Hunting is a popular sport or activity that is done in many different cultures throughout the world. People go hunting for a variety of reasons, but the most common is to find food. While it might be intimidating to start hunting, your next hunting trip can be more successful if you have the right hunting gear – especially if you’re new to hunting. This article covers the top 10 pieces of hunting gear for beginners that you need to be successful.
In order to hunt efficiently and effectively in any particular area, you need the right hunting gear. There are many different types of hunting gear, equipment, and hunting aids. They range from rifle scopes and hunting knives to scent aids and camouflage clothing. This hunting gear guide shares recommendations for the best hunting gear for beginners, helpful hunting tips, and important information for new hunters.
Table of Contents
What are the best hunting gear essentials for beginners?
Although some hunts may require specialized hunting equipment, there are must-have hunting products that will be useful on every hunt. Here’s a quick list of must-have hunting gear.
- Weapon
- Camouflage Clothing – See our Recommendations for Hunting Camo
- Hunting Gloves – Our Recommendation: ScentLok Custom Gloves for Men
- Binoculars, Scope or other Visual Aid – Our Recommendation: Vortex Crossfire HD Binoculars
- Hunting Knife – Our Recommendation : Buck Pursuit Fixed-Blade Knife
- Hunting Pack – Our Recommendation: RedHead Velocity Hunting Pack
- Scent Aids – Our Recommendation: Wildlife Research Center Super Charged Scent Killer Pump Spray and Dead Down Wind 3D+ Laundry Detergent
- Water & Food
- Emergency Survival and First Aid Kits – Our Recommendation: Adventure Medical Kits Survival Medic Survival Kit
- Compass and Map- Our Recommendation: Cammenga 3H Tritium Compass
- (Optional) Decoys or hunting calls
1. Weapon
A weapon is the tool you will use to hunt an animal. When it comes to hunting, the weapon will generally be a firearm (such as a rifle or shotgun) or a bow (or crossbow) and arrow.
When choosing the right hunting weapon, you’ll need to take into account a few factors:
- Your target species (animals you’re hunting)
- Your terrain (where you’re hunting)
- Your experience level (such as how experienced you are with firearms).
The type of weapon you choose will depend on what you plan to hunt, but make sure it is something you are comfortable with and can handle well. You will also need ammunition and accessories for your weapon.
2. Hunting Clothing – Camouflage
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hunter, your clothing choices can make or break your hunting trip. It is important to choose items that will help you blend in with your surroundings and stay comfortable during long hours of waiting and stalking game.
One of the most important things to look for when choosing hunting jackets and clothing is camouflage. Camouflage patterns help break up your outline so that you are less visible to game animals. This gives you a better chance at getting close enough for a shot. There are many different types and styles of camouflage available, so it is important to choose one that will work well in the environment where you will be hunting. For example, if you plan on hunting in an area with lots of trees and leaves, a green or brown camo pattern would be a good choice. If you will be hunting in an open field with little cover, a white or tan camo pattern would be better suited to help you blend in with the grasses and dirt. Our complete guide on how to choose the best hunting jacket will help you select the right gear for your hunting trip.
In addition to choosing the right camouflage pattern, it is also important to consider the fabric weight and type when selecting your clothing items. For example, lighter weight fabrics like cotton or polyester are good choices for early season hunting when the temperatures are warmer. Heavier weight fabrics like wool or fleece are better suited for late season hunts when the weather is colder. Be sure to choose clothing that is quiet and won’t make noise when you move, as this can scare away game animals.
Hunting Camo clothing items you should wear include:
- Camo Jacket – We like: RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Parka for Men
- Camo Shirt and Pants – We like: ScentLok Savanna Aero Crosshair Pants for Men, Under Armour Iso-Chill Brush Line Long-Sleeve T-Shirt for Men
- Camo Face Mask – We like: RedHead Spandex Camo Balaclava Hunting Mask
- Hat or Head Covering – We like: Cabela’s Camo Tonal Logo Cap
3. Hunting Gloves
Hunting gloves are an important piece of hunting gear. Your hands will be doing a lot more than just holding your rifle or bow, so it is important to think about the safety of your hands and fingers.
