failed - Good! - The second stalk failed - Good, what did you learn? - What made the third stalk a charm? - Pigs, & goats… Take your pick - Wind - Day 2 - Hello Mr Fox - Check your gear, DUMMY. - The mountaintop that keeps on giving. - Biggest takeaways - Bowhunting changes lives! And much, much more. Find our guest: Jordan: @Jordodejong Adam: @adam.j.barter Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure — Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week, Matty is joined by Poldi, the man behind the YouTube channel Westcoast Adventures. To keep the adventures alive, Poldi set himself the challenge of going stickbow only moving forward and has been trying to master his craft for the past year.  What's cool to see is with the system Poldi has adopted he has truly become a beast with the recurve, especially when it matters with a live animal in front of him. Podcast topics:  - Kayaking Norway - The influence of Bruce Barns - Getting the right start in the outdoors - I sold my wheels to go on an adventure - Push archery  - Hunting is tough with a bad back - Stewart Island - Patterning the animals year-round. - Springtime red deer - Chamois can see - Tahr love slips And much more… Find Poldi: @poldi_wm https://youtube.com/@westcoastadventures8877?si=-pmAiUl2sAvUQ8s3 Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure — Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week Matty is joined by Christie Pisani. Christie has a background in both paramedics and bowhunting. She now teaches wilderness first aid courses, sharing her knowledge and time in the bush to teach people how to save their lives if things go wrong. Podcast topics:  - Heart Of The Huntress - Why do Bowhunters need to understand first-aid? - Personal location beakers - What's in a good first-aid kit? - Broadhead and knife wounds - Gunshots - Common farm injuries to be prepared for - Rolls and breaks - What to do if you're bitten by a snake And much, much more. Find Christie Pisani: @wildernessfirstaidconsultants www.wfac.com.au Heart Of The Huntress: https://youtu.be/mU--NjlNE70?si=dkr4SQNZVWKOlSJA Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure — Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week Matty is joined by Colin Gair from Outlaw Custom Bows. Colin recently created Matty's daughters two absolutely stunning bows, to help them transition from toys to real bows. Colin has a background in engineering that allows him to tinker and recreate traditional longbows and recurve bows. Through applying basic maths, physics and what he learned through his structural engineering degree Colin has created many variations of specialised custom trad bows. Podcast Topics: - Kids bows - What led to Colin making custom bows  - The different types of low bows and recurve bows - What goes into making a bow - The Australian naming series - Why do people question the speed of your bows? - How are you able to make these bows so fast? - The current lineup - What to look for when buying a trad bow - Bringing your kids into hunting - Hunting stories with the trad bow And much, much more. Find our guest: @outlawcustombows Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure — Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we breakdown the changes to the Ranger class in the 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons. We go through each class feature and highlight the differences from previous versions. Summary We discuss the improvements to spellcasting, the changes to Favored Enemy and Favored Foe, the addition of more expertise, and the new subclass features. We were disappointed with the capstone feature, Foe Slayer. Overall, we acknowledge that while the Ranger class has seen some improvements, it still has its flaws and is considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules. We dig into the subclasses of the Ranger class in D&D 5e. We talk about the Beastmaster, Feywanderer, Gloomstalker, and Hunter subclasses. We highlight the changes and improvements made to the subclasses in the 2024 rules, but also point out some issues and frustrations. We discuss the balance between using Hunter's Mark and other class features, and the impact of concentration on the Ranger's gameplay. We were unenthusiastic with the changes made to the Gloomstalker subclass and the nerfs to the Hunter subclass. Overall, we feel that the Ranger class still has some design flaws and missed opportunities. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the changes made to some signature ranger spells, including the removal of concentration requirements. We were concerned about the heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark and the lack of flavor in the ranger class. We suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, allowing for more diverse and flavorful gameplay. Despite the criticisms, they acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version. Links Player's Handbook (affiliate link) Content from RPGBOT.net 2024 DnD 5e Transition Guide 2024 DnD 5e Ranger Guide 2024 DnD 5e Ranger Subclasses Guide Previous RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes Rangers 1-4 Rangers 5-20 Takeaways The Ranger class in the 2024 rules has seen some improvements compared to previous versions. The changes to spellcasting, such as the ability to change prepared spells and the reduction of reliance on concentration, are considered positive. The Favored Enemy and Favored Foe features have been updated to provide more versatility and options for the Ranger. The addition of more expertise and the removal of the bonus action requirement for two-weapon fighting are welcomed changes. However, the capstone feature, Foe