Shows
The Archery ProjectJames Yates Arrow Ballistic Study: What Does It Mean For Bowhunters?What makes the perfect hunting arrow? For years, bowhunters have relied on marketing claims and personal preferences, but now groundbreaking research provides data-driven answers. The largest independent arrow ballistic study ever conducted has finally given us scientific evidence about what really happens after you release an arrow.Zakk Plocica and Bryan Gay break down the revolutionary findings from James Yates' comprehensive study performed at Easton's facility in Salt Lake City. This isn't just another opinion piece it's a deep dive into hard data that challenges many long-held beliefs in the archery community. The study tested 34 vane configurations, 27...2025-07-281h 20
The Archery ProjectThe Bare Truth About Archery Shops, Brands, and Bullsh*t With John WinkerEver wonder what makes archery shops survive while others fail? Or why some archers swear by traditional equipment in a high-tech world? This episode delivers answers through a candid conversation with John Winker, owner of First Flight Archery in Raleigh and elite barebow competitor.John shares his remarkable journey from burned-out compound shooter to USA Team longbow archer almost by accident. After witnessing traditional archers having genuine fun while compound shooters complained, he picked up a longbow, made the national team within months, and later became a national champion in barebow. His perspective on what makes each...2025-07-151h 34
The Archery ProjectThe Best Compound Bow of 2025: Our Honest Thoughts on Outdoor Life’s Bow Of The YearThe archery landscape has a familiar champion for 2025, with PSE securing its third consecutive "Best Compound Bow" title in Outdoor Life's annual testing. The crew at Extreme Outfitters breaks down this impressive three-peat victory, diving deep into what makes the Mach 33 stand out in a fiercely competitive field.Across nine premium compound bows from major manufacturers, we explore the nuanced differences in performance, feel, and technology that separate today's top contenders. The conversation reveals fascinating insights about PSE's "secret sauce" – their EC2 cam system and full-draw stability that consistently delivers downrange accuracy that's hard to match. When th...2025-07-0259 min
The Archery ProjectHealing Through Archery: The Story Behind Endex Archery with Jay McCoyWhat happens when a bow becomes more than just a tool for hunting or competition? For veterans and first responders battling the invisible wounds of trauma, it can become a lifeline.Jay from Endex Archery joins us to share the powerful story behind this unique nonprofit. After losing six teammates during a 2015 deployment, Jay found himself spiraling into depression and isolation. His Matthews Creed bow became an unexpected source of healing, allowing him to escape his "trauma goggles" and be fully present for the first time since returning home.This personal transformation sparked a mission...2025-06-171h 02
The Archery ProjectThe Art & Science of IBO 3D Archery: Zakk, Bryan & Cody HarringtonEver wondered how the pros judge yardage without rangefinders? The secret world of IBO competitive archery offers fascinating insights that can transform your bowhunting success. In this episode, we dive deep into the techniques and strategies used at the highest levels of unknown-distance 3D archery with our lead tech Cody, who recently competed in the IBO National Triple Crown event in West Virginia. From the surprising method of listening for the time between arrow release and target impact, to the psychological game of maintaining confidence when judging distances up to 52 yards, this conversation reveals the calculated approach b...2025-06-0356 min
The Archery ProjectThe Ultimate Total Archery Challenge Prep GuideReady to take on the ultimate 3D archery experience? Whether you're headed to your first Total Archery Challenge or looking to improve your next TAC adventure, this comprehensive preparation guide covers everything you need to know before hitting the mountain.The Total Archery Challenge isn't your average 3D shoot. With courses stretching 2-8 miles through rugged terrain, shots ranging from 40 to 120+ yards, and extreme uphill and downhill angles, TAC tests every aspect of your archery game. We break down the essential equipment considerations that can make or break your experience, starting with what might be the most...2025-05-2947 min
The Archery ProjectTennessee TAC Experience: Zakk Plocica, Bryan Gay & JR GettlerWhat happens when five guys, two trucks full of archery gear, and relentless rain converge at one of the country's premier archery events? Pure chaos, unexpected adventure, and surprisingly—a whole lot of fun. Nestled on 18,000 acres of breathtaking Tennessee terrain, the Total Archery Challenge quickly turned from a perfect setup day to an epic test of endurance as rain, hail, and ankle-deep mud transformed the courses into something resembling a survival challenge. Despite Mother Nature's best efforts, the spirit of the archery community remained unbroken, with participants trudging through miles of muddy trails determined to make the...2025-05-2552 min
