Gear Guide 2018: Big Game

by
posted on September 19, 2018
** 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. **
biggamegear2018_lead.jpg

We expect our gear to do what it was made to do, to hold up to the beating we give it, time and time again. Here are our big game selections for 2018.

TrueTimber Truesuede Down Jacket & Pant
Hunters go high, practice scent control and demand the camo clothing they wear be as silent as they are in order to find success on cagey whitetails. The Truesuede series sports a soft, brushed-polyester shell that stays quiet as you move. Insulated with duck feather and down, these outer layers are warm without bulk; whether you shoot a rifle or bow, it won’t hang up on excess material. The jacket has a removable insulated hood, as well as insulated chest pockets, perfect for keeping cell phones and other electronics from the power-depleting cold. The pant houses six pockets, including two cargo pockets. Both garments are covered in True Timber’s Kanati camo pattern. MSRP: $129.99 jacket, $99.99 pant; truetimber.com.

Camelbak Trophy TS Pack
The Trophy TS (Tree Stand) pack provides 1,800 cubic inches of storage space and a handy bucket-style lid that forms a sturdy workstation to keep the items you need right now within easy reach. An integrated bow and rifle mount securely straps either to your back until you get to your tree, and the padded panel construction keeps items inside the pack quiet during your walk in. Additional features like a removable “small items” organizer, rain cover and expandable side pocket (perfect for the included 50-ounce water bottle) make this pack a necessity for all-day stand hunters. Available in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country and True Timber Kanati camo patterns. MSRP: $199; camelbak.com.

TenPoint Stealth NXT Crossbow
An ultra-slim width of just 9 inches from cam edge to cam edge when cocked allows for ultimate maneuverability. The XR6 cams, dual limbs, 3.5-pound trigger pull weight and four-cable system provide the speed (up to an advertised 410 fps), balance and accuracy crossbow hunters expect. A CNC-machined aluminum riser, 21.5-inch aluminum barrel and three-piece, carbon-fiber stock are responsible for the Stealth NXT’s light, 7.3-pound weight, and vibration and noise reduction. TrueTimber Viper Western paint job, RangeMaster Pro Scope, string stop, quiver and a three-pack of accuracy-enhancing EVO-X CenterPunch premium carbon arrows are all standard. The Accudraw Pro crank system is optional. MSRP: $1,599.99; tenpointcrossbows.com.

Latest

Speedgoat 2 On Goose
Speedgoat 2 On Goose

Reviewed: Montana Knife Company Speedgoat 2.0

There are thousands of knives out there to choose from. Out of the dozens of knives I personally own, this one from Montana Knife Company clearly stands out as a hunter’s top-tier tool.

Hardware Review: Henry SPD HUSH

If you’re a lever action traditionalist, the Henry Special Product Division (SPD) HUSH may befuddle you. Not only does the SPD HUSH eschew traditional features, but it’s also purpose built for something that ol’ Benjamin Tyler Henry could never have imagined. HUSH is short for Henry’s Ultimate Suppressor Host.

Speer Announces New Products That Will Be Showcased at SHOT Show 2026

Speer Ammunition has announced several new loads for 2026, which include one new addition of Lawman TMJ and two new additions of Speer Impact component bullets for reloaders.

New for 2026: Ruger Red Label III

Ruger has announced the return of one of America's most iconic over/under shotguns with the Red Label III. First launched in 1977, the original Ruger Red Label earned a reputation for rugged reliability, classic lines, and American-made quality. Decades later, the Red Label III strives to continue that legacy.

New for 2026: Armageddon Gear Gun Slinger Chest Rig

The Gun Slinger Chest Rig, is now offered alongside the original Big Game Chest Rig for hunters who want sidearm carry built in from the start.

#SundayGunday: Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the SX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2, the latest iteration of hunter-focused spotting scope from Leupold. Coming in both straight and angled configurations, and the buyer’s choice of 20-60x85mm or 15-45x65mm zoom ratio’s the SX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2 has a configuration for any preference and set of circumstances.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.