Preparing for a hunting expedition is more than a mere checklist—it’s about securing your passage into the wild, ensuring every item in your arsenal aligns with the terrain and your hunting goals. Imagine embarking on your hunting journey armed with gear that promises not just functionality but also reliability and precision.
In this extensive guide, we reveal the perfect hunting gear list for 2024, consisting of a carefully selected set of verified and assessed necessities. If you have been in the wilderness for a long time or are experiencing your first-ever hunting expedition, these carefully chosen items are designed to boost your skills and the delightfulness of nature’s presence.
Let us go on this journey to discover superior hunting equipment, subjected to thorough testing according to different terrain requirements and conditions. This checklist will be your compass and help you navigate through high-quality optics and rugged clothing, including all necessary accessories for a powerful hunting expedition.
Get ready to witness a whole new range of gear far beyond the notion hunt—it’s all about getting yourself geared up for an incredible adventure in nature, each second you spend out there transforming into yet another priceless chapter in your hunting story.
10. Badlands – 2200 Hunting Backpack
Top-rated: 472 ratings | 82 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
Replacing a pack that held sentimental value, this Badlands gear surpassed expectations, proving the ideal successor with its sturdy build, expandable design, and thoughtful features like the meat shelf, hidden rifle holder, and internal bladder pouch to keep gear dry.
Helpful review:
“It was time to replace a pack that my Dad had given me before he passed and I had hunted with for years so you could imagine this pack had some big shoes to fill. I honestly think this is the only pack that I could imagine could fill the hole. It is perfect from an Awesome company with the best warranty.
Pros:
- It has an internal frame lined with big chunky zippers-terrific pulls, and brawny fasteners for fantastic durability.
- It is completely expandable, and it has a meat shelf, adjusting zippers for comfort purposes, and pistol holsters on both sides for convenience in functions.
- In addition, a concealed rifle holder and an optics stable are built into the cabin to make it possible for easy and great mounting of additional things outside.
- The bladder pouch is installed inside to catch condensation so no moisture affects your equipment.
With or without the bag inside, it is relatively waterproof and can give your items an extra layer to protect them from getting wet.
Cons:
No external radio pocket one thing about the old pack I liked better was a shoulder strap radio pouch. A bladder hose holder on the strap would be nice I robbed my old one. You have to buy a bladder and rain cover separately. Not really a big deal because I like water/Gatorade bottles instead when I hunt. Just so much easier to deal with Instead of cleaning out the bladder and drying it so it does not taste like an aquarium. I did buy the bladder though just because I am a gear nerd. make sure you get the square 2l one because that is the internal pouch it has. (The rain cover might come down the line just in case but I don’t want to be in the weather it would be needed since this thing will take a downpour by itself)
Overall an Awesome pack and I give Badlands credit that this is well thought out I used to think these packs were expensive now I see they are almost underpriced and It is a great value to add enjoyment and capability to the hunt.” – Dalton Stawicki
Get it from Amazon now: $399.99 & FREE Returns
9. Vortex – Optics Impact Laser Rangefinders
Top-rated: 2,030 ratings | 60 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
Vortex’s unmatched warranty and customer care swiftly replaced my fogged scope, underscoring their stellar commitment to quality and service.
Pros:
- Vortex Optics Impact Laser Rangefinders are designed with advanced laser technology
- These rangefinders are constructed with a rugged design.
- With intuitive controls and a clear display, the Vortex Optics Impact Laser Rangefinder is easy to use, even for beginners.
- The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, whether you’re on a hunt or a hiking trip.
Helpful review:
“Vortex is the best. I ordered one of these a year ago. The thing worked awesome and was accurate clear and easy to use. I hunted in some rain this season, and it got water on the inside. The lens got fogged up. Called vortex. Didn’t have to wait on hold. Talked to a service rep named Sarah. She immediately sent out a brand new one and included a hat and a nice shirt with it. The return label was in the box to send the broken one back. Vortex has the best warranty in the business. They stand behind their stuff and lace any broken ones and their customer service is great.” – Dalton Stawicki
Get it from Amazon now: $187.99 & FREE Returns
8. TenPoint – Titan M1 Crossbow with Lighted 3X Pro-View Scope
Top-rated: 140 ratings | 48 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
This Tenpoint Titan M1 is a solid choice for first-time crossbow users, offering accuracy and ease with minor scope adjustments and optional enhancements like Tenpoint bolts and silencing add-ons, though opting for the Acudraw Pro over the standard version is advised for a quieter hunting experience.
