Whether you are new to hunting or you are a seasoned hunter, being properly prepared for a hunting trip is not only important, but also crucial for safety and success. Not being prepared could mean an injury to you or a hunting partner or it could mean that you miss out on the perfect shot and come home empty handed – neither of which you want.
Having the right hunting gear makes a huge difference and will differentiate between a frustrating or enjoyable experience. In this article, we will discuss the seven must-have gear items that every hunter, new or experienced, should carry with them on every hunting trip to ensure they are ready for any situation that they encounter.
- Rifle or Bow PLUS Ammunition or Arrows
The first piece of gear that every hunter needs is something to hunt with. Whether you choose a rifle or a bow, you need a weapon. This is the tool you will rely on the most, so it is critical that you choose one that you feel comfortable with and one that will meet your needs.
There are plenty of options out there when it comes to both hunting rifles and hunting bows, so take your time and try both options out to see what you like the best.
Hunting rifles and shotguns are usually ideal for killing larger game while hunting bows are better for those who want more of a challenge and intimate experience.
No matter which weapon you choose, you will need to make sure each one is tuned properly or zeroed in to ensure an accurate shot.
Furthermore, you will need to make sure you have plenty of ammunition or arrows for your weapon of choice. You should bring along more than you think you will need so that you have plenty and, of course, extras in case you need some follow up shots.
- Knife, Knife Sharpener, and Multipurpose Tool
A quality, sharp knife is an indispensable tool that you need to have as it will allow you to field dress and process your game. Additionally, a quality knife can assist you in other various tasks out in the field such as preparing firewood, cutting rope, and opening up supplies.
As you shop for a knife, look for one that checks off all of these qualities:
- Sharp
- Durable
- Ergonomic
Additionally, you want to make sure you keep a small knife sharpener on you. This way, you can sharpen your knife on the go and as needed. Nothing is more frustrating than finding yourself with a piece of game that needs to be dressed/processed and a dull knife.
Furthermore, having a multipurpose tool on hand can be quite useful. A multipurpose tool provides you with additional tools outside of a knife such as scissors, pliers, and screwdrivers.
- Rangefinder
Most experienced hunters will recommend that you have a rangefinder with you at all times when you hunt. A rangefinder is one of the best tools you can invest in and allows you to measure the exact distance to your intended target. These measurements then allows you to quickly adjust your shot to ensure you nail it.
When shopping for a rangefinder, you want to choose one that is accurate for the distance that you plan to hunt. Some of the highest-quality models provide a distance reading in mere seconds and allow you to switch between yards and meters.
You also want to look for a rangefinder that is weatherproof as you will find yourself hunting in all types of weather elements including rain, snow, and heat. Some of the best rangefinders are fog and water resistant.
- Hunting Backpack
A high-quality, well-designed hunting backpack is a must for any hunter. This backpack will help keep you organized and allow you to seamlessly carry your gear and supplies. A backpack is a great option for those who plan to hunt remotely, on rough terrain, or long distance.
As you shop of r a hunting backpack, some of the key features you should look for include:
- Comfortable fit when wearing and easy to adjust
- Plenty of pockets for storage and organization
- Hydration compartment or compatibility
- First Aid Kit
Accidents can and do happen when hunting from minor cuts to serious injuries. A comprehensive first aid kit is a must have and should be customized to deal with the specific risks that come along with hunting.
Your first aid kit should include the following things:
- Basic supplies such as antiseptic wipes, bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, and gauze pads
- Specialty items such as burn cream, tweezers, snake bite kit, ice pack, and any other items based on where you will be hunting, and the specific risks involved
- Medications such as anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, Benadryl, and any prescriptions you may need
- Proper Clothing for Hunting
When you are hunting, the weather conditions can change like a light switch, and you want to be prepared to adapt to the changing weather. Weather-appropriate clothing will not only keep you comfortable but will ensure your safety as you hunt too.
Here are some articles of clothing you should consider:
Camouflage: Patterns of camouflage on clothing can help you blend into your environment and avoid being spotted by game. You should choose camouflage colors that match the surroundings you will be hunting in.
Layered Clothing: Dress yourself in different layers of clothing that can be adjusted based on the conditions outside. Your base layers should be items that offer moisture wicking while your middle layers should offer insulation, and your outer layers should be windproof and waterproof.
Gloves and Hats: Cold ears and hands can be problematic, especially when it is time to shoot, so make sure that you bring both gloves and a hat with you.
Shoes: Waterproof and insulated boots are a must for keeping your feet dry. You want to choose boots that are comfortable to wear, and uncomfortable boots will only pose a distraction to you. You also want to make sure your boots are designed for the hunting adventure you plan to have whether that includes trekking over rough terrain or walking long distances.
- Headlamp or Flashlight
A headlamp or flashlight is a must for any hunter, especially if you plan to hunt before the sun comes up or after the sun goes down.
Out of the two, a headlamp is much more useful because it allows you to keep your hands free, but a flashlight will serve its purpose of providing light too.
When choosing a headlamp or flashlight, you want to look at the following important features:
- Water resistance – Choose one that offers water resistance or one that is waterproof. This will allow you to use it without worry in a variety of weather elements
- Brightness – Look for one that has an adjustable brightness option. A headlamp with 100 to 200 lumens is a great option for general brightness and will serve its purpose in most situations; however, higher lumens may be needed in some instances
- Battery life – You want a headlamp or flashlight that offers an extended battery life so that you don’t have to worry about dying batteries or carry excess batteries with you on your hunting trip
The Right Hunting Gear = The Perfect Hunting Trip
Each hunting trip will come with its own set of challenges but when you have the right gear on you, you can face those challenges without a problem. From the right choice in weapon to clothing and even light, your gear is an essential piece to the puzzle and will ensure an overall excellent hunting experience.
Above all else, plan ahead, pack your gear, and enjoy your time hunting.
