Top 5 Things to Bring on a Hunt

Hunting is a sport that definitely takes preparation. Unlike golf or rowing, or any other outdoor sport, hunting requires planning, facilitating, and a whole lot of preparation. Most hunting enthusiasts have a check list lined up and ready to go the second that their ticket is pulled or their buddy invites them to join a hunt. Now, for those of you who have not done this, I would encourage you not simply to make a list; but more specifically, make a list that ensures you have the right tools for the job. In this article I will introduce five key components to any successful hunt and will also tell you why these items are a must when planning for any kind of hunting trip.

 

Basics

These first few items make up the most common items needed for a hunt; hence why they are the “basics”. Any hunter will need the following when planning a hunt: Tent/Camper, pots and pans for cooking, water-proof boots, camouflage, wool clothing, rain gear, toiletries, first-aid kit, and so on. Wouldn’t you say that these items are common sense? Even so, it is not just how you prepare camp that ensures you come home with a kill; it’s what equipment you bring.

 

Binoculars

Binoculars can sometimes be considered as a “basic” item however, some hunters will in fact try and replace their binoculars by simply using their scope. I would definitely not recommend doing this. Often times, hunters try and narrow down their equipment to make for lighter travel. Although this is smart, I have seen all too often a hunter leaving their binoculars and struggling to keep an eye on his/her target through the scope alone. Binoculars can be a cheaper item, depending on the quality, but should not be overlooked when planning a hunting trip.

 

Wind-Check Powder

Does anyone remember the old licking your finger trick to see what way the wind is blowing? Thank god we have come a long way from this method of arbitrary guesses. A lot of us might have used a type of wind-check powder when on a hunt. This item is also incredibly useful when determining what angle to take when aiming at a target. Often times, people will use corn starch to replace wind-check powder, however, doing so can cause more hassle than you want. Corn starch can leave a “cloudy” residue in the air making it difficult to see the direction of wind. Wind-check powder (Primos specifically) will put out a long worm-like stream that is very easy to see. This will shave precious time off lining up your shot and will ensure you have better accuracy when firing.

 

Scabbard

This item is also a necessity when on a hunt. Most hunters bring with them some type of Swiss Army Knife or something along those lines. This is great; however, what happens when it doesn’t stay in your pocket? What happens if you need to cut rope, finish a target, or skin and clean your kill and you don’t have your knife? A scabbard is a sheath used for holding a dagger or knife and will save your hide when you are in the field and need your knife quick.

 

Tripod

Last but certainly not least, a tripod hunting stand is needed for any successful hunt. It is safe to say that timing is everything when hunting. We wait for hours on end, relentlessly stalking our prey. We do this because we know that patience is a virtue; especially in the world of hunting. Having this in mind, we must be prepared to set up a shooting station or steady our rifles at any time. One thing that will make certain that you don’t miss your target by a second is a quick and easy to install hunting tripod. Most tripods are bulky and have many components to install prior to operation. I urge you to search for a compact, light-weight tripod so that you can maneuver with haste and be quick on your feet; no matter what situation.