Hunting Gear Basics for Better Success
Choosing the right hunting gear should always be a major priority because it can have a huge impact on your success. Whether you are just getting started as a hunter, or you’re an experienced veteran, the preparations before you leave are critically important, and that means having the appropriate equipment and gear for any situation. Start with the basics, and then you can build up from there.
Clothing
Everything you wear should have a purpose, and your hunting clothes should be protective, strategic, and safe. Depending on where and what you are hunting, these clothes will need to hide you from the animals while simultaneously making you visible to other hunters. It’s a fine line to walk, but there are a lot of great options available.
The environmental conditions are going to be the biggest consideration here. The type of foliage, the colors of the rock and ground, and even the weather can play a major part in how you dress, so you need to be aware of your surroundings (and the weather forecast).
Camouflage comes in a wide variety of patterns, and while you could probably get away with using something from the army surplus store, you will have better success finding camo that reflects the area where you will be hunting.
Safety Gear
Accidents happen. It doesn’t matter how much experience you have had, something unforeseen could happen that might lead to problems and injuries. There are a number of essential items that you should always on hand, including a compass, first aid kit, drinking water, flashlights, a GPS system, cell phones, and anything else that will help you prevent accidents or get the help that you need.
Weapons and Tools
Whether you are going to use a rifle, shotgun, bow, or any other weapon, first make sure that it is legal in your state. Second, make sure that it is clean and reliable. This means taking the time to use it before you go hunting. Make sure that you have a feel for the weapon and know what to expect when you pull the trigger.
Take enough ammunition to get the job done, but don’t weigh yourself down with it. You will, however, want to make sure you have enough to be covered if some of it should get wet.
Finally, make sure you have a good knife and a sharpener you know how to use. Some game will need to be field dressed, and a good, sharp knife will make the job much easier. More than that, though, a reliable knife can be one of the most versatile tools in all your hunting gear, and you may be surprised how often it comes in handy.
Keep It Legal
One of the most basic elements of the hunt is the license that makes it all legal. For many, this is a given, but it’s important to make sure you’re not hunting on an expired license or taking animals out of season. If you are found doing so you could lose your license, your gear, and any ability to hunt again in the future. Take the time to get all the right gear as well as the training and licenses to make the most out of this year’s hunt.
Steve Jacobs is an avid hunter and fisher and loves the outdoors in general. When he isn’t actively hunting and fishing he enjoys blogging about his adventures in the wild as well as the basics of the sports he loves.