Slayer, is considered underwhelming and disappointing. While the Ranger class has seen improvements, it is still considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules. The 2024 rules made improvements to the Ranger subclasses, but there are still some frustrations and missed opportunities. The Beastmaster subclass can be effective without relying on Hunter's Mark, but it can feel limited and overshadowed by other options. The Feywanderer subclass received no changes and remains a strong option for Rangers. The Gloomstalker subclass was nerfed and lost its extra attack feature, which disappointed the hosts. The Hunter subclass also received changes, but the removal of options and the reliance on Hunter's Mark led to some dissatisfaction. The hosts discuss the issue of concentration and the impact it has on the Ranger's gameplay. Overall, the hosts feel that the Ranger class still has design flaws and could benefit from further improvements. The removal of concentration requirements for certain ranger spells is seen as a positive change, allowing rangers to use a wider range of spells in combat. The heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark as a damage boost is a concern, as it limits the variety of spells rangers can use. The hosts suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, as they offer more diverse and flavorful gameplay options. Despite the criticisms, the hosts acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games Twitter: @GravenAshes YouTube@ashravenmedia Randall James @JackAmateur Amateurjack.com Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we breakdown the changes to the Ranger class in the 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons. We go through each class feature and highlight the differences from previous versions. Summary We discuss the improvements to spellcasting, the changes to Favored Enemy and Favored Foe, the addition of more expertise, and the new subclass features. We were disappointed with the capstone feature, Foe Slayer. Overall, we acknowledge that while the Ranger class has seen some improvements, it still has its flaws and is considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules. We dig into the subclasses of the Ranger class in D&D 5e. We talk about the Beastmaster, Feywanderer, Gloomstalker, and Hunter subclasses. We highlight the changes and improvements made to the subclasses in the 2024 rules, but also point out some issues and frustrations. We discuss the balance between using Hunter's Mark and other class features, and the impact of concentration on the Ranger's gameplay. We were unenthusiastic with the changes made to the Gloomstalker subclass and the nerfs to the Hunter subclass. Overall, we feel that the Ranger class still has some design flaws and missed opportunities. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the changes made to some signature ranger spells, including the removal of concentration requirements. We were concerned about the heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark and the lack of flavor in the ranger class. We suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, allowing for more diverse and flavorful gameplay. Despite the criticisms, they acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version. Links Player's Handbook (affiliate link) Content from RPGBOT.net 2024 DnD 5e Transition Guide 2024 DnD 5e Ranger Guide 2024 DnD 5e Ranger Subclasses Guide Previous RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes Rangers 1-4 Rangers 5-20 Takeaways The Ranger class in the 2024 rules has seen some improvements compared to previous versions. The changes to spellcasting, such as the ability to change prepared spells and the reduction of reliance on concentration, are considered positive. The Favored Enemy and Favored Foe features have been updated to provide more versatility and options for the Ranger. The addition of more expertise and the removal of the bonus action requirement for two-weapon fighting are welcomed changes. However, the capstone feature, Foe Slayer, is considered underwhelming and disappointing. While the Ranger class has seen improvements, it is still considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules. The 2024 rules made improvements to the Ranger subclasses, but there are still some frustrations and missed opportunities. The Beastmaster subclass can be effective without relying on Hunter's Mark, but it can feel limited and overshadowed by other options. The Feywanderer subclass received no changes and remains a strong option for Rangers. The Gloomstalker subclass was nerfed and lost its extra attack feature, which disappointed the hosts. The Hunter subclass also received changes, but the removal of options and the reliance on Hunter's Mark led to some dissatisfaction. The hosts discuss the issue of concentration and the impact it has on the Ranger's gameplay. Overall, the hosts feel that the Ranger class still has design flaws and could benefit from further improvements. The removal of concentration requirements for certain ranger spells is seen as a positive change, allowing rangers to use a wider range of spells in combat. The heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark as a damage boost is a concern, as it limits the variety of spells rangers can use. The hosts suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, as they offer more diverse and flavorful gameplay options. Despite the criticisms, the hosts acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games Twitter: @GravenAshes YouTube@ashravenmedia Randall James @JackAmateur Amateurjack.com Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

