Gear: Best Field Tech of 2018

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posted on February 6, 2018
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Leupold Zoom SVS Universal Adapter
Whether you’re scouting or hunting, capturing images through an optic isn’t easy with a phone’s camera. Leupold’s adapter works with nearly any phone and spotting scope or bino to align the camera with the eyepiece via a hook-and-loop system for a perfect picture. Adjusting the alignment vertically and horizontally via the knurled knobs is simple and quiet due to a spring-tensioning system. The unit ships with two different eyepiece adapters and fits phones up to 3.5 inches wide (including case). MSRP: $74.99; leupold.com.

onX Hunt
With features such as public and private land boundaries (with landowner names), various waypoint capabilities, hunting districts and management unit divisions, topo maps and aerial photos all in one app, it’s never been easier to scout for a new spot. The app functions with no cellular service and can be used on other electronic devices. An onX Hunt chip can also be purchased to integrate the software with a GPS unit. Multiple subscription options and map packages are available. MSRP: $29.99-$119.99; onxmaps.com.

Dark Energy Poseidon Portable Charger & Survival Charging Cable
This portable charger can withstand whatever fate dishes out on a hunt. With a 10,000 MAH battery, the Poseidon holds three to six full phone charges and can charge radios, GPS units and trail cameras multiple times. It features a built-in flashlight, too. The charger has a MIL-810G rating for durability and is submersible in 6 feet of water for 45 minutes. The Survival Charging Cable is available in both Lightning and Micro-USB configurations. MSRP: $109.99 charger, $24.99 cable; darkenergy.com.

Hornady Ballistics App
Making ballistic calculations in the field can be crucial. Hornady’s newest app is designed around the 4DOF ballistic calculator (a standard calculator is also included) and accounts for altitude, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, shooting angle and even firing azimuth, all without cell service. Whether you’re shooting factory ammunition or handloads, the app has a built-in bullet database. You can save your favorite loads for future reference and make adjustments for environmental changes on the fly. MSRP: Free; hornady.com.

Goal Zero Yeti 150 Portable Power Station
Looking for a quiet, high-capacity “generator” for your electronics around hunting camp? The Yeti 150 (150-watt battery) is good for an hour’s worth of max output when at full capacity. Simply push the corresponding button to turn on the desired power output channel. Two USB ports and a 12V AC output provide up to 12 full phone charges. An LCD shows the remaining power level, and the battery is rechargeable by either a wall outlet or a vehicle’s cigarette lighter. Low-power alerts consist of a light indication and a beep. MSRP: $199.95; goalzero.com.

Pelican Marine Phone Case
Submersible in 6 feet of water for 30 minutes, this rugged case protects phones from snow, dirt, dust, impacts and drops they might encounter afield. Made from five layers of materials that shield the phone, the case consists of a rubber liner inside a polycarbonate shell, overlaid with a soft-touch over-mold that provides a sure grip in wet conditions. The case includes a screen protector to guard against scratches from rocks, brush and other hazards along the trail. Available for iPhones. MSRP: $79.99-$89.99; pelican.com.

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