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

Cva Xp Muzzleloaders
Cva Xp Muzzleloaders

CVA Expands Optima and Scout Lines for 2026

CVA is rolling out its new XP and XP‑SB Series, bringing updated ergonomics and enhanced adjustability to both its muzzleloader and single‑shot centerfire platforms.

Dead Air Silencers Unveils the Nomad Ti Over-the-Barrel Suppressor

This new .30-caliber suppressor from Dead Air goes over the barrel, to only add 4.6 inches to the end of your rifle.

Hot From SHOT: The Best New Hunting Shotguns of 2026

If you're back with us, fresh off of yesterday's SHOT show coverage, welcome back. If you're just checking in with us for the first time, be sure to go back and check out our roundups of the best rifles, optics and bowhunting gear to come out of the show so far this year. Today, however, read on to see the best shotguns of SHOT 2026, compiled by longtime contributor and diehard hunter, Brad Fitzpatrick. 

Nosler Whitetail Country Line Extensions

For 2026, Nosler has seen fit to extend its Whitetail Country line, and Phil Massaro likes their choices. Read on for more.

Knight & Hale Expands Mouth Call Lineup

Knight & Hale Game Calls has announced several new mouth calls to its lineup, tested in the field by championship level callers. Check them out here.

New for 2026: Savage 110 Trail Blazer

Leading off Savage's line of next-generation Model 110s comes the 110 Trail Blazer, a perfect showcase for the company's new AccuFit 2 stock. Learn more about it in this exclusive video with American Hunter Editor in Chief Scott Olmsted.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.