This week is Matty is in Deer Camp With Grant Rand, Corey Seymondsbergen, and four relatively new hunters. It was very cool to go back to basics and help fast-track the learnings in the field within a few hunts. Podcast Topics: - Matty's Buck - Why it's important to introduce others to good bowhunting practices - Great questions - Simple mistakes leading to stalks ending - Be mindful of your movements - You usually have more time than you think - Danny's Boar - The penetration test - Good mates = great camps And much, much more. Find our guest: @corey_seymo @grant_randy_rand Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee Bloody great coffee ready for adventure — Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week host Matty is joined by Returning guest Corey. If you listened to the marathon episode “Bowhunting Bulgaria's Finest Fallow, Boars and Mouflon w/ Grant Rand — You'll be somewhat familiar with this story as Corey was Grant's travel buddy on this hunt. Corey's trip also included many ups and downs, trials and tribulations, and stepping outside of his comfort zone and boundaries. Note that this episode is not to warn off of hunting abroad — In fact, the opposite, just to give you a full perspective of what can go right and wrong on any hunt. Podcast Topics: - Trying to speak without talking - Doing the same old thing - I want to hunt like I do at home - Stalking unshootable critters - Cliffs are mild inconveniences - The Kieler: #1 human Killer - In hindsight… Actually nah - When push comes to shove - Expectations will kill the outcome Find Corey: @corey_seymo Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: Enhance your hunting morning with a rich cup from Dog and Gun Coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads: For precision and reliability in your hunting gear, choose Kayuga Broadheads. Use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week Matty is joined by returning guest Tobie Hynes. Tobie recently went to Stewart Island, New Zealand, to hunt Whitetail Deer in one of the only places in the southern hemisphere where they can be hunted. Stewart Island is an incredibly popular hunting destination and is booked out 365 days of the year. Based on Tobie's stories, you'll start to understand why. Podcast topics: The Whitetail deer herdOpportunities through the Hunters ClubLogistics of the tripDeclare EVERYTHING, and don't buy a new pack of bulletsDon't get lost — Here's howGullies become a trip hazard at nightYour best chance at hunting these deer is… The sea lifePolicing and fisheries on the islandBringing hope your capes And much more…  Find Tobie: @hunt_mountains @thebighorndeercaller https://www.youtube.com/@thynes2995 Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by: @mattyafter Podcast Sponsors: Dog and Gun Coffee: Enhance your hunting morning with a rich cup from Dog and Gun Coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Kayuga Broadheads: For precision and reliability in your hunting gear, choose Kayuga Broadheads. Use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week Matty is joined By William Platell from Riverleigh Taxidermy. William has been tinkering with Taxidermy for the past 16 years. After suffering a nasty shoulder injury in the army, he decided to turn his passion into a full-time gig. As you'll see and feel throughout the episode will is an absolute lover of animals and obsessive with mastering his craft. Will Loves the fact that he gets to preserve not only the animal… BUT also the adventure and story of the hunt for the hunter to hold onto for the rest of their days. Podcast Topics Include: Hunting or taxidermy, what came first Soulders, who needs them anyway?Picking the bow back up after many yearsQuick turnaround for big outcomes Obsessed is an understatement The one that got away Bring me the boars baby!Full body mount Camel you say? Next steps for Riverleigh And much more. Find William Platell : @riverleigh_taxidermy Where to Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Host: @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

