Author: Bill Brod

Camouflaged crossbow hunter kneeling beside harvest.

William "Bill" Brod, a native of central New York State, is the Publisher and CEO of Outdoor Specialty Media Group, a digital publishing company dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts. He manages the business operations and helps lead the editorial vision behind North American Deer Hunter, North American Bow Hunter, Crossbow Magazine, and North American Outdoorsman. A lifelong outdoorsman, Bill covers the full spectrum of hunting, fishing, and shooting sports—from whitetail strategy and bowhunting fundamentals to crossbow tactics, gear selection, and field-ready marksmanship. He’s known for translating real-world time afield into practical, step-by-step takeaways: how to choose equipment that fits the hunt, how to test gear honestly, and how to make decisions that improve outcomes and safety in the field. His writing blends enthusiasm for the outdoor lifestyle with a conservation-minded respect for wildlife and habitat. Bill earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Union College, an analytical background he brings to product evaluation and performance-focused storytelling. References • POMA bio: https://professionaloutdoormedia.org/board-of-directors/william-bill-brod • SHOT TV interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGTi2jK_iZw

For those who truly live the outdoor lifestyle, it’s never been about headlines, recognition, or applause. It’s about time spent in the field before daylight, lessons learned the hard way, and the responsibility to pass on knowledge so traditions don’t fade with the next generation. That belief sits at the heart of the American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award, and it’s why this year’s honor belongs to a man whose influence runs deep across the outdoor industry. Kevin Reese is not just a name many recognize; it’s a name synonymous with mentorship, integrity, service, and leadership. Whether guiding young hunters, supporting new…

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When you’re glassing a far ridge at first light or trying to pick out a rack in the shadows before legal shooting time ends, your success often comes down to one thing: the quality of your optics. That’s where Winchester Optics 10×50 Binoculars start out. They are a smart upgrade for hunters who want dependable clarity without paying premium-brand prices.  Winchester’s new binocular lineup is designed for real-world field use—rain, cold, rough handling, and all. Here we’ll break down what makes Winchester optics a strong value for hunters, highlight the key features that matter most, and help you choose the…

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Why a Deer Blind Heater might be Needed When the temperature drops while you are in your blind, staying warm with a deer blind heater is essential for a successful hunt.  It is impossible to harvest the buck of a lifetime if you are not in the stand when he presents you with a shot. A propane heater can provide the necessary warmth, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without the distraction of the cold. Not only does a comfortable environment enhance your hunting experience, but it can also increase your chances of spotting game. The goal…

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The Ozonics HR600 is the latest innovation in modern scent elimination technology.  It is a hands-free ozone generator designed for in-field use with an elevated treestand, or from a ground blind.   The manufacturer states it is specifically designed for hunters seeking an edge in the field. This device neutralizes human scent at the molecular level, creating a virtually undetectable presence that allows hunters to get closer to their quarry without being noticed. I put this to the test recently and found it to be remarkably accurate, and I am looking forward to using it many more times this hunting season.…

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Expert Craftsmanship and Patented Design Create Superior Cutting Performance The Diamond Blade Summit is a remarkable entry in the world of high-end knives, offering a blend of innovative, patented technology, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship that makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike. I had a chance to use it on This review will delve into the various aspects of the Diamond Blade Summit, exploring its design, performance, durability, and overall value to give you a comprehensive look at what this knife has to offer. Design and Construction The Diamond Blade Summit knife features a sophisticated design…

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As an avid outdoorsman and hunting enthusiast, I had the chance to test the SKRE Gear Guardian camo jacket and bib combination during my late-season hunting trips. After several outings in varying conditions, I’m excited to share my insights on this gear, which combines exceptional design, comfort, and weather resistance to enhance the hunting experience. What SKRE Gear I tested: SKRE Camo Guardian Jacket – $335.95 SKRE Camo Guardian Bib – $435.95 SKRE Camo Guardian Beanie Hat – $29.95 Design and Construction: The first thing that struck me about the SKRE Camo Guardian jacket and bibs was their exceptional…

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by Chris Avena – Publisher, American Outdoor News Chris Avena from American Outdoor News presents Larry with his “Championship Belt” for the Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Larry Weishuhn American Outdoor News presented their first annual Lifetime Achievement Award during the Dallas Safari Club Convention this past January. The American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize one’s participation, commitment and preservation of our outdoor heritage and traditions. This award was conceived to distinguish a person who did not only live the outdoor lifestyle, but they also embodied it. This year’s recipient for…

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The new Spypoint Flex S trail cameras integrate the sun’s power with an included solar panel that charges an internal lithium battery. This feature diminishes the need to make trips to check cards or replace batteries, making your scouting experience less impactful on your hunting area. Fewer trips means less disturbance, less human scent, and more crisp, clear images, creating optimal conditions for the best hunting season possible. The FLEX-S has an internal lithium battery, but also allows for AA backups, or the addition of the SPYPOINT LIT-22 battery backup pack. When the internal lithium battery percentage dips to…

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