Wolf Precision's Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast

n this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson of Wolf Precision makes the case for the .22 ARC and why it may become one of the most versatile rifle cartridges available today.

Jamie has long been a fan of the .22 Creedmoor, but after seeing early results from customers and testing new rifles built with the Gen 4 ACE system, the .22 ARC is proving to be an extremely compelling option for many shooters

Jamie also previews upcoming videos where the team will swap chambers using the ACE system, rebuild the rifles o...

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie shares lessons learned from the recent Moving Target Clinic in Swainsboro, Georgia. After spending several days watching shooters tackle challenging moving targets, one thing became very clear: success in shooting often comes down to mindset.

Jamie breaks down the story of two very different shooters and how their approach to pressure, patience, and emotional control dramatically affected their performance on the firing line. From tiny moving targets at 400 yards to a challenging 1,000-yard balloon shot, the class provided powerful examples of how the...

In this episode of the Wolf Precision Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson introduces the next evolution of training at Wolf Precision: the Prosumer Gunsmithing School.  After more than 20 years of building custom rifles and teaching long-range shooting, Jamie explains why learning to select components, understand rifle systems, and build your own custom rifle is one of the most valuable skills a shooter can develop.

This episode discusses:

• The philosophy behind the Prosumer Gunsmithing School
• Why selecting the right components (actions, barrels, stocks, and chassis) is critical
• The importance of hands...

In this episode of the Wolf Precision Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson sits down with EriK Cortina, competitive shooter and creator of the Cortina Precision tuner system, to discuss one of the most debated accessories in precision rifle shooting, barrel tuners.

Barrel tuners have become extremely popular in competitive shooting, particularly in F-Class and PRS circles. But what do they actually do? Are they shrinking groups, or simply changing barrel harmonics and recoil characteristics?

Erik shares the story behind how he first started experimenting with tuners, the inspiration he took...

In Episode 264 of the Wolf Precision Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson dives into a frequently asked questions at Wolf Precision schools and reloading classes:   Do barrel tuners really work?  This episode begins a two-part deep dive into barrel tuners, exploring the physics, theories, and real-world considerations behind these increasingly popular devices.

Jamie breaks down:

• What a barrel tuner actually does
• The theory of barrel harmonics and vibration nodes
• Why moving weight on the muzzle can influence accuracy
• The historical origins of tuners, including the Browning BOSS system
• The...

Spring is finally here, and the 2026 shooting season is about to begin.

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson of Wolf Precision shares updates from SHOT Show and the Great American Outdoor Show, talks about upcoming training opportunities, and dives into several important topics for shooters and hunters.

Jamie discusses the art of shooting moving targets, why learning mover math can completely change the way you hunt, and details the upcoming Wolf Precision Movers Class in Swainsboro, Georgia.

He also answers a listener question about...

In Episode 262, Jamie breaks down the 2026 updates to the Wolf Pack—and why we simplified everything to make it easier for more shooters across the country to join, learn, and build with confidence.

Here's what's changing for 2026:

One Wolf Pack membership — $19/month (monthly or annual) with full access to all three online schools: Long Range Shooting School + ProSumer Gunsmithing School + Reloading Class

Wolf Pack members get 10% off Wolf Precision-made products (ACE system, barrel vises, chamber wrenches, and more) — designed to help the membership pay for itself

A deeper look at the ProSumer...

In Episode 261 of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, we continue our Fundamentals of Marksmanship series with Part Two, revisiting one of our most requested and most re-listened-to topics from the archives.

This episode dives deep into "driving the rifle"—how grip pressure, recoil management, rear-bag control, and consistency behind the rifle directly affect accuracy. We answer listener questions about loose versus firm grip, free recoil versus control, and why most shooting errors happen behind the rifle, not in front of the scope.

We also explore how skills from pistol shooting and ar...

We're kicking off the new year by revisiting one of our most popular and impactful series: the Fundamentals of Marksmanship. This is Part 1 of the classic series (originally posted years ago), brought back by popular demand from listeners who still reference it today. A customer recently reached out after rediscovering it—saying it changed their shooting—and we couldn't agree more. Now's the perfect time to dust it off, update the mindset, and get back to the basics that separate good shooters from great ones.

In this episode, Jamie pulls no punches: forget chasing the "one magi...

In Episode 259 of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson answers a question we hear all the time: how long does it really take to become a great shooter?

Inspired by a conversation with listener Monty, Jamie breaks down why some shooters can spend 10–20 years on the range and still feel "stuck," while others make huge gains in a short time—once they learn the right fundamentals, get good coaching, and start fixing the small issues that silently wreck performance (rifle setup, ammo, optics, fundamentals, and process).

You'll also hear an upda...

