In Part 2 of this deep dive, Kendall opens up about the real cost of private equity in the hunting industry—and what happens when outside investors reshape the direction of a founder-led business.

From the decision to take on investors to the internal pressure that followed, this episode unpacks the hard realities of private equity partnerships, leadership transitions, and the weight of stepping into the CEO role after a co-founder exit. Kendall shares the tension between what he believed the business needed versus what private equity demanded—and how that conflict began to take a personal toll.

This episode also explores the turning point that changed everything: a simple but powerful comment from his son that forced Kendall to reevaluate the balance between family, business, and personal fulfillment.

Along the way, we cover:

• The true cost of private equity in outdoor and hunting brands
• Navigating a CEO transition and founder identity shift
• What happens when a private equity firm installs an interim CEO
• Behind-the-scenes insights into partnerships with Kifaru
• Stories from a mountain goat hunt with Aron Snyder
• The process of hiring a long-term CEO to stabilize the business
• Lessons on entrepreneurship, burnout, and redefining success

If you're building a business, working with investors, or trying to balance ambition with real life, this episode is a raw look at what it actually takes—and what it can cost.

In this interview on First Generation Bowhunter, my good friend and mentor Kendall Card joins and talks about the journey of starting Camofire and BlackOvis, all the way up to closing their doors in October of 2025.

Kendall recounts the beginnings of Camofire, the early days starting from the basement of his co-founder until the time when 17 years later private equity would enter the picture.

He focuses on how the growth of Camofire led to the development of Core4Element, a clothing company they would ultimately sell in order to launch BlackOvis. Along the way Kendall identifies the foundations of the business, the heart and soul elements of his journey through building the company and his personal role in the formation of what would become Camofire & BlackOvis within the hunting industry. Kendall also reflects on the costs of growing a company and how the juggle of business, hunting passion, church, and family responsibilities stretched him, from which he harbors some regrets.

Additional topics covered is the introduction of Crispi, how Kendall and Mark worked together and juggled roles in building Camofire, BlackOvis and eventually Crispi. The rise of these websites with their associated loads, along with the sentiment in the business that ultimately the introduction of private equity to the equation. The details of the private equity deal led to Kendall staying with Camofire & BlackOvis in the role of CEO as Kendall’s co-founder left the business to run and operate Crispi.

In this episode, Adam Buchanan discusses the importance of finding personal validation in bow hunting rather than seeking approval from others, especially through social media. He emphasizes that the joy of hunting should come from the experience itself, not from the size of the game or the opinions of others. Adam encourages listeners to embrace their journey as first-generation bow hunters, to stop outsourcing their legitimacy, and to focus on their own growth and enjoyment in the sport.

Bow hunting should be fun; if it's not, something's wrong.

Don't let social media dictate your hunting success.

It's your tag; hunt for your own experience.

Outsourcing validation can lead to dissatisfaction.

You can't eat antlers; focus on the meat.

Personal validation is more important than likes.

The playbook for life is often unfinished.

Stop comparing your journey to others.

Hunting is about personal growth and experience.

Enjoy the process, not just the outcome.

"Just go shoot a deer."

"You can't eat antlers."

"This should be fun."

Chapters

00:00 The Essence of Bow Hunting

09:42 Outsourcing Validation in Hunting

16:54 The Journey of Self-Validation

24:47 Building Personal Legitimacy

bow hunting, validation, personal growth, social media, hunting success, self-acceptance, first generation bow hunter, outdoor sports, mental health, personal journey

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, host Adam Buchanan sits down with Brad Brooks, founder of Argali Outdoors, to talk about the unexpected overlap between rock climbing, bow hunting, and building gear that actually works in the backcountry.

Adam and Brad dig into how their shared obsession with climbing shaped their approach to bowhunting, why bow hunting has one of the steepest learning curves in the outdoors, and how persistence—not shortcuts—is the real key to success. They also compare the true cost of climbing vs. hunting, why hunters tend to obsess over gear, and how to avoid wasting money when you’re getting started.

The conversation goes deep into wild game as a primary food source, from preparation and cooking to why harvesting your own meat changes your relationship with food entirely. Brad also shares insight into how Argali gear is designed, why simplicity matters, and how innovation in hunting apparel and equipment is evolving to better serve serious hunters—not trends.

They wrap with a real conversation about balancing family life, work, and hunting, why communication matters, and how learning from failure is unavoidable in both climbing and bowhunting.

If you’re a bowhunter, endurance athlete, climber, or someone trying to do hunting the right way—this episode hits.

Brad is the founder of Argali Outdoors, known for lightweight, no-nonsense hunting gear built for real backcountry use.

👉 Check out Argali gear here: https://argalioutdoors.com

(Designed for western hunters who value durability, weight savings, and simplicity.)

