20 February 2026
#347 | Understanding Vintage Side-by-Sides: Fit, Function & Field Performance with Doug Stewart
Birdshot Podcast
About
In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson sits down with Doug Stewart, an avid upland bird hunter, author, and expert on traditional side-by-side shotguns. Doug shares his deep passion for bird hunting, the stories behind his favorite guns, and offers plenty of advice for anyone interested in the world of vintage shotguns. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting to explore, Doug’s wealth of knowledge will leave you inspired and eager to get out in the field.
Doug is the author of two books about traditional side-by-side shotguns: The Traditional Side-by-Side and its sequel. With decades of experience under his belt, he offers a unique perspective on the craftsmanship, history, and performance of these iconic firearms.
Expect to Learn:
The stories behind Doug's hunting adventures and his approach to the sport.
Why side-by-sides are more than just guns – they’re part of a tradition.
How to choose the right side-by-side shotgun for your hunting style.
Doug’s personal tips on hunting gear and the joy of being out in the field.
Episode Breakdown with Timestamps
[00:00:00] - Welcome & Introduction
[00:01:02] - Chasing Birds in Colorado, Nebraska & New Mexico
[00:05:57] - The Grouse Camp Tradition
[00:10:13] - How Doug’s Wife Became an Upland Hunter
[00:12:11] - Doug's TV Habits: True Crime and History
[00:13:07] - Hunting with Vintage Guns
[00:19:57] - Barrel Length and Gun Fit
[00:28:14] - The Importance of Gun Balance in the Field
[00:31:13] - Sporting Clays vs Upland Bird Guns
[00:40:21] - Vintage Shotguns: What to Look For
[00:51:15] - Starting Out with Side-by-Sides
[01:07:57] - Doug's Upcoming Book: What's Next?
[01:12:11] - The Joy of the Hunt
Follow The Guest, Doug Stewart:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dougstewartauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doug_stewart_author
Website: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/
The Book: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/the-book
The Book Part II: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/the-book-part-ii
Follow the Host Nick:
Instagram: @birdshot.podcast
Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com
Listening Links:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast
SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot
Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app
Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/
The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Doug is the author of two books about traditional side-by-side shotguns: The Traditional Side-by-Side and its sequel. With decades of experience under his belt, he offers a unique perspective on the craftsmanship, history, and performance of these iconic firearms.
Expect to Learn:
The stories behind Doug's hunting adventures and his approach to the sport.
Why side-by-sides are more than just guns – they’re part of a tradition.
How to choose the right side-by-side shotgun for your hunting style.
Doug’s personal tips on hunting gear and the joy of being out in the field.
Episode Breakdown with Timestamps
[00:00:00] - Welcome & Introduction
[00:01:02] - Chasing Birds in Colorado, Nebraska & New Mexico
[00:05:57] - The Grouse Camp Tradition
[00:10:13] - How Doug’s Wife Became an Upland Hunter
[00:12:11] - Doug's TV Habits: True Crime and History
[00:13:07] - Hunting with Vintage Guns
[00:19:57] - Barrel Length and Gun Fit
[00:28:14] - The Importance of Gun Balance in the Field
[00:31:13] - Sporting Clays vs Upland Bird Guns
[00:40:21] - Vintage Shotguns: What to Look For
[00:51:15] - Starting Out with Side-by-Sides
[01:07:57] - Doug's Upcoming Book: What's Next?
[01:12:11] - The Joy of the Hunt
Follow The Guest, Doug Stewart:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dougstewartauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doug_stewart_author
Website: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/
The Book: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/the-book
The Book Part II: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/the-book-part-ii
Follow the Host Nick:
Instagram: @birdshot.podcast
Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com
Listening Links:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast
SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot
Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app
Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/
The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices