Insights & Reviews

We put the gear to the test so you don't have to. Hear what our experts have to say.

Gear Reviews & Education

Gear Talk

The Gear Optimization Technology (G.O.T.) Outpost taps into real insights from people who've actually been there and done that. From gear recommendations and packing strategies, to trip tools, all from the community who live this lifestyle.

Explore Now

G.O.T. Outpost | Natural Tick Repellent: Why I Switched From Permethrin to Essential Oils

In the first tick episode, Drew sprayed permethrin on his clothes and got a bloody nose 30 minutes later so he washed it out. and with a six-month-old at home he did not want it around. See what what he noticed in the field and why he is staying with it.

Learn More

G.O.T. Outpost | Tick Prevention for Hunters: Permethrin, Natural Sprays & Field Tricks

Ticks get worse every year, and the ones that find you can carry diseases you do not want to bring home. Jay and Drew cover what they use in the field.

Learn More

G.O.T. Outpost | Pre-Season Gear Maintenance: Boots, Sleep Systems, Knives & Tents

Gear that's been sitting in a compression sack or storage bin since last fall needs a check before it fails on you in the field. Jay and Drew walk through boot conditioning and sole inspection, sleeping bag loft recovery, sleeping pad leak detection, water filter cleaning and offseason storage, kill kit sharpening and audit, and full tent inspection, including stove parts. If you've ever pulled gear out at camp and found something broken, missing, or destroyed by mildew, this is the video you need to watch.

Learn More

Everything Water: Water Storage

Learn More

Everything Water: Introduction to Water in the Backcountry

Learn More

Everything Water: Water Filtration

Learn More

RuckList Web App: Introduction & Gear Garage

Do you have a closet full of gear and still manage to forget something on every trip? You're not alone. In this series, Drew and Jay, are introducing the new RuckList web app designed to simplify and organize your outdoor equipment. They'll walk you through the essential features of RuckList's current web-based version, showing you how to build your "Gear Garage" so you always know what you have and where to find it. Learn how to add thousands of items from their pre-loaded database or add your own custom gear. Get organized and make packing a breeze with this new app!

Learn More

RuckList Web App: Special Features

In this final Rucklist tutorial, Jay and Drew dive into some of the app's most powerful, yet often overlooked, features. Learn how to stop forgetting who you loaned your gear to with the "Borrowed" section and how to pinpoint the exact location of your gear in your home, garage, or shed using "Storage Locations." The most exciting feature they cover is the "Shareable Packs." This allows you to share your gear list with your hunting or backpacking partners to avoid bringing duplicate items or forgetting something essential. This video series will show you how these special features can make your packing process more seamless and efficient than ever.

Learn More

RuckList Web App: Packs, Kits & Trips

How to Build a Trip Packing List with Rucklist Packs and Kits In this RuckList tutorial, Jay and Drew show you how to use the app's "Packs" and "Kits" features to build the perfect, custom gear list for any adventure. Learn how to group your essential items into reusable kits (like a "First Aid Kit" or "Food Kit") to save time and ensure you never miss an item. Plus, they introduce the game-changing "active packing checklist," complete with a progress bar, that gives you the confidence of knowing you’ve packed every single item before you even leave the house. Stop guessing and start packing with confidence!

Learn More

Everything Packs Ep. 5: Women's Packs

In this episode of G.O.T. Outpost, Drew talks with experienced outdoorswoman, Lauren to talk about a topic often overlooked: women's packs. Lauren, who has summited all of Colorado's 14ers and is working on the 100 highest Centennial peaks, shares her extensive knowledge. They discuss why women shouldn't be afraid to look at men's packs, the importance of fit over brand new gear, and the key features that make a pack comfortable and functional for the female body.

Learn More

Everything Packs Ep. 4: Multi-Day Pack & Packing Techniques

Thinking about adding some gear to your hunting pack? Drew and Jay of are breaking down how they set up their own gear. They discuss everything packing for weight distribution, organization, and safety. Plus, they share pro tips on where to put your sleeping bag and food to the crucial items you need at your fingertips.