Welcome back to Episode 258 of the Long Range Shooting & Custom Rifle Building Podcast presented by Wolf Precision Incorporated. Jamie Dotson wishes everyone a Happy New Year and shares what he believes is the number one reason to get into long-range shooting: it's magical.

From the unforgettable pause between the shot and the impact, to the satisfaction of steering a bullet through wind and distance, Jamie explains why ringing steel at 1,000 yards never gets old—and why stepping away from shooting for too long makes you forget just how much fun it really is. He also dives into th...

In this special Christmas episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and announces two all-inclusive giveaway slots for Wolf Precision's 2026 Long Range Shooting School.

Stick around to the end of the episode to learn how to register and win, including one slot with no strings attached and a second slot reserved for Wolf Pack members.

We also continue our Because You Asked series with a very common—and very serious—question: sticky bolt lift. Listener "Anthony" reached out after experiencing extremely stiff bolt lift and...

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie kicks off a new series called The Simple Truth—and pulls no punches.

You can learn through trial and error, or you can learn from professionals. Both are expensive. But what most people underestimate isn't just the money—it's the time, frustration, and risk that come with assumptions and misinformation.

Jamie shares real-world stories from decades in long-range shooting, gunsmithing, and manufacturing, including:

Why assumption is the death of good projects

How "experience" without feedback becomes a clos...

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson kicks off another installment of the Because You Asked series—this one titled "One More Question."

If you've ever called a gunsmith with "just one quick question," you already know how it goes… one more question turns into another—and another. In this episode, Jamie tackles two of the most common (and most misunderstood) issues shooters run into, especially when suppressors enter the mix.

Why a suppressor sometimes won't thread all the way onto the barrel

Carbon buildup, thread...

In episode 254, we continue our Build Kit series by talking about the top tier option – a full custom Wolf Precision rifle, built turn-key and ready to shoot right out of the box. I dig into who a true full custom is really for, how it compares to our "assembled minus one" kits, and why it's the right choice for shooters who want world-class performance without having to turn a single wrench… at least not yet.

From there we jump into a couple of jaw-dropping "drop-fit" chassis disasters that recently landed on the bench – including some very high-end stocks...

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie dives into the most popular option in the Wolf Precision Build Kit lineup—Level Two: Assembled Minus one.

Learn why this "assembled minus one" approach has become the sweet spot for shooters who want a true custom rifle, without the full custom rifle price tag. Jamie explains how Level Two gives you:

A professionally assembled rifle built to Wolf Precision standards

A massive cost savings by avoiding excise tax

A simple, confidence-building first step into rifle building

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie continues our deep-dive series into the Wolf Precision Rifle Build Kits—specifically the Level 1 / unassembled kit and why our professional inspection of every component matters.

Jamie shares real-world examples from 20+ years of building custom rifles, including the hidden stock and chassis issues that can damage triggers, receivers, create feeding problems, or cripple accuracy before the rifle ever sees the range. He explains why having a gunsmith inspect every component—actions, barrels, stocks, chassis, triggers, inlets, action screws and more—can save you money, time...

A practical guide to Wolf Precision's Level 1–3 builds, Gen-4 ACE with BAT actions, and the new prosumer gunsmithing path.

In Episode 251, Jamie Dodson breaks down Wolf Precision's new three-level path for owning a custom ACE-based rifle—designed to save you money, build real skills, and put world-class performance in your hands.

Level 1 (Core Kit): all core components minus the trigger, with training to assemble, maintain, and swap calibers/barrels yourself.

Level 2 (Assembled Minus One): a fully assembled rifle minus the trigger (two pins and done), perfect for first-timers who want a correct baseline befo...

In this milestone 250th episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson of Wolf Precision dives deep into what it truly takes to become a great shooter — not just a good one. From observing world-class marksmen in action to drawing parallels between sailing, flying, and racing, Jamie explains how true mastery comes from using your tools to their fullest potential.

It's not about the price tag on your rifle — it's about learning to push it, test it, and grow with it. Whether you're driving a Hellcat on a racetrack or taking your rifl...

Episode 249: The Forever Barrel — Fact or Fiction?
In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson dives into one of the most exciting developments for 2026 — the concept of the Forever Barrel. With the launch of the Gen-4 ACE system, Wolf Precision explores how precision chambering and modern machining can extend a barrel's usable life two to three times longer than traditional setups.

Jamie breaks down the science of throat wear, why traditional "set-back" chambering often fails, and how separating the chamber from the barrel changes everything. He also discusses long-term savi...

In this episode, Jamie grabs a coffee and gets brutally honest about what it really takes to build a great rifle—from barrels and actions to stocks, triggers, and the often-ignored weak link: the way chambers are made. We break down why no-compromise components (think Krieger Barrels, BAT Machine, TriggerTech, and MDT) consistently deliver world-class results, how ownership and craftsmanship beat subcontracted widgets, and why "pass/fail" tolerances aren't good enough when accuracy is the goal. Jamie also shares how the Gen-4 ACE System reimagines chambering—moving the chamber onto the barrel for repeatability, user serviceability, and true prosumer capa...

