Best Overall		Redline RL-1 Carbon Quiver 6-Arrow	SEE IT
Best Fixed		TightSpot Pivot 2.5 2-piece	SEE IT
Best Budget		Kwikee Kwiver Lite-4	SEE IT

The arrow quiver is one of those pieces of gear that bowhunters generally don’t think about too much. Until it’s a problem. The job of the quiver is pretty simple: carry arrows. That’s it. That’s all it does.

And often times, bowhunters simply look for the cheapest quiver they can find, or one that best matches their bow to complete a killer look. They don’t always pay attention to the working parts of the quiver that earn its keep when the heat is on.

So what do you want in a quiver? You want one that holds your arrows firmly in place, protects you from your broadheads, stays quiet, doesn’t stick out awkwardly, and, of course, looks cool.

Lancaster Archery Supply carries just about every hunting quiver on the market—certainly all the major players in the game. I get the chance to see, touch, and feel all of these quivers as they arrive in inventory, so I know them all pretty well. But in trying to find the best hunting quivers for this article, I took some extra steps to test nearly two dozen quivers.

I put arrows in the grippers and broadheads in the hoods to see how they hold. For the bow-mounted models, I mounted them on my bows to study their profiles and effect on balance, and I took shots to listen for any noise caused by vibrating parts—the coal-mine canary of bad bow quivers.

Combining that knowledge and testing, I came up with the following picks for best hunting quivers in the following categories:

• Best Overall: Nock On Checkmate
• Best Budget: Octane Furnace 4-Arrow Quiver
• Redline RL-1 Carbon Quiver 6-Arrow
• Best Detachable: Conquest Talon
• Best Fixed: TightSpot Pivot 2.5 2-piece
• Kwikee Kwiver Lite-4
• Best Traditional: Selway Slide-On
• Best Hip: Vista Knight Hunting Quiver
• Mathews and Hoyt: Mathews LowPro Detachable Quiver, Mathews Arrow Web HD, Hoyt Carbon Superlite Stretch

The Best Bow Quivers: Reviews and Recommendations

Best Overall: Nock On Checkmate

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Key Features

• 19 inches long, made of high-modulus carbon and aluminum
• Curved hood for wind deflection
• Simple, fast quick disconnect
• Holds five arrows, plus a bonus arrow
• Low-profile design
• Deep, protective hood with durable, dense rubber
• Can be adjusted up and down and left and right for perfect balance
• Holds arrows from micro-diameter up to 23 diameter
• Retractable hanging hook

Pros

• Can be used on the bow or be quickly detached
• Totally silent in all uses
• Rubber arrow gripper has separate notches to hold the skinniest arrows up to 23 diameter
• Curved hood helps cut through the wind
• Includes a one-arrow holder on the bow mount, so if you remove the quiver for hunting, you have a follow-up arrow always at the ready

Cons

• Expensive

The Nock On Checkmate is John Dudley’s latest contribution to the archery world. He sat down and thought about every feature he’d like to see in a quiver, and then he built that quiver.

The Checkmate is 19 inches long, and made of high-modulus carbon and aluminum. The hood is 2.5 inches deep and filled with rubber foam to hold nearly any broadhead on the market securely. Also, the hood is curved to help deflect side winds so they don’t affect the bowhunter as much as if it were flat. And it’s got a retractable ring on the back that can be pulled up for hanging the quiver in a tree stand.

The lower arrow gripper has two notches in each arrow seat to accommodate super skinny or fatter hunting arrows. One of those grippers points directly back at the archer to allow for the fast rear deployment of one of the arrows.

The bow mount features a quick-detach system. Lift a lever, and the quiver slides out. Push the quiver into the receiver and push the lever down, and the quiver is locked in place.

And that bow mount includes two arrow grippers to hold a single arrow. So let’s say you detach your quiver while hunting in a tree stand. You can load one arrow in those grippers, so you’ve always got a follow-up arrow at the ready.

The quiver can be adjusted up and down and in and out to get it to sit exactly where you want it for perfect balance on your bow.

Read Next: Best Trail Cameras

Best Budget: Octane Furnace 4-Arrow Quiver

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Key Features

• Detachable, one-piece quiver
• Deep hood with thick foam for seating broadheads
• Dual arrow grippers in addition to the hood
• Quickly detaches
• Holds four arrows

Pros

• Costs less than $35
• Securely locks arrow in place with three connection points
• Adjustable height to get the quiver in the right place on your bow
• Quick-detach is fast and easy to use
• Holds arrows of varying diameters

Cons

• The foam in the hood will break up over time
• Won’t stand up to much abuse

Not everyone wants to—or can afford to—spend $100 or more on a bow quiver. Some bowhunters just want the least expensive option for holding arrows securely. The Octane Furnace does that.

It’s a four-arrow quiver with two carbon rods connecting the hood to two arrow grippers. With three connection points, arrows are going to stay put. And the grippers will securely hold the most popular hunting arrow shaft sizes.

The attachment point on the quiver slides up and down so you can seat the quiver at the height you want on your bow. That connection point pops in and out of the quick-detach base that’s mounted to the bow. A lever holds the two parts together and then releases them from one another when you want to remove the quiver.

The hood is 3 inches deep and filled with foam for seating broadheads. You can remove the foam when using field points or mechanicals that you don’t want to sink into the foam.

This quiver isn’t built to handle serious abuse, which is one of the reasons it is so inexpensive. But just pay a little attention to what you do with it, and it will last for many years – especially for tree stand and ground blind hunters who simply carry their bows from the truck to their hunting sites.

Redline RL-1 Carbon Quiver 6-Arrow

Redline

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Key Features

• 20 inches long, yet only weighs 9.7 ounces
• All carbon rods
• Simple, yet secure, quick disconnect
• Holds six arrows
• Low profile design
• Deep, protective hood with rubber lining and dedicated broadhead seats
• Can be adjusted so quiver top stays below top limb and arrows don’t extend beyond bottom limb

Pros

• You can slide the quiver forward or back to get it balanced on the bow
• No rattling when you carry your bow or when shooting
• Rubber arrow gripper holds shafts securely
• Long design is great for securing arrows to the bow
• Quick disconnect is fast and easy

Cons

• The dedicated seats for broadheads are great for expandables and three-blade fixed broadheads, but they’re not ideal for broadheads with two large blades.

The Redline RL-1 Carbon Quiver is a six-arrow quiver measuring 20 inches long, but only weighing 9.7 ounces, thanks to all the carbon in its construction. There’s an identical, 3-arrow version that weighs 6.5 ounces if you want to cut even more weight. Redline is a new player in the compound accessory market, but the people behind the company have tons of experience. This quiver is a great example of the Redline goal, which is to produce quality gear at a fair price. This quiver isn’t cheap, but it’s not over-the-top expensive either.

The long design is a fairly new trend in quivers. I like it. With arrow shafts secured in grippers in the lower third and at the tip, they feel more secure than when you’re using a shorter quiver that grips them in the upper half of the shafts. 

The RL-1 has great rubber broadhead seats inside the hood that work well with any expandables and with three-blade, fixed heads. As I mentioned, big two-blade fixed heads won’t sit as neatly, but they’ll still be secured. 

If you want to take the quiver off when you’re up in the tree stand, there’s a simple, metal lever that you raise about 3 inches and then you slide the quiver straight back. It’s super secure and super quiet.

The features of this quiver are all great, but it vaulted to the top of my list when I put it on my Mathews V3X 33 and shot with it attached. It was whisper quiet, which is important. But what I didn’t expect was how well it allowed me to hold the bow. I was rock steady with the RL-1 on my bow with 4 arrows in the quiver. I held even steadier with it on than I did with it off. I’m sure it’s because I was able to slide the quiver straight back toward me. With a slotted mounting bracket, you can pull this quiver back toward you a good bit farther than you can basically any other quiver. So instead of it sitting parallel to the riser, it can sit parallel to the cables and string.

So the RL-1 is a well-made, lightweight, quiet quiver that holds arrows securely, and can be quickly detached, or balances the bow nicely if you choose to shoot with it on. That’s the quiver grand slam.

Best Detachable: Conquest Talon

Conquest Archery

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Key Features

• Unique, spring-loaded claws grip the mounting bracket
• Considered a five-arrow quiver, but it’s got two extra spots on the back side that allow storage of two more for a seven-arrow total capacity
• Rubber lining in the hood
• Grips arrow shafts in two places, and has point seats in the hood
• Comes with two sets of arrow grippers—one for standard hunting arrows and one for micro-diameter
• Rope tree-loop on the top for hanging in the stand

Pros

• The claw that you squeeze to remove the quiver is unique and ridiculously easy to maneuver
• Ridiculously lightweight
• Dual shaft grippers hold arrows still and quiet at the shot
• Adjustable up and down to get your arrows where you want them on the bow
• Holds seven arrows
• Costs under $90

Cons

• The point seats in the hood are round rubber cups, which I’m not a big fan of for holding broadheads

The Conquest Talon is the only quiver made by Conquest Archery, which is known more for its stabilizers. It’s lightweight, at just 9 ounces, and features dual, rubber shaft grippers, which is unusual for a 13-inch quiver. But those 2 grippers—plus the point seats inside the hood—ensure your arrow isn’t going anywhere until you pull one out.

You can adjust the quiver up and down on the twin, carbon support rods, and then lock it in place so it stays put where you want it. But the main feature of this quiver is the quick disconnect. No other quiver on the market has a disconnect like the Talon.

Essentially, it’s a claw that grabs hold of the mounting block on the riser. The claws are held in place by spring-loaded arms. Squeeze those arms and the claws release the mount block. You can easily pluck this quiver off the bow with one hand in a second.

To be perfectly honest, the Conquest Talon wasn’t on my radar as I was doing my initial research for this article. I had done a video on it two years ago when it came out and hadn’t paid much attention to it since. I saw it in the Lancaster Archery Supply Pro Shop and remembered the unique, quick-disconnect.

At first glance, it seems like there’s no way the quiver claw that grabs the mounting block would have enough force to keep the quiver from rattling. But it does. And the quick disconnect operates simpler and faster than any other I tested.