Learn More

Everything Packs Ep. 3: Accessories & Maintenance

Thinking about customizing your hunting pack? Jay and Drew from G.O.T. Outpost dive into the pros and cons of different attachments and accessories. They share their own pack setups, including handgun and bow attachments, and discuss the importance of accessibility for essential items like first-aid kits and rain gear. They also cover the proper way to clean and maintain your pack, especially after a hunt.

Learn More

Everything Packs Ep. 2: Day Packs -- Light & Versatile

Welcome back to G.O.T. Outpost! Jay and Drew are diving into Day Packs. Giving you some insight on the variety of options, proper fit, and key considerations.

Learn More

Everything Packs Ep. 1: Pack Basics -- What Makes a Good Pack?

Choosing the right backpack is crucial for any outdoor adventure. Join Jay and Drew from G.O.T. Outpost as they kick off a new series on how to find the perfect pack for your needs. They discuss different types of backpacks, from day packs to multi-day packs, and highlight essential features like fit, sizing, and straps. This video will help you avoid the frustration of an ill-fitting pack so you can make your next outdoor experience more enjoyable.

Learn More

Sleep Systems Episode 1: Introduction & Sleeping Bags

Welcome to our first G.OT. Outpost Series all about outdoor sleep systems. As outdoor enthusiasts Jay and Drew, know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the vast world of outdoor gear. Our goal with this "Everything Sleep Systems" series is to cut through the noise, help you make educated decisions, and ultimately, save you money and discomfort on your adventures.

Learn More

Sleep Systems Episode 2: Insulation Types

Down vs. Synthetic: Choosing the Best Sleeping Bag Insulation for Your Adventures

Learn More

Sleep System Episode 7: Sleep System Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

Avoid These Sleep System Mistakes: Pro Tips for Backcountry Comfort

Learn More

Who Are We and What is G.O.T. Outpost

Welcome to the G.O.T. Outpost. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into nature, buying new outdoor equipment can be incredibly overwhelming. With countless options and conflicting reviews, how do you know what's right for your adventures?

Learn More

Gear Ratings

Gear rated from the pros

Podcasts

RuckList Podcast

Ep. 47 "Be Present" with Austin Arithson

Brian and Tyrel talk with Austin Arithson about creating authentic content and pursuing passions while managing a busy schedule.

Ep. 46 "Heavy Load" with Garrett Carver

Brian and Tyrel talk with Garrett Carver about balancing life's passion with responsibilities, outdoor pursuits and the mindset needed for growth and adventure.

Ep. 45 "The Johnson Brothers V2"

The Johnson brothers take over the RuckList Studio to talk about the importance of quality time, learning from failures, and the value of outdoor adventures. 00:00 Introduction to the Reckless Podcast 01:14 The Johnson Brothers: Backgrounds and Careers 04:07 Hunting Adventures: The First Experiences 07:05 The Joy of Nature and Hunting 10:22 Reflections on Time and Family 13:06 The Importance of Outdoor Experiences for Kids 16:14 Learning and Growing in the Outdoors 19:05 Memories and Stories from Childhood 22:01 Future Hunting Plans and Family Traditions 28:24 The Learning Curve of Bow Hunting 32:06 First Encounters and Mistakes 35:08 The Thrill of the Chase 39:19 Tracking and Patience in the Wild 45:42 The Joy of Success and Reflection 50:48 Quality Time and Life Lessons 54:09 Slowing Down to Appreciate the Journey 58:26 Staying Connected Through Change 59:51 The Connection to the Outdoors 01:06:35 Learning and Growing in Hunting 01:13:14 The Importance of Outdoor Experiences 01:20:49 Memories and Traditions in Hunting 01:28:16 Passion for Hunting and Life Balance