Must-Have Gear for New Hunters

by
posted on May 13, 2019
** 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. **
gearfornewhunters2019_lead.jpg

These essential items will start new hunters off right, and still leave 'em some money for gas.

Huntworth Heavy Weight Half-Zip Pullover
Built to trap warmth, this pullover in Huntworth’s Disruption camo pattern sports a waterproof and breathable membrane sandwiched between a quiet, water-shedding InVelvet fleece exterior and a high-pile Sherpa-fleece lining. It’s treated for scent control and includes a zippered kangaroo-pouch and chest pocket, treestand-harness port and a face mask built into the hood. MSRP: $159.99; huntworthgear.com.

Cabela’s Elite Scout Pack
The Elite Scout Pack features more than 1,800 cubic inches of storage space,  a front compression flap for hauling an extra coat, a small pouch on the waist belt for a rangefinder or other necessities, and a built-in rain fly. Included removable blaze-orange flag is a safety-must. Quiver attachments are found on the sides and belt, and it’s hydration bladder-compatible. MSRP: $119.99; cabelas.com.

Steiner Predator AF 8x30 Binocular
The new Predator AF is built around an auto-focus prism that provides the user with a focused image at all distances from 20 yards to infinity without adjusting a magnification knob. It’s lightweight and compact, waterproof and fogproof with color-adjusted coatings that allow you to pick out game in dense cover and shadows. Carry case and strap included. MSRP: $344.99; steiner-optics.com.

Effective Range Targets
Place an EFR target at 100 yards, aim at the dot that corresponds to your zero range and shoot five rounds from a hunting position. Rings on the target are marked in 100-yard increments; the largest ring with a hole in it determines your maximum effective range for that shooting position and that animal. It’s a great way to train and build confidence to produce ethical hunters. Multiple game species are available. MSRP: $9.99-$20; effectiverangetargets.com.

Browning Kodiak Knife
This three-in-one folding lockback is perfect for novice and veteran hunters alike. It sports three, 3.5-inch blades most commonly needed in the field for light work and game-dressing: a straight-edge clip-point blade, a gut hook and skin zipper, and a toothy saw-blade for cutting bone or small branches. Black nylon belt sheath included. MSRP: $39.99; browning.com.

Quake Claw Sling
The Claw’s no-slip grip helps everyone maintain muzzle awareness because it absolutely keeps a rifle on a hunter’s shoulder. Weatherproof, durable molded rubber provides up to half an inch of stretch to spread weight evenly. It’s available in multiple color/camo options with quick-disconnect metal sling swivels. MSRP: $24.95; quakeinc.com.

Latest

Photo 03 Ammo On Buffalo
Photo 03 Ammo On Buffalo

Behind the Bullet: .450/400 3” Nitro Express

Among the lot of Nitro Express cartridges—a term coined by James Purdey to compare the power of these cartridges to a locomotive and newly loaded with smokeless powder—the .450/400 3” N.E. represents one the best blends of hunting power and ease of shooting. Curious? Read on, as Phil Massaro goes in-depth on this classic, though esoteric, favorite.

TriStar Arms to Exhibit at 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

TriStar Arms will exhibit at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, taking place April 17–19, 2026, in Houston, TX. Attendees are invited to visit TriStar Arms at Booth #3103 to explore the newest firearm offerings and learn more about the brand's continued commitment to the shooting sports community.

New for 2026: Left-Handed Ruger American Gen. II

Ruger has introduced left-handed models of the Ruger American Rifle Generation II. The first of these models will be released in the Ranch configuration, with six chamberings available: 7.62x39mm, 450 Bushmaster, 400 Legend, 350 Legend, .300 Blackout and 5.56 NATO.

New for 2026: Swhacker #307 Mechanical 2-Blade Broadhead

Swhacker Broadheads has launched its #307 100-grain Mechanical 2-Blade Broadhead. This latest addition to Swhacker's lineup promises precision engineering with reliable deployment, coupled with accuracy and devastating field performance.

Keys to the Eastern Turkey Hunt

A turkey is a turkey regardless of subspecies, sure, but best hunting tactics often vary depending on geographical location due to the birds’ varying behavior. Translated, killing turkeys back East is different than killing them out West. Check out some Eastern-specific tips below, and stay tuned for a follow-up targeted at our Western readers.

Montana and Utah Celebrating 125th Anniversaries

Two 125th Anniversaries are occurring this year, the first being for the entire Montana FWP, and the second being a key piece of property in the history of the Utah DWR.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.