Best Fixed: TightSpot Pivot 2.5 2-piece

TightSpot

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Key Features

• Broadhead hood and arrow gripper are two separate pieces that are attached individually to the bow
• Multiple included connectors fit just about any compound bow
• Pivoting rods that allow the quiver to transform so it’s always vertical, regardless of the bow
• Screw-in arrow blocks that allow the individual arrow grippers to adjust for fat or skinny arrows
• Durable, solid foam block in the hood secures fixed or mechanical broadheads
• Holds five arrows

Pros

• Can be adjusted to fit nearly all compound bows
• Once set and fitted with arrows, it’s solid
• No audible extra noise added to the bow at the shot
• Hood foam is deep and locks broadheads in place

Cons

• I couldn’t tighten the bolt enough on the lower half of my test quiver to solidly lock down that piece. Once arrows were in it, however, it didn’t move.

The TightSpot Pivot 2.5 2-Piece Quiver is an adjustable quiver that can be permanently attached to just about any compound bow in a variety of configurations. Some bowhunters prefer quivers that are not detachable, because the quivers designed to attach and detach often are the ones prone to rattle when walking and shooting.

The top half—hood—and the bottom half—arrow gripper—of this quiver are bolted onto the riser of a bow independently. TightSpot includes multiple hardware pieces to match the varying connection points across the spectrum of compound bows on the market. Once attached to the riser, the Pivot earns its name from the adjustable rods that can be maneuvered so the quiver stands vertically on any bow. And the rods telescope so you can extend or reduce the distance between the gripper and the hood. You can also push the quiver in toward the riser to produce a slim profile, or pull it out away if you need to work around other accessories.

Screws mounted in rubber wedges between the individual arrow grippers can be driven in, or backed out, which compresses or opens the grippers to accommodate arrows of different diameters. With the wedges screwed all the way in, they’ll firmly hold 4mm shafts. Backed out, you can load 23-diameter shafts without a problem.

The soft foam that fills the hood is my favorite kind of foam for broadheads. No, it isn’t as durable as harder rubber seats in the hoods of other quivers, but it holds broadheads in place better than any other material. And as long as you seat your broadheads in the same holes in the foam every time you load your quiver, the foam will last for many years.

Kwikee Kwiver Lite-4

Kwikee

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Key Features

• Detachable, one-piece quiver
• Deep hood with thin, solid rubber padding inside and guide holes for arrow tips
• Strong arrow gripper will hold skinny and normal diameter hunting arrows
• Can be locked in with an included bolt
• Lightweight at 8.4 ounces
• Holds four arrows

Pros

• Costs $30
• With the Ultra-Lock bolt in place, it’s super quiet
• Actic-2 arrow holder remains pliable in freezing weather
• Easily detaches without the Ultra-Lock bolt
• Even large fixed-blade broadheads are totally enclosed in the hood

Cons

• Without the Ultra-Lock bolt, it has a faint rattle
• With the bolt in place, detaching is not as fast as without it
• Arrows extend below the bottom cam

The Kwikee Kwiver Lite-4 was going to make my list somehow because it’s one of the rare pieces of compound bow equipment that has remained virtually unchanged for more than three decades. I can think of no other piece of compound gear that hasn’t morphed over the years to change the way it functions or the way it looks. With that kind of longevity without transformation, you know The Kwikee Kwiver Lite-4 works.

This is a one-piece, detachable quiver that holds four arrows. Arrows are held about a third of the way down the shaft by the rubber Arctic 2 gripper, which doesn’t turn to rock when it’s cold outside.

The hood has a thin, solid-rubber lining with guide holes in the top to receive arrow points. Those holes combined with the gripper hold arrows pretty snugly in place.

The quick-detach bracket employed by the Kwikee Lite-4 is the same as it’s always been. There’s a metal leaf with a red plastic top that you pull back to insert the quiver. When the quiver is seated, the leaf springs back into place and the red top then holds the quiver down.

To get the quiver completely silent, you’ll need the Ultra-Lock bolt, which mounts through the center of the quiver arm and pins it to the bracket. It’s easy enough to unscrew it to detach the quiver, but it takes extra time. Without that bolt, the quiver does rattle a bit at the shot.

Where the Kwikee Lite-4 sits on the riser is both good and bad. The quiver sits kind of in the middle of the bow, while others usually sit higher. This lower position causes arrows 27 inches and longer to extend below the bottom cam on most bows, which means the nocks are constantly digging into the dirt if you rest your bow on the bottom cam. But that low position allows your bow to balance better during a shot. It doesn’t make the bow top heavy, like some other quivers.

Best Traditional: Selway Slide-On Recurve Quiver

Selway

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Key Features

• Two-piece design
• Slides over limbs
• Hood is solid leather with thick, trad stitching
• Foam insert inside the hood is deep to receive those big traditional broadheads
• Lower, rubber gripper securely holds five arrows
• Fits recurve bows with limbs 1.5-2 inches wide

Pros

• Can be adjusted up and down on the limbs to hold arrows of any length
• The ends twist to get the orientation of both halves so they hold arrows parallel to the bow
• Easy to install
• Looks super traditional

Cons

• Not the most secure-fitting quiver

The Selway Slide-On Recurve Quiver tells you exactly what it is in the name. It’s a two-piece quiver that slides onto recurve bows. Each half slides onto a limb. 

Assembly is simple. Remove the bowstring and slide the hood over the upper limb tip and down toward the riser. Slide the arrow gripper over the lower limb tip and up toward the riser. Position the two halves anywhere to hold your arrows accordingly. The two pieces fit fairly snugly, so long as the limbs are 1.5-2 inches wide. Of course, they fit the 2-inch limbs more snugly than the 1.5-inch.

The hand-stitched leather hood is what makes this quiver so trad. It looks cool and forms the perfect container for my favorite broadhead-holding foam. Stuff a big, 135-grain Zwickey two-blade into this foam and it’s not going anywhere, nor is it cutting anyone accidentally.

With its all-rubber contact points, the Selway is nice and quiet on the bow at the shot. Even though it might be a bit loose on the limbs as compared to a bolt-on quiver, there’s nothing metal to rattle and make noise.  

Having arrows in the quiver actually makes it more secure on the bow because arrows connect the halves to one another. And it holds those arrows within easy reach in case a follow-up shot is needed fast—a not-so-infrequent issue traditional bowhunters face.

Like I said. The Selway Slide-On functions great. What seals its crown as the best traditional quiver is its looks. It’s trad through and through.

Best Hip Quiver: Vista Knight

P.J. Reilly

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Why It Made the Cut

It’s one of the only hip quivers designed to hold broadheads left on the market. It’s well made, looks good and has my favorite type of broadhead foam.

Key Features

• Stunning leather construction
• Sturdy rubber arrow grippers
• Thick hood foam to secure broadheads
• Belt loop
• Intended for wearing only on the right side
• Leather thigh lashes

Pros

• Stows arrows right on your hip for quick loading into your bow
• Leather construction and foam in the hood protect you from razor-sharp broadheads
• Lashed to your thigh, the quiver moves with your leg as you stalk
• Rubber shaft grippers hold arrows securely

Cons

• Not ideal for tree stand or ground blind hunting
• Arrows are more exposed to brush while stalking and can get pried out of the quiver easier than arrows attached to a bow

The Vista Knight Hunting Quiver is a stylish, leather quiver that holds five arrows. It’s 12 inches long by 8.5 inches across and has a loop that connects to a belt worn around your waist. It’s also got leather lashes so you can tie the bottom of the quiver to your thigh. The arrow shafts are held in place by rubber grippers at the top, while the broadhead-tipped points are buried in thick foam inside the hood. 

That foam inside the hood is what separates the Vista Knight from most other hip quivers on the market. Those are designed primarily for arrows tipped with field points, and therefore intended more so for target archery than hunting. Such quivers are no good for broadheads.

Hip quivers used to be quite popular among bowhunters many years ago, but have fallen out of favor in more recent times. That’s probably why there are very few options for hunting hip quivers today. Now, you’re probably most likely to see traditional archers using such a quiver.

But they’re great for spot and stalk hunts. With the lashes tied to your thigh, this quiver moves with your body, holding arrows ready for action right on your hip, sort of like a Western six-shooter. If you have to crawl on your belly, you undo the lashes and shove the quiver around your belt to your back.

Mathews and Hoyt Quivers

Mathews and Hoyt are two bow manufacturers that have cultivated dedicated fan bases that love to fly the manufacturers’ flags. Die-hard Mathews and Hoyt owners will have as many Mathews and Hoyt accessories on their bows as they can get, including quivers. If you’re part of this crowd and you have a Mathews Phase 4, you’re just not going to put a Redline or TighSpot quiver on your bow, even though they will fit.

Fortunately for Mathews and Hoyt owners, their manufacturers both make quality quivers. We are giving them their own category because these quivers only fit the bows they’re named for. So they’re no good to owners of bows that don’t say “Mathews” or “Hoyt.” But if your bow does bear one of those names, these are the quivers for you.

Mathews LowPro Detachable Quiver

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The LowPro is a five-arrow, quick-detach quiver that follows the Mathews’s overall bow design of creating a skinny bow profile. They’ve got the integrate rest mount and the Bridge-Lock cutouts for mounting a sight and stabilizer – all in the name of slimming down the bow. So they need a quiver that keeps that vibe going.

The LowPro features a single carbon rod and attaches to the bow via connections at the top of the quiver and the bottom. A simple press lever at the bottom locks it in place. Lift the lever, and the quiver easily detaches.

The hood is deep and filled with a pliable foam that holds broadheads firmly. And with the hood and lower arrow gripper 20 inches apart, the quiver holds arrows in place more securely and quietly than shorter quivers. You can set your bow on the ground – quiver side down – and not worry about arrows bending or breaking.

It’s a quiver that’s quiet, very functional, low profile, and which will appeal to the Mathews fans who just gotta have all the Mathews accessories.