UK artist Mason Jones stops by to chat all about his brand new song “Everybody Wants you”, his debut smash Bisexuality anthem "Pink and Blue", meeting music legend Phil Oakey, and so much more! PLUS! New music from Emily D'Ranged, Gianni, Jason Kwan, Javi, KingQueen, Sainte, Tess Clare, and Virr. ⚡️CONNECT WITH THE Q⚡️ Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.curatedbyq.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️FB/Instagram/TikTok @theqreviews ⚡️YouTube.com/@QCreativeNetwork⚡️Apparel Shop https://qreview.threadless.com ⚡️Theme Music provided and performed by UK DJ and producer Hectic @hectictracks on Instagram⚡️

By Kristín Svava TómasdóttirTr. by K B Thors

This week Matty is joined By Mark Pitts from Marksman Quivers. Mark grew up in The U.K. and lived on a farm managing game animals for harvesting each year. With opportunities for hunting being much more prevalent overseas, he found himself moving to Australia. Now, alongside his wife, he creates incredible gear for trad bowhunters at Marksman Quivers. Podcast Topics Include: Growing up on a game farm in the U.K.WTF is a beaterNZ is callingWhat do you mean you can hunt every day in AustraliaThe pull to traditional bowsThe bonds and friendships bowhunting providesThe forums of Australian BowhuntingPick a crew with a great vibeThe products at Marksman QuiversHow to ACTUALLY use the finger tabClose encountersUpcoming hunts And much more. Find Mark Pitts: @marksmanquivers https://marksmanquivers.com/ Where to Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Host: @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

This week Matty sits down with Ashlee Strange, who shares her incredible story of resilience and determination. From literally being moments away rom dying to thriving in the world of hunting, Ashlee's journey is nothing short of inspiring.  The conversation covers her health battle, her road to recovery, and her passion for hunting that was instilled in her from a young age by her father.  Ashlee also talks about the challenges and rewards of being a female hunter and offers advice for women looking to get into the sport. Plus future ambitions with her own hunting and guiding endeavours. Podcast Topics: Ashlee's health scare and recoveryThe impact of a life-threatening tumorTransitioning from rifle to bow huntingYTG in huntingAdvice for new hunters, especially womenHunters ed. In NZHunting in New Zealand vs. AustraliaConservation efforts and hunting regulationsAshlee's favourite hunting experiencesHave you seen how big a Tahr Bull is? And much more Find Ashlee Strange: Instagram: @ashlee.strange Where to Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Host: @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

Join Matty as he interview bowhunting legend Brad Smith. Brad has helped hundreds of bowhunter to up their game in the bush. Through years of guiding and filming he has studied every animal hunt able within Australia. Today the boys do a deep dive into the Rust Deer Rut. Walk away with in depth knowledge of how to attack your block at any stage of the upcoming rush rut.  Where to Find Brad Smith: Instagram: @bradsmith_bowhunt_downunder Where to Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Host: @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

This week we're joined by MrHappy for the Ranged DPS episode of our pre-Dawntrail Role Roadmap series!

Join Matty as he dives into the wild with renowned hunter, filmmaker, and conservationist, Donnie Vincent. Known for his profound connection with nature and extensive experience as a wildlife biologist, Donnie shares insights that blend adventure with a deep reverence for the natural world. Podcast Topics The transformative power of nature on our mindset.Insights into wildlife behaviour and ecosystem balance.The role of hunting in conservation and personal growth.Challenges and adversity build characterPerspectives on wildlife management and environmental policy.The problem with social media is the lensWhat hunters could do betterThe constant fight that we have to show up forWas that a bear in your tent?  And much, much more. Where to Find Donnie Vincent: Instagram: @donnie_vincent Website: Donnie Vincent Watch his films on https://www.youtube.com/@Donnie_Vincent Where to Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Host: @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

State of the Realm 366 - Benchmark & Phys Ranged Speculation w/ Serenaya by DREAM Network

Join Matty as he recaps his week of chasing red deer in the 2024 roar. This week was full of explorations, learning and a lot of freaking effort — All of which was not a waste. In typical hunting style, it came right down to the 111th hour to have success on this hunt.  Podcast Topics: Slow afternoon into an exciting morningThe damn windThe weird rutWhy's this happeningHello spikeyNow we're talking, and yes, I want you to come here. Pick yourself up, the jobs not done yetWhat are you really hunting for? The 11th hour And much more…  Find Matty and Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

