Diamondback Ambassador

Heartland Bowhunter

hunt

Grain Valley, Missouri

When Michael Hunsucker and Shawn Luchtel were in the 8th grade, they bought a camera and began filming their excursions in the woods and rivers of Western Missouri. As childhood friends whose families often went hunting and fishing together, the two had ample inspiration and opportunity for film-making. Their earliest works were for a limited audience: parents, uncles, cousins, and friends. Just something to do for fun. But the two were hooked on the art of visual storytelling, and became obsessed with sharpening their camera skills. They made one film after another, throughout high school and college. Then, in 2007, Michael and Shawn gained a wider audience with the launch of their Outdoor Channel show, Heartland Bowhunter. After a few seasons, they began to gain recognition for their production quality, and they’ve never stopped raising the bar. Now in its 18th season, Heartland Bowhunter is a show that captures in stunning detail all the small things that make hunting beautiful. Their show, and the posse of friends who help produce it, have earned an army of fans and a pile of awards. We’re proud to know them and have them on the DiamondBack team.

Grain Valley, Missouri

Where’s your favorite place to hunt away from home?

Michael: Anywhere in the mountains. If I had to pick one state, it would probably be Montana. The diversity in terrain and wildlife is perfect for some wild and fun adventures!

Shawn: I love hunting Kansas. It’s such an amazing state for whitetails and has such a solid age structure. It isn’t too far from home while having some of the best deer hunting in the country.

Any experience with weather ruining a hunting trip?

Shawn: The high country in Utah is a beautiful place but it can be brutal when the weather rolls in. We’ve experienced many days there filled with high winds, rain, snow and lightning. Solid rain gear and a good tent are absolute musts when it comes to those hunts.

Michael: On our Kodiak mountain goat hunt, we hiked into camp only to be weathered in the tents for the first two days of the hunt. Mentally that can be challenging, but you have to move on when the weather clears and the hunt is on. Being prepared with the right gear is crucial in those moments.

How do you guys like to spend your time outdoors when you're not hunting?

Michael: I love getting the boat out on the water and bass fishing. Depending on the time of year, it can be a challenge to find them. Finding and patterning fish…it has some similarities to hunting whitetail.

Shawn: When I’m not hunting I’m working to improve the habitat for wildlife. Working on the land, making it a better home for deer. I probably enjoy that as much as I enjoy hunting.

What are some things that you always keep in your truck?

Michael: I live out of my truck during hunting season. Stands, decoys, clothes & boots. It all has to stay secure and dry.

Shawn: When it comes to hunting season, my truck is my second home. The cab and bed are full of gear. Being able to keep it all dry and secure is key.