The Hornady Podcast

Host Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer sit down with Michael Waddell for a technical deep dive into rifle and cartridge choices. Along the way, Waddell shares stories from the field—including his worst hunt—and turns the tables with questions of his own. From caliber selection to rifle setups, this episode blends real-world experience with technical insight.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Jayden Quinlan and Miles Neville to break down one of the most frustrating issues for shooters: a wandering zero. They talk about how they used to zero rifles, why your point of impact might be shifting, and how larger sample sizes and smarter practices can lock down a stable zero.

Host Seth Swerczek sits down with Tim Lesser, VP of Marketing and New Products, and Dr. Dustin Miller, Director of Engineering at Leupold, to answer listener questions about all things optics. From the basics of glass to deep dives into engineering, this episode covers what hunters and shooters really want to know.

Host Seth Swerczek and Preston Lentfer sit down with Michael Waddell to talk about his upbringing, the values that shaped him, and his philosophy on today’s hunting industry. From personal stories to unfiltered opinions, it’s a laid-back conversation with one of hunting’s most recognizable voices.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Nick Earixson and newcomer Randy Ames to unpack the ins and outs of carrying a sidearm in the field. From cartridge selection and firearm type to different carry methods and real-world considerations, the crew explores what makes a sidearm the right—or wrong—choice for your next backcountry hunt.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer and Judd Jarzynka to break down everything you need to know about using tripods in the field. From choosing the right height and head style to understanding weight tradeoffs and field functionality, this episode covers the pros, cons, and real-world value of this often-overlooked tool. Whether you’re hunting big game or ringing steel—this one’s worth the listen.

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Nick Earixson and Preston Lentfer to dive into the history of the legendary 300 Savage. From its early 20th-century debut to its role as the blueprint for future short-action cartridges, the team unpacks where it fit in, what made it special, and why it still deserves respect today.

What happens when you build the ultimate predator rifle? Seth and Preston break down every detail of Seth’s custom AR-15, chambered in 22 ARC — from barrel to buttstock. Whether you're chasing coyotes, ringing steel, or looking for the perfect youth deer rifle, this episode dives deep into the why behind each component choice. Tune in for a no nonsense walkthrough of one of the most versatile AR builds in the Hornady vault.

Is the Earth really messing with your shot? Host Seth Swerczek and Senior Ballistician Jayden Quinlan dig into the Coriolis and Eötvös effects to separate fact from fiction in long-range shooting. They bust the myths, crunch the numbers, and reveal what actually matters when Earth starts spinning.

In this episode of the Hornady Podcast, host Seth Swerczek is joined by Miles Neville and Preston Lentfer to explore the idea of running cartridges designed for the AR-15 in bolt-action rifles. The team discusses the performance benefits, technical considerations, and real-world experiences of pairing rounds like the .223 Rem and 6mm ARC with precision bolt guns. With a mix of insight and enthusiasm, they share why this pairing—although not the design intention—can deliver impressive results.

In this episode of the Hornady Podcast, host Seth Swerczek is joined by Matt Ritchie and Preston Lentfer to dive deep into the 6.5-284 cartridge. From its wildcat origins to its SAAMI-standardized form, the team discusses the history, ballistic performance, and practical applications of this long-range favorite. Whether you're a precision shooter, hunter, or just a ballistics enthusiast, this episode unpacks why the 6.5-284 continues to earn respect on the range and in the field.

In this episode of the Hornady Podcast, host Seth Swerczek is joined by Joe Thielen and Miles Neville to break down the key differences between V-MAX and ELD-VT bullets. Whether you're hunting varmints, dialing for distance, or looking for maximum velocity and precision, the team discusses the strengths, intended uses, and ballistic performance of each projectile. If you’ve ever wondered which bullet is right for your rifle and application, this episode delivers the clarity you need.

On this episode, the team dives into the development of new cartridges and the vital role of SAAMI approval in bringing them to market. Special guests, Matt Wilson and Nate Lyon from Ruger join the conversation to share how they evaluate new cartridge designs—deciding whether they fit within the Ruger lineup, what performance benchmarks matter, and which rifle models are the right match. It’s an inside look at the collaborative process between ammunition and firearm manufacturers that determines what makes the cut in today’s hunting and shooting sports market.