Read Next: Mathews Phase 4 Review

Mathews Arrow Web HD Quiver

Mathews

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The Arrow Web isn’t Mathews’ latest quiver, but it is the quiver that will fit the most Mathews bows. And it’s been around for many years because it’s well-made. Available in four-arrow or six-arrow versions, the Arrow Web mounts to Mathews bows via a one-of-a-kind connection.

There’s a metal piece shaped like the letter “C” that gets bolted to a unique-shaped recess built into Mathews risers. The quiver then has two metal posts on it. The top one gets seated in a cup on the mounting bracket and the lower one pivots over a raised finger before seating into its own cup.

Now that connection keeps the quiver seated solidly. It, plus harmonic dampeners in the quiver and the mounting bracket keep this quiver ultra-quiet if you choose to shoot with it attached to the bow. But if you press down on that finger on the lower attachment point on the bracket, the quiver can quickly be detached if you like to remove it in the tree stand or ground blind.

The hood space is generous and it’s filled with a rubbery pad that broadheads sink into for nearly total encasement. The arrow grippers easily accommodate standard or micro diameter hunting arrows.

Hoyt Carbon Superlite Stretch

Hoyt

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The Carbon Superlite Stretch is another one of those long quivers, measuring 20 inches. Again, I like that length for stability holding the arrows in place. You can shoot your bow with this quiver attached, or it can quickly be detached at its two mounting points.

The unique feature of the Carbon Superlite Stretch is its adjustability. You can adjust the quiver up or down so the arrows sit on your bow the way you want. And you can also adjust it toward or away from the riser to navigate around other accessories. And if you’re using a Hoyt integrate arrow rest and the Hoyt picatinny mount for your sight, you can pull the Carbon Superlite Stretch insanely tight against the riser for an extremely low profile.

What to Consider When Buying a Quiver

Choosing a hunting quiver doesn’t need to be a long, drawn-out process. If you do your homework and know what you want, you should be able to pick one out in short order.

The process starts with deciding if you want the quiver to be detachable or not. Think how you hunt and where you hunt, and that decision should be simple. Of course, if you’re not sure, then go with detachable, because you can always simply leave that quiver attached.

Study how different quivers attach to a bow. If there’s going to be noise, this is where it’s going to start. You want the connection to be snug—immovable if possible. 

If the quiver is detachable, how does the detach system work? You might be detaching and attaching in the dark, so you don’t want a quiver that requires fine motor skills to put it on or take it off your bow.

Like you’d do buying a car, look under the hood. How does a certain quiver hold arrow points? You want your points held firmly in place to keep them from rattling loose. In my opinion, hoods filled with foam/rubber are the most secure.

Check the arrow grippers. You want them to be pliable, so arrows can slip in and out easily, but you don’t want them to be flimsy, or the arrows will vibrate loose. Pliable, sturdy arrow grippers are best. 

Overall, how well does the quiver hold your arrows? If you hold a quiver that locks arrows in place and one that allows them to move around, you will feel the difference. 

Choose the quiver that holds the number of arrows you want to take with you on bowhunts and fits your budget, and you’re all set.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Bowhunting quivers aren’t sexy. They aren’t meant to be sexy. You don’t usually hear bowhunters waxing poetic about how much they love their quiver. You want it to do its job and never have to think about it. Pick the right one, and that’s exactly what you’ll get.

The post The Best Bow Quivers of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Many of the best duck hunters I know cut their teeth on public land, particularly walk-ins. These are some of the toughest places to kill waterfowl consistently because access is easy if you’re willing to to put in the effort. But it can be downright exhausting. It’s typically a long walk down a muddy levee, and if it’s cold enough, and the water is frozen, there’s more hard work in front of you. But that’s what makes this kind of hunting so rewarding—you have to sweat for ducks, and when you get’em there’s no better feeling.

At almost 40 years old, I still love walk-in hunting. I don’t do as many death marches anymore, but it’s fun to get out there on days when I know my brother and I have a shot at killing a few birds. That’s the key to enjoying walk-in hunting: Don’t go unless you think it will be good. It will burn you out quick, logging all those miles with too much gear in-tow, and returning with empty game straps.

This is the stuff I have accumulated over years of chasing ducks—mostly shovelers and ringnecks—in some of the most mediocre duck habitat around. But bottom line is that it works…and I wouldn’t walk-in hunt without it.

Upgrade Your Truck Tires

You might be wondering why in the hell you need a good set of truck tires for walk-in hunting. Fair question. Well, in my experience, walk-ins are the most neglected of public habitats by state agencies. You typically have to drive through some pretty sloppy/sketchy terrain to get to the parking lot, which is often a mud pit. Many times I have arrived on cold mornings when the ground is frozen and returned to a sloppy mess in the afternoon once the sun comes out. Stock tires will not get you unstuck. This year, I’ve been running Toyo’s Open Country A/T III tires. They’ve gotten me out of plenty of hairy situations when I might have otherwise needed a tow. If you drop the tire pressure down to around 20 to 25 pounds, I’m convinced they could get your truck out of quicksand. Dropping tire pressure is key if you’re stuck, and it can easily be done. Just don’t go so low that your tires are flat. And don’t feel like you have to buy Toyo. They have been great for me, but Tire Rack has plenty of options to select from, and the prices honestly aren’t that much higher than the on-road tire that came with your truck. So spend a few extra dollars and save yourself the aggravation. There’s nothing worse than getting skunked and then stuck in the marsh with no cell service.

Another Set of Wheels

No legit walk-in hunter carries all the gear in on his back. You need a cart. It will make your walks in and out infinitely easier. A few years ago, I bought a Rogers Toughman Decoy Dolly (it’s rated for 600 pounds, so my brother can haul me and the decoys out), and it’s definitely the reason I’m still a walk-in hunter. There are a variety of carts on the market, and you can also build one, but with the time and money you have to invest in the construction of one, you’re better off buying in my opinion. If you’re deadest on engineering your own, here is a deer cart build that will work. I typically hunt with one other person—or solo—and can put all our gear on the cart, no problem. The one thing you have to be leery of is mud. Carts don’t like it. The mud will get caught up in the wheels so badly that they won’t be able to turn and then you are stuck hauling all your stuff back to the truck in multiple trips.

Float a Jet Sled

I couple the cart with a Jet Sled, which holds all my gear and fits perfectly into the Toughman. Beavertail and Momarsh also make good sleds, and Cabela’s still sells ice fishing sleds, but they aren’t as durable. I put the Jet Sled in the bed of my truck, load it up, and then once I’m ready to unload it, I get the cart down first, open it up and prop it up against the tailgate of my truck so I can slide the sled in myself without physically picking it up. The versatility of the sled is what you really need it for. Remember I talked about it being too muddy for the cart? Well, if you drill two holes in the front of the sled (don’t drill into the bottom or you will spring a leak) and run a rope through the holes, you now have a handle, and can pretty easily drag the sled through the mud. Another bonus is once you hit the water, just jettison the sled from the cart and take it with you. It makes throwing decoys easier, and if the water levels are high it’s a good place to keep any extra gear, like jackets and blind bags, from getting wet.

Bring the Snow Shovel

Some of the best mornings come after the temperature dips below 32 degrees the night before. I always love to hunt a cold snap, because it moves ducks. The issue on public land is there’s no way to keep water open, so you’re likely going to be dealing with some skim ice. Ducks don’t like that, so I bring my dad’s old carpenter’s hammer and a snow shovel with a 2-foot wide scoop on it. If the ice has gotten thick enough that it needs to be broken up, I go to work with the hammer and make a hole. Then, I’ll come in with the snow shovel and push all the ice out. I get a lot of odd looks from other hunters, and hear guys say “why the hell does that guy have a snow shovel?” But the same hunters have come and found me to ask if they can use it once we are in the marsh. I always oblige. Sure, I would probably kill more ducks having the only open hole, but it’s bad duck juju to ruin someone else’s hunt because they came unprepared. Plus, I run into the same groups of hunters a lot, and you never know when you’re going to need their help.

Go Light on Decoys

I like to have the option to run as many decoys as I can (up to five dozen), and the key to success on public land is showing ducks a spread they haven’t seen before. About half my spread is butt-up feeders. They are light, take up less space than full-bodies, and mimic ducks feeding, which is more natural than a blob of head-up decoys, which is what most of your competition is going to be running. For full-body floaters, I go with the Avian-X Topflight series, because they are fully flocked and have a mix of head-up and low-head feeders. I use mallards, pintails, green-wing teal, wigeon, and black ducks, depending on the time of year. Variety is a key ingredient to killing pressured public waterfowl, and you should always have a few black ducks in your spread on sunny days. They stand out so much more than any other decoy with their dark bodies.

If I have a really long walk in, but need a large decoy footprint, I go with inflatable decoys from Lucky Duck and Dakota Decoy. Or, Lifetime has the FlexFloat mallards that are hollow in the middle, so they cut down on weight. I rig all my decoys with 3- or 4-ounce weights so they are lighter. If you hunt shallow rivers, that might be a poor choice depending on the strength of the current. You’re better off with a heavier mushroom decoy weight that buries itself into the river bottom. Mallard silhouettes are awesome if you are hunting ankle-deep water, or want to add more decoys in the shallows or on river sandbars. You can easily pack in 50 silhouettes and create a much more realistic rig than your neighbors.

Every decoy spread needs motion, and I typically run two spinning-wing decoys. I don’t use mallards because they are bigger and more cumbersome. Go with teal, wood ducks or gadwall. They are just as effective and take up less space. On-water motion is also key to a good spread. My best results have been with Wonderduck. The quality is unmatched. Many of the on-water decoys are junk. They fill up with water or don’t float. I’ve never had that issue with Wonderduck. Plus, they are built like tanks. Mojo’s Flock a Flickers are good too. They are a cheap way for creating motion and they don’t take up much room. Jerk rigs are one of the best ways to create decoy motion on windless days, and they will never run out of batteries or malfunction, like electronic decoys sometimes do. Ducks also get conditioned to avoid spinners as the season goes along, but they will never grow wary of the jerk rig.