Pros:
- The Titan M1 Crossbow comes with a Lighted 3X Pro-View Scope, providing enhanced visibility.
- Despite its powerful performance, the Titan M1 has a compact size.
- It is designed for high-speed shooting, ensuring that every shot reaches its target.
- It is known for its quality craftsmanship.
Helpful review:
“This is my first crossbow, been hunting with a compound for 20 years. Great right out of the package. I had to tweak the scope just a little bit at the range otherwise the crossbow is very easy to use and very accurate. Love it. Easy to carry but I keep myself in shape so carrying gear isn’t an issue for me. I recommend buying the Tenpoint bolts. I did add all of the ten-point silencing add and while it sounds like a crossbow still – the add-ons are an improvement. It makes a quick noise during the shot but it isn’t loud or obnoxious – most deer would probably look over at where the noise came from but in 30 seconds go back to what they are doing. I also ordered separately the Acudraw Pro and replaced the regular Acudraw that came on the Titan.
If I had any negative feedback – Tenpoint needs to sell the Acudraw Pro on all of its crossbows – the standard Acudraw makes an annoying ratchet clicking noise whereas the Pro version is absolutely quiet and faster. No reason to even offer the inferior acudraw because it isn’t practical while hunting – it makes noise if you need to reload a bolt. Hunters work hard to remain invisible regarding scent, sound and visually blending in – why make a hunter use something that goes clickety-clack in the woods/field? I harvested my first doe yesterday at 28 yards – perfect clean placement in vitals – clean pass-through.
Right after I harvested the doe, two bucks trotted in underneath me, I loaded another bolt while in treestand with the acudraw pro and used the inferior noisy acudraw – the bucks would have definitely heard me. I ultimately chose to pass on the bucks because they were too small. Overall I recommend buying the M1 Titan – very happy – but I replaced the noisy acudraw provided – with the pro version – so much better. Tenpoint needs to let buyers know the acudraw that comes on the Titan makes a clicking noise.” – Robert Grosko
Get it from Amazon now: $899.99 & FREE Returns
7. HOT SHOT – Men’s 3-in-1 Hunting Parka
Top-rated: 551 ratings | 39 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
This jacket was a game-changer! An XL fit perfectly for layering, while its thoughtful design with a cinch hood and waterproof features stood out. It’s missing some pocket details, but the durability, functionality, and affordable cost made it my top pick among jackets twice its price.
Pros:
- It offers a three-in-one design, allowing you to adjust your level of warmth depending on the weather.
- This parka is designed to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- It provides excellent insulation, keeping you warm even in extreme cold.
The parka also features multiple pockets for convenient storage of your essentials.
Helpful review:
“So, I ordered about $1500 in jackets via Amazon Prime. Before ordering this jacket, I called the seller and asked if I could order an XL and XXL to check the size for layering. With the ability to return the size that didn’t work for me. Of course, they okayed my request. I’m an XL t-shirt unless they shrink too much. So I’ve been wearing an XXL T-shirt even though they fit a little big at times. I’m 6’2″ and 210 lbs. So that will give you an idea of jacket sizing.
The XXL was huge. I returned it almost immediately. The XL, allowed me to layer underneath. Most commonly a XXL long sleeve T and an XXL sweatshirt. You’d think it’d all bunch up uncomfortably underneath, but it didn’t. The XL was a perfect fit for me. I’m kinda bummed they don’t have hand warmer pockets, over-the-side slash hand pockets. It was something I had in one of the other branded jackets I returned. A nice feature if you use it. Also, only one chest zipper pocket, while most other similar jackets have two. Lastly, no armpit vent zippers. Not really show-stoppers, but it would make this jacket even better if they incorporated those requests.
