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

W H2026 07 Knowhow SI357, Mark Kayser Lines Up On A Target At More Than 500 Yards In His Pasture Setting, Copyright Mark Kayser
W H2026 07 Knowhow SI357, Mark Kayser Lines Up On A Target At More Than 500 Yards In His Pasture Setting, Copyright Mark Kayser

Know How: Find Your Long-Range Limit

Curious where your ethical limit is in the field? Mark Kayser shows you exactly how to find it.

Smith & Wesson Honors America's 250th Anniversary with Limited-Edition Model 1854

Smith & Wesson has announced the launch of its America 250 Limited Edition Model 1854 rifle, created to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

#SundayGunday: Fiocchi Hyperformance Hunt

This week on #SundayGunday, we’re checking out an excellent hunting round from Fiocchi: Hyperformance Hunt. Designed for intense terminal performance at standard to long hunting distances, the Hyperformance Hunt line comes loaded with either a Hornady SST Polymer Boat-Tail bullet, a Swift Scirocco Boat-Tail Spitzer, or a Barnes TTSX Polymer Tipped Copper HollowPoint. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

First Look: Eylar X Brownells 250th Anniversary Rifle and Pistol Cases

Eylar has launched its 250th Anniversary rifle case and pistol case, created in partnership with Brownells to celebrate America's 250th anniversary in 2026. Featuring patriotic artwork, tan hard-shell construction and purpose-built foam interiors, the commemorative cases offer firearm owners a distinctive way to protect and transport their gear while honoring a major milestone in American history.

Says Me: ‘Rocky Mountain Harry’ Lies Within Us All

I have always been intrigued by what possibly could lie beyond the next hill. I suppose that is a primary reason I am a hunter. Surely hunters everywhere share this sentiment. Surely Harry Yount did. That’s him above.

Hardware Review: Spandau RL Bolt Action

Based in Knoxville, Tenn., SDS Arms works with manufacturers worldwide to develop and import some of the finest firearms, many tailored to specific needs. Its latest is the RL bolt-action rifle, manufactured by Spandau. Emulating the famous bolt action of yesteryear, this rifle is capable straight out of the box, and it is compatible with nearly any aftermarket part that fits the Remington Model 700.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.