Hunting Gear: What’s Most Important To Include

Hunting is a popular sport for many people and regardless of the fact you are an avid hunter living near bush property or a novice who is just getting involved in the sport, it is important to be adequately prepared. Due to the nature of the activity, there are higher risks of injury, and any experienced hunter would tell you preplanning and having the right equipment is key to ensuring everyone's safety.

Below we will look at the most important pieces of hunting gear every hunter should have, and be familiar with, before heading out!

Weapon

When hunting, your weapon of choice is arguably the most important piece of equipment. Not only is it necessary to hunt with, but it is also necessary to properly care for it! Ensure that you are familiar with the proper maintenance of your weapon, and take time to research different hunting tips. Additionally, ensure you know how to properly use your weapon of choice. Whether this is a rifle or a bow, having the proper training in regard to use and safety is imperative.

Having a proper license is also a necessity when it comes to carrying and transporting your firearm. A lot of firearms will be permitted if you have a hunting license, but you should always check with your local law enforcement to confirm.

Ammunition is another important thing to be aware of before heading outside. Engaging in target practice is also a good idea as you must feel comfortable and confident that the weapon you are using will work for your needs.

 

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Clothing

Camouflaged clothing is typically recommended for hunters, as it will help you blend in with your surroundings and hopefully avoid being detected by the animal you are hunting. Depending on the season, you will want to dress in layers to ensure you stay warm. Make sure to bring along a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes as well.

Many times hunters are required to wear blaze-orange garments during certain times of the year. For example, in Ontario, it is required that hunters wear a minimum of 400 square inches of solid Hunter Orange clothing above the waistline, as well as a hat. This is required during the permitted times of deer, moose, and bear gun hunting season. In British Columbia, however, there are no requirements to wear blaze orange while hunting. 

Hunting Tools

A successful hunt also depends on having the proper tools for the trade. Some of the most important items include a strong hunting knife, scent control, and game bags.

A hunting knife is an essential tool for any hunter. Not only is it necessary for gutting and cleaning the animal you have killed, but it can also be used for other purposes such as cutting rope or rope locks, making notches in wood, and more. It is important to have a high-quality knife that will withstand the demands of hunting.

Scent control is another important factor to consider. By minimizing your scent, you will make it more difficult for the animal you are hunting to detect you. There are many ways to control your scent, from using specific soaps or hunting sprays to having scent-free clothing.

Game bags are also a necessity for keeping your harvested game safe and fresh. These should be strong enough to support the weight of the animal you have killed, and waterproof to prevent any wetness from damaging the meat.

Another thing to ensure you have when hunting is all the appropriate tags. There are steep fines and even the risk of jail time if you do not properly tag your game, so make sure to check with your local hunting laws before heading out into the woods.

Navigation

A GPS unit is a valuable navigation tool for any hunter. By having a GPS, you will be able to track your location, as well as the location of the animal you are hunting.

Maps are also important, as they can give you an idea of the terrain you will be hunting in, as well as what landmarks or rivers you can use to help navigate your way back. A compass is another key item to have when hunting in unfamiliar territory. This will help you orient yourself and stay on track.

Emergency Supplies

When it comes to hunting, being prepared for anything is essential. This means having the necessary supplies to deal with any situation that may arise.

One of the most important things to have is a reliable water source. By bringing along a water filter or water purification tablets, you can ensure you will have access to clean water no matter where you are.

The shelter is another key thing to have in case of an emergency. Whether this is a tarp, tent, or simple bivy sack, make sure you have something to keep you dry and protected from the elements.

First-aid kits are also essential, as you never know when an injury may occur. It is important to have supplies to deal with both major and minor injuries, such as bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptics.

 

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After The Hunt

Once you have successfully killed an animal, there are a few additional items you will need to clean and process the meat.

Gutter gloves are a necessary item for any hunter. These gloves fit over your hands and have ridges on the fingers and palms, which help to remove the slippery fat and membrane from the meat.

A good processing knife is also important. This knife should be sturdy and sharp, able to handle all the cutting tasks needed to process the meat. A pelvic saw is also handy and is used to cut the pelvic bone of the deer.

A deer drag is another essential piece of equipment. This is a strap that attaches to the antlers or neck of the deer and helps to pull it out of the woods.

No matter how experienced a hunter you are, there is always the potential for something to go wrong. By being prepared for any situation that may arise, you will be able to handle whatever comes your way. Make sure to pack all the necessary supplies, from water and shelter to first-aid kits and game bags. By doing so, you can rest assured that you are ready for anything that hunting may throw your way.

Whether you're lucky enough to live near hunting areas or traveling to your destination, always be prepared, and stay safe out there!