Gloves help protect hunters’ hands from scratches, cuts, and thorns. Hunting gloves also help to keep the hunter’s hands warm and dry in cold weather. They also help with grip on the rifle, which is more difficult when both hands become wet from sweat or rainwater.
There are a lot of different types of gloves to choose from. The best hunting gloves will allow a good grip and provide good mobility to your fingers. If you’re hunting in cooler weather, you’ll appreciate hunting gloves with a lined material like neoprene or wool to keep your hands warm.
A great starter pair of hunting gloves are the ScentLok Custom Gloves for Men. The unique stitching on these gloves allows you to customize them to your needs. Plus, they’re made with ScentLoks’ odor suppressing Carbon Alloy™.
4. Binoculars/Scope
Binoculars or a scope is an important piece of equipment for any hunter, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. They allow you to see your prey from a distance, which is crucial for making an accurate shot.
There are many factors to consider when choosing binoculars or a scope, such as magnification power, objective lens size, weight, and durability. It’s important to find a balance between these features that suits your needs and budget.
There are many great brands of binoculars and scopes on the market, such as Vortez, Zeiss, and Bushnell. The Vortex Crossfire HD Binoculars in TrueTimber Strata Camo work well for people new to hunting.
5. Hunting Knife
Hunting knives are some of the most important items a hunter should carry with them. They’re an important piece of hunting gear for beginners and experienced hunters alike. Hunters use hunting knives for skinning, gutting, and cleaning game as well as building shelter and processing firewood.
When choosing a hunting knife, you should consider blade length and shape as well as handle material. Blade shapes vary from drop point to curved or straight blades depending on the hunter’s preference. Fixed blade knives are more durable than folding blades and will last much longer. When choosing a handle, most hunters prefer rubberized handles for extra grip in wet conditions.
A good quality hunting knife is a must-have item for any hunter, regardless of their level of experience. A knife is an essential tool for field dressing game and preparing it for cooking. It is also useful in making traps and processing wood, which are other important tasks that a hunter may need to complete.
6. Hunting Pack
A hunting pack or hunting backpack is a must-have for any new hunter. It carries the essentials you need while hunting. The hunting pack or hunting backpack will typically have a large main compartment, as well as several smaller compartments for carrying items like your GPS, flashlight, and other tools.
The best hunting packs are made of lightweight materials like nylon or ripstop fabric so that they don’t weigh you down too much when carrying them on your back. They also have padded shoulder straps, so you can carry the bag comfortably for hours at a time.
Hunting packs or backpacks are typically available in different capacities, so you can choose the best hunting pack based on how much gear you need to carry. They typically come in camo or blaze orange, so they can blend into their surroundings better when you’re hunting in the woods.
A beginner hunter should start by picking out an appropriate hunting pack that fits their needs and budget. After selecting all of the necessary items, practice packing and unloading the pack to prepare for any situation during their hunt.
Packing tips for Hunters:
1. When packing your hunting pack, make sure to distribute the weight evenly. A balanced pack helps you avoid fatigue and injuries while wearing your pack.
2. Always pack the essentials first, such as your weapon, hunting knife, and first aid kit. These items should be easily accessible in case you need them in a hurry.
3. If possible, try to pack lighter items towards the top of your pack and heavier items towards the bottom. This will help keep your pack balanced and easier to carry.
4. Securely pack all of your gear so that nothing shifts around or falls out while you are on the move.
5. When in doubt, leave unnecessary items at home. You don’t want to be weighed down by unnecessary items when out hunting.
7. Scent Hider or Scent Aids
A scent hider or a scent aid is an important piece of hunting gear for beginners. Wild animals can smell humans. So, many hunters use a scent hider to mask your human smell. These products cover up the human smell and mask it with something else, typically animal urine or other scents.
A popular scent hider is the Wildlife Research Super Charged Scent Killer Pump Spray, which is designed to be applied directly on the skin. The product contains a powerful combination of ingredients that kill human odor on contact.
8. Water & Food
Water is the most important thing to bring when hunting, especially if you are going to be in a hot climate. You need to make sure you have enough water to drink and also to cook with. Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day.
