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Three Things I Can’t Miss On A Deer Hunting Trip

The anticipation builds as you step into the quiet wilderness, the crisp air filling your lungs.

The sun’s first rays paint the horizon, setting the stage for an unforgettable day in the deer woods.

As a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the sport, there are three essential elements that no deer hunt should ever be without.

In this write-up, we’ll explore the trio of must-haves that can elevate your hunting experience and increase your chances of success.

Product 1: A Pair of Decent Binoculars

Imagine scanning a vast meadow or thick woods with binoculars and suddenly spotting a buck’s antlers glinting in the early morning light.

That’s the magic of binoculars – they reveal hidden treasures and give you the opportunity to identify and assess your target before making a move.

For the binoculars, what I am reviewing today may seem basic, but it’s a game-changer for deer hunting – binoculars.

Believe it or not, I didn’t start using binos until a few years ago, and the difference they’ve made in my hunting success is remarkable.

I introduced the Vortex Crossfire HD 8×42 binoculars into my gear lineup a couple of years back. They’re not only inexpensive but also highly effective.

These binos came with a case and everything I needed, including the Vortex bino harness. For someone looking for an affordable pair of binoculars, these are a solid choice.

They’ve helped me spot deer I’d never have seen with just my naked eye.

One question I often get is, “How do they perform in low light, considering they’re priced at around a hundred dollars?”

Surprisingly, they perform better than expected. During those last 10 minutes of fading daylight, I pull out these binos to scan for movement, and they’ve helped me spot deer and identify movements effectively.

Honestly, growing up, I never used binoculars, and neither did my family. But now, I consider them a staple for every hunter, whether rifle, bow, shotgun, or muzzleloader hunter.

The ability to quickly identify and assess your target or scout the terrain is invaluable. I can’t imagine going back to hunting without them.

Also Check: Best Binoculars For Hunting

Product 2: Budget Sleeping Bag for Early Season Hunts

Next up, I have a product that’s perfect for those early season hunts in the backcountry when you’re on a tight budget.

I recently had an elk hunt in Idaho, and I needed a sleeping bag that wouldn’t break the bank. I couldn’t afford those high-end, ultra-lightweight sleeping bags that cost hundreds of dollars, so I did some research to find a budget-friendly option.

I stumbled upon the “Hike and Bike” sleeping bag, which only cost me around $175.

It’s a 15-degree bag, which means it’s suitable for early-season hunts where temperatures typically stay above 30 degrees.

This sleeping bag is filled with 800 fp goose down, making it both warm and compressible. It’s perfect for truck camping or early-season whitetail hunts.

When looking at sleeping bags, it’s crucial to understand the temperature ratings.

Most bags have a survival rating and a comfort rating. In this case, the survival rating is 15 degrees, but many hunters find it comfortable down to 30 degrees.

For those on a budget, this sleeping bag is an excellent choice. It compresses well, takes up little space in your pack, and keeps you warm during those chilly early season nights.

Product 3: Spotlight for Nighttime Scouting

Our third product is a spotlight, and it’s a tool that’s often underutilized in deer hunting.

While spotlighting has some limitations and legal restrictions in some areas, it can be a valuable asset for gaining information about deer movement and behavior.

Spotlighting allows you to observe deer at night, providing insights into their feeding patterns, travel routes, and even the presence of trophy bucks.

It’s particularly useful during the rut when deer are more active at night. However, it’s essential to follow local laws and regulations regarding spotlighting to avoid any legal issues.

When choosing a spotlight, consider its lumens and range.

A powerful spotlight can illuminate deer eyes and identify them at a considerable distance.

Look for one that plugs into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter for a constant power source, ensuring you don’t run out of battery when you need it most.

While spotlighting is not without its concerns, such as potentially spooking deer, it remains a valuable tool for scouting and gathering information about deer behavior, especially in areas where it’s legal and appropriate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these three products – binoculars, a budget sleeping bag, and a spotlight – each serve their unique purposes in deer hunting.

Binoculars enhance your ability to spot and identify deer, a budget sleeping bag keeps you warm during early-season hunts, and a spotlight aids in nighttime scouting.

As responsible hunters, it’s essential to follow local regulations and use these tools ethically and responsibly.

Also See: Best Binoculars For Elk Hunting