Modern Marksmanship, Wind Reading & Law Enforcement Sniper Lessons | MDS Episode #0123

In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast, Caylen Wojcik reconnects with competitive shooter Nate Humbard for an unplanned deep dive into the fundamentals of rifle craft. What started as a “History Lesson” recording turned into 60+ minutes of raw shop talk on the realities of marksmanship, recoil management, wind calls, competition prep, and law enforcement sniper training.We break down:Why fundamentals and process discipline beat gear every timeThe truth about recoil anticipation and how ball-and-dummy drills expose itTraining value of .22 LR vs. centerfire rifles under stressWind cone effects, terrain lift, and reading conditions from 800–1,200 yardsHeavy bullets, free bore, and F-Class lessons in precision loadingLaw enforcement sniper realities: permissive environments, hides, and decision-making under stressWhy even seasoned shooters need a hard reset in the basicsNate also shares highlights from his summer match season—rimfire, centerfire, and F-Class—while Caylen unpacks lessons learned from recent classes at Nailspring Ranch, including how shoot houses, trigger-cam AV setups, and diverse terrain make for some of the best training environments in the country. Next Week: We’re back to the History Lesson series with a spotlight on Daniel Morgan—don’t miss it.Train with Us (last chances for 2025)Nailspring Ranch, OR (October): Intro to Long Range + Hunter Skills Clinic (NRL Hunter focused)Pig River, VA: Intro + Skills ProgressionMaricopa County, AZ: Intro + Skills Progression Details & registration: https://www.moderndaysniper.com/event/intro-to-long-range-class-maricopa-az-120625Coming Soon Wind Reading Blueprint – our most comprehensive digital masterclass yet Coming Soon!!Connect with Modern Day SniperIG: @moderndaysniper | @caylen8541Community: Modern Day Rifleman – mindfulness meets marksmanship https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/Podcast archive & resources 

In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast, Caylen Wojcik sits down with Pacific Northwest shooter, craftsman, and all-around salt-of-the-earth human Corson Piper for an honest conversation on performance, pressure, and finding purpose behind the rifle.The episode opens with a comparison between skydiving and shooting—two crafts where experience compounds quickly when the reps are tight, the focus is sharp, and feedback is immediate. Corson breaks down how the curve steepens when you’re doing eight jumps a day or shooting hundreds of rounds over a few days, and how momentum accelerates mastery.From there, they get into Corson’s roots: growing up on commercial fishing boats in Homer, Alaska, working on oil rigs by the time he turned 18, and eventually racing motorcycles before immersing himself in the competitive precision rifle world. His blue-collar background and high-stakes life experience shine through in every lesson—whether it’s knowing how to manage fatigue, making fast wind calls, or being brutally honest about your mistakes.Topics Covered:How to train like a competitor, not just a shooterThe dangers of practicing only what you’re good atWhy stress inoculation matters—and how to build itHow Corson shot over 12,000 rounds in one season and what he learnedMental stamina: how to stay in the zone for a 2-minute stage without burning out all dayWhy wind calls are less about speed and more about margin and memoryThe evolution of PRS and NRL Hunter and how each shape the modern marksmanEgo vs. execution: showing up underprepared and owning your outcomesThe therapeutic side of recoil, focus, and full presence in the shotWhy positional shooting is undervalued and how Corson uses a set of dice to randomize practiceYou’ll also hear stories of helmet-smashing motorcycle crashes, broken fingers before big matches, and what it means to shoot for joy—not just trophies. Corson is proof that resilience, repetition, and showing up with intention matter more than any hack or gear upgrade.Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just getting started, there’s something in this episode that will hit home. From mindset to mechanics, gear to growth, this one covers it all.Explore more:Modern Day Rifleman Network (Free community): www.moderndayrifleman.comModern Day Rifleman Advantage (Membership): Access hours of exclusive video training, dry fire drills, and our content archiveModern Day Sniper Pro (For professional snipers): Mission-relevant training, sniper-specific Q&A sessions, and career supportLeave a comment and let us know your biggest takeaway.We read every single one. If this episode made you think differently about your training—or your purpose—share it with someone who needs to hear it.