RELATED: 5 Keys to Killing Reverse Migration Mallards and Geese

Dress in Layers

I still see a lot of hunters wearing blue jeans and squeezing into Neoprene waders. God bless them, but most don’t last too long on the cold days. No matter the temperature, if you wear Neoprene waders you’re going to sweat on the walk in. You will be warm for a while, but then that sweat becomes the enemy as the morning drags on, and chills you to the bone. I wear a pair of breathable Orvis front-zip waders with a rubber-soled wading boot, and depending on the weather will wear one to three pairs of longjohns. Or I put on a Merino baselayer and wear an old (warm) pair of sweatpants. But before I walk out, I shove the sweatpants in a blind bag. I might be a little cold on the way in, but that beats having to leave early because I sweated my ass off on the walk in and the wind is crystalizing that perspiration to my skin. The wader/boot combo is a bit pricey, but I’ve had them for five years now without a leak, and the grip I get with the boots is far superior than the sole of any wader boot I have come across.

I don’t put a jacket on when walking into the marsh either. And typically I don’t even wear a parka unless it gets real cold. Most public water is going to be frozen up solid anyways if it gets to the point where I need a winter coat. I like to wear two or three baselayers (one of which will be Merino), and add a vest to keep my core warm. Sometimes I’ll just go with a Merino layer, Carhartt hooded sweatshirt and the vest (but always bring a jacket along in case it turns cold, or you fall in and need a dry/warm outer layer). The key is you want to be able to shed layers during those walks in and out without having to carry around a bunch of bulky clothes.

Take a Pump Shotgun

My favorite gun is an old semiauto Beretta, but I typically don’t take it with me to the walk-in. It’s reliable, but autoloaders have more moving parts than a pump-action, so there is a higher likelihood they will fail. And I don’t need a breakdown after walking in over a mile. A Remington 870 20-gauge is my ideal walk-in gun because it’s lighter than a 12-gauge and will function flawlessly. You can likely find a used one for less than $300 at a local gun shop. Pump guns are also damn durable, and public land is often harder on guns than private duck clubs. So you want something that can take a dip in the marsh and still run properly. You might not get that from an autoloader. There is no worse feeling than getting up at 3 a.m., doing all the work it takes to set up, and having your shotgun malfunction when the first flock comes in.

The post The Ultimate Walk-In Duck Hunting Gear I Can’t Live Without appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best Overall		Primos Squirrel Buster	SEE IT
Best for Early Season		Haydel’s Mr. Squirrel Whistle	SEE IT
Best Value		Hunters Specialties	SEE IT

In the early days of my hunting career in West Tennessee, I was following my father’s footsteps as we searched the woods for squirrels with a call in hand. In my mind, it as an adventure as big as chasing elk through the Rockies. I was hunting with my dad, and that’s about as good as life gets for an 8-year-old boy.

We only toted two squirrels out of the woods on my first hunt with dad, but it was enough to light a fire that’s burned every season since.

Shortly after that first squirrel hunt, I remember buying a Mr. Squirrel Whistle from Haydel’s. In my mind, every serious squirrel hunter was equipped with a squirrel whistle hanging around their neck.

Unfortunately, I was under the impression that I’d blow the call, and squirrels would come scrambling my way, like ducks over the decoys. I’ll never forget blowing that call out behind the house, trying my best to call squirrels off the neighbor’s bird feeder. To my surprise, all the squirrels ran for their life. I might as well have sounded a squirrel siren. They scampered to the trees like their tails were on fire. That day I learned that while the squirrels didn’t come running in droves, the call I blew made every squirrel in town start barking and chattering, which is invaluable when you’re trying to locate squirrels in the woods. The best squirrel calls won’t magically draw critters into gun range, but the right call can help you locate squirrels, getting you one step closer to filling your bag limit. 

• Best Overall: Primos Squirrel Buster
• Best for Early Season: Haydel’s Mr. Squirrel Whistle
• Best Value: Hunters Specialties
• Best Cutter Call: Two Quarters
• Best DIY: Lemongrass

Best Overall: Primos Squirrel Buster

Primos Hunting

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Why It Made the Cut

The Primos Squirrel Buster sits atop this list because it’s user friendly, and even new callers can make realistic barks and chatters with it.

Key Features

• Bellow-style design
• Five sounds in one call
• Rubber/plastic construction

Pros

• Makes the complete squirrel vocabulary
• Easy, one-hand use
• Hyper realistic sounds of the gray and fox squirrel

Cons

• No lanyard

Product Description

This bellow-style call looks similar to competitors, however the authentic sounds set this call apart. You can easily achieve the distinctly different sounds of the gray squirrel and the deeper, raspier sounds of the fox squirrel. Primos claims that this call makes five sounds, but by manipulating hand placement and air pressure, you can produce even more sounds with plenty of mood and emotion. Like anything, this takes practice. But once you figure out the sweet spots, you’ll quickly find what tricks produce the most realistic calls.

While one-handed operation is easy to make solid squirrel calls, two-handed use allows for a wider range of the squirrel vocabulary. Squeeze or shake the call for barks and chatters, or make distress whines and cries with the call to your lips.

This call delivers ample options to make a squirrel give away its location. Excited barks and chatter will cause a squirrel to respond with vocalizations and often a flash of the tail. It’s just the giveaway a hunter needs to move into range for a shot.  

Best for Early Season: Haydel’s Mr. Squirrel Whistle

Haydel’s Game Calls Inc.

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Why It Made the Cut

I carried a squirrel whistle around my neck as a child, and the sound of the whistle takes me back to those first attempts at bushytails in the early fall. The Squirrel Whistle is perfect for the early season when the action slows down later in the morning, and squirrels can’t help but give away their location when you sound the distress whines and cries.

Key Features

• Lanyard Attachment
• Multiple whistle distress sounds
• Mouth call design

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Included lanyard ensures you never lose it
• Works equally as well as a predator call

Cons

• Not as realistic as some DIY options
• Can potentially spook squirrels

Product Description

This whistle-style call is roughly the size of a quarter and features a hole in the middle that serves as the air chamber. It’s an inhale design, so it’s important to make sure you always leave it on the lanyard to prevent choking. Four to five sharp whistle blasts create the sound of a squirrel in distress. It’s a common sound heard in the woods when a hawk or owl attacks a squirrel on the limb or ground. The end result is typically the same—every squirrel in the area starts barking, chattering, and flagging their tail. It’s designed to put them on alert, and you’ll quickly see that this squirrel call actually works.

While this distress call gets the squirrels talking, that’s also one of its drawbacks. After all, it is a distress call, so squirrels have a tendency to run away when they think they’re in danger. 

While it may play on the maternal instinct of a sow squirrel, and bring her closer to investigate what she thinks might be one of her young, it will typically put the local squirrels on high alert. If you have a squirrel close enough for the shot, it’s time to pull the trigger. Using this call to bring a squirrel closer for an easier shot will likely jeopardize your opportunity for success.

Use this call in conjunction with a broken branch or switch to swat and thrash the leaves to add realism to your calling routine. You want to paint the picture of a predator attacking and scuffling with a squirrel in the leaves.  

Best Value: Hunters Specialties

Hunter’s Specialties

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Why It Made the Cut

This H.S. Squirrel Call produces almost the entire squirrel vocabulary, including distress cries. It’s a lot of call for a little cash.

Key Features

• Bellow-style design
• Rubber/plastic construction
• Multiple calls in one

Pros

• Budget friendly
• Versatile
• Easy one-hand use
• Realistic

Cons

• No lanyard

Product Description

The H.S. Squirrel Call is a bellow-style call designed to produce a wide variety of squirrel sounds. It allows hunters to mimic barks, chatters, screeches, and distress sounds of the gray and fox squirrel. This is another call designed to help you locate squirrels by enticing them to bark and chatter back at the sounds produced.

With a rubber and plastic construction that’s not hindered by rain or moisture, this call will work in any weather conditions. You can use one hand to easily run the call if you’re toting your squirrel hunting rifle in the other. Or use it with two to dial in hyperrealistic calls. 

Best Cutter Call: Two Quarters

Why It Made the Cut

The two-quarter method is one of the best squirrel calls to mimic the cutting sound of a squirrel in the treetops as it feeds on hickory nuts. And the grinding of the ridges found on the outer edges of a quarter against itself simulates this cutting sound perfectly.

Key Features

• Two U.S. quarters with ridges on outer edge
• Material: Copper with a copper/nickel coating

Pros

• Produces authentic cutting sound
• Inexpensive
• Available
• Packable

Cons

• Limited volume
• Doesn’t demand a response like other calls
• Easy to lose or spend

Product Description

This is one of the easiest calls to acquire and use on this list. It’s a soft and subtle sound, but one that carries to impressive distances on a calm and quiet day in the woods. It’s a great early season call when squirrels are actively feeding on hickory or beech nuts. And it’s one that might best be labeled a confidence or curiosity call.

You might be wondering why you’d need a call in the early season when squirrels are abundant and gorging themselves on nuts. The truth is, this sound works to settle a squirrel down after it’s been spooked. Whether you’ve bumped a squirrel while moving in close or stirred things up by firing your gun, the two-quarter cutting call is a great way to help squirrels in the area to settle back down and resume feeding.

Keep in mind, squirrels are territorial. They are a lot like hogs and will not be left out of a feeding frenzy. When they know other squirrels are back on the move to feed, they’ll quickly join, which is why this call works so well.

Simply grind the quarters against one another along their ridged edges. It perfectly mimics the sound of a squirrel’s teeth cutting against a hickory nut. Add realism to your routine by throwing nuts (or rocks) to the ground to resemble the thud of nuts falling from the treetops. Again, these are audible cues that squirrels are actively feeding in the area. And gray or fox squirrels can hardly resist them.

Best DIY: Lemongrass

Why It Made the Cut

The lemongrass calling method has been passed down by squirrel hunters for generations. When performed properly, it’s far more realistic than any store-bought call, especially when it comes to distress whistles.