The Founderz LoungeEpisode 34: Zakk PlocicaDescription: Zakk is the owner of Extreme Outfitters in Jacksonville NC. Zakk shares his story of how his family bought the business, struggled, almost lost everything, and now has built a solid brand based on customer service and standing out against the competition. Don & Zakk share their history in fitness and how those disciplines translate over into running a business. https://instagram.com/donvarady https://instagram.com/stevebon8https://instagram.com/thefounderzlounge https://instagram.com/founderzlounge Clean Eatz - http://www.cleaneatz.comBonseye Marketing - http://www...2025-05-1247 min
The Archery ProjectWoodsmanship Over Gear: How to Become a More Effective Turkey HunterMaster outdoorsman Zack Rhodes takes us deep into the world of turkey hunting, revealing hard-won strategies that have helped him consistently fill tags across multiple states. With the spring turkey season in full swing, Zack shares his aggressive, mobile approach that stands in stark contrast to the static, wait-it-out methods many hunters employ."Don't let that bird walk out of your life," Zack emphasizes throughout our conversation. This mantra drives his proactive hunting style—when a gobbler does something unexpected or goes silent, Zack doesn't hesitate to make tactical moves to get back in the game. This wi...2025-05-081h 02
The Archery ProjectMastering the Total Archery Challenge: A Beginners GuideStepping into the world of Total Archery Challenge with experienced tech JR Gettler, we unpack everything you need to know before attending one of archery's most exhilarating events. From Pennsylvania's steep mountain terrain to Tennessee's challenging courses, this insider guide reveals how TAC has transformed 3D archery into an experience that tests skills, builds friendships, and creates lasting memories.Unlike traditional competitive shoots, TAC focuses on realistic hunting scenarios with shots that will humble even veteran archers. You'll be navigating uneven terrain, shooting steep uphill and downhill angles approaching 30 degrees, and stretching your bow to distances you...2025-05-0645 min
Caribou Media Outdoors PodcastEp 029: Zakk Plocica | Extreme OutfittersOn this episode I sit down with Zakk Plocica from Extreme Outfitters. Zakk is the owner of Extreme Outfitters and an avid archer, bowhunter, and outdoorsman, Zakk and his dedicated team of bow techs are ready to help you get set up with your next bow. Zakk and I talk about new bows for 2025, arrows, sights, our dedication to bowhunting and everything in between. Follow Extreme Outfitters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/extreme_outfitters/Subscribe to the Extreme OutfittersYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@extremeoutfitters2025-05-051h 01
The Archery ProjectMountain Madness: A First-Timer's DIY Elk HuntWhat does it really take to leave the comfort of sea level and dive into the unforgiving world of DIY elk hunting at 9,000 feet? In this raw, insightful conversation, Joe Kolaszewski takes us through his transformative first backcountry elk hunting experience in Colorado—a journey that tested his physical limits, mental fortitude, and fundamentally changed his perspective on what it means to be a hunter.The adventure began months before setting foot on the mountain, with targeted training sessions and strategic preparation. Yet nothing could fully prepare Joe and his hunting partner for the reality of high-altitude hu...2025-05-041h 19
The Archery ProjectEarly Season Success: Take The Path Less TraveledWhat does it take to find consistent success in the challenging deer hunting environment of Eastern North Carolina? Brian reveals how a $1,000 investment in a jon boat completely transformed his hunting strategy and led to early-season success this year.Accessing areas where other hunters can't or won't go often makes the difference between seeing deer and seeing trophy deer. Brian walks us through his entire journey — from rebuilding a jon boat to navigating swampy terrain to ultimately harvesting a beautiful 9-point buck he nicknamed "Cheeto" because of its uniquely shaped tine. His story culminates in an unexpected en...2025-05-021h 06
The Archery ProjectEaston's Engineering Excellence: Quality, Innovation, and Precision in Arrow ManufacturingWhat separates a good arrow from a truly exceptional one? In this revealing conversation with Cody Griffin, Promotions Manager at Easton, we pull back the curtain on the engineering excellence that makes Easton the premier arrow manufacturer in the world.Cody takes us inside the closely-guarded manufacturing facilities in Salt Lake City, where American engineering and innovation create arrows that have dominated Olympic archery since 1996. We explore the revolutionary Acu-Carbon process that allows Easton to control four critical arrow elements simultaneously - something no other manufacturer can match. From spine consistency to component tolerances measured in thousandths...2025-04-301h 23
The Archery ProjectBow Hunting to Taxidermy: Self-sufficiency in a Modern WorldWhat does it really mean to be self-sufficient in today's disconnected world? Alison Zeiselmeier might have the answer.As our first female guest on the podcast, Alison brings a refreshing perspective to traditionally male-dominated outdoor pursuits. From growing up with parents who encouraged outdoor exploration to becoming a skilled bow hunter, homesteader, and professional taxidermist, her journey exemplifies authentic connection with the natural world.Our conversation weaves through the challenges and triumphs of bow hunting, including Alison's candid recounting of missed shots and the humbling learning curve that comes with developing true skill. We explore...2025-04-281h 17