In this episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, Matty Turner dives into his recent pre-rut fallow deer hunting adventure, sharing thrilling stories, unexpected encounters ( and HUGE GIFT), PLUS valuable insights from the hunt. While he didn't capture the voices of the others in camp, he's preserved what he can with his recap.  Matty recounts the excitement, challenges, and unforgettable moments from the hunt. Podcast Topics: The 5 year anniversary of BABHSurrounding yourself with incredible people makes camp so much fun. Good or bad juju? Too early?My first Croak , I'm a happy man.Insights into deer behavior during the pre-rut seasonCreep'n BucksGrant's immaculate deer dance And much more…  Find Matty and Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

Gnomonkey is an OSRS Twitch/Kick streamer and YouTuber focused on speed-running and educational PvM guides!Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gnomonkeyrsKick: https://kick.com/gnomonkeyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/GnomonkeyRSTwitter: https://twitter.com/GnomonkeyRSSupport my content directly:YouTube Membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaLDfbgwz7heFps4uMaPahg/joinPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/saederFollow me:Twitch: https://twitch.tv/saederTwitter: https://twitter.com/SaederRSYouTube: https://youtube.com/saeder Support this podcast on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Becoming a Bowhunter, Matty sits down with Benny Fensom in a unique on-the-hunt podcast episode.  Benny is a mad keen stick bow hunter and often takes his kids out with him to call in critters.  Benny shares his philosophy on family, the outdoors, and the importance of nurturing a love for nature from a young age. In This Episode: Benny's approach to involving his children in hunting activities.The challenges and rewards of balancing personal hunting time with family time.Anecdotes from the hunt: A real-time hunting session with Benny and Matty, providing insights into their strategies, the excitement of the chase, and the occasional misfire.Reflections on how hunting strengthens family bonds and instills values of patience, responsibility, and respect for nature.The Stalker stick bowBoars busting out in real timeThe perfect amount of time to fox call And much much more. Find Benny Fensom: @benny_fensom Find Becoming a Bowhunter: Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast Hosted by Matty: @mattyafter Podcast sponsors: @dogandguncoffee https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/ Use checkout code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next order ✌️ @kayuga_broadheads https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/ Use checkout code BAB10 for 10% off your next order ✌️

Hosts: Shane, Tanis, and Bears The combat update is here giving Ranged, Magic, and Melee the Necromancy treatment. We look at how they work at various bosses and what the changes mean at the high end and for average players. We also sit down and look at how each style has improved. For detailed show notes visit update.rsbandb.com. You can also check out the forums for detailed discussion on each episode.Duration: 1:31:09

Hosts: Shane, Tanis, Bears, and Pyrnassius We break down Mod Keeper’s Look Ahead as well as some of the Necromancy content on the way. The combat beta continues with Ranged reigning supreme. We discuss how it plays at various bosses and ask if it’s too much while answering your questions. For detailed show notes visit update.rsbandb.com. You can also check out the forums for detailed discussion on each episode.Duration: 1:40:40