On this episode, Seth is joined by Jason Hornady, Neil Davies, and special guest, Randy Luth of Luth AR. The group explores Randy’s remarkable journey from machinist to founder of industry-leading firearm companies DPMS and Luth-AR. They highlight his extensive contributions to the AR platform, including numerous patents and groundbreaking innovations that helped shape the modern black rifle. The conversation also covers Randy’s early advocacy for using AR-style rifles in the hunting world—long before it became mainstream—cementing his legacy as a true pioneer. Whether you're a firearms enthusiast or an industry insider, this episode offers a fascin...

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by RJ Contorno and Casey Diefenbach from Savage Arms to dive into a "good, better, best" breakdown of Savage rifles. The trio walks through key rifle models across performance tiers, making it easier to find the right fit for your needs and budget. They also explore how the versatile ammunition lineup from Hornady pairs with each level, ensuring you get optimal performance, no matter your setup. Whether you're a new shooter or a seasoned hunter, this episode will help you build a smart, effective rifle-ammo combo.

Host Seth Swerczek teams up with Senior Ballistician Jayden Quinlan and special guest Jeff Siewert for a deep dive into smokeless propellants. From burn rates to behavior—and even a bit about primers—this episode is packed with expert-level insights for serious reloaders.

On this episode, Seth is joined by Tool Plant General Manager, Jason Slinkard and Project Engineer, Dylan Hood.  The guys dive into the all-new Hornady High Speed 3-in-1 Power Case Trimmer.  They break down the R&D process that took nearly 3 years and outline all of the design features that make this tool a game changer for high volume, precision reloaders.  Enjoy the show!

Host Seth Swerczek is joined by Preston Lentfer and Mike Jensen to dive into Mike’s custom 454 Casull and 475 Linebaugh hunting revolvers. From custom modifications to real-world hunts, they explore the performance and stories behind these powerful wheelguns.

On this episode, Seth sits down with successful PRS/NRL competitors, Joe Thielen and Miles Neville. The guys dive deep into what it takes to craft a precision handload capable of obtaining podium finishes. From powder, case prep, bullet seating, and load tuning, this episode is your blueprint for consistent, winning performance. 

On this episode, Seth is joined by Preston and Ben to bring you episode 3 of the How to Wildcat series. The topic of discussion is hydroforming cartridge cases. The team explains how the process works, what equipment is needed, and what matters when forming cases for a custom chamber. They also dive into alternative methods and share helpful tips from their own experience. Whether you're experimenting with wildcats or just curious about the process, this episode covers the entire forming process. We hope you enjoy the show!

On this episode, Seth is joined by Adam Weatherby and Luke Thorkildsen of Weatherby, Inc.  The guys discuss the history of Weatherby and their move to Wyoming, legacy Weatherby cartridges, new cartridge offerings to include the 25 Creedmoor, along with some new and revamped rifle offerings.  We hope you enjoy this conversation with an iconic industry brand.

On today's episode, we are proud to announce the newest member of the Creedmoor family: the 25 Creedmoor. A .25 for '25!  Seth is joined by Senior Ballistician Jayden Quinlan, Assistant Director of Engineering, Joe Thielen, and team shooter and PRS Champion, Austin Orgain.  The group discusses the performance benefits of the 25 Creedmoor along with its origin story and how it was developed.  Be sure to check out the 25 Creedmoor and enjoy the show!

Tune in Friday, April 25th, 2025 for a special new product podcast!

On this episode, Seth is joined by Joe Thielen and Austin Orgain. Not only is Austin a world class shooter, but he owns and operates a barrel manufacturing company called Custom Rifle Barrels. The guys dive into the story behind the origin of the company and some of the nuances and challenges of making accurate barrels for the demanding shooter. We hope you enjoy the show!

On this episode Seth, Preston, and Ben meet to answer a slew of FAQ's surrounding reloading. Most seasoned reloaders have already learned a lot of the tips and tricks discussed in this podcast but if you are just beginning your reloading journey, this episode could really come in handy! We hope you enjoy this episode! 

On this episode, Seth is joined by Joe Thielen, Miles Neville, and Hornady Sponsored Shooter, Austin Orgain. Joe, Miles, and Austin all have something in common, they are passionate about PRS and they are top-level competitors. The guys dive into some actionable items that will help you increase your scores (or hit percentage) at your next match. Enjoy this educational episode! 

On this episode, Seth is joined by Senior Ballistician, Jayden Quinlan, to compare two popular cartridges; the venerable 300 Winchester Magnum and the modern 300 PRC.  Both are heavy-hitting, magnum 30-caliber cartridges, but their differences are quite immense.  Tune in to see which cartridge reigns victorious in this epic cartridge battle. Perhaps, there's room in the safe for both!

