Essential Hunting Equipment

Part of the fun and adventure of going hunting is the connection with nature, but anytime we venture out into the wild it is important to take some essential supplies with us to make the journey safe and easy.

Here are three categories of must-have hunting equipment:

First Aid Supplies

Hunters, like campers and hikers, should always carry some emergency first aid equipment. The first item on the list should be warm and protective clothing, because if you get lost out in the woods the weather can change and turn a warm sunny day into a cold night when you are at risk for hypothermia. High-tech emergency blankets made from NASA tested aluminum are available at camping stores. They fit into the pocket of a shirt are a great piece of equipment. A first aid kit for cuts, bruises, sprains, or stings is essential, and these can be purchased at any pharmacy or outdoor equipment store. Add waterproof matches or some other form of fire starter, a reliable flashlight, a sturdy knife, and some emergency rations to the list – and do not forget to carry both high-energy food and plenty of fresh water.

An Emergency Communications Device

The worst thing that can happen on a hunting trip is to need help and not be able to reach any because you are in a remote area with no means of communication. But the good news is that there are now many types of emergency communication devices that hunters can take with them in order to stay in touch no matter where they go in the woods. The most sophisticated operate by sending and receiving via satellite signals, and hunters can even subscribe to services like “SPOT” that will locate you in an emergency while simultaneously notifying the nearest emergency responders. But if you aren’t venturing too far from civilization you can just use a cell phone. And if you get caught without any high tech solutions, use a reflective surface – even from a mirror or piece of an aluminum can – to send a distress signal. Flashes of light signaling for help can be seen for miles, as can flares or just the smoke from a simple campfire.

A Gun Cleaning Kit

No matter how clean a gun is when the hunting excursion starts, there is every likelihood that before long it will require a good cleaning. Sometimes just firing a gun can leave residue in the barrel or chamber that can have an unwanted influence on the performance of the firearm. Maybe while hunting a rainstorm catches you off guard and the shotgun or rifle gets wet, or perhaps you accidentally drop it and it gets dirt or mud inside the barrel or the internal firing mechanism. Whatever the reason, if a gun needs cleaning a hunter must have a gun cleaning kit on hand. Carry a small kit with the basic tools. A barrel brush, “snake,” or other tool for swabbing the inside of the barrel is vital, and you’ll also need some gun cleaning patches and gun oil. Most firearms can be cleaned in the field with lightweight and easy to carry gun cleaning kit, and that can help preserve valuable firearms while ensuring that they function safely and dependably.

Get your special hunting gear together, and keep it stashed and ready to go in a duffle or backpack. That way when the chance to hunt arises you will have everything at the ready and can head off to hunt with all the safety equipment and essential hunting supplies you need.

About the Author: Albie Berk enjoys hunting and sharing what he has learned and any successful tips he can with others. He enjoys South Carolina hunting and usually stays at Island Plantation

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=384550&ca=Recreation