Episode 10
Rachel Hobden: Precision, Courage & Finding Your Power on the Range
In this episode of Women Who Hunt, Carly sits down with Rachel Hobden, whose story begins in the paddocks of the South West Slopes — following her dad through pest control missions, fox calling nights, and early lessons on respect for the land, the animal, and the hunt.
As a child, Rachel wasn’t allowed to shoot yet, but she was right there beside her dad, hauling the gut pile under a tree to watch foxes come in. Those memories never left her.
Years later, after life, kids, and a long break from the sport, Rachel’s husband reignited the spark — taking her back onto the range and straight into pistol shooting, where she discovered she had a natural talent… and a serious love for Tanfoglio pistols.
Today she shoots competition .22, beats her husband (regularly), reloads, trains hard, and has stepped up as a female Range Officer, giving back to the sport and supporting new shooters — especially women walking onto the line for the first time.
In this episode, we talk about: • Childhood hunting with her dad on rural properties • Foxes, pest control, lambing season, and real impacts • Rediscovering shooting as an adult with her husband • Falling in love with pistols — especially Tanfoglio • Natural talent, tight groups, personal competition • Her first time seeing another woman find her confidence • Why female ROs matter • The stigma of firearms owners vs. the reality • Helping new shooters feel welcome, safe, and seen • And why more women should absolutely explore this sport
Rachel’s honesty, humour, and heritage make this an episode packed with heart and practical, lived experience.
Follow Rachel: Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/therachelhobden/ Instagram (Shooting/Tanfoglio): https://www.instagram.com/tanfoglioau_rach/