Key Features

• All natural DIY option
• Made from grass blades
• Incredibly life-like sound

Pros

• Super realistic
• Easy to acquire
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not a native grass found locally in the wild (must be store-bought)
• Requires a learning curve
• Not pack/vest friendly

Product Description

Sometimes the best squirrel calls are the ones you make yourself. That certainly seems to be the case when it comes to the whistle sounds produced by this DIY lemongrass option.

Lemongrass is a tall perennial grass native to the tropical climates of Asia, Australia, and Africa. But don’t worry, you can still get your hands on a small batch of lemongrass at your local grocery story for a couple bucks. In fact, a two-dollar pack of lemongrass is enough to make more than enough squirrel calls to keep you busy.

Simply remove the outer layer of the stalk. Then, split and peel back a blade. When folded back over itself, the grass makes somewhat of a sound chamber that you’ll suck air through.

When placed on your lips, this inhale style call allows you to emit the whistling sounds of a distress squirrel or the cries of a baby squirrel. Again, when done properly, this method produces the most lifelike distress sounds out there.

READ NEXT: Squirrel Hunting Tips and Tactics

FAQs

Things to Consider When Buying a Squirrel Call

As a young boy, I bought the first squirrel call I found hanging on the shelf at the local Buck “N” Bass store. There was no questioning whether I needed it, or how much it cost. In those days, squirrel call options were few and far between. Luckily, there are more call options available now than ever. So, before you head to the sporting goods store or shop online for squirrel calls, here are a few things to consider.

How They Work

As a young hunter, I was naïve in my expectations of how a squirrel call should work. And while squirrels will approach the sound of your call from time to time, these calls are designed to make squirrels talk (chattering or barking) to give away their location, rather than setting them in front of your crosshairs or bead. 

Buy or Build

Before you buy a call, consider some DIY options to build your own. You’ll often hear old-school squirrel hunters talk about calling squirrels with two quarters or a blade of grass, and there’s a reason serious squirrel hunters still use these methods.

Cost

Fortunately, squirrel calls are relatively cheap. You’ll find options on the shelves starting around $10 and combo packs with multiple calls included for $25. Again, homemade options are easily acquired for a couple bucks, if not free.

Evaluating Squirrel Calls

I selected the calls on this list based on quality in sound, ease of use, and the value in price. There have been a number of manufactured calls over the years that have come and gone, but the calls mentioned above, for the most part, are still found on the shelves of popular sporting goods stores today.

I’ve used these calls over the years to effectively locate and bag a ton squirrels. Do they work every time? Absolutely not. Do they work enough to earn a spot in your squirrel vest? No doubt about it.

Final Thoughts

When the action gets slow, the best squirrel calls can be the ticket to get them talking, so you make a move for a shot. They add an exciting element to hunting squirrels and should help you put more of them in the bag. 

The post The Best Squirrel Calls of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best High-End		Leica Amplus 6 3-18x44i	SEE IT
Most Versatile		Riton X3 Primal 3-15×44	SEE IT
Best Lightweight		Maven CRS.1 3-12×40	SEE IT

Because every deer hunt is unique in its details, a single rifle scope that can cover the close-in terrain of a Midwest whitetail hunt and precisely place a bullet across the open plains of mule deer country is a unicorn. The fast reticles and bright glass of woodland whitetail hunters won’t do for prairie mule deer hunters, who want precision reticles and lightweight scopes.

Given the divergent needs of America’s deer hunters, we’ve divided our group into two classes, those configured for classic whitetail hunting situations and those engineered to make long shots in challenging terrain. Each scope in this roundup has features that elevate it above its peers. For some, that’s best-in-class glass, for others, it’s extremely useful reticles. The rest have a combination of optics and controls that will increase your success during deer season no matter where or how you hunt. Here are the best rifle scopes for deer hunting from the Outdoor Life 2022 optics test. 

• Best High-End: Leica Amplus 6 3-18x44i
• Best First-Plane: Trijicon Tenmile HX 3-18×44
• Best for Low-Light: GPO Spectra 7.5x50i
• Best Mule Deer Scope: Tract Toric Ultra HD 2.5-15×44
• Most Versatile: Riton X3 Primal 3-15×44
• Best Lightweight: Maven CRS.1 3-12×40
• Best for Blacktail: Leupold Patrol 6HD 1-6×24
• Best for Low-Light (Whitetail): Meopta MeoSport R 3-15×50 RD
• Best Budget: Hawke Vantage 30 WA IR 2.5-10×50
• Best for Big-Woods: Primary Arms PLX Compact 1-8×24
• Best for Treestands: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24
• Best Throwback: Bushnell Elite 4500 2.5-10×40

Western Deer Rifle Scopes

Open-country deer hunters have specific requirements in a rifle scope. They want it to be light enough to carry for miles over rugged country. They want it to be fast, in case the buck of a lifetime busts out of a coulee before they can range distance and dial the turrets. And they want plenty of reticle references to place precise shots over longish distances. These five scopes have attributes that will put the muley or Coues deer of a lifetime on the wall. And they’re pretty good for antelope and Western predator hunting, too.

Best High-End: Leica Amplus 6 3-18x44i

Leica

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Why It Made the Cut

Built around Leica’s legendary bright and crisp glass, the Amplus 6’s reticle and controls make this an essential deer hunting scope. The hash reticle offers 20 MOA of elevation and windage references, and the exposed turret makes dialing for distant hits fast and simple.

Key Features

• Weight: 23.6 ounces
• Magnification: 3-18X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle Type: MOA hash in second plane
• Turrets: .25 MOA click values
• Illumination: Yes, 10 intensity levels
• Parallax: Yes

Pros

• Available in MOA or MRAD versions
• European style
• Excellent glass and coatings
• Precise parallax focus
• Abundant elevation and windage references
• Capped windage turret
• Center-point illumination

Cons

• Matte finish shows mars
• Busy reticle obscures view

Product Description

An elegant, extremely useful rifle scope, Leica’s Amplus line combines European glass and styling with precise reticle and turret combinations. Our sample was tuned to MOA references, but Leica also has a mil-based version of the Amplus. The scope is also available in higher magnification ranges (all are in the 6X zoom range, hence the 6 in the Amplus name) and larger objective lenses, but our relatively lightweight 3-18×44 is just about perfect for a Western deer rifle. The ability to re-zero the elevation turret without tools is a great feature, and the turrets turn with positivity and precision.

The reticle gets mixed reviews. Long-distance precision shooters will love the 20 MOA of elevation and windage hashes, but hunters used to clean, clutter-free reticles will complain that it’s overly busy and image-obscuring. Either way, the illuminated center aiming point can be muted or daylight-bright, depending on light conditions. It’s not cheap, but this is an heirloom-quality deer hunting optic.

Best First-Plane: Trijicon Tenmile HX 3-18×44

Trijicon

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Why It Made the Cut

A true crossover hunting/target scope, the Tenmile HX and its first-plane reticle will dominate just about any mid- to long-distance shooting situation.

Key Features 

• Weight: 24.4 ounces
• Magnification: 3-18X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle Type: MOA hash/dot in first plane
• Turrets: .25 MOA click values
• Illumination: Yes, red and green
• Parallax: Yes

Pros

• Liberal mounting dimensions
• Precise first-plane reticle
• Exposed re-zeroable elevation turret
• Capped windage turret
• 15 yards to infinity parallax focus
• Low-profile mounting
• Ships with integral lens caps

Cons

• Busy reticle for holdover shooters
• Exposed turrets can inadvertently turn
• Pricey

Product Description

We debated whether to put this very capable 30mm scope in our precision or our versatile scope categories. That’s how much of a fence-rider this optic is, between a full-on steel-ringer for long-distance target shooters and walk-about Western hunters. Our best description of its place in the market is that this is the perfect hunting optic for a shooter who is familiar with first-plane reticles and turret dynamics of the long-distance target crowd but who wants a slim and capable hunting scope.

That describes an increasing number of Western deer hunters. They want all the precision aiming components of their big 5-25×56 target scopes with the portability of slim and nimble hunting scopes. The Trijicon satisfies both populations with a bright and precise scope that can cross over from long-range steel to open-country mule and Coues deer.

Best for Low-Light: GPO Spectra 7.5x50i

GPO

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Why It Made the Cut

A classic German configuration updated for Southwest Coues deer and open-country mule deer hunters, this simple fixed-power scope places bullets with consistent precision and gathers light like few others in its class.

Key Features 

• Weight: 21.7 ounces
• Magnification: 7.5X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle Type: German 4 duplex in second plane
• Turrets: .1 milliradian
• Illumination: Yes, red center-point
• Parallax: No

Pros

• Extremely simple aiming dynamics
• Infinitely adjustable illumination
• Durable
• Fast aiming platform
• Turrets move with repeatable precision
• Fixed power increases brightness

Cons

• Fixed power limits utility
• Limited reticle references

Product Description

An extremely capable modern variation on a classic fixed-power hunting scope, the GPO Spectra cuts out all the nonsense of reticle references and turret dialing. This is a bright, durable fixed-power 7.5, a perfect pairing with a flat-shooting bolt rifle when you want to concentrate on hunting, not fiddling with your scope.

The glass is very good, the center-point illumination extremely variable, and the turrets turn with repeatable precision. For hunters who want to concentrate on making short- to mid-distance shots every time, this is a good choice. Extreme long-range hunters and shooters may want more focal control, a more sophisticated reticle, and tactical turrets. But for the rest of us, this is a very capable close- to mid-range scope that performs best in low-light hunting scenarios. It’s nice to see this style of scope back in the American marketplace.

Best Mule Deer Scope: Tract Toric Ultra HD 2.5-15×44

Tract Optics

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Why It Made the Cut

The most capable cross-over target-to-hunting rifle scope in this year’s Outdoor Life optics test is a bright, tight, and precise first-plane scope that can reach out for both distant steel targets and open-country deer.

