Essential Gear
Be prepared and make your hunt more comfortable by having the essentials.
Clothing
Hypothermia happens when your body loses heat faster than it produces it, causing your core body temperature to fall, and it can happen at temperatures as high as 50° Fahrenheit. Having the right clothes is paramount.
Rain Gear
One of the best ways to protect yourself against hypothermia is to have good rain gear. Quality rain gear not only protects from moisture getting to the body, but it will also prevent trapping moisture produced by the body (i.e. sweat) through proper ventilation.
Base Layers
Base layers wick perspiration away from the body to keep your skin dry. There is a wide range of base layer fabrics, including synthetics like polyester and nylon, or natural fibers like merino wool or silk. Some hunting brands specialize in base layers that block scent and offer extra durability.
Socks
If you keep your feet dry and in good shape you will be able to go further, stay out longer, and move around comfortably in all weather conditions. The number one rule with socks is to avoid cotton. Just like a vital base layer, having socks that wick moisture, provide protection and warmth, and prevent blisters will pay dividends during your hunt.
Boot Blankets
Not essential, but something worth considering for long sits.
There are a variety of companies that make insulating or heat-reflective boot blankets that can simply be slid over the top of any pair of boots to help keep your toes warm. At reasonably affordable prices, minimal weight, and space in the pack, I don’t leave home without them once the temps start dropping. Just make sure you put them on over your boots after you have got into your stand and are strapped in as they can be dang cumbersome to climb with. – onX’s Jared Larsen
Tools
Hunting Knife
From cleaning game, cutting rope, or notching hunting tags, a hunting knife is one of the most essential pieces of hunting gear you can have with you. Here are some advantages of different types to help you choose:
Fixed Blade
- Will Not Break
- Easy to Maintain
- Larger Blades
Folding Knife
- Easy to Pack
- Multiple Blade Types
- Lightweight
Multi-Tool
- Most Versatile
- Screwdriver, Saw, Scissors – All-in-One Hunting Tool
A growing number of hunters are opting to carry knives with replaceable blades because they are ultralight, don’t need sharpening, and are affordable.
Scent Control
Deer have up to 297 million olfactory (scent) receptors in their nose. By comparison, dogs only have 220 million and humans have just five million olfactory receptors. Covering your scent is essential for successful whitetail hunting.
Deer Drag/Rope
Paracord could work for a makeshift deer drag, but if you have to cover much distance you’ll want to save your shoulders and back and have a proper harness-style deer drag with you to get your downed deer back to your truck.
Optics
Binoculars
You need a dependable pair of binoculars to assess your target and beyond before taking a shot. Anything from smaller 8×32 to the Bushnell Forge 15×56 binoculars might suit your needs. Accessories like a bino harness or bino tripod might also be worth having depending on your type of hunt and hunting area.
Rangefinder
Take all the guesswork out of your shot with a lightweight rangefinder. For bowhunting, you’ll want a rangefinder that works well in close proximity (10 yards or less), with readings marked in fractions of yards.
Emergency Supplies
Consider this list as the absolute minimum you should consider carrying in case of emergency:
- Water and Water Purification System (UV filter and iodine tablets)
- Food (high-calorie foods with 40 percent carbs, 30 percent protein, and 30 percent fats)
- Shelter (space blanket or emergency bivvy sack)
- First Aid Kit
- Fire-making Supplies (two lighters wrapped with duct tape and a waterproof Magnesium striker)
- Illumination (flashlight, headlamp, and extra batteries)
