Fresh Tracks: The Most Underrated Piece Of Gear For Your Hunting Rifle

The offseason is about taking a break, refocusing, and dialing back in for the upcoming season. This isn’t just a sports analogy—hunters do the same. It’s a time for game planning and preparing for the season ahead. In a recent video on the Fresh Tracks YouTube channel, Randy Newberg and John Pynch discussed the most underrated components of a hunting rifle setup. They explain why they matter, how they affect your accuracy and consistency, and share their experiences using them in the field. What better time than the offseason to learn about new gear and how it could improve your performance?

A DIFFERENT STARTING POINT

Randy Newberg opens by contrasting his straightforward approach with John’s perspective—which is shaped by years of high-level competition shooting and extensive hunting. John typically starts with custom rifles, so many baseline upgrades are already built in. He focuses on refining the overall system, starting with premium optics. He relies on the Leupold Mark 5HD line, choosing magnification ranges based on weight constraints and the specific hunt.

BRAKE VS. SUPPRESSOR

One notable point from the conversation is that John prefers a muzzle brake to a suppressor. While suppressors have their place, he favors brakes for their superior recoil reduction, which helps him spot impacts more effectively. The ability to see what the bullet is doing downrange—especially at long ranges—comes from his competition-shooting background. Weight is another factor, especially on longer hunts when every ounce matters. There’s also a logistical issue: John hunts much of the time in Canada, where suppressors are not allowed.

WHY A BIPOD STILL MATTERS

Bipods are another area where John doesn’t compromise. Even on demanding backcountry hunts, he considers a bipod essential despite the added weight. The stability provided by a front support, paired with a rear bag, becomes more important as distances extend beyond typical hunting ranges. John notes that modern designs have evolved, with some ultralight models weighing only a few ounces while still offering excellent durability and adjustability. He discusses bipods such as the MDT Mountain Bipod and the Double-Pull Lightweight CKYE-POD.

YOU CAN’T BUY EXPERIENCE

Beyond gear, John’s message is simple: you can’t buy experience. His background—once firing thousands of rounds a year—shapes how he evaluates equipment. Still, he stresses that effective practice doesn’t require high round counts. Thoughtful, deliberate shooting—focusing on wind calls, first-round impacts, and positional awareness—matters more than simply burning rounds downrange.

FINAL THOUGHTS

In the end, the video isn’t just about setting up a rifle. It’s about understanding the balance between equipment and skill and recognizing that while good gear helps, time behind the rifle ultimately makes the difference. The offseason is the best time to start vetting new gear.

For more videos like this, check out the Fresh Tracks YouTube channel.