Baffle strikes are preventable. Jamie breaks down how tiny misalignments snowball inside a suppressor—and why range rods are cheap insurance. Learn the quick pass/fail checks, direct-thread vs. mount pitfalls, and the shoulder/cerakote prep that keeps cans on and accuracy up.+

 Plus: In-person Reloading Classes are live for January, February, and March—strictly 6 students per class for true hands-on learning. Sponsors: TriggerTech, MDT, and Krieger Barrels. Register now at wolfprecision.net.

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson shares some big news – the long-awaited Movers Class is officially coming in 2026! We'll talk about what makes this course one of the most exciting and challenging shooting experiences, from shooting movers to the camaraderie (and barbecue) that comes with training in Georgia.

Then we continue our gunsmithing series, diving deep into one of the most important – and often overlooked – tools in precision rifle building: the lathe. Whether you're a new gunsmith thinking of chambering your first barrel, or a shooter deciding who to tru...

In this episode of Wolf Precision's Long-Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson takes on one of the most important conversations surrounding innovation in the rifle world: the difference between how something works and why it exists. With the Gen 4 ACE system about to launch, Jamie addresses the chatter, criticism, and outright attacks the system has drawn from some corners of the gunsmithing community.

Rather than dodge the controversy, Jamie lays out the purpose behind the ACE: transforming chambering from an inconsistent, service-based process into a repeatable, component-driven solution that empowers shooters and delivers world-class...

In this special episode of Wolf Precision's Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson sits down for an in-person roundtable with legendary barrel maker John Krieger, alongside Sharon Farmer and Jamie Wotasik of the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School.

This is more than just an interview—it's a rare, behind-the-scenes conversation about the craft, challenges, and philosophy behind world-class barrels. John shares his journey from machining roots in the early 1980s to building one of the most respected barrel companies in the world. You'll hear stories of trial-and-error, breakthroughs, and the tribal knowledge that separates a "go...

In this special episode, Jamie sits down with Bruce Thom, founder of BAT Machine, to dive deep into the history, philosophy, and uncompromising craftsmanship that have made BAT actions legendary. From the company's benchrest roots to dominating tactical, hunting, and ELR applications, Bruce shares how precision, tolerances, and attention to detail shape every receiver they produce.

We cover the difference between tolerances and clearances, what defines an "ultra-premium" action, how BAT approaches machining and heat treating, and why smoothness and consistency matter more than shortcuts. With over 100 world records set on BAT actions, this conversation highlights not...

When the pressure is on—whether it's the final stage of a match or a once-in-a-lifetime shot in the field—most shooters make the same mistake: they try harder, clamp down, and unknowingly sabotage their rifle's accuracy. In this episode, Jamie Dodson of Wolf Precision dives into the realities of shooting under pressure, why fundamentals matter most when it counts, and how to avoid letting nerves dictate your shot.

Jamie also clears the air about Wolf Precision's patented ACE system. While often misunderstood as simply a caliber-swapping convenience, the ACE was designed to solve one of the bigg...

In this episode of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson takes a hard look at BDC turrets and reticles — and why he jokingly calls them "Being Duped for Cash." From the break-in period of a new rifle to the effects of density altitude, Jamie explains why these systems often fail at longer ranges and how they can give hunters a false sense of security. He shares real-world examples from the Wolf Precision shooting school, breaks down where BDC systems work and where they don't, and offers practical advice on dialing dope the right way in...

In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on a long-standing myth in the American hunting community: that 1 MOA equals 1 inch at 100 yards. Spoiler alert—it doesn't. Jamie Dodson walks you through the real math behind minutes and mils, compares their pros and cons, and explains why the "language of hunters" might be more marketing than fact.

We're diving deep into how rounding MOA values distorts your accuracy, why mils are faster, cleaner, and more honest, and why most of the world—and long-range shooters—prefer them. If you've ever been told that minutes are "simple" or "easier...

Welcome to Episode 239 of the Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast! I'm your host, Jamie Dodson, and in this episode, we're proud to officially introduce Wolf Precision's Prosumer Gunsmithing School—a first-of-its-kind educational initiative designed to teach shooters how to build, assemble, and maintain true custom rifles from the ground up using our revolutionary ACE system.

We break down the difference between our Assembled Rifle Kit and the Prosumer Gunsmithing Kit, explore why the pre-fit barrel model is flawed, and reveal how we're bridging the gap between overpriced "custom" factory rifles and unsupported DIY builds. Wh...

Welcome to Episode 238 of Wolf Precision's Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast! In this first installment of our new series, we dive deep into one of the most frustrating questions in precision shooting: Why isn't my rifle shooting accurately?