On this episode, Seth is joined by Project Engineer, Miles Neville, to discuss a one-of-a-kind rifle build. The pair dive into an NRL Hunter rifle, with a hand-carved walnut stock, that blends design elements from old school and modern alike. By fusing new technology with classic design and parts from a 1903 Springfield, Miles created a jaw-dropping rifle! We hope you enjoy the show.

On this episode, Seth is joined by Hornady Engineers, Ryan and Miles. The topic of discussion is one of our personal favorites - bullets. Specifically, how the weight of a bullet is determined. This episode is an excellent guide to help you understand what bullet weight is, how it affects internal and external ballistics, terminal performance, and how it can be used to your advantage. We hope you enjoy this episode! 

On this episode of Hornady Rifle Builds, Seth is joined in the studio by Preston and his mini, but mighty rifle.  This one is a 6mm ARC built on a Howa Mini Action.  While often overlooked, the Howa Mini Action provided the perfect platform to build this utilitarian and ultra-capable 6mm ARC.  We hope you enjoy!

This week on the Hornady Podcast, it's the battle of the cartridges - the 6.5 Creedmoor vs the 6.5 PRC. Both cartridges are widely popular for hunting and shooting sports and while they share some similarities, each cartridge has it's own unique characteristics. Seth, Preston, and Ryan dive into the specifics that may lead you into choosing one over the other. We hope you enjoy this episode! 

On this episode, Seth is joined by Marketing Operations Manager, Monty DeBoer. The guys dive deep into another rifle build: Monty's custom 30-06. This rifle has been on numerous hunts around the world, and the guys inspect every component of the rifle and explain what makes it so special. We hope you enjoy the show! 

Wildcat Cartridge Series - Part 2. Seth, Ben, and Preston dive into custom reamers. The Wildcat cartridge up for discussion in this series is the 257 Roberts Ackley Improved. The guys discuss considerations for the reamer, including free bore length, diameter, shoulder angle, and other things to ponder if you’re going to take a dive into wildcat cartridges.  We hope you enjoy the show! 

On this episode, Seth and Preston answer a popular viewer request; practice what you preach and show us how to clean a rifle barrel. The guys discuss and demonstrate the method they use to clean a dirty barrel. In this case, it is Preston's PRS rifle chambered in 6mm ARC with about 400 rounds fired. If you've been waiting to see how the guys personally clean a rifle, be sure to tune in!

On this episode of Quinlan's Corner, Seth is joined in the studio by Senior Ballistician, Jayden Quinlan, and Project Engineer, Miles Neville.  The guys dive deep into what truing a BC actually is and the RIGHT way to true it.  Spoiler alert, the best way to use a BC for long range shooting is to NOT use a BC at all.  We hope you enjoy this educational episode on BC truing and using 4DOF and drag coefficient based solutions for your long range shots.

On this episode, Seth, Preston, and Joe Thielen take an in-depth look at the 22 Creedmoor. We have three different rifle configurations on the table today, a show first! The guys walk through each of their personal 22 Creedmoor rifle builds, covering each component and why they were selected. If you like rifles… then this episode is for you! As Joe put it, “One is better than two and three is better than two.” We hope you enjoy this technical breakdown!

On this episode, Seth is joined in the studio by Matt Ritchie, Ryan Damman, and Miles Neville.  Hunting and match season is over for the year.  The guys gather to discuss some actionable items to ensure you're set up for success in the next season. Make the most of the offseason with these helpful tips.  We hope you enjoy the show!

On this episode, Seth is joined by Preston Lentfer and Project Engineer, Ben Syring. The guys gather to discuss the beginning of what will become a series of podcasts showing the process to develop a wildcat cartridge and the building of the rifles for this wildcat. Join us as we outline the entire process, beginning with the design criteria for our new wildcat!

On this episode, Seth is joined by Jayden Quinlan, Miles Neville, and special guest Jeff Siewert. You read the title correctly, the guys dissect a host of uncomfortable and perhaps mind-altering ballistic and ballistic testing realities. Buckle in and enjoy this educational show that may have you squirming in your seat! 

On this episode, Seth, Judd, and Preston dive deep into a few of Judd's Ruger American rifles. The guys discuss all of the upgrades that were added to each rifle, as well as the optics, mounts, bipods, and slings they're equipped with. This episode demonstrates how to take a rifle fresh out of the box and truly make it your own through all of the different ways you are able to customize it. We hope you enjoy the show!