In this second episode of the Modern Day Sniper History Series, Caylen Wojcik sits down with Nate Humbard to explore the raw and riveting life of Lewis Wetzel, also known as Death Wind—a legendary frontiersman, rifleman, and early prototype of what we now call a sniper. From escaping captivity at age 13 with a bullet in his chest, to mastering reloading while running, to single-handedly ambushing war parties with cunning, stealth, and precision—Wetzel's life is a blueprint of frontier warfare and survival.This episode covers:The violent context of the Border Wars (1760s–1790s)Wetzel’s insane escape-and-evasion storiesFieldcraft, deception, and land navigation as sniper skillsThe Pennsylvania Long Rifle and Lewis’s tacticsWhy this man was feared by enemies and revered by his peopleEthical nuance and the cost of frontier justiceHow his skill set echoes in the modern sniper community Join our community:Free Membership: https://www.moderndayrifleman.comMDS Advantage Program (monthly training & drills): https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/advantageMDS Pro (for military & LE): https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/pro Follow us:Instagram: @moderndaysniperFacebook: Modern Day Sniper#americanhistory #riflemen #history #moderndayrifleman #moderndaysniper

In this raw and real episode, Caylen Wojcik sits down with Marine veteran, hunter, and lifelong student Chris Camren for a raw, honest conversation about the evolution of marksmanship, mentorship, and mindset. From early days in the Corps to navigating the backcountry with sons and students alike, this is a journey through what it means to remain teachable—no matter how far you’ve come.They dive into:The legacy and loss of Marine Corps sniper platoonsLessons from competitive shooting and backcountry huntsRite of passage, mentorship, and raising resilient young menThe balance between old-school skill and modern gearWhat it means to truly embody the role of a riflemanThis episode is a reminder: Mastery isn’t a destination—it’s a decision to remain a student, for life.Connect with us:Website: https://www.moderndaysniper.comRifleman Network: https://www.moderndayrifleman.comInstagram: @moderndaysniperPodcast: Modern Day Sniper on Spotify, Apple & moreFor inquiries: [email protected]#podcast #moderndayrifleman #marinelife #backcountryhunting

What happens when solitude meets the backcountry? In this episode, Caylen Wojcik sits down with longtime hunting mentor, guide, and adventure photographer Luke Carrick to talk about the medicine of the mountains, the lessons only hardship can teach, and how solo hunting became a path to healing, grit, and deeper purpose.We dive into stories from decades in the wilderness—grueling solo trips, sheep hunts in British Columbia, and adventures that pushed limits physically and emotionally. Luke shares how hunting shaped his identity and offered a way through some of life’s hardest seasons.This episode is for anyone craving real talk about hunting, suffering, and why going deeper into the wild often leads to a deeper connection with yourself.Topics Include:Solo hunting as a rite of passageLessons from failure, storms, and solitudeTransitioning from state job to self-made guide and photographerHow wild spaces create mental resilienceThe backcountry as a mirror for lifeWhether you’re a seasoned hunter or someone drawn to the mountains for reasons you can’t quite explain, this conversation will speak to you.Follow Luke Carrick:Instagram: @luke_carrick_photographyWebsite: www.lukecarrickphotography.comFollow Caylen Wojcik & Modern Day Sniper:Instagram: @caylen_wojcik  @moderndaysniper (link) Online Training + Courses: www.moderndaysniper.comJoin the Community: www.moderndayrifleman.com