How To Play New Edo, a tabletop roleplaying game.  Transcript: Hello! I'm the GM for an upcoming episode of Firebreathing Kittens. I'll be running using the gameplay mechanics from a game called NewEdo, a Neon Samurai role-playing game. This is a rules discussion episode meant to help teach my players and any listeners the basic mechanics of NewEdo so it's easier to begin playing. I'll be going over two main topics. The first topic is character creation, where I'll discuss Paths, Lineages, and the Priority Buy System, that's B-U-Y buy, with its five associated Priority Abilities. I'll explain starting equipment and cash at the end of this topic. The second topic is gameplay mechanics. Since NewEdo is a 300 page rulebook, I won't have time to go over every single mechanic, but I will go over mechanics that pertain to some of the characters playing in my upcoming episode, as well as common mechanics used in most TRPGs. I'll also discuss Legend and Fate, two important mechanics that are exclusive to NewEdo.   With that said, I'll begin discussing character creation, starting with Paths and Lineages.   Paths   A Path is similar to a class, but instead of defining your character's archetype going forward, it sets up your character's purpose with some starting features and equipment, allowing you to build yourself however you want. You can decide which Path best suits you and what it provides starting on page 72.   Lineages   A Lineage is what would be considered a race in other TRPGs. With the exception of Hisanaka, you have unrestricted access to all Lineages, each with two Cultures to choose from, providing unique gameplay differences. Hisanaka is a special Lineage only available with a Priority A Ranking in Augmentations, and has no special Culture. Lineages are found starting on page 132.   The Priority Buy System   After deciding your Path and Lineage, you need to decide what order you prioritize your Priority Abilities. You have five Priority Abilities to consider:   ● Backgrounds   ● Magic   ● Augmentations   ● Skills   ● and Core Traits   You must assign Ranks A through E (highest to lowest) between these five Priority Abilities in order to determine your character building resources. Refer to the Priority Buy Resource Allocation Table on page 58 to know what you get at each Rank.   Backgrounds   Backgrounds are associated with your character's backstory and grant certain benefits. There are five Backgrounds you can invest points into:   ● Contacts   ● Followers   ● Soul   ● Status   ● and Wealth   You can study up on what each Background provides at each Rank starting on page 144. Refer to the Background Score to Rank table on the same page to know how many points are needed to increase your Rank. All Backgrounds begin with 1 point each, and no Background may be higher than 61 at character creation.   Magic   Depending on your Path, Lineage, and Priority Rank, you can gain access to Magic. If you're looking for a Path with access to multiple spells, called Rotes in this system, choose Shugonshi. If you just need a single Rote, such as an attack or heal, look through TIer Zero through Three for an appropriate Rote, then choose D through A for a Magic Priority Rank that gives you access to the Rote you chose. Keep in mind the Casting Skill associated with each Rote, as you need to roll that Skill plus Shinpi Rank to cast.   When you gain access to Magic through methods mentioned earlier, you should receive a bonus amount of Shinpi. Shinpi is a special Core Trait that, unlike other Core Traits, begins at zero instead of ten. You'll need to raise your Shinpi Rank through bonuses mentioned previously and Trait points received from Priority Buy in order to cast Magic effectively.   If you happen to choose the Shugonshi Path, Awakened Kitsune Lineage, or Priority A Magic, you gain access to a Mikata Kami. You can choose any Kami you have access to and gain the associated Mikata Kami bonus. A Mikata Kami is also a pet with its own character sheet. For more details, read pg. 268 through 274.   Augmentations   Each Augmentation, or Aug, has a Noise Rating and Biofeedback Percentage. The points from the Priority Buy System are spent on the combined Noise Ratings of each Aug you get. If you increase an Aug's Rank, you multiply the Noise cost by the Aug's Rank. You need to have enough Core Trait points to install any Augs. If the combined Noise of a single Trait from all Augs exceeds the associated Trait, you can't install anymore with that Trait.   For any leftover points, you can spend four points for a permanent 1d4 bonus to any Skill. This doesn't count as a Skill Rank; rather it's an external bonus to those Skill rolls. Any other leftover points may be added to the Wealth Background one for one.   Biofeedback Percentage is added to the Fate Card for each Aug you gain. Keep in mind the percentage does not multiply with each Aug Rank. So if you install a Rank 5 Aug with 1% Biofeedback, it's still 1%.   Skills   The list of Skills starts on pg. 191. You have a certain amount of dice to spend on Skills called Focus. You're limited to three Focus per Skill at character creation. Each Focus you put into a Skill increases that Skill's Rank, which may grant a bonus. Bonuses can be found under each Skill's description.   