Beginning-of-year product launches often seem stuck in a loop, with little innovation or uniqueness in the items being released. Hidden amongst the influx of new gear were some that caused us to quite literally say out loud, “Well, I’ve never seen that before," or the occasional "It does what?" This year's SHOT Show was a reminder that creativity and innovation within the hunting world are alive and well. Here are ten items that caused us to take a double-take whilst walking the show floor.
Wildgame Innovations: Pumpkin Spice Crushed Attractants
Wildgame Innovations has released a new line of Crushed attractants for 2026, perfectly fitted for fall. the company's new Pumpkin Spice line of Crushed attractants blends pumpkin and cinnamon scents designed to release up to 600-percent more aroma. This latest offering is available as a loose, ground-up blend, liquid and mineral block. By utilizing their patented Airborne Technology, Wildgame Innovations created an attractant that casts a long-range vapor trail to pull deer in from afar, then keeps them returning with a high-fat, high-carb formula needed for late-season feeding. Whether scattered on the ground, placed in food plots or used in conjunction with a feeder, this new attractant gives hunters just the edge they need once deer season rolls around. For more information, visit wildgameinnovations.com.
Big Shot: Real Wild Stump Target
The Real Wild 3D Stump Target is a self-healing foam archery target that mimics a natural tree stump and is able to stop arrows traveling at speeds of up to 375 fps. There are multiple shooting surfaces that create a variety of angles, resulting in a more realistic practice session. Lightweight, weather-resistant and easy to transport, the Real Wild Stump Target is a perfect addition to the gear pile for hunters, 3D archery enthusiasts, and casual target practice. For more information, visit bigshottargets.com.
Hawk: Knee Pads
When you think about what gear you need to pack for an upcoming hunt, knee pads likely never cross your mind. When hunting by spot-and-stalk rather than from a perch, consider the times you've dropped to a knee to avoid detection. Now, think about how many times you've managed to plop down upon a rock or sharp branch. The new knee pads from Hawk aim to save you from inevitable knee pain. Extra foam padding elevates comfort, while the rubber cap helps reduce noise while kneeling. Quick-snap buckles allow for quick removal, while the long attachment straps permit them to be worn over even the bulkiest outerwear. For more information, visit hawkhunting.com.
Skull Hooker: Bone Head Skull Whitening Kit
Whether it's a shoulder mount, euro or any other method of preserving wild game, no one can deny that taxidermy is expensive. For those wanting to take a crack at a D.I.Y. Euro mount, Skull Hooker has made the process simple. The new Bone Head Skull Whitening Kit comes with the necessary tools for creating your very own prized mount. Included in this kit are a 12-ounce bottle of Skull Bright Degreaser, a 12-ounce bottle of Skull Bright Whitener, a brush and a Bone Bracket. For more information, visit skullhooker.com.
Stealth Cam: Remote Cellular Weather Station
When preparing for a hunt and tracking animal behavior patterns season to season, weather is one of the factors that significantly impacts feeding patterns and the hours an animal is most active. Simply checking your favorite weather app will give you a general idea of local conditions, but not an exact one. Stealth Cam has launched its new Remote Cellular Weather Station as a solution to this problem. This wireless, GPS-enabled system provides conditions for the precise area you plan to hunt, including temperature, UV index, barometric pressure, rainfall, wind speed and more. Also included are mounting hardware and a solar panel, which helps extend battery life. For more information, visit stealthcam.com.
Walker’s: Razor Pro Digital–XTRM Series with MAHP
There used to be a time when all that was available for ear protection was a cheap set of passive muffs or the classic orange foam earbuds. Technological advances have engulfed everything in the shooting world, including ear protection. Walker's Razor Pro Digital—XTRM Series is now offered with their motion-activated hearing protection (MAHP). If you're consistently forgetting to turn off your ear protection, this is for you. Just like a red-dot “snaps to life” when moved ever so slightly, these new muffs work the same way, immediately turning on their active noise protection upon detecting the slightest micro-movement. Additional features include a low-profile design, comfortable Gel earpads, a cool mesh headband, and more. For more information, visit walkersgameear.com.
Wildgame Innovations: Green Apple Hangtime Hard Candy Block
When it comes to attractants, it’s always a fun learning experience figuring out what the deer in your area are most drawn to. New to Wildgame Innovation’s Hangtime Hard Candy Block line is a new green apple scent. This 3.5-pound block comes ready to hand by its pre-strung 12-inch rope. This long-lasting block appeals to a deer’s love of apples and lasts long enough for you to evaluate deer behavior and travel patterns on a nearby trail cam. For more information, visit wildcameinnovations.com.
Ameristep: Inferno Insulated Hub Blind
Unfortunately, it cannot be 70 degrees and sunny throughout the entire hunting season, and eventually, the temperatures will start to plummet. As winter creeps in, it becomes essential to stay warm; otherwise, you risk calling the hunt short to get back inside. The Inferno Insulated Hub Blind from Ameristep is one way you can ensure you stave off the chills. This blind is constructed from 300D quilted fabric with fully insulated walls. A black interior hides movement and shadows, while three panoramic windows offer ample space to view your surroundings. This blind has a 5.5" x5.5" interior and weighs 26 pounds, making it easy to carry into the woods with the included stuff sack. For more information, visit ameristep.com.
Muddy: Enhanced Heat Pop Top Mitten
Two priorities of many hunters, albeit one that is most definitely a creature comfort, are staying warm and having an ample supply of snacks. Muddy satisfies both requirements with their new Enhanced Heat Pop Top Mittens, available in Mossy Oak Bottomland or Veil Canon Grey. Made from graphene fleece, these mittens keep your hands toasty through all-weather while the water-resistant outer layer keeps them dry. The cuffs are elastic, which prevents cool air from entering while trapping warmth within. Lastly, these mittens have a zippered pocket for tucking away a handwarmer, jerky or other small items. For more information, visit gomuddy.com.
Winchester: Wildcat .22 LR Ammo Jug
If you constantly find yourself running out of ammo or have a serious squirrel infestation, you'll find yourself amply equipped with Winchester's new Ammo Jug. Packed full of 1,500 rounds of 40-grain .22 Long Rifle, this latest release is easy to transport and ideal for both small-game hunting and recreational plinking at the range. Each round is topped with a copper-plated DynaPoint bullet, designed to quickly dispatch game upon impact. For more information, visit winchester.com.
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