Locked and Loaded: 6 Hunting Gear Essentials for Beginners

Ready to pull the trigger on an outdoorsman-friendly and species-stabilizing hobby? If so, it’s time to stock up on top-of-the-line hunting gear and launch your survivalist savvy to new heights. 

If you are a beginning hunter and want to hunt the right way, make sure you are outfitted with the right gear essentials to keep you safe and effective in the woods. From camouflage must-haves to proper hydrating solutions, these simple essentials will make your hunt all the more successful at the end of the day.

Camouflage Jacket

When embarking on a hunting excursion, wearing the right gear is a critical step in the process. If you are in a lush, green forest landscape, the most important thing to bring with you is a camouflage jacket. Camouflage jackets are the perfect incognito outerwear to stay concealed from the eye of the prey. That way, you can shoot at your target with ease and avoid alarming game within eyeshot. 

For those beginners on the hunt for a high-quality camouflage jacket for any environment, check out Self Reliance Outfitters and their vast array of products. If you’re on the lookout for a one-stop shop, explore their inventory of foothold traps, outdoor cookware, and survival knives. 

Weatherproof Boots

Another must-have hunting gear essential for any beginner is a pair of waterproof boots or army boots. Sturdy boots are a must-have for marching through wet or muddy climates for long hours in the hot sun or the damp cold. 

Not only will the boots help you visually blend in with your environment to remain unnoticed by wildlife, but they will also keep you blister-free. By remaining blister-free means, you can traverse the outdoors for extended periods, therefore increasing your chances of a successful prize.

Hydration

Staying hydrated will help your longevity in the wilderness. Dehydration is one of the leading causes of heatstroke and even premature death during outdoor activities. To remain hydrated, you can purchase one of the following:

• Hydration pack
• Water bottle
• Water bottle carrier
• Electrolyte dissolving pills

Nylon Tarp

A nylon tarp is a great essential gear for beginners, as it allows first-time hunters to construct a no-frills shelter or hideout in a snap.  To find the right nylon tarp, make sure you choose a product in a neutral color. It should also be made of non-fabric materials that don’t soak up water or become heavy upon getting wet.

Scent Killer

Another hunting gear essential for beginners is a scent killer. Scent killers are designed to mask the hunter’s scent so that animals cannot detect their presence. 

A good scent killer will be strong enough to mask your scent while still moderate enough that it does not have a distinct smell of its own to scare animals away.

Bear Mace

Bear mace is the last can’t-miss item of essential beginner hunting gear on our list because it will keep you safe from possible bear attacks. Anytime you are hunting in a forest or wilderness setting, you are competing with the animal whose natural biological response is to protect their territory from introducers such as hunters. 

If a bear crosses your path, it will be imperative to have bear mace if they get too close or become aggressive. Keep in mind that shooting a bear is never the answer. Instead, use bear mace properly and tread very carefully when visiting bear country.

Parting shot 

Before setting off on your hunting journey, be sure to have these must-haves in your artillery. Otherwise, your first-time hunting experience may prove an epic failure.