Key Features 

• Weight: 28.3 ounces
• Magnification: 2.5-15X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle Type: Hash-style in first focal plane
• Turrets: .1 milliradian
• Illumination: No
• Parallax: Yes, 10 yards to infinity

Pros

• Wonderfully responsive turret clicks
• First-plane reticle rare in this configuration
• Bright, distortion-free Schott glass
• Capped windage turret
• Versatile first-plane reticle
• Wide parallax range
• Handsome graphite finish

Cons

• Reticle utility begins at about 5X
• Needs clear center aiming point
• Illumination would help with close-in aiming

Product Description

The top cross-over scope of 2023, this bright and tactile first-plane hunting scope can put Western deer hunters on target out to 500 yards and beyond, depending on how familiar they are with reticle references. The robust pull-to-turn elevation turret and capped windage turret are both tuned to .1 MRAD click values, and the hash-style reticle offers 10 mils of drop and 8 mils of windage hold on either side of the non-distinct center aiming point.

This Tract Toric is a relatively light scope with abundant mounting options, making it a good pairing for a long-range hunting rig or even for many flat-shooting ultralight hunting rifles. Surprisingly, it’s also an excellent precision rimfire optic, with close-focus to 10 yards and a capable first-plane hash-style reticle that can put shooters on target at a wide range of magnifications and distances.

Most Versatile: Riton X3 Primal 3-15×44

Riton

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Why It Made the Cut

A basic scope with just enough attributes to appeal to precision shooters, this is a scope that you can swap between platforms and seasons.

Key Features 

• Weight: 24.8 ounces
• Magnification: 3-15X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle Type: Hash-style in second plane
• Turrets: .25 MOA
• Illumination: No
• Parallax: Yes, 15 yards to infinity

Pros

• Capped, zero-resettable turrets
• Removable throw lever on magnification ring
• Versatile PDTR reticle
• Magnification range suited to open-country hunting
• Decent mid- to long-range target scope
• 25 MOA of holdover references

Cons

• Mild peripheral distortion
• Could use distance wind references

Product Description

A basic but versatile scope built around a clean second-plane reticle that enables hunters to make longish holdover shots, the Riton X3 Primal can also do solid work on mid-distance steel and most precision rimfire courses of fire. As befits an optic that expects to see rough country, the re-zeroable turrets are capped. But the fast and precise hash-style reticle, which has 25 MOA of elevation holds and 15 MOA of windage holds on either side of the center aiming dot, is designed for hunters who don’t have time to dial the turrets for an aiming solution. Pronghorn antelope, broken-country elk, mule deer just about anywhere, Coues deer, and even Western coyote hunters can benefit from the simple efficiency of this scope.

Deficiencies include slightly squinty glass that lost light before its 44mm peers and lack of illumination. I’m not sure that latter point is a demerit; I’ve rarely used an illuminated reticle in hunting situations.

Whitetail Deer Rifle Scopes

I’m guilty of a gross generalization here, but the woodland and farm-country deer hunter wants a rifle scope that delivers good low-light performance and can assist with fast shooting. Big, exposed tactical turrets don’t belong here, and neither do complicated reticles. These seven scopes all have some combination of optical superiority and fast aiming.

Best Lightweight: Maven CRS.1 3-12×40

Maven

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Why It Made the Cut

While this charming little scope has plenty of attributes for a mountain hunter—light weight, bright glass, with just enough reticle references for mid-range work—it’s actually a wonderful whitetail scope. I’d stick with the CRS.1 for the widest utility, but if you want a little more magnification plus parallax focus, then go with the 4-16×44 CRS.2, which costs an extra $100.

Key Features 

• Weight: 14.2 ounces
• Magnification Range: 3-12X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Tube Diameter: 1-inch
• Turret Click Values: .25 MOA
• Reticle Focal Plane: Second
• Illuminated Reticle: No

Pros

• Light and compact
• Parallax fixed at 100 yards

Cons

• Fixed parallax limits long-range work
• Bold styling too blingy for some hunters

Product Description

A stylish, no-frills scope from a direct-to-consumer brand, the CRS.1 is the bare-boned version of a new Maven platform. If you want side focus and a little more magnification, consider the 4-16×44 CRS.2, but most whitetail hunters want a simple, durable, versatile scope, and the CRS.1 is just the ticket. The CRS.1 offers a ton of mounting dimension on its 1-inch tube, responsive turrets tuned to ¼ MOA click values under protective caps, and a velvety power-changing dial, and just enough bling to add some pizazz to your rifle. It’s also one of the best rifle scopes under $500.

To my eye, this is a perfect companion to a flat-shooting ultralight mountain rifle for a hunter who intends to get within range to hold right on the target with the center of the classic German 4 reticle. But in case you need some holdover references for mid-distance shots, the CRS.1 provides three hashes that should get you on target out to 500 or 600 yards. In other words, you can still make that long shot across the bean field at that whitetail of a lifetime.

Best for Blacktail: Leupold Patrol 6HD 1-6×24

Leupold

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Why It Made the Cut

This scope isn’t really intended for deer hunting. It’s designed for a wide range of firearms: AR platforms, or maybe dangerous-game rifles in Africa’s thickest thornbush, or even straight-wall lever guns. But its combination of low magnification, bright glass, and a laser-sharp illuminated aiming point make it an ideal treestand or whitetail brush scope.

Key Features 

• Weight: 16.2 ounces
• Magnification: 1-6X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 28mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle Type: Duplex in second plane
• Turrets: .25 MOA
• Illumination: Yes, 8-step intensity
• Parallax: No

Pros

• Extremely light weight
• Fast and open duplex reticle
• Durable
• Smart illumination system
• Excellent glass and coatings

Cons

• Not a precision scope
• Limited distance utility

Product Description

Let’s start with what the Leupold Patrol 6HD is not. It’s not a precision scope. It won’t help you win long-range steel-target competitions or even precision rimfire matches. But it’s one of the best of a new generation of low-power variable optics that can absolutely put venison in your freezer. Paired with a straight-wall lever gun or an AR, a slug gun, or just about any centerfire rifle, this is a workhorse of an optic that enables fast shots, quick follow-ups, and decent performance at the first and last light of the day. 

The low-profile push-button center-point (that’s a lot of hyphenated terms) illumination is one of the Leupold’s best features. It’s dimmable for low-light conditions and can intensify to bright visibility in full sunshine. If you want to increase the utility of this platform, consider a custom elevation dial tuned to the ballistics of your favorite load. Otherwise, go with the out-of-box talent of this durable, athletic, and versatile scope.

Best for Low-Light (Whitetail): Meopta MeoSport R 3-15×50 RD

Meopta

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Why It Made the Cut

A scope designed for the German “hochsitz,” or high stands used by shooters in driven-game hunts, this scope’s low-light performance makes it a great choice for whitetail hunters who need to connect in the very first and last light of day.

Key Features 

• Weight: 23.1 ounces
• Magnification Range: 3-15X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Turret Click Values: 1 centimeter/100 yards
• Reticle Focal Plane: Second
• Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Pros

• Excellent glass for the money
• Best-in-class low-light performance
• Expansive 90 MOA internal adjustment
• Exposed pull-to-turn turrets
• 10-yards-to-infinity focus
• 30mm mounting rings included

Cons

• Some shooters want covered turrets
• Duplex reticle overly simple

Product Description

An affordable, supremely versatile scope, the main asset for deer hunters of this Czech-made rifle scope is its low-light performance. The German 4 duplex reticle has been around since the original Mauser rifles were doing duty on behalf of the armies of the Reich, but Meopta has added a smart center aiming point that enables holds in just about any legal light conditions. To be sure, this isn’t a long-distance precision scope, but it’s not intended to be. Instead, it’s a light-hungry optic that can conjure game out of the gloam and enable confident shots with your best deer hunting rifles. It’s also one of the great bargains of this year’s Outdoor Life optics test.

Best Budget: Hawke Vantage 30 WA IR 2.5-10×50

Hawke Optics

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Why It Made the Cut

Bright, affordable, and extremely versatile, this scope won’t win long-distance shooting medals, but it will place bullets in deer country with confidence.

Key Features 

• Weight: 21.1 ounces
• Magnification Range: 2.5-10X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Turret Click Values: .25 MOA
• Reticle Focal Plane: Duplex in the second plane
• Illuminated Reticle: Yes, red and green center dot

Pros

• Simple aiming system
• Durable capped turrets
• Red and green center-dot illumination
• 60 MOA internal adjustment
• Extremely affordable

Cons

• No side focus
• Indistinct turret clicks
• Meh glass

Product Description

The Outdoor Life optics test team still doesn’t know how Hawke packs so much performance in such an affordable package. This is one of the best all-around scopes in the 2022 test. If it’s not built for long-distance (or even mid-distance) precision, it’s fast, bright, and nimble in many close-in and moderate distances. The best feature of the Vantage is the bold reticle with a precise, illuminated (red and green) center aiming point. We also like the low-light performance of the big 50mm objective lens.

The basic Vantage 30 WA is a good value, but if you want more mid- and longish-distance performance, consider the tactical version of this scope, with exposed high-profile turrets and a holdover reticle tuned to the ballistics of standard .223 and .308 loads. That version is maybe the ultimate deer scope.

Best for Big-Woods: Primary Arms PLX Compact 1-8×24

Primary Arms

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Why It Made the Cut

A personal-defense scope that can hold its own in ground-blind and treestand hunting situations, the Primary Arms is fast and surprisingly precise with the right loads.

Key Features 

• Weight: 16.9 ounces
• Magnification Range: 1-8X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Turret Click Values: .1 MIL
• Reticle Focal Plane: Open-horseshoe in first focal plane
• Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Pros

• Close-quarters illuminated reticle
• Reticle zooms out to offer precise aiming points
• Reticle tuned to 5.56/.308 ballistics
• Night-vision compatible
• Extremely light and bright
• Ultra-wide field of view
• Useful dovetail throw lever

Cons

• Expensive
• Limited low-light performance

Product Description

Along with the Leupold Patrol 6HD, this is a new breed of deer scope—a low-power variable optic with plenty of chops for close to mid-range hunting. The best feature of the Primary Arms PLX, which is really designed for use on personal-defense AR platforms, is its first-plane reticle that zooms from close-quarters 1-power out to reveal a very useful holdover reticle at 6- to 8-power. That reticle is tuned to the bullet drops of standard 5.56 and .308 loads. 

