Welcome to MTN Outdoorsman — where the mountains call louder than excuses.

 

I'm not a guide. I'm not sponsored by big brands. I'm just a relentless public land hunter who lives for the grind, the stillness of timberline mornings, and the satisfaction of doing it the hard way.

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MTN Outdoorsman was built for guys like me — and probably guys like you. Hunters who pack their own gear, scout their own routes, and fill their own tags without an outfitter babysitting them through it. If you've ever gotten lost in the topo lines of OnX or hauled meat off a mountain until your legs shook — or you're just getting started in your hunting adventures — you're in the right place.

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But this isn't just about me anymore.

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Now, I’ve got young kids watching every move I make. I’m raising them in the woods, teaching them what it means to work hard, earn your shot, and respect the land we hunt. My hope is simple: that they fall in love with the wild like I did — not because I told them to, but because they’ve seen what it gives back when you put in the effort.

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This platform is as much about building that legacy as it is about sharing tactics, gear, and grit. If you're a parent doing the same, welcome — you're part of the tribe.

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Who I Am

 

I’m a DIY hunter, outdoorsman, and gear addict who’s spent the last decade chasing elk, deer, soon to be bears and any opportunity across rugged public lands. I started MTN Outdoorsman to share what I think actually works — not recycled tips, gimmicks, or magazine fluff. From real-world gear reviews and field-tested tactics to hard-won lessons learned the bloody, blistered way, everything you’ll find here comes straight from experience.

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If I recommend a piece of gear, it’s because I’ve used it. If I say a tactic works, it’s because I’ve tested it in real conditions — not just read about it.

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What You'll Find Here

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• Hardcore Hunting Content: From elk to bears, my blog goes deep into planning, scouting, and executing successful hunts — especially for solo and first-time public land hunters.​

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• Gear Reviews That Matter: No fluff. No paid hype. Just honest reviews and side-by-side comparisons from someone who actually uses the stuff.​

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• The Elk Hunting Book: I’m currently writing the most detailed, tactical, and brutally honest book ever written on DIY public land elk hunting. No sponsors. No shortcuts. Just straight talk and real results.​

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• MTN Tested. Hunter Approved. Whether it’s a suppressor setup, pack system, or trekking pole debate, if it gives you an edge in the backcountry — I’m breaking it down for you.

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Why I Do This

 

Because success on the mountain isn’t reserved for the wealthy or well-connected — it’s earned. I believe any disciplined hunter can punch a tag on a mature bull, even if they’ve never done it before. I believe knowledge, grit, and the right gear beat luck every time. And I believe more guys deserve to experience what it feels like to do it yourself — and win.

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So if you're tired of the noise and ready to go deeper, you’re in good company. Welcome to the tribe.

 

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Dave Hansen

MTN Outdoorsman
Hunt Hard. Think Smart. Earn Every Step.