Must-Have Gear for New Hunters

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.