Food is also important, especially if you are going to be out in the wilderness for a long time. You need to make sure you have enough food to keep your energy up and keep your strength up. Bring high-energy foods like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
9. Emergency Supplies/First Aid Kit
It is important to be prepared for any emergency that may arise while on the hunt. A first aid kit should always be included in your hunting backpack. It should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and scissors. You may also want to include pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. If you don’t want to go through the trouble of creating your own hunting first aid kits, there are many complete first aid kits available to buy, such as the Adventure Medical Kits Survival Medic Survival Kit.
It’s also important to be prepared for other emergencies such as unexpected weather, getting lost or other delays. A good hunting emergency survival kit includes items such as a flashlight, extra batteries, waterproof matches, signal flares or strobe lights for signaling rescuers, a whistle to attract attention from others in the area, food rations that can be eaten without preparation, and an emergency blanket.
If you or someone in your hunting party is injured, it is important to know how to properly use the items in your first-aid kit. Be sure to read the instructions on each item before heading out on your hunt. In the event of a serious injury, always call for medical help immediately.
10. Compass & Map of the Area
A compass is a valuable tool for hunters, especially when heading into a new hunting territory. If you’re not used to navigating by landmarks and natural features, it’s easy to get turned around. Compasses help establish the right direction in relation to the sun and other landmarks, which can be helpful when finding their way back home or trying to find the best possible hunting spot.
A map of the area is another important resource for beginners to have in their kit. A map of the area will help you identify where you’re at and what surrounds your location. Topographical maps can help hunters find places where they are likely to see animals and learn the best way to get there.
A compass and map are must-have items for any beginning hunters who want to find their way back from the wilderness.
(Bonus) Decoys or Hunting Calls
Decoys or hunting calls are a bonus for beginner hunters. Decoys can be used to attract the attention of animals and get them close enough that you can take aim, while hunting calls help to mimic the sounds of animals to attract them. Hunting calls are a really effective way to increase your chances of successfully hunting an animal.
What are the benefits of using hunting gear?
There are several reasons to consider using hunting gear for beginners:
- The right hunting gear helps to keep you safe while hunting
- Hunting equipment helps you to be more successful in your hunting endeavors
- Using hunting gear makes hunting more comfortable
- Hunting gear can help to improve your shooting accuracy, resulting in a more efficient kill.
How to choose the right hunting product for your needs?
There are a lot of different hunting products on the market, making it difficult to know which one is right for you. The best way to choose the right product is to take into account your personal needs, the type of hunting you are doing, and your budget. There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing the best hunting gear, including your experience and level of expertise, the type of hunt you’re planning, and the terrain you’ll be hunting in.
First, consider what type of hunting you will be doing. If you are only going to be hunting small game, then you won’t need as much equipment as someone who is planning on hunting large game.
The next step is to figure out exactly what it is that you need. Are you looking for a new rifle scope? Or do you need a new pair of boots for your next hunting trip?
Then, think about what kind of budget you have for your hunting products. There are many high-quality products available at reasonable prices, so you don’t need to break the bank to get what you need.
Finally, read reviews of different products before making your final decision. This will help you get an idea of which products are well-made and which ones might not be worth your money.
With these factors in mind, you should be able to find the perfect hunting product for your needs!
Hunting EquipmentYou Don’t Need
There are a variety of hunting products on the market, however, you don’t need them all to have a successful hunt. Here are a few things beginner hunters should make sure to avoid:
Anything perfumed or artificially scented
Many animals can smell heavy perfumes and artificial scents. If you’re heading out, avoid using heavily fragranced soaps, perfumes, or colognes that would alert animals to your presence.
Anything that makes a lot of noise
Stealth is critical when hunting. If your hunting gear, squeaks, rattles or makes a lot of unnatural noises, you’ll likely scare off your prey.
Specialized gear that requires training to experience to use correctly
When you’re new to hunting, avoid buying any gear that is overly complicated or requires special skills or experience to use correctly. There are many simpler hunting tools you can use instead.
Over-priced or expensive hunting equipment
While there are a few pieces of hunting equipment that are necessary for a safe and successful hunt, nothing has to break the bank. Especially if you’re a beginner, you don’t need to buy expensive hunting gear, as there are many high-quality and affordable options available.
