Essential Gear: December 2014

by
posted on December 15, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Banshee IWB Leather Holster
A slim pancake-style holster set up for carrying inside the waistband, the Banshee IWB Leather Holster from Wright Leather Works has an extremely low profile for easy concealment. The holster comes with high-ride leather belt straps for carrying medium- to full-size pistols, or deep-concealment clips that position the holster lower in the pants for carrying small-frame pistols while allowing the rig to be tuckable.
MSRP: $98.

Gun Storage Solutions Rifle Rods
Gun Storage Solutions Rifle Rods individually stabilize each long gun upright, rather than leaning, allowing you to store more guns in your safe. Remove the standard notched racks in your safe and replace them with Rifle Rods. American-made and designed for rifles with scopes, shotguns and tactical long guns. Customers report storing an average of 50 percent more guns with Rifle Rods.
Kits from $39.95.

Yeti Coolers Hopper 30
The new Hopper 30 from Yeti Coolers is as versatile as it is indestructible. Calling this cooler soft is like calling the company's namesake fluffy. Its Dryhide interior and shell are made from the same material as high-performance whitewater rafts, and seams are RF welded. Hydrolock zipper is leak-proof and airtight, allowing the cooler to double as a comfortable seat, and Coldcell insulation keeps ice for days.
MSRP: $299.99.

Rocky Cornstalker
The Rocky Cornstalker has been a legend in the hunting industry since it was introduced more than 30 years ago. Known for its aggressive, lightweight outsole, the Cornstalker also features a Goodyear welt for increased durability. Inside is 3M Thinsulate insulation for warmth without bulk and a durable, waterproof Gore-Tex membrane.
MSRP: $164.99.

Silver Stag Knives
While these beauties may scream "display only," rest assured Silver Stag knives are made to be used. All Silver Stag knives are built by hand with high-carbon tool steel, utilizing shed deer, elk or moose antler in the design, so no two knives are alike. Ten different series of knives are available, from beautiful Damascus-pattern models to pocket knives. From the Slab series, the Gut Slab is 7 inches long overall with a 2.75-inch full-tang blade, while the Point Series includes the Small Gamer with a 3-inch blade. Made in America with a lifetime warranty.
MSRP: $115 (Gut Slab), $75 (Small Gamer).

Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy
Portable, quiet and there when you need it most, the Hunting Buddy propane heater from Mr. Heater is one luxury you can afford. Keep Jack Frost at bay by putting out 6,000 to 12,000 BTUs, enough to heat a 300-square-foot space, and wait comfortably for your quarry to arrive. Features like an oxygen depletion sensor and tip-over shut-off provide a safe heating system for enclosed areas.
MSRP: $139.99.

SlumberJack Thermal Cloak
While you're not going to win any fashion awards, the Thermal Cloak from SlumberJack will keep you in the game when the weather wants you out. This roomy shell is windproof, waterproof and warm with 160 grams of insulation. Magnetic arm closures keep heat in while allowing you to quietly draw a bow or raise a rifle when the time comes. An open bottom won't diminish balance in elevated stands, and the Thermal Cloak is compatible with treeestand safety harnesses.
MSRP: $199.95.

SafTLok Instant Access Magazine Lock
The SafTLok Instant Access Magazine Lock is a fully functioning ammunition magazine with the SafTLok Instant Access Gun Lock built in. It is a completely mechanical, casehardened carbon steel magazine in a heat- and chemical-resistant Xenoy plastic housing. Components are nickel plated with stainless steel springs and levers. The lock requires no keys or batteries, and access can be obtained by feel—even in the dark. MSRP: $69.95.

Latest

W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final
W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final

Hardware Review: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down Carbine

Best known for their large-bore lever actions, Big Horn Armory of Cody, Wyo., adds to their .50 caliber arsenal with the new Model 89 Take Down (TD) Carbine. Chambered in the mighty .500 Smith & Wesson Magnum, the Model 89 TD, as the name implies, comes apart for easy storage and transport.

Updated for 2026: Magpul ELG M-Lok Marlin Handguard

Magpul’s Enhanced Lever Gun (ELG) Stock and Hand Guard updates the classic Marlin lever action rifle for greater control and functionality, adding modern adjustability and ergonomics, M-Lok accessory mounting, sling attachment options and on-board ammunition storage.

New for 2026: HiViZ Shooting Systems LiteWave Sight for Ruger Redhawk Alaskan

HiViz Shooting Systems has expanded its revolver lineup with the introduction of the LiteWave Front Sight for the Ruger Redhawk Alaskan. Designed specifically to complement the rugged performance of Ruger's Redhawk Alaskan revolver, the new LiteWave Front Sight promises fast target acquisition, durability and a customizable sight picture.

Gear Roundup: Spring Cleaning for Hunters

Need to clean the grime off your guns and gear this spring? Look no further than our hunter-specific cleaning lineup.

New for 2026: Henry Bear's Leg Pistol

Henry Repeating Arms is expanding its lineup with the new Bear’s Leg Pistol, a compact, utility-minded platform that blends the unmistakable profile of the classic Mare’s Leg with modern features. Offered in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government, the Bear’s Leg Pistol is purpose-built for versatility and hard use.

First Look: Easton 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off Insert

Easton has announced its 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off 8-32 Insert, giving archers full control over balance and performance. 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.