Rural Life Unfiltered: Auctions, Hunting & Record Catches

This week, from horse to firearm auctions, we navigate keeping the peace with our spouses afterwards. Plus share updates on hunting mishaps, how Anti-Hunters has wildlife conservation still winning, and record-breaking catches with unexpected outcomes. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC’ and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!  

From Firearms to Horse Sales: Navigating Auctions (and Marriage) with Strategy

When Auctions Are a Way of Life — and Marriage Is a Partnership

Recently, while driving to a horse sale that we were working at, my husband Tigger turned and asked me, “So... are you getting a bidder number today?”

I smiled and responded with a firm, “Yes, and glad we’ve now had that discussion.”

Translation? I’m buying something, and we’re not arguing about it.

Truth is, when you’ve been around livestock, auctions, and rural life as long as we have, these conversations become part of your auction day ritual. What Tigger also knows is that I don’t buy just to buy. I invest — whether it’s a colt, a saddle, or yes, even a rifle. If something is going to eat feed, take up stall space, or use up a gun safe room, it better bring value, joy, or a decent return one day.

And let me tell you, this particular sale day delivered a little more excitement than expected...

The Time I Bid Against My Husband Without Him Knowing

So, there we were at the horse sale. Tigger was busy representing another ranch, completely unaware that his lovely wife(BEC) was quietly (but confidently) bidding against him from the other side of the ring.

The auctioneer knew. The ringmen knew. Heck, the crowd knew — and they were loving it.

Then came the big moment:

Auctioneer: “SOLD!” Me, grinning: “I love you, Tigger!”

That’s when the place erupted in laughter. And to his credit, Tigger took it like a champ. Was he thrilled I'd just dropped cash on a horse we hadn't even discussed? Maybe not. But did he respect my judgment? Absolutely.

And that’s what makes our auction adventures work: mutual respect, financial boundaries, and open communication.

Meet our newest addition, a 2025 AQHA registered Bay Roan filly purchased from the Froelich Legacy Quarter Horse Sale that we know call "Denali". Her name comes from not just her pedigree but also as this was the year I visited Denali National Park in Alaska!   Planning for Firearm Auctions — and Keeping the Spouse Happy

While livestock sales are a regular part of our lives, firearm auctions are another exciting (and tempting) avenue we both enjoy.

But before we register, load up the trailer, or open the gun safe, we always have a talk:

• What do our finances look like right now?

• Do we have room in the safe (or barn / pasture)?

• Is this an impulse buy or an investment piece?

• What are the long-term costs — time, maintenance, upkeep?

• Could this have resale value or serve a future purpose?

These conversations aren’t about permission — they’re about teamwork and transparency. When you’re in a relationship where big purchases are common — whether horses, hay, or handguns — keeping the lines of communication open keeps the peace (and the budget balanced).

Upcoming Firearm Auctions You Don’t Want to Miss

For all our fellow auction-goers, collectors, and Second Amendment supporters out there — mark your calendars!

Wolff Auctioneers Firearm Auctions (with Live & Online Bidding):

• October 25, 2025 — Featuring 150+ rifles and pistols
• November 1, 2025 — Another 150+ rifle showcase

Visit WolffAuctioneers.com for details, catalogs, and to register for online live bidding.

Whether you're looking for collectible firearms, hunting gear, or just something to pass down to the grandkids - these auctions are the real deal.

Final Thoughts: Respect, Strategy, and Shared Adventures

Auction days are more than just sales — they’re events. They’re part of the lifestyle we love. But they can also become points of tension if you're not careful.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:

"Bidding is fun. Buying is thrilling. But mutual respect is what keeps the relationship strong."

Whether I’m bidding on a gelding or Tigger’s eyeing a vintage Winchester, we know what matters most: being a team, backing each other up, and being just a little competitive — even if I do yell “I love you” after I outbid him.

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