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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LEDEVX 4HD 3 12X50 CDS ZL2 SF 185454 A 1
LEDEVX 4HD 3 12X50 CDS ZL2 SF 185454 A 1

New for 2026: Leupold VX-4HD

When a hunt can shift from tight timber at first light to a long look across open country by midmorning, a scope must do more than just magnify. The Leupold VX-4HD is built for exactly that kind of versatility, blending rugged construction, smart engineering and optical performance into a scope that works wherever the hunt takes you.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Chest Pack Pro

The Blocker Outdoors Finisher Chest Pack Pro is the kind of gear that takes the basic tenets of turkey hunting into consideration, while attempting to minimize the burden of a cumbersome full-size vest. This makes it a a straightforward alternative to a full-size turkey vest for run-and-gun hunters who want to balance loadout with freedom of movement.

The Value of Post Season Scouting in the Snow

Although for most of the country deer season is over, there are some important aspects of deer hunting to be understood, particularly when it snows during the winter months. In my part of the country, we don’t often get a good blanket of snow until the deer season closes. However, when it does snow, I make a point to get outdoors and visit each of my hunting areas to learn when the learning is best.

Tuo Introduces New Camouflage Pattern: Ryse

Tuo launched its proprietary Verse camo pattern in 2024. While the supplemental light tans and sharp lines render effectiveness in wooded environments as well, Tuo wanted to offer a second exclusive pattern for whitetail hunters. It has done so with Ryse.

New for 2026: SIG Sauer Zulu10 HDX Binoculars

SIG Sauer’s new Zulu10 HDX binoculars are engineered for hunters and shooters who prioritize optical performance and mechanical precision as much as durability.

Renewed Hunting and Fishing Focus on Interior Department-Managed Property

On Jan. 7 U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum issued an order stating, “…public and federally managed lands should be open to hunting and fishing unless a specific, documented, and legally supported exception applies.”

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