The hood at first, was a bit big and flew off my head in the wind. That was until I realized it has two cinch cords to pull it tight and allow it to fit. They worked perfectly… and the winds a couple of days ago were 50mph at my house. The hood stayed on as it should. Impressive! And it’s removable, which not all jackets have as an option. Nice touch. The liner allows me to slide my arm in without bunching. Nice and slippery for layering. A great feature for when wearing the jacket or in a hurry to get it on… or off, without pulling the liner sleeve out of the shell.
The “high wear” reinforced areas are a tough material. However, not sure I’ll need them but another nice touch and add to the quality of the jacket. Not all jackets I had (for my size and function “testing”) were WATERPROOF. This one is, and works great. In fact, they claim the liner is seam-sealed and waterproof too. Haven’t tried the liner by itself yet.
Overall, a remarkable jacket for its low cost. I tried to love jackets twice its cost, and just couldn’t. I’m keeping this jacket and have already recommended it to my other ‘hunting’ friends. One already bought it and tested it himself out fishing the local lake on his boat. Said it worked like a charm and kept him nice and toasty. A win-win over all the others I had tried!! The liner itself is camo and a great addition to making this jacket a 3-in-1.” – Johnny Jackson
Get it from Amazon now: $899.99 & FREE Returns
6. Rhino Blinds – R75-RTE Hunting Ground Blind
Top-rated: 2,639 ratings | 40 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
Effortless setup, sturdy build, and is versatile enough to serve as an indoor tent for the grandkids!
Pros:
- The Rhino Blinds R75-RTE Hunting Ground Blind is lightweight and easy to set up, making it ideal for hunters on the go.
- This ground blind is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- The realistic tree and leaf design provides excellent concealment in various environments.
- Despite its compact exterior, the R75-RTE offers ample room inside.
Helpful review:
“This is a well-built, easy-to-set-up photo blind. Easy to carry to the site. Lightweight. Set up is easy. Like all spring tents, it can be a little tricky to collapse, but if you follow the instructions exactly, it goes into the bag easily. Does not have a floor (but I did not want one). It will also make a great indoor tent for the grandkids!” – Ron Stalin
Get it from Amazon now: $69.99 & FREE Returns
5. Holtzman’s Gorilla – Bushcraft Survival Camping Knife
Top-rated: 183 ratings | 0 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
More than just a knife, this survival system boasts durability and versatility, featuring a balanced, durable knife, a modular sheath for various carrying options, and a powerful ferro rod that launches hot sparks like a flamethrower.
Pros:
- It’s perfect for various outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and bush crafting.
- It can withstand tough conditions and repeated use, making it an excellent investment for outdoor enthusiasts.
- The design includes a secure grip handle and a protective sheath, ensuring safe handling and storage.
- Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Camping Knife is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Helpful review:
“So, this is more of a survival system than it is just a knife and can be broken down into the knife, sheath, and fire starter. The knife is well-balanced and incredibly durable. I have processed over a hundred pieces of wood with it so far and nothing has come loose. With some stropping, it was back to hair popping sharp. The handle takes some getting used to if you are not used to the textured grip, but is ultimately a non-issue. The grip itself is very comfortable, and indexes well, even when wearing gloves.
The sheath is very modular, which is a plus for me because I like to scout carry. The retention on the sheath is great, and have had no issues with it. The attachment can be added or removed with ease to fit whatever needs you have. The Ferro rod is great. I have almost burned through mine just playing with it. But it launches hot sparks like a flamethrower. I’ve had success with all sorts of natural materials. All in all, it is a great system for the price.” – Alex Healey
Get it from Amazon now: $149.95 & FREE Returns
4. Vortex – Optics Viper HS LR Riflescopes
Top-rated: 134 ratings | 49 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
An excellent scope offering a clear sight picture at extended ranges, featuring an MOA reticle ideal for holdover shots and precise adjustments, including elevation travel of 24 MOA per revolution, making it suitable for shots past 800 yards.
Pros:
- The Vortex Viper HS LR Riflescopes offer crystal clear images, thanks to their advanced optical system.
- With the HS LR feature, these riflescopes enable accurate shooting over long distances.
