Begin Bowhunting

Equipment

THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT

The world of bowhunting equipment including bows, treestands, broadheads, and camouflage has exploded.  The advances in technology in bowhunting equipment has meant great opportunities for bowhunters new and old.  While you have many choices when it comes to gear you can save yourself  some frustration if you keep in mind the basics of selecting any bowhunting equipment.

The best archery gear will be quiet, help you create better opportunities to get within bow range and will help you kill deer quickly and humanely.  Most bowhunting equipment on the market today will meet these demands, but you will realize that a lower priced piece of camouflage will hide you just as well as one with scent blocking technology built in.  With standard camouflage you will simply have to hunt the wind a bit more carefully – it may be worth saving a couple hundred dollars that you can then invest into a climbing treestand instead of a fixed position stand – this will create more opportunities. 

 Ask Advice

Aside from woodsmanship, the bowhunting equipment we select plays a large role in our success or failure in the field.  Ask friends and fellow hunters what they think of various pieces of bowhunting equipment they use – regardless of if you have an intention fo adding it to your arsenal of gear.  It is always helpful to hear a fellow hunter’s perception of what bowhunting gear is valuable and why. 

 Identify Your Needs

If you took a few minutes to go over your hunting strategy you’ll quickly identify which bowhunting equipment you’ll need and which items will be “extras”.  For example, If I hunt in mature hardwoods in the late fall and winter, and the terrain is mostly open I will need good camouflage to hide in thin cover, a comfortable treestand that is easy to move from one spot to the next, and my clothing should be insulated and able to keep out moisture.  While this example is basic, you get the idea.  If you rarely feel the need to call, don’t buy a deer call.  If you constantly still hunt from the ground an investment in a wool caouflage suit might be a great addition to your bowhunting equipment.

 Buy Out of Season

Watch online only sales at the major retailer sites including Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops,GanderMountain, etc.  Late season buys can be especially great, although sizes may be limited.  Show for your gear well in advance of when you migth need to use it to get the best price and the best selection.

These areas are just a few to consider when starting to collect bowhunting gear for the coming season.  Remember, trade-offs are a part of the game for most bowhunters, but you can still get what you need if you just keep the basics in mind.  I have compiled reviews on various pieces of bowhunting equipment that I have personally used over the past 18 years.  Some good, and some bad, but nothing but the truth of what I experienced with compound bows, broadheads, treestands, archery sights and other gear.