Being a relatively new bowhunter, there’s still a lot about the sport that I don’t know. Even so, I’ve sat enough times in my pop up blind to know that there are a few pieces of gear I wouldn’t want to go without. Whether they’re on the list because of their utility or for the “survival factor”, here’s my top 5 pieces of gear for the blind, excluding the obvious like arrows, range finder, etc.
1. Alps Outdoorsz Triad Swivel Hunting Stool – Having the ability to swivel and adjust my shooting position laterally without making a sound is crucial to bow hunting success. This stool helps make the most of the almost 180 degree view from my blind.
2. Springfield Hellcat 9mm – Safety while hunting is paramount and carrying only my bow could leave me in a tough position, if I encounter wild hogs or other predators, while creeping into my spot. Hogs run rampant where I do most of my hunting and carrying this mirco-compact 11+1 gives me piece of mind out in the field.
3. Neck Gaiter – Any dark color or camo will do the trick. When I first started bow hunting I learned quickly that my face is like a shining oily beacon to animals, since I keep the window open. Face painting isn’t my thing, so I keep a dark colored cap pulled down tight and a gaiter up to just under my eyes.
4. Bow Kick Stand – It doesn’t matter if it’s store bought, name brand, or homemade. As long as I keep my bow off the ground (and out of my lap), settling in for a long sit isn’t too bad.
5. A Jug of Water – Early morning or evening hunt, sitting in the blind is a good time to hydrate. Deer camp is usually a buzz with friends or family, where steaming cups of coffee and sweaty cans of beer are never in short supply. I try to take advantage of my alone time in the blind by getting some water in me. That way I won’t be hurting and have to miss a hunt later on.
My advice? Figure out what works for your hunting situation and make sure you’ve got your stuff ready to go for each hunt. There’s not many feelings worse than getting into the blind and realizing your forgot one of your go-to items.