- Built with aircraft-grade aluminum, the Viper HS LR Riflescopes are designed to withstand the harshest conditions.
- The scope comes with easy-to-use windage and elevation turrets.
Helpful review:
“This is an excellent scope! Offers a very clear sight picture even at extended ranges. MOA reticle is excellent for holdover shots. There are windage and elevation hash marks, with subsequent windage lines containing 2 MOA hashes (very handy in windy conditions like last weekend’s shoot). I didn’t find the scope too busy and was very comfortable adjusting my shot from the scope.
I was spotting for a fellow shooter with this scope out to 600 and was calling minute corrections to bring him on target. Plenty of travel in with the elevation as there are 24 MOA per revolution. I was able to mount this on a zero MOA scope and still had plenty of travel to dial in my 243 for shots past 800. I found the elevation changes of 1/2 MOA to be a concern at first, but after using it for a while I didn’t find myself having any issues. Windage changes are 1/4 MOA. For a first focal plane scope (FFP) scope, the price point is superb.” – Phillip Walton
Get it from Amazon now: $899.00 & FREE Returns
3. Summit Treestands – Viper SD Climbing Treestand
Top-rated: 1,541 ratings | 96 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
A solid buy with minor noise concerns, Summit’s SD Viper stand offers excellent comfort and practical features for a successful hunt.
Pros:
- It features an innovative design with gear-like teeth that allow you to lock the holder at your preferred angle.
- Made from lightweight aluminum it’s easy to transport and climb.
- It’s designed with smaller-framed hunters in mind but offers world-class engineering features.
Helpful review:
“Seller is rad. Great to work with and best customer service I have had. About the stand. I’ve owned the older Vipers without the SD. Had it for 10+ years and loved it. Recently I tried to foam it myself and it worked great except for on the foot base where it connects to the bracket – I foamed it and the foam leaked into where the cables go in. Long story short… I needed to buy this one to quickly replace my old one until I could properly fix it.
This SD Viper stand. I like almost everything about it. My old Viper had cable tie on armrests and that totally beats the new zipper ones. The new zipper pads cover less area and the zippers make noise when walking in. The zippers don’t hold the pad on as well as the old cable tie system. Thats my biggest complaint and it’s small. Another thing I haven’t checked fully but the bungee strap that wraps the chair to the tree seems shorter. I may have been in too big of a tree but for sure test it out before going out.
I used heat shrink tubing that had adhesive in it to cover the little metal s-hooks so they don’t make noise. However would suggest mounting the shoulder straps a rung lower than they suggest. The straps stretch for comfort but if you are like me and load a bag on the climber – it will pull down the climber and the bottom can hit your legs when walking. Thats level 10 is annoying. These sound bad but honestly, this is the most comfortable chair I have sat in. In general. There are no pressure points like a ground chair has. The best hunt ever.
I did buy some side bags and mounted them to the size for holding things. It’s wonderful because you don’t need to climb with a backpack or haul it up with string. My old stand I painted spots brown and it looks darker which is nice. I hunted for years without painting it and never was spotted. And also used camo tape people use on bows to make it blend and quieter when bumped. I would suggest clearing trails way ahead because branches make tingy noises while walking in. If you can’t just get out way early.
Climber is easy to assemble. Doesn’t take more than an hour… I was just picky. The shoulder strap took a bit to figure out because the instructions don’t cover it. Look at pics and play around with it. The old stands had a footrest on them which I liked but did squeak when opening and sometimes got in the way when getting in and out of the stand. Buy it. It’s worth it. Seems better than most in my opinion. Summit makes quality stands.” – Andy Bartels
Get it from Amazon now: $311.99 & FREE Returns
2. CREATIVE XP – Cellular Trail Cameras
Top-rated: 961 ratings | 277 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
This cellular game camera by SimHero impresses with easy setup, versatile settings, and outstanding night vision quality, providing excellent photos and videos—even capturing hedgehogs—with a bonus of seamless phone transmission for an enhanced user experience.
Pros:
- You can receive real-time photos & videos directly to your phone or email.