Care and maintenance tips for your hunting gear
Taking proper care of your hunting gear will help it last longer and perform better. You should clean your gear after each use, especially if it has been exposed to dirt, mud, or other debris. Some tips for care and maintenance of your hunting gear include:
Wash your gear regularly to keep it clean and free of bacteria.
To clean your gear, first, remove any dirt or debris with a brush or cloth. Then, wash the item with mild soap and water. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before storing it away
If your gear is particularly dirty or caked with mud, you may need to soak it in a solution of warm water and mild detergent before washing it. Take care to rinse the item thoroughly afterward to remove all traces of soap.
If your clothing or gear has specific washing instructions, be sure to follow those.
Store your gear in a cool, dry place.
When not in use, store your hunting gear in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If possible, store items in a breathable bag or container to prevent them from becoming musty or moldy.
Check and repair hunting gear
Check the stitching on your clothing and equipment frequently and repair any loose seams or stitches to make sure they’re not coming apart. If you notice any damage to your hunting gear, repair it as soon as possible so that it does not get worse over time. Small tears can be mended with sewing kit while larger ones may require the help of a professional. Repair or replace items that are damaged or worn out.
It is important to keep your hunting gear clean and well-maintained. This will ensure that it lasts longer and will not break down in the middle of a hunt.
Species Specific Hunting Items for Beginners
This article covers some must-have hunting items for general hunts, but in some cases, when you’re hunting a specific species of animal, specific hunting gear for that species is of great help.
Essential Elk Hunting Gear
Elk hunting is a popular sport, but it can be challenging. To optimize your experience and increase the odds of success, there are some pieces of elk hunting gear you should bring with you.
Elk Calls
Elk calls can be very effective in drawing bulls in close for a shot. An elk call is a device made of wood or plastic that imitates the mating call of an elk. Elk calls can be used to attract a bull in close enough for you to take a shot at him. Calls come in many forms and can be handheld or mouth-operated.
Elk calls are perfect for beginners because they can be used in conjunction with other elk hunting tactics, such as decoys or scents. Calls are also very useful because they can be used to communicate with other hunters in the area or to scare off bears and coyotes that might be a threat to your elk.
Elk Decoys
Decoys are another way to attract elk. Elk decoys are life-sized replicas of a cow and calf that are used to attract elk in the same way as an actual cow and calf. They are made of wood, foam, or plastic. Some elk decoys have moving parts, such as antlers or a head that moves, that make them look more lifelike and help draw in the elk.
Elk Scent Sprays
Elk have a very keen sense of smell, so using scents can be a great way to attract them. Scent sprays for elk hunting are used to cover your clothing and gear with the natural musky smell of an elk and are used to attract elk by mimicking the smell of a female elk in heat. They can be used in conjunction with other elk hunting tactics, such as decoys or calls.
Hunting Blinds for Elk Hunting
Ground hunting blinds are a great option for elk hunters who want to stay concealed as they wait for their elk. Ground blinds are built into the ground so that you can stand or sit at a comfortable angle while waiting for your elk. They also have a window or two that you can look out of to spot your elk. Ground hunting blinds are also great for bowhunters because they allow you to stay concealed but still have an easy shot.
Ground hunting blinds are very easy to set up, but they can be difficult to move once you’ve placed them in your desired location. Hunting blinds are available in many different styles and sizes. Some even have heaters and air conditioners built in to keep you warm or cool.
Essential Deer Hunting Gear for Beginners
Deer hunting sometimes requires more specific gear than other types of hunting. There are a few pieces of deer hunting gear that will help hunters of any skill level.
Scent Control
Deer have a very strong sense of smell. They can detect human scent from up to two miles away. To avoid being detected by deer, hunters wear a scent-reducing spray.
Deer scent sprays are used to cover your scent and mask it with a deer’s natural smell. This is especially important if you’re hunting in an area that has been recently hunted or where other hunters have been. Scent sprays can be sprayed on your clothing, in your tree stand and even on the ground around you to help make deer feel more comfortable in the area.
Deer Calls
Deer calls are used to mimic the sounds of a deer. These can be very effective when trying to call in a buck during the rut. Deer calls come in many different styles, including mouth calls, box calls and electronic deer calls.