Combined with excellent illumination (which is compatible with night vision) and sharp and bright Japanese glass, this is a scope that can easily be swapped between deer rifles, slug guns, AR semi-autos, and even big-bore dangerous-game rifles. Don’t laugh, but at a shade over a pound, I wouldn’t be shy about mounting this to a sheep rifle, especially if my approach passed through bear country.

Best for Treestands: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24

Vortex

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Why It Made the Cut

Along with the Primary Arms PLX, this is the leading edge of a new type of close-quarters deer scope that is a perfect match with a AR, slug gun, or straight-wall cartridge rifle.

Key Features 

• Weight: 23.9 ounces
• Magnification Range: 1-8X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Turret Click Values: .25 MOA
• Reticle Focal Plane: Open-horseshoe in first focal plane
• Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Pros 

• Wonderfully versatile illumination
• Reticle offers useful holdovers at higher magnifications
• Short stature fits carbine rifles
• Tons of internal adjustment for turret dialers
• Battle-hardened hardware
• VIP warranty

Cons

• Limited to short- to mid-distance shooting
• Not great low-light performance

Product Description

You can pretty much copy what we said about the Primary Arms PLX to recommend this wonderful close-quarters scope from Vortex. It has best-in-class rapid target acquisition inside 50 yards, but its first-plane reticle enlarges to reveal some sweet and useful aiming points that make it useful for 400-yard precision. This is really an AR scope that can engage targets inside houses and then place precise shots across a field. Those attributes make it great for Midwest whitetail hunters (or Canadian bear hunters) who expect to see game right under their stand but need to be prepared to take shots out across a clearing. Paired with any number of firearms platforms, this has very positive and precise controls, from turret clicks to the power-changing dial.

Best Throwback: Bushnell Elite 4500 2.5-10×40

Bushnell

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Why It Made the Cut

This is your father’s deer scope, with some sweet Gen Y updates. Simple, reliable, and fast, the Bushnell has the benefit of excellent coatings and decent glass.

Key Features 

• Weight: 19.7 ounces
• Magnification Range: 2.5-10X
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Turret Click Values: .25 MOA
• Reticle Focal Plane: Second
• Illuminated Reticle: No

Pros

• Very appealing price
• 30mm tube provides wide adjustment range
• Duplex reticle delivers fast aiming
• Excellent optical coatings
• Ample 4.3-inch eye relief

Cons

• Underwhelming glass
• Lack of illumination limits utility

Product Description

This is one of the best rifle scopes for deer hunting for every shooting situation. Want to put a scope on your kid’s new .243, this will place bullets reliably. Want a durable scope for your old .300 Win. Mag.? This will get the job done. It’s a workaday scope without a ton of flash, but the Elite 4500 is a smart update from the durable Bushnells that owned the whitetail woods 20 years ago. 

The bold duplex reticle in the second focal plane is fast, and for those shooters who want to dial for distant shooting solutions, the capped turrets turn with precision and positivity. The glass is a little disappointing, owing to the Elite 4500’s placement as a budget scope, but unless you’re shooting in the very last feeble light of day, you’ll hardly notice.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting

Deer hunters don’t really need a ton of features in their rifle scopes. A clear and clean reticle that lets them place bullets quickly and with mid-range precision. A bombproof build that will endure the hardships of the field. And versatility that will help hunters succeed in the deep woods or the open fields where you’ll find deer everywhere. That’s about it.

If deer are similar in their habits across their range, hunting styles differ by geography and species. The needs of an Eastern whitetail hunter (or Cascades blacktail hunter) are vastly different from those of an open-country Western mule deer or Coues deer hunter. For the former, fast reticles and the ability to make quick, reactive shots inside 100 yards are key. For the latter, lightweight builds that offer plenty of reticle references will enable shots that can stretch out to 400 and 500 yards will put bucks on the pole.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Just as no two deer hunts are the same, no two deer hunters will have the same needs for their rifle scopes. But the requirements for an Eastern or Midwestern deer hunter are so wildly different than those of their Western brethren that we divided this class in half, with scopes for Western hunters showing their long-distance precision capabilities, and those for woodland hunters having simpler reticles and fast, intuitive builds.

You may want a scope that splits the difference and offers a reticle that zooms from close-in visibility to mid-distance precision. We have a few low-power variable scopes in this mix that you should consider. And for those who want a scope that can reach way out to a distant buck and serve as a long-range target scope, consider the first-plane, tactical-turret models in this group. Regardless of your tactics or where you hunt deer, you’ll have no problem finding one of the best rifle scopes for deer hunting in these capable contenders.

Methodology 

Some of the scopes in this roundup are new for 2022 and were included in the rigorous evaluations of Outdoor Life’s annual optics test. For those, which include all but the Leica Amplus 6, I measured optical resolution on my resolution range, scored low-light performance against their peers, and measured the precision and repeatability of the reticle and turrets. I based my perspectives of the Leica’s merits on a rugged year of field work

But for each scope, I rate their ability to perform a series of shooting tasks, engaging targets at 20 yards, then at 100, and in 100-yard steps out to 600 yards. For each distance, I evaluate the reticle, image, and turret controls. I lugged all these scopes into a ladder stand and evaluated their abilities to make quick snap shots at close ranges.

For each, I make a subjective determination of optical quality, looking for distortions, optical aberrations, and any distracting jags of light. And I determine how quickly and precisely I can use the reticle.

Lastly, I assessed the extras, including the accessories that it ships with and each submission’s warranty.

The post The Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best Overall		Primos Double Bull SurroundView Double Wide Ground Blind	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Intuitive, purposeful features.
Best for Bowhunting		Ameristep Pro Series Extreme View Hub Blind	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Allows you to shoot from almost any angle.
Best Budget		Rhino Blinds 180 See-Through Blind	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Premium features at a reasonable price.

It’s tough to beat a cool spring morning in the turkey blind with booming gobbles and the sound of heavy wings coming out of the trees. The sight of white, bronze, or cream-colored fans inching over a rise can make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. And keeping your cool while a gobbler struts into range can be tough, especially if cover is sparse or you’re bowhunting. In these situations, ground blinds are a must. Throughout my years of turkey hunting, ground blinds have upped my ability to leave the woods with a fan over my shoulder and a grin on my face. I even prefer them when I’m shotgunning. 

Turkey blinds come in all shapes and sizes, and like most products, there’s a crowded pack with winners and losers. If you’re new to the turkey blind game, it can be tough to know what differentiates one from another. Luckily, I consider myself an aficionado when it comes to the best turkey blinds, and to help you choose one that fits your hunting style, I tested a pile of them this spring. 

• Best Overall: Primos Double Bull SurroundView Double Wide Ground Blind
• Best for Private Fields: Redneck Outfitter HD Bale Blind
• Best for Bowhunting: Ameristep Pro Series Extreme View Hub Blind
• Best for Shotgun Hunting Solo: Ameristep Gunner
• Best for Tall Turkey Hunters: Browning Envy
• Best for Run-and-Gun: Primos Double Bull SurroundView Stakeout
• Best Budget: Rhino Blinds 180 See-Through Blind

Best Turkey Blinds: Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: Primos Double Bull SurroundView Double Wide Ground Blind

Primos Hunting

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Key Features

• Dimensions: 70 inches x 70 inches hub-to-hub
• Weight: 26 pounds with tote bag
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros

• Sun visor
• Zipperless double wide door 
• 180-degree full front windows
• Silent window closure
• Four one-way see-through walls

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

I’ve been a Primos Double Bull fan for years, and the SurroundView Double Wide is loaded with purposeful features like the 300-degree one-way see-through mesh, which allows you to cover almost every angle. Whether you’re bowhunting alone or shotgunning with the kids, this roomy bulletproof blind is a great choice. The hub system makes it easy to set up and break down, and you’ll be blown away by how well the see-through fabric works. The first time a gobbler comes in on a string, you’ll duck and try to conceal yourself. Don’t worry. You can see them, but they can’t see you. The window system is silent, and I appreciate the built-in sun visor, which comes in handy during sunrise and sunset. Those premium features come with a premium price that might make you flinch, but if you want a blind that can weather the conditions and provide ample room, the SurroundView might justify the price for you. 

Best for Private Fields: Redneck Outfitter HD Bale Blind

Redneck Outfitter

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Key Features

• Dimensions: 72″ Long x 72″ Deep x 72″ High
• Weight: 146 pounds 
• Six windows

Pros

• Big and roomy
• Turkeys will get used to it 
• Ideal for wide-open fields
• Great for taking kids hunting

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

Want to hide right out in the open, in the middle of a cut field? You need a bale blind, and the Redneck Outfitter HD is tough to beat. This blind looks just like a farmer’s hay bale. Simply set it up a few months before turkey season in that go-to spot and let the gobblers get used to it (they will).

The only downside of this blind is that it takes some work to construct and set. I set mine myself on a farm I lease, but it’s easier if you have a buddy with you. Because of its size and weight, this style of blind is best suited for private land hunting (you can’t exactly pack it into a public land spot).

But for private-land hunters who want a dual purpose blind for hunting deer and turkeys, this is an ideal option. I’ve had the blind sit out for a couple winters now and it’s held up nicely to the elements. It has six sliding windows that are quiet to open and close. It comes with a stout metal stake, but if you set it in open terrain, I’d recommend augmenting it with extra heavy-duty garden stakes. The powder-coated steel frame is sturdy and the pullover material helps quiet any noise you might make in the blind. Because it’s so roomy it’s a perfect blind for taking kids hunting or taking a buddy along with you to film (or shoot a second gobbler). –Alex Robinson

Best for Bowhunting: Ameristep Pro Series Extreme View Hub Blind

Ameristep

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Key Features

• 12 window openings
• Silent-slide window system
• Durashell Plus fabric
• Dimensions: 56 inches x 56 inches x 77 inches

Pros

• Full-size walk-through door
• Can fit three hunters plus gear
• Excellent one-way, see-through mesh

Cons

• Some hunters might prefer a taller ceiling

I have always felt ultra-concealed in Ameristep blinds, and I’ve whacked a lot of long birds out of them. Though it’s a five-sided hub-style build, this Ameristep blind has a shooting width of 77 inches. The Black ShadowGuard eliminates inside-the-blind shadows and silhouettes, and this is an excellent option for taking kids or a new bowhunter to the turkey woods. 