Traits   There are seven Core Traits to choose from:   ● Heart   ● Power   ● Reflex   ● Presence   ● Perception   ● Savvy   ● and Shinpi   Each of them, except Shinpi, begin with ten points. Shinpi begins with zero. For every ten points in a Trait, you gain a d10 to all associated checks. You can only invest up to 15 points in any Trait, though bonuses from things like Lineage and Backgrounds don't count towards this limit. At the end of character creation, your highest Trait becomes your starting Legend Score. There are also four Derived Traits that are affected by the previously mentioned Core Traits:   ● Resolve   ● Move   ● Initiative   ● and Defence   Starting Equipment and Cash   You gain basic starting equipment from your Path. The Path descriptions each include a note on starting equipment, and all of them grant at least one weapon. That weapon, and any other items, will be described only by its Quality rating. You can look up item qualities on the tables in Chapter 13 starting on pg. 233. In addition, you start with cash equal to a Wealth roll, 1d10 per Rank in the Background, times 100.   That wraps up Character Creation. I'll now begin going over various combat mechanics that my players and I will be using in our upcoming session. Again, this won't be a list of every mechanic in the 300 page rulebook, but I'll be going over some universal actions and their mechanics in NewEdo. I'll end with an explanation of this system's unique Legend and Fate mechanics.   Movement   One of the first things everyone needs to understand in any TRPG is movement. In NewEdo, your Move determines how many metres you can shift per turn. Move is equal to your Reflex and Heart Trait divided by your Size rounded up.   Moving takes up a Move Action, which is one of three types of actions a character can make on their turn. The three types of actions are:   ● Move Action   ● Quick Action   ● and Full Action   You can make one of each of these actions per turn. As I mentioned earlier, moving uses up a Move Action, however there may be other actions that specify using a Move Action other than just moving, such as Taking Aim or driving a vehicle.   Attacking   Another common mechanic in any TRPG is attacking. An attack is usually a Full Action, but can also be a Quick Action in some cases. Two common types of attacks are Melee and Projectile. I'll explain the mechanics of each.   ● Melee Attacks are made by rolling Power plus the appropriate weapon Skill, and your   Target Number is your opponent's Defence.   ● Projectile Attacks are made by rolling Perception plus the appropriate weapon Skill, and   your Target Number is your opponent's Size multiplied by your weapon's Range Modifier.   ○ You may call Raises before attacking to increase damage. Each Raise adds five   to your Target Number, but increases the weapon's damage by 1d10. After hitting with an attack, you need to roll for damage. Here's what you need to roll:   ● For Melee, roll Power plus the weapon's damage dice.   ● For Projectile, roll the weapon's damage dice. Remember to add any d10's from Raises.   Taking Aim, Advantages, and Disadvantages   When setting up for a Projectile Attack, you can use your Move Action to Take Aim in order to gain an Advantage. An Advantage is simply an extra d10 added to a roll, one that can explode like a Trait dice. A Disadvantage is the opposite, removing a d10 from a roll. If there are no d10's remaining, you remove the highest dice instead. Advantages and Disadvantages come up in many different scenarios, and can cancel each other out if both are present. Taking Aim is one of the most common ways to gain an advantage in combat.   Rolling Skill Checks   To determine what dice you roll during an attack or skill check, you need to check the appropriate Trait and Skill. For your Trait, the tens place of your Trait determines how many d10 you can roll for the check. Keep in mind that d10's explode, meaning that if you roll a ten, you can re-roll that dice and add the next result to the total. After determining how many d10's from your Trait, add the Focus Dice from the appropriate Skill. These dice can range from a d4 to d12, but they don't explode on rolling max. The Target Number of non combat related skill checks is determined by the GM based on the difficulty. A Sample Contest Target Number table can be found on pg. 212.   Casting Magic   Similar to attacks and skill checks, casting magic also uses a Trait and Skill. All Rotes use Shinpi as its Trait, and with the exception of the four Common Rotes, all Rotes have an associated Skill that is rolled when casting. For example, the Soothe Rote uses the Meditation Skill, so if you plan on using Soothe, it's recommended you also have training in Meditation. You can find a list of all Rotes starting on pg. 158. Each Rote lists the following:   ● Name   ● Action   ● Target Number   ● Legend Cost   ● Range   ● Duration   ● Casting Skill   ● and a Description   Restoring Legend   If you find yourself casting a lot of magic and running out of Temporary Legend, you can use your Followers Background to restore some lost Legend Points. Rolling for Followers takes a Full Action, and you roll d10's equal to your Followers Rank. You can roll Followers once per session.   Stealth   To make an attempt at Stealth, there must be some reasonable chance of you not being seen: darkness, fog, a distraction, someone or something blocking sight of you. You don't necessarily need to know where your (potential) observers are to attempt Stealth, but if you're able to scout out all observers (guards, cameras, etc.) prior to or during your Stealth attempt, you gain Advantage on subsequent Stealth rolls.   