Deer Decoys
Decoys are used to attract the attention of a buck without having to make any noise. This can be especially helpful when you’re trying to set up a shot. Generally, a deer decoy is made of lightweight material and is designed to look like a deer. Some deer decoys are even made with realistic sounds that can be triggered by remote control.
Essential Duck Hunting Gear for New Duck Hunters
Duck hunting is one of the most popular waterfowl hunts in America and it is also one of the most challenging. The right duck hunting gear will help ensure a successful duck hunt.
Decoys
Duck decoys are a great tool to use while duck hunting. A duck decoy is a life-sized model of a duck that is used to attract wild ducks. They are usually made from plastic and foam, which makes them light enough for the hunter to carry out into the water.
Decoys are usually used in a group of three to six. The hunter places the decoys in an area where ducks tend to feed and waits for them to attract wild ducks.
Duck Call
A duck call is a device that makes the calling sound of a duck. Duck calls are used by hunters to attract wild ducks. The hunter blows into the call to make the sound of a duck. The sound of a duck call varies depending on the type you choose. Duck calls can be made from wood, plastic, or metal.
Waders
Waders are often worn by hunters when they hunt different kinds of waterfowl. Essentially, waders are waterproof pants or boots that the hunter wears to protect the hunter from getting wet and cold when he or she wades through water to reach a hunting spot.
Waders are available in different types and styles, colors, and patterns, including camouflage designs.
Duck Blind
A duck blind is a small shelter that hunters build on the bank of a pond or other body of water where ducks live. It is a place for a hunter to hide when hunting ducks or other waterfowl.
A good duck blind should be large enough for a hunter to sit down and move around in while providing a clear view of the area where the ducks live. It should have a door that opens and closes so the hunter can get in and out of the blind easily.
Blinds come in many different styles such as pop-up blinds, ground blinds, and layout blinds, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs based on the location where you will be hunting.
Where to buy the best hunting gear for beginners?
You can find hunting gear online or at a sporting goods store. You can also buy some items, such as binoculars and knives, at a department store.
The best place to buy hunting gear for beginners is online. Online stores offer a variety of products that are perfect for beginning hunters. When shopping online, you can find a wide range of products, including firearms, bows and arrows, traps and snares, and more. Online stores provide detailed information about each product so you know exactly what you’re buying.
High-quality hunting gear from a number of top outdoor recreation brands is on sale at affordable prices online. Most online stores offer fast shipping and easy returns if you don’t like the product.
Other Must-have Hunting Products for New Hunters
There are a number of other hunting products that all hunters should have on them when they’re in the field.
Hunting products for safety
Hunting products for safety are essential when you go hunting, and should be used in conjunction with common sense. As a hunter, it is important to be aware of the dangers that come with the sport. Many potential hazards are present while hunting in the wilderness, such as being attacked by an animal or coming into contact with poisonous plants. It is important to take precautions and be prepared for anything that might happen.
When using hunting products, make sure to use them safely and according to the regulations in your area. Always wear safety gear when hunting, including a hunter orange vest and glasses if required by law. Wear hunter orange outer layers to help you stay visible to other hunters and avoid being mistaken for game.
When taking down a deer or other big game animal, use the appropriate hunting equipment to minimize injury to yourself and the animal.
Safety products are an important part of staying safe while hunting. By wearing the proper gear and using the right tools, you can help reduce the risks associated with this activity.
Hunting products for food storage
When hunting for food, you must have the proper food storage for your game. This means you will need a way to safely store and transport your meat. This could be in the form of a game bag, game processing kit, or even just an ice chest.
Safely storing your meat helps to ensure that you don’t waste it. This is one of the most important aspects of hunting, and a good game bag will help you to accomplish this.
If you are hunting in a bear country, some parks and states require that you use a bear canister or bear vault to carry all of your food.
Hunting can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can be tough to find the best hunting gear if you’re a new hunter. From camouflage clothing and trail mix to deer blinds and hunting packs, these products will help you get ready for your next hunting trip without spending too much money or time. If you’re ready to start your adventure into the world of hunting, having the best hunting gear for beginners will help you have a successful hunt.