In this first installment of our historical series, Caylen Wojcik is joined by assistant instructor and lifelong rifleman Nate Humbard for an unfiltered, in-depth conversation tracing the roots of American sniping—from the frontiersmen of the 1700s to the modern-day warrior’s mindset.They discuss the origins of riflemanship, the powerful role of mentorship, and the timeless warrior values passed down through generations of American marksmen. You’ll hear stories of legendary figures like Lewis Wetzel, Daniel Morgan, Jack Hinson, and Billy Dixon—along with hard-earned wisdom for young men seeking discipline, purpose, and legacy in a world that often overlooks them.What You’ll Learn:Why sniping is deeply woven into America’s identityThe sniper’s historical role in shaping key battlesThe importance of struggle, self-awareness, and mentorshipWhat history teaches us about honor, focus, and quiet masteryHow to avoid the “Peter Principle” and align your path with your natureWhy preserving the sniper’s legacy matters—now more than everFollow us at Instagram: @moderndaysniperYoutube: @ModerndaysniperJoin Our Community Today!https://www.moderndayrifleman.com

In this episode I sit down with Landen to discuss some debrief points from the last two Law Enforcement Sniper Skills clinics we’ve taught together. These classes are going really well and the curriculum has developed substantially over the years of teaching it. We touch on why we don’t call things “advanced” anymore - and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing either, it’s just my philosophy. Some of the topics you’ll hear a lot about are rifle setup and equipment. They’re still big points of discussion out there as we’re making attempts to shift the normal to that of modernized approaches to precision shooting. That takes time and patience, but I feel like we’re well on our way.Want to train with us at an In-Person class this year? There’s nothing quite like an in-person class experience, and we’ve got some awesome places to train this year! Check out our schedule, I’m sure we’re close to you somewhere!https://www.moderndaysniper.com/eventsCan’t make it into an in-person class? No sweat, we’ve got you covered with the best online training programs out there today. Monthly subscription services and digital masterclasses - those are our jam, come see what we’ve got to offer and get 14 days FREE with your membership.https://www.moderndayrifleman.comLooking for Community? Check out our FREE online community at the Modern Day Rifleman Network. At 10,000 members, it’s the fastest growing community out there that’s focused on long range shooting. You’ll find mountains of free information, articles, informative posts, and people like you that are dedicated to progress.https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/Check out our YouTube page too - we’re just getting started, but there’s a lot of great information there already.https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_e_PUcPUM8G-RGHDsZEKTgAs usual, our social media pages are also places you can follow us for information, inspiration, and notices on new stuff.IG - @ moderndaysniper

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Landen Jones. Landen Jones is a former US Army Sniper, a current Cowlitz County Deputy Sheriff, and the lead sniper for the XXX regional SWAT team. Landen comes to Modern Day Sniper with the same goals and vision as what drives us - evolve and expand, and he wants to bring that to law enforcement sniper training, nationwide. I wanted to sit down with Landen and get to know him a little better, and explore the reason(s) that he got himself into the world of sniping. Landen is a guy who’s passionate about his craft, and dedicated to building himself into an effective and efficient communicator. We discuss Landen’s background, some of his combat experience as a sniper in the GWOT, and how he found himself in his current role at his day job, and where he’s at with us at Modern Day Sniper.Want to train with us at an In-Person class this year? There’s nothing quite like an in-person class experience, and we’ve got some awesome places to train this year! Check out our schedule, I’m sure we’re close to you somewhere!https://www.moderndaysniper.com/eventsCan’t make it into an in-person class? No sweat, we’ve got you covered with the best online training programs out there today. Monthly subscription services and digital masterclasses - those are our jam, come see what we’ve got to offer and get 14 days FREE with your membership.https://www.moderndayrifleman.comLooking for Community? Check out our FREE online community at the Modern Day Rifleman Network. At 10,000 members, it’s the fastest growing community out there that’s focused on long range shooting. You’ll find mountains of free information, articles, informative posts, and people like you that are dedicated to progress.https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/Check out our YouTube page too - we’re just getting started, but there’s a lot of great information there already.https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_e_PUcPUM8G-RGHDsZEKTgAs usual, our social media pages are alos places you can follow us for information, inspiration, and notices on new stuff.IG - @ moderndaysniper