The Archery ProjectBeyond the Backyard: Planning Your First Out-of-State HuntEvery hunter dreams of exploring new territories, but planning a successful out-of-state hunt requires more than just booking time off and hitting the road. In this candid conversation with experienced hunter and outdoorsman JR Owen, we unpack the essential elements that separate triumphant adventures from disappointing expeditions.Fresh off his 700-mile journey on the Appalachian Trail, JR brings his methodical planning approach to hunting preparation. He breaks down the critical first steps of selecting a destination based on budget, species availability, and terrain preferences. The conversation takes a practical turn as we explore the often-overlooked importance of...2025-04-231h 24
The Archery ProjectAre You Hoping or Are You Hunting? Early Season Bow TacticsWhat separates the consistently successful bow hunters from those who struggle season after season? The answer might surprise you. It's not about having the latest gear or hunting the most days - it's about strategic thinking and methodical preparation that happens long before opening day.Levi Marshall, a dedicated whitetail hunter, reveals his systematic approach to scouting and hunting that has helped him harvest mature bucks on pressured properties. The conversation opens with a critical but often overlooked foundation - ensuring your home life is balanced before attempting to focus in the field. As Levi explains, "If...2025-04-201h 27
The Archery ProjectFamily, Fitness and the Trad Bow GrindRuben Carreras takes us on a compelling journey through his evolution from Marine Corps parachute rigger to accomplished bowhunter and fitness enthusiast. After years of hunting frustration, Ruben finally cracked the code this season, harvesting two impressive bucks within nine days using a traditional bow – an achievement that came from fundamentally changing his approach to hunting.The secret to his success wasn't simply logging more hours in the stand. Instead, Ruben discovered that strategic patience, understanding deer behavior, and mastering entry routes made all the difference. "Just because you have time to be in the woods doesn't me...2025-04-161h 13
The Archery ProjectThe Instinctive Hunt: Traditional Archery, Turkeys, & Mountain LionsA wooden bow in hand, watching an arrow's perfect flight, and feeling that connection to something ancient and primal—this is the world of traditional bowhunting that Joe Long introduces us to in this captivating conversation. From his earliest memories of fashioning homemade bows as a child to becoming an accomplished traditional archer, Joe shares how the "mystical flight of the arrow" captured his imagination and never let go.We dive deep into the technical aspects that make traditional archery uniquely challenging yet rewarding. Joe explains why he prefers different feather lengths for various hunting scenarios, the ad...2025-04-151h 36
The Archery ProjectHow To Achieve Success As A NEW Whitetail BowhunterWhat does it take to operate at the highest levels across multiple domains of life? Justin Morris reveals the mindset and methods that have allowed him to excel in federal law enforcement while passionately pursuing bow hunting, jiu-jitsu, and outdoor adventures.As a former military member who transitioned through private contracting into local police work and eventually to the Department of Justice, Justin brings a unique perspective on discipline and performance. His approach is refreshingly straightforward: go all-in on everything, surround yourself with people who make you feel "common among uncommon men," and maintain relentless forward momentum.2025-04-151h 19
The Archery ProjectWhen To Get Aggressive Bowhunting Whitetail DeerSome times you've got to get aggressive bowhunting whitetil deer and create your own luck. That's exactly what Joe did this year with his aggressive bow hunting tactics. In this episode of the show we sit down with Joe Kolaszewski a prior Recon Marine who transferred to the Navy and is currently serving as a Critical Flight Care Nurse, and discuss his bow hunting tactics, the reason he shoots an 80lb bow, how he involves his family in his hunting adventures and his plans for his upcoming Elk Season in Colorado. 🏹 Shop Extreme Outfitters for all...2025-04-151h 17
The Archery ProjectChallenges Of A Bowhunter & Hunting Eastern NCBow hunting on it's own is hard enough. As a bowhunter you are constantly battling and over coming new challenges, but when you start later in life, have to compete with dog hunters and have injuries to over come it can really be even more of a challenge. In this episode I sit down with Bryan Gay and discuss his background, his successful 2024 season, how he got his late start into bow hunting and the challenges he has faced. 🏹 Shop Extreme Outfitters for all of your archery & bowhunting needs: https://extremeoutfitters.com2025-04-141h 17
The Archery ProjectBow Setup & Expectations For The Lancaster Archery ClassicTalking with JR one of the lead techs at Extreme Outfitters and we discuss his bow setup for the Lancaster Archery Classic and dive into his prep, experience and future goals!🏹 Shop Extreme Outfitters for all of your archery & bowhunting needs: https://extremeoutfitters.com✅ Watch the video podcast here! https://www.youtube.com/@thearcheryprojectJOIN OUR COMMUNITY:► Facebook: https://bit.ly/2XKyO02► Instagram: https://bit.ly/3GwEjzY2025-04-1441 min