5 Things You Need In Your Whitetail Pack

With modern gun season fast approaching, the mentality switches from that of bow hunting. Distance becomes your friend and increases your chances of getting your rifle up to your shoulder before that big buck sees you. Strategies change as well as temperature and most importantly, gear.

There are a few items I don’t leave the house without them in my pack. It’s easy to load up on things you “might” need, but here are a few essentials that are always on me:

1.        Hot Hands Hand and Toe Warmers 13 ct Pack $11.79 @ Natchez Shooting Supply

Handwarmers seem like an easy thing to remember on those cold mornings, but alas I have left several times without them. Whether you prefer these disposables or something rechargeable, keeping those digits warm and functional is super important.

2.        Kronos Aeolus & Buck Paklite Skinner Knife Combo $79.99 @ PSA

The blade you carry in your pack should be razor sharp and can field dress or quarter your kill without having to stop and sharpen it halfway through. There are plenty of options out there, but finding one you trust is a thing of beauty.

3.        Phone/ Camera GoPro HERO13 Specialty Bundle $349.99 @ SCHEELS

This is another one that seems self-explanatory, but having your phone on you is important for several reasons, the most important being safety. If you have an accident and get hurt in the field, having that lifeline may be the difference in surviving or not. It’s nice to have a camera on hand to get those monster antler pics too.

4.        Proper Attire Sitka Core Merino 220 Half Zip $119.40 @ sitkagear.com

Proper attire is something that shouldn’t be an issue, but sometimes can be. Knowing the climate in which you are hunting makes a huge difference in what you choose to wear. I’m normally a cold-weather elk hunter, but this year’s trip to New Mexico had me scrambling to find a lighter hunting outfit for the 95 degree days. Likewise not having those nice gloves may make for a miserable hunt on a snowy evening hunt.

5.        Clean Rifle and Ammo OTIS 610 Cleaning System $34.99 @ Brownell’s

Your rifle and ammunition must be in good operating form to be successful on a hunt. Something as simple as a dirty chamber can take your hunt-story from pulling out pictures to show the magnificent animal to “the gun never went boom.” Things like keeping the muzzle clear of obstructions, keeping your ammo dry and in good condition, and a clear scope lens are all hugely imperative to a successful hunt.

-Nick

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