A Stealth roll is made as an Opposed Contest, where the character attempting Stealth rolls Reflex plus the Stealth Skill against any opponent's passive or active Perception. Passive Perception is a Free Action, rolled using only Perception, and is for situations where no one's actively watching. Active Perception is a Quick Action Interrupt, rolled using either Perception plus Survival or Perception plus Investigation.   While in Stealth, you may only move at half your Move speed and must end your turn obscured or hidden in some way, or you immediately lose Stealth. If you dash across an open space while in Stealth, you may become Exposed if any observers catch sight of you.   Cover   Cover can only protect you from Ranged attacks. There are three types of Cover:   ● No Cover: Protects less than 30% of your body. Provides no bonuses.   ● Half Cover: Protects between 30 to 95% of your body. Ranged Attacks against you have   Disadvantage.   ● Full Cover: Only 5% of your body is exposed. You can't be targeted by Ranged Attacks   barring a few exceptions.   With some of the basic mechanics out of the way, I'd like to focus on some specific Skills that certain players for my upcoming game have chosen. There are 37 different Skills to choose in NewEdo, so this is only a small fraction of what's available.   Dodge   Dodge is a unique Skill that adds to a character's Defence against Melee Attacks. An invaluable Skill for an up close and personal fighter. At Rank 3, you can start Dodging Projectile Attacks. Dodging is a Quick Action Interrupt, so it's useful in conjunction with moving and acting while being attacked. Perfect for a martial fighter or ninja.   Banter   A fun social Skill that uses the Reflex Trait. Banter is used to steer a conversation with multiple people, helping or hindering others. At Ranks 2 and 3, you gain the Abilities Chime In and Burn, which allow you to make a Quick Action Interrupt to either add or subtract your Banter Roll from someone else's Social Roll.   Athletics   Like in most TRPG's, Athletics is your physical prowess in running, jumping, climbing, swimming, etc. In NewEdo, you unlock some special bonuses at later Ranks. At Rank 2, your Climb, Swim, and Lifting modifiers all increased. At Rank 3, you gain Tumble, an ability that allows you to reduce falling damage by the amount rolled from an Athletics Check.   Unarmed   Unarmed is your ability to fight without a weapon. It increases your ability to Grapple, and quickly increases damage to unarmed attack early on at Ranks 1 and 2. At Rank 3, you gain the ability to call Raises with unarmed attacks, a mechanic usually reserved to Projectile Attacks.   Tactics   Tactics checks are made right before the beginning of a fight. The leaders of both squads roll Savvy plus Tactics plus 1d10 for every active teammate to determine who's superior. The losing team begins combat Demoralized, a status condition that reduces their Initiative and Resolve by 5 each, and they can no longer take Quick Action Interrupt Attacks against Exposed targets.   If you need to look up other Skills and what bonuses you get at each rank, begin on pg. 191. I'll finish things up by going over two of NewEdo's unique mechanics: Legend and Fate.   Legend   Legend is your character's overall power level, and measures how “Legendary” you are in the world. At a certain Legend ranking, your Path is increased, giving you new abilities. In addition to acting as your power level, it also fuels a resource known as Temporary Legend. Your Temporary Legend is restored between sessions, and it's used to cast Rotes and activate certain abilities, usually from Skill Ranks. It also acts as a last ditch HP Pool, known as Burning Legend. If you take damage past zero, you begin burning through Temporary Legend. Once all of your HP and Temporary Legend are depleted, you die for good.   Fate   Every character has a Fate Card, which acts as a personal random d100 roll chart. There are many things you can add to your Fate Card that come from character creation. You can roll for Fate once per turn, unless otherwise specified, to gamble for good fortune versus bad luck. When rolling for Fate, it's important to remember you can only roll when there are stakes, and only before you roll for a normal check. If you roll a Critical Success, you automatically succeed. Rolling a Botch means you automatically fail.   And that concludes this episode of Rules Explanation for NewEdo! I hope that my players can use this to help prepare them for their upcoming game, but it should be noted that there's much more to learn than what was mentioned here. I encourage my players and anyone else listening to read up on more of the rules, especially those that pertain to your character. This is a large game, so it'll require a lot of trial and error, even for veterans like myself, however this system holds a lot of potential for detailed character development, tactical combat, and immersive storytelling. If you haven't picked this game up yet, and it sounds interesting, please consider buying it from Salty dash Games dot com. That's Salty, HYPHEN, Games dot com. If you still aren't convinced, please listen to my upcoming episode, listen in on our game, and decide then! Thank you, and goodbye!