In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast we’ve brought on Galen Shea for a conversation on rifle cleaning solvents, more specifically, CLR. Galen Shea is a dedicated local shooter in the Pacific Northwest. He frequents NRL 22 matches, as well as many of the club and regional centerfire PRS matches. Galen’s professional expertise lies as a chemical engineer for the gas and oil industry, so I wanted to bring him on the podcast to talk about the cleaning solvent that initially took the precision rifle world by storm, but just as quickly fell out of favor due to lack of understanding of what the chemical is, and what it does to rifle barrel steel. By no means am I attempting to re-open a can of worms - aways follow your chosen rifle barrel manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions - I’m simply curious about the “why” so I wanted to talk with a chemist and learn more. Our conversation flows into discussing some competitive shooting mindset, and Galen’s goals for the upcoming season. I hope you enjoy this one!Want to train with us at an In-Person class this year? There’s nothing quite like an in-person class experience, and we’ve got some awesome places to train this year! Check out our schedule, I’m sure we’re close to you somewhere!https://www.moderndaysniper.com/eventsCan’t make it into an in-person class? No sweat, we’ve got you covered with the best online training programs out there today. Monthly subscription services and digital masterclasses - those are our jam, come see what we’ve got to offer and get 14 days FREE with your membership.https://www.moderndayrifleman.comLooking for Community? Check out our FREE online community at the Modern Day Rifleman Network. At 10,000 members, it’s the fastest growing community out there that’s focused on long range shooting. You’ll find mountains of free information, articles, informative posts, and people like you that are dedicated to progress.https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/Check out our YouTube page too - we’re just getting started, but there’s a lot of great information there already.https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_e_PUcPUM8G-RGHDsZEKTgAs usual, our social media pages are alos places you can follow us for information, inspiration, and notices on new stuff.IG - @ moderndaysniper

Carbon Fiber Barrels: What You Need to KnowIn this conversation, Caylen Wojcik and Colton Bagnoli discuss Colton's diverse experiences in the outdoors, including his transition from law enforcement to becoming a fly fishing guide and a writer for firearms publications. They delve into the importance of connection to nature, the challenges of teaching outdoor skills, and the intricacies of rifle barrels, particularly carbon fiber barrels, and their performance in various shooting scenarios. In this conversation, Caylen and Colton discuss the intricacies of rifle accuracy, the critical role of barrel quality in rifle building, and their experiences hunting with 22 caliber rifles in Africa. They emphasize the importance of understanding ammunition effects, the ethical considerations in hunting, and the performance of different bullet types on various game animals. The discussion highlights the evolving perceptions of rifle effectiveness and the significance of proper shot placement and bullet composition. In this conversation, Colton and Caylen delve into the intricacies of ethical hunting practices, emphasizing the importance of shot placement and understanding bullet performance. They discuss the significance of experience in hunting, particularly in tracking wounded animals and the challenges that arise. The conversation also touches on the evolution of hunting knowledge, the impact of modern technology, and the necessity of returning to legacy skills in the face of changing hunting environments.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Adventures 02:00 Colton Bagnoli: Background and Career 05:31 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Writing 09:05 The Life of a Fly Fishing Guide 15:54 Connection to the Outdoors and Teaching 16:15 Rifle Barrels: A Deep Dive 21:27 Carbon Fiber Barrels: Performance and Expectations 31:08 Understanding Rifle Accuracy and Ammunition Effects 37:30 The Importance of Barrel Quality in Rifle Building 46:57 Experiences with 22 Caliber Rifles in Africa 58:08 Hunting Ethics and Bullet Performance 01:02:22 Ethical Hunting Practices and Shot Placement 01:04:45 Understanding Bullet Performance and Construction 01:06:48 The Importance of Experience in Hunting 01:08:52 Impact Velocity and Bullet Expansion 01:10:21 Tracking Wounded Animals and Recovery Challenges 01:12:50 Legacy Skills in Modern Hunting 01:16:45 The Evolution of Hunting Knowledge and TechnologyHere’s some of the publications where you can find Colton’s work:https://www.shootingtimes.com/https://www.petersenshunting.com/https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/review-pof-rogue-1375-inch-rifle/497151https://www.petersenshunting.com/editorial/rimfire-training-to-improve-hunting/500889Find Colton on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/papwinkle/