• Rock climbing builds mental toughness that translates directly to bow hunting

• Bow hunting has a steeper learning curve than most outdoor sports

• Climbers tend to spend less on gear than hunters—but both obsess over performance

• Success in bow hunting often comes after repeated failure

• Wild game becomes a staple when hunting is done consistently

• Quality gear matters—but skill and decision-making matter more

• Communication is critical when balancing hunting, family, and work

• The hunting gear and apparel industry is shifting toward function over hype

  
  

  Episode Chapters

  00:00 – How rock climbing shaped obsession
  05:03 – Transitioning from climbing to bow hunting
  10:52 – Gear advice for new bowhunters
  18:01 – The steep learning curve of archery
  21:16 – Adaptability in bow hunting
  23:04 – Arrows, mistakes, and hard lessons
  26:29 – Why wild game matters
  27:56 – Cooking and preparing wild meat
  30:32 – Balancing hunting with real life
  31:31 – Communication and family support
  38:08 – Innovation in hunting apparel and gear

bow hunting podcast, archery hunting tips, Argali Outdoors, backcountry hunting gear, bow hunting learning curve, wild game cooking, hunting lifestyle, archery gear recommendations, western bow hunting, First Generation Bowhunter

In this conversation, Adam and Mark Comcowich delve into the world of skiing, sock design, and the evolution of Darn Tough socks for hunters. They discuss the importance of comfort, durability, and the unique properties of Merino wool. Mark shares insights into the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, as well as the community's role in shaping their products. The conversation highlights the significance of investing in quality gear for outdoor activities, particularly focusing on the importance of socks in a hunter's system.

Enter Giveaway

Enter your email on huntwurx.com for the giveaway!

Comment and tag a friend on Giveaway post from https://www.instagram.com/adam_buchanan/

Follow Darn Tough on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darntoughvermont/

BONUS entry: gain one extra entry by writing a review on Apple Podcasts for FGB podcast" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-generation-bowhunter/id1613568313

Skiing roots influence product design and innovation.

Darn Tough socks were born from a need for quality.

Merino wool offers superior comfort and moisture-wicking properties.

The brand's success is tied to its commitment to quality and community.

Socks are considered essential equipment for outdoor activities.

Cotton socks do not perform well in athletic settings.

Darn Tough maintains a low return rate due to product quality.

The brand listens to customer feedback for product development.

Investing in quality gear enhances outdoor experiences.

The hunting community plays a vital role in the brand's evolution.

Chapters

00:00 Skiing Roots and Industry Insights

02:52 The Birth of Darn Tough Socks

05:57 Quality and Innovation in Sock Design

08:48 The Importance of Merino Wool

11:49 Staying Focused on Socks

14:58 The Science Behind Sock Performance

17:59 Community and Brand Loyalty

24:20 The Importance of Quality Gear

30:07 Innovations in Sock Technology

36:02 Maintaining Comfort in the Field

42:02 Community Feedback and Product Development

In this conversation, Ryan Uffens from Hunt Stealth Podcast shares his experiences and insights from his bow hunting journey, discussing the challenges and learning moments he encountered throughout the hunting season. He reflects on the importance of preparation, understanding wildlife behavior, and the thrill of the hunt. Additionally, he introduces his new product, Bison King, highlighting its nutritional benefits and the story behind its creation.

Use code [FIRSTGEN] to save on https://bsnkng.com/

Ryan shares his first experiences with elk and deer hunting.

He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes in hunting.

Scent plays a crucial role in hunting success.

Preparation and the right equipment are essential for a successful hunt.

Ryan launched a new Bison Jerky product with his son, BSN KNG.

He encourages new hunters to take opportunities when they arise.

The conversation highlights the camaraderie and learning in the hunting community.

Chapters

00:00 The Watch Connection and Tech Preferences

02:50 Bow Hunting: A New Journey Begins

06:01 Experiences in the Field: Learning and Growth

09:09 The Thrill of the Hunt: First Encounters

12:11 The Call of the Wild: Elk and Mule Deer Adventures

14:51 The Scent of Success: Recognizing Animal Signs

17:58 The Evolution of a Hunter: From Novice to Passionate

21:01 The Challenges of Calling: Learning the Sounds of Nature

23:56 The Unique Smell of Elk: A Hunter's Perspective

28:02 Hunting Experiences and Lessons Learned

50:20 Launching Bison King: A New Venture

56:57 Podcasting Journey and Community Connections

In this episode of First Generation Bowhunter, Adam shares his recent hunting experiences, focusing on deer behavior, movement patterns, and the importance of adapting strategies based on observations. He discusses the significance of paying attention to environmental changes and how they affect deer activity. Adam reflects on missed opportunities and the lessons learned from his hunting adventures, emphasizing the joy and excitement of the hunt.

Pay attention to deer behavior and environmental changes.

Deer movement can be influenced by human activity.

Hunting strategies should adapt to observed patterns.

Patience is key when observing wildlife.

Chasing deer can lead to missed opportunities.

Understanding deer patterns can improve hunting success.

Experience teaches valuable lessons in hunting.

The thrill of the hunt is in the journey, not just the outcome.

Wild game hanging is a rewarding experience.

Sharing knowledge and tips can help fellow hunters.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hunting Insights

03:00 Behavioral Shifts in Deer Patterns

06:11 Observations on Deer Movement and Activity

09:03 Hunting Strategies and Techniques

11:48 Chasing Deer and Missed Opportunities

14:57 Learning from Experience and Instincts

17:52 Conclusion and Reflections on the Hunt

In this episode, Adam discusses his experiences with hunting, particularly the challenges of taking his son out to hunt deer. He shares a humorous anecdote about an app that predicts deer activity and reflects on the recent closure of BlackOvis and CamoFire, where he worked as a marketing director. Adam expresses his gratitude for the colleagues he worked with and the emotional impact of the company's closure, highlighting the talent and dedication of his team.

Chapters

00:00 Can you find more deer with this app?

07:51 Reflections on BlackOvis and CamoFire