Drawing on two decades of experience at the firing line, Jamie breaks down the foundational issues that plague both factory and custom rifles—starting with your components, your scope setup, the torque on your action screws, and the hidden dangers of poor manufacturing tolerances. Whether it's a misaligned base, budget stock flex, or a bad muzzle br...

In this episode, Jamie Dodson dives deep into the top five mistakes shooters commonly make after buying a custom rifle—and more importantly, how to avoid them. From skipping barrel break-in to improperly mounted optics, relying blindly on factory ammo, shooting without a data logbook, and expecting the rifle to perform magic without the shooter doing their part—Jamie covers it all with real-world examples and tips from the classroom and range.

Plus, hear about the upcoming Rifle Readiness Clinics, one last opening in the fall Long Range Shooting School, and a few great stories from recent stud...

In this heartfelt episode, Jamie Dotson delivers a passionate message to those who've never had the chance to experience long-range shooting. From the life-changing thrill of ringing steel at 300 yards to the friendships and confidence built along the way, this is a call to action for anyone who's ever been curious — and maybe a little intimidated — to take the first shot.

Thanks for tuning in—we hope you enjoy this episode!

After 20 years of building and shooting custom rifles, Jamie Dodson reflects on a surprising truth discovered on the firing line: accuracy isn't always about just high-dollar parts. In this episode, Jamie shares the eye-opening story of a basic Remington 700 build that challenged everything he thought he knew about what really makes a rifle sing—or sink.

From throat geometry to barrel fouling, Jamie breaks down the real factors behind exceptional rifle performance and shares the hard-earned wisdom from thousands of rounds downrange. Whether you're a new shooter, a prosumer gunsmith, or a seasoned competitor, this episode will ch...

In this episode of the Wolf Precision Long Range Shooting and Custom Rifle Building Podcast, Jamie Dodson delves into the incredible power of new shooters and the valuable lessons experienced marksmen can learn from them. From hitting targets at 1,000 yards on day two to seeing a brand new shooter gain confidence and skill, this episode highlights the fresh perspective that new shooters bring to the range. Discover how they excel by not putting limits on themselves and why mindset is everything in the world of long-range shooting. Plus, Jamie shares insights from the latest shooting school class and offers...

In this two-part episode, Jamie Dotson dives headfirst into the evolving world of pre-fit barrels—what they are, why they're gaining traction, and the fine line between true gunsmithing and prosumer assembly. With insights sparked by Backfire TV's latest exposé, Jamie breaks down the business models behind high-priced "custom" rifles and the real cost of precision.

Then, in a brand-new series, Jamie explores one of the most fascinating phenomena in long-range shooting: how brand new shooters, with zero experience, often outperform seasoned veterans. What can experienced marksmen learn from complete beginners? A lot more than you'd think.

In this powerful episode, Jamie shares two unforgettable stories from the range: a 17-year-old first-time shooter who crushed targets out to 1,000 yards, and a soon to be retired firefighter whose second chance at long-range success came with a 6mm Creedmoor and a boost in confidence. From mindset to marksmanship, Jamie unpacks why belief in your ability is as critical as the rifle you shoot. Plus, exciting news about the launch of our Gen 4 ACE Chamber System — seven years of development culminating in a leap forward for precision rifle building. If you're new to shooting, mentoring someone who is, or cha...

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Jamie Dodson of Wolf Precision shares a raw behind-the-scenes look at the human side of running a custom rifle business. From frustrating customer interactions to reflections on how post-COVID culture has shifted the way we treat each other, Jamie dives into the challenges of maintaining grace, professionalism, and sanity in a world that's quick to criticize and slow to listen.

He talks about why it's important to set boundaries with customers, the need to separate friendship from business, and the cost of trying to please the impossible. Along the way, you'll...

In this no-holds-barred episode, Jamie shares a story that's equal parts cautionary tale and the driving force behind Wolf Precision's upcoming Prosumer Gunsmithing School. From a damaged rifle at a shooting school to a deep dive on the risks of DIY installs, Jamie explains why sometimes even good intentions can lead to costly mistakes. He also touches on why Wolf stopped doing outside gunsmithing work, what inspired their new consumer-based ACE Gen 4 system, and how the upcoming gunsmithing course aims to empower shooters to take control of their builds — the right way.

Bonus content includes:

Be...

In this episode, Jamie Dodson shares insights on how to streamline business operations, creating lasting content to save time and energy, and ensuring Wolf Precision's continued success while spending more quality time with family. Jamie discusses the challenges of balancing customer relationships with business needs, the importance of maintaining fair pricing, and the upcoming launch of exciting new classes and products, including the Gen 4 Ace and the reloading courses. He also offers crucial advice for business owners on how to avoid the slippery slope of "friends and family" discounts and shares key updates on the company's new class schedules...