- These cameras are equipped with 56 IR LEDs that provide clear, bright images even in complete darkness.
- Offers a long battery life, reducing the need for frequent battery changes.
- The cameras offer high-quality and detailed images and recordings. This makes them ideal for wildlife monitoring, hunting, or property surveillance.
Helpful review:
“Very easy to set up and if you can’t figure it out, the customer service is amazing. I used the SimHero included (they just started doing this, before they included an AT&T sim card) and it’s GREAT – it comes preloaded with 500 photos and their cheapest plan costs $7. The camera still works with AT&T but I’m using SimHero – it has the same signal as AT&T or T-Mobile.
My main interest is IR photos/clips of our vacation resident wild hedgehog. The range of settings makes for a very versatile camera, especially so at this price. I have a SpyPoint camera as well but the night vision photos aren’t as great and we don’t always receive the photos on our phone which is important for me considering that the camera is 4 hours away.
1st night I got nothing! Maybe the memory card wasn’t set up correctly, after a few manual exposures, I tried again and it worked. I’ve now used it for a few nights and come to the following conclusions. For fast-moving objects (hedgehogs are surprisingly fast) if set to Image + Video, by the time the camera has taken the photo and is ready for video there is nothing there. I got much better results with video only or image x 3. Our hedgehog and cats will trigger the PIR set to Normal at 15 yards with ease. The 56 IR LEDs are probably the best on the market from my research.
The “no glow” from the LEDs seems to not be visible to cats but a couple of them have walked over during the day to investigate. They didn’t seem worried, just curious. The hedgehog doesn’t seem to be able to see them either. Last night I had about 50 videos, 50 x 20(s) = 1000s = approx 16 minutes In theory, this means the batteries will last less than 24 nights and that doesn’t include setting up and viewing on the LCD. The results, however, are well worth it, so either buy rechargeable good batteries, a solar panel, or make up a 6v supply for the camera.
For those interested in close-up stuff, my latest video clips are 2 meters away and they are sharp. I was amazed to discover we have 2 hedgehogs, who judging by the fight are not friends! Overall, Great cellular game camera, photo quality, and impressive night vision. Receiving the photos on my phone is the best thing about it!” – Ben Berg
Get it from Amazon now: $109.95 & FREE Returns
1. HISEA – Rubber Hunting Boots
Top-rated: 3,278 ratings | 100 answered questions
Credit: Amazon
Highlight:
This pair of boots exceeded expectations—comfortable, roomy, and with an impressive quality. While the calf strap adjustment might not be ideal for deep snow, these boots excel in comfort, warmth, and durability, making them a great value at a fantastic price.
Pros:
- HISEA Rubber Hunting Boots are made with high-quality rubber that is resistant to water, making them an ideal choice for wet conditions.
- These boots are designed with a flexible neoprene lining that provides comfort and insulation.
- They feature durable rubber soles that offer excellent traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
- HISEA Rubber Hunting Boots are scent-free, which is essential for hunters.
Helpful review:
“I just received my boots and was very pleased. First impressions, fit as advertised. I’m 8.5, bought 9’s which provided just a perfect extra roominess for heavier socks. They have that gummy spongy feel In the sole while you walk just like Muck boots which I like. Very comfortable. Quality appears to be high, the color was spot on to the ad. I bought the green camo which was on clearance for about $65 and I really like the pattern so for me, just an awesome deal. I appreciate the free waterproof phone case as well, was a nice surprise!! Overall 5 out of 5 stars!
Update 2/1/22. I have worn these boots now through all kinds of conditions and very low, -30 temps now for extended periods since purchase. I find them extremely comfortable, dry, and warm. The ONLY minor thing I don’t like is the adjustment clasp and strap on the calf. The clasp does not hold the strap tight for more than a few seconds to a minute. They just don’t hold at all. For me, it hasn’t been an issue because I don’t traverse deep snow more than a foot or so deep. If you are going to be going into deep snow up to your knees and need a tight fit, you might want to pass or find gators to compensate. Other than that, I am very pleased. For the money, I couldn’t be happier!” – Joey Bones
Get it from Amazon now: $83.99 & FREE Returns
