When it comes to hunting gear, the last thing you want to do is scrimp. If you buy something low quality, do not be surprised if it breaks in the middle of a field trip. If it breaks when you are out in the mountains in the middle of winter, that poor quality gear is going to cost you a lot more than you would think. Do not settle for poor quality hunting gear or clothing. It simply is not worth the risk.
Now that we have that number one rule of hunting gear out of the way, let us talk essentials. What are the seven pieces of hunting gear you can’t afford to skip in 2024? Let us find out.
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7 Essential Hunting Gear Pieces You Should not Skip in 2024
Hunting gear has come a long, long way since the days of a plaid shirt and denims. Nowadays, it is less about looking tough and more about being tough. You can learn about the evolution and history of hunting gear over on SKRE Gear if you are interested. They document hunting through the ages, which allows you to see just how far we have come since the days of old.
In the meantime, let us talk essential gear. What should you take with you on a hunt in 2024? Here is what the experts have to say.
1. Merino Wool Base Layer
First things are first: you want merino wool close to your skin. Merino is softer than any other type of fabric. It has more crinkles in it than other wools, which allows it to lock together tighter. A merino top or bottoms regulates your temperature, keeping you warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Added to this, it is tougher than other materials because of those interlocking fibers.
New fibers will work their way to the surface as you wear it, keeping it fresher for longer.
Hunters like merino wool because it is long-lasting, moisture wicking, and odor resistant. If you want a fabric that can keep up with you in the field, make it merino. Just remember that you will still require waterproof outer layers to offset that softness.
2. Waterproofs
It is not just the jacket that ought to be waterproof. Depending on the time of year, you may wish to invest in a waterproof set of trousers, too. If you are planning to cross any rivers, this becomes even more essential. Waterproofing stops you from getting sick, keeps you out in the field for longer, and protects you from chafing. If you want to stay dry both in the blind and in the tent, then a good waterproof is a must-have item.
When choosing your waterproof layers, keep in mind how much they rustle. Traditional waterproof layers are of polyester and nylon, which can be noisy in the field. Instead, opt for a wax treated waterproof that does not scare the deer away.
3. Good Boots (x2)
No hunter should ever go out into the brush with less than 2 pairs of boots. If one set gets wet and you don’t have the means to dry them, you will end up in danger. Trench foot is a horrendous issue for hunters. Thus named for the prevalence of damp, swollen, aching feet in the trenches of WWI, this condition’s technical name is Immersion Foot. It is a painful condition which impairs your movement significantly. A hunter with immersion foot is no use. If it happens while you are out in the brush with no one to help you get home, you could get stuck in adverse conditions and end up in danger. Do not take the risk. Take two pairs of boots and several pairs of thick, warm, dry socks.
4. Weaponry and Ammunition
Depending on what you hunt, you may wish to bring along a backup weapon. If you use a rifle, for example, the last thing you want is to run into a jam and have no weapon for the remainder of your trip. If you’re using a handgun, you might want to consider the most affordable 9mm self-defense loads to ensure optimal efficiency without breaking the bank. Do not assume you will bring down that buck with a single round. It will not happen and you might end up being trampled by a buck.
5. Scent Attractant and Reduction
If you go into a hunt stinking of body odor because you have been in the field all week, you will end up scaring away the prey. Similarly, you could attract the prey if you smell like the right kind of beast. These scent sprays can help increase the chances of success during your hunt.
6. A Waterproof Tent
You want a tent that can keep you safe in bad weather. Whether you are hunting in Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter, you need to know that your gear is safe and that you can return to a warm tent at the end of the day. Choose something that is waterproof but go even farther if you can. Some modern tents contain braziers, fires, and chimney flues. These are perfect for cold weather hunting. A heated tent could make the difference between life and death if you are hunting in the mountains in Winter. A heated tent also guarantees that you can dry off your clothes and other gear between days. Again, this could be lifesaving. You can read more about choosing a good tent here.
7. Fluorescents
If you are hunting in busy areas, you need to think about safety first. Of course, this means merino wool base layers, good boots and a sound tent to sleep in, but it also means fluorescent clothing in the appropriate areas. Scientists believe that prey animals do not see in color, while predators do. The bright orange hunting outerwear can protect you from falling foul of another hunter during high season.
Good Quality Gear is Best
Finally, the main rule of hunting is that high-quality gear is the best option for you. Do not go for cheap clothing or gear and end up stuck out there. Keep safety first in your mind and you will be better off.