This brilliant turkey blind should appeal to the stick-and-string crowd, and it’s worth the $300 price tag. This ground blind is super roomy, and additional depth in the rear makes hiding the blind in the brush and concealing it all the easier. A total of 12 windows provide bowhunters limitless shot options, and you can’t beat the one-way, see-through mesh. When it comes to durability, this blind is tough as nails. 

Best for Shotgun Hunting Solo: Ameristep Gunner

Ameristep

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Key Features

• Dimensions: 58 inches x 56 inches x 57 inches 
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Durashell Plus fabric

Pros

• Light
• Durable
• Matte fabric finish
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• It’s a pop-up

I’m not a fan of pop-up-style ground blinds, but Ameristep’s Gunner is an exception. This blind is roomy for one hunter, super durable, and a perfect when you don’t need the extra room of most blinds. Ameristep has been building quality hunting blinds for decades, and if anyone has perfected the pop-up, they have. This one-person ground blind is lightweight and roomy, and the design makes it super simple to blend into any environment. The outer shell is made of tough Durashell Plus fabric, and the matte finish reduces any glare. Its size makes it one of the best turkey blinds for solo hunts or if you’re hunting a distant spot with minimal cover.

Best for Tall Turkey Hunters: Browning Envy

Browning

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Key Features

• Dinmensions: 59 inches  x 59 inches x 82 inches
• Weight: 23 pounds
• Silent-Trac window system

Pros

• QUICKCONNECT door system 
• 180-degree window placement
• Strong, flexible poles

Cons

• Harder to blend to environment than competitors
• Heavy

For tall hunters, sitting in the ground blind all day with your knees touching your chin can be a drag. Many prefer to stand and shoot when it comes to archery, and it’s also nice to stand and stretch throughout the day. Thankfully, the Browning Envy provides plenty of room to do so. 

The Durable and rugged 600D polyester fabric should endure several seasons, and the shoot-through mesh lines the 180-degree window openings. I also applaud the pair of camera ports, which simplify still photography and video. The Silent-Trac window system is quiet, and the window curtain and construction provide plenty of concealment. However, the extended height and durability come with weight, so you might end up carrying a load, especially if you’re hunting over the best turkey decoys. But if a taller ceiling height keeps you in the blind longer, the Envy is a great option.

Best for Run-and-Gun: Primos Double Bull SurroundView Stakeout

Primos Hunting

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Key Features

• Dimensions: 59 inches corner to corner
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Three shooting windows
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros

• Two rugged hubs
• Maximum concealment
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Not the best for especially windy conditions

This quick-deploy two-hub open-style blind with a trio of shoot-through windows is great when you need to pull up and make an adjustment on the fly. I’ve used the SurroundView Stakeout Hunting Blind for shotgun and bowhunting wild turkeys, and it’s phenomenal. Toss it in a backpack or carry it in your offhand and roam the woods in search of that old boss gobbler while you’re running a turkey mouth call. The two-hub system is a durable, quiet, and fool-proof design. The windows are sized just right for shooting without giving you away. Plus, you can back this almost 60-inch blind against any cover. When you consider the versatility and price of this blind, it’s almost worth buying as a just-in-case option.

Best Budget: Rhino Blinds 180 See-Through Blind

Rhino Blinds

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Key Features

• Dimensions: 75 inches x 75 inches hub-to-hub
• Weight: 16 pounds
• Reinforced stress points
• Shoot-through mesh

Pros

• Plenty of adjustable window openings
• Silent-Slide window technology
• Brush-in straps included

Cons

• Fabric feels thin, like it won’t hold up over time
• Door closure system is cumbersome

Though there are cheaper options, you won’t find a roomier blind with as many purposeful features for the money as this one. The 180-degree see-through system on this Rhino Blind gives excellent visibility, and the large door provides quiet entry and exit via hook and loop tabs. This blind will hold two adult hunters comfortably—three is a crowd—but an adult hunter and two youth hunters can fit well.

I applaud the roominess and the brush-in straps around the blind’s top and bottom. Window openings are plentiful, and turkey hunters can hunt from this blind with any weapon. Silent-Slide keeps the windows church-mouse quiet, and the 180-degree shoot-through fabric sports reinforced stress points with triple stitched corners for multiple season durability. The hook-and-latch door is wide, and while I’m not a fan of this system, it is quiet. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Turkey Blind 

Depending on your hunting approach, some turkey blinds are better suited than others. Make sure to get one that best accommodates your style. You don’t want to wait until you’re in the field to find out that your hunting blind is too heavy or too small for your preferences.

Are you a run-and-gun shotgun hunter looking for an airy build you can deploy in seconds? If so, look for small, one person blinds that require minimal setup time. There are also ground stake options that have a small footprint and could easily fit into some of the best turkey vests. On the other hand, if you bowhunt and plan for all-day sit-and-wait sessions to stake out a tom, you’ll want a roomy blind that offers multiple windows, has excellent visibility, and ensures maximum blind concealment. The same applies if you’re trying to film your hunts or introduce young or new hunters to turkey hunting.  

FAQs

Methodology

I’ve been hunting gobblers in turkey blinds for years, including the models in this article. For this review, I evaluated each on their durability, ease of set up, shooting room, and concealment. I also considered the features each one includes at their respective price points. 

Why Trust Outdoor Life?

Since 1898, OL has been a leading authority in testing and reviewing hunting gear, fishing tackle, guns and shooting equipment, and much more. We have more than a century-long history of evaluating products, and we’re now bringing that expertise to online reviews. Our editors are experienced outdoorsmen and women, and most importantly, we’re trained journalists. We prioritize field testing and objective data when reviewing products. We conduct interviews with gear manufacturers and engineers as well as outdoor experts so that our readers have an understanding of how and why a product works—or doesn’t.

Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts

No matter what part of the country you hunt, the best turkey blinds can help keep you concealed while a gobbler struts into range. Whether you’re bowhunting on all-day sits or looking for a quick-deploy ground stake, find a blind that best fits your needs and helps you notch more tags.

• Best Overall: Primos Double Bull SurroundView Double Wide Ground Blind
• Best for Private Fields: Redneck Outfitter HD Bale Blind
• Best for Bowhunting: Ameristep Pro Series Extreme View Hub Blind
• Best for Shotgun Hunting Solo: Ameristep Gunner
• Best for Tall Turkey Hunters: Browning Envy
• Best for Run-and-Gun: Primos Double Bull SurroundView Stakeout
• Best Budget: Rhino Blinds 180 See-Through Blind

The post The Best Turkey Blinds of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best for Big Water		TDB Sea Class	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Perfect for big, rough waters.
Most Versatile		GO-DEVIL Surface Drive Boats	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary A rugged, verastile hunting boat.
Best for Small Water		MOmarsh Fatboy DP	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Allows you to hunt open water divers or backwater teal with ease.

After hunting my way across the USA chasing the North American Waterfowl Grand Slam, I can attest to the importance of selecting the right duck hunting boat for specific waters. While all boats offer some versatility, no one could have convinced me to hunt king eiders on St. Paul Island, Alaska in a marsh boat. Likewise, I would have shaken my head if I was in a TDB while hunting tree ducks in a shallow Florida marsh. Simply put, you need boat for your hunting scenario, and factors including maneuverability, concealment, safety, and size all play an important role in making the appropriate choice for the best duck hunting boats.

• Best for Big Water: TDB SeaClass
• Best for Small Water: MOmarsh Fatboy DP
• Best for Timber: Pro-Drive X Series TD Edition
• Most Versatile: Go-Devil Surface Drive Boats
• Best for Shallow Water: Excel F4
• Best for Mixed Water-Depth Hunting: War Eagle Blackhawk Series
• Best for Open Water: Layout Addictions GHOST 2 Man

Best for Big Water: TDB SeaClass

The Duck Boat Company

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Why It Made the Cut

Designed in Maine for the tough waters of the Atlantic, the TDB SeaClass was made with safety at the forefront. Built from fiberglass and with a wave-cutting hull, this duck hunting boat can handle the roughest waves when the weather kicks up.

Key Features

• Available in 14, 17, and 21-foot lengths
• Shallow drafting (9 inches for the 21-foot configuration)
• Molded-in hull flotation
• Kevlar reinforced bow

Pros

• Handles big water like the Great Lakes or sea
• Can hunt in open-water or along a shoreline with attached blind
• Hard-top hull design keeps you dry, even in rough water

Cons

• Not as versatile as other options
• Duck-hunting specific

Product Description 

I’ve hunted out of numerous TDBs on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and they offer superior peace of mind when the water gets rough. This hull design cuts through waves with ease, which means less operator fatigue and a more comfortable ride. The attached blind and hard-top hull keeps you out of the wind and dry while hunting, and it hides extremely well with some moderate chop. For sea ducks and divers, the TDB is great for open-water gunning.

Since they’re made from fiberglass (heavy), they can be difficult to load on a trailer, especially in heavy winds. The 17 and 21-foot versions require two to three hunters for easier handling, but the 14-foot can be managed with one man. While they excel on big, open water, and you can hunt them on smaller lakes, they aren’t ideal for rivers or small marshes. But, if you hunt mostly big water and prioritize safety, a TDB SeaClass of any size is an excellent choice.

Best for Small Water: MOmarsh Fatboy DP

MOmarsh

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Why It Made the Cut

The removable transom on the MOmarsh Fatboy DP makes this a versatile duck hunting boat that allows you to hunt open water divers or backwater teal with ease.

Key Features

• Optional detachable transom
• Weight: 95 pounds
• Only 4 inches of draft, fully loaded
• Screw in drain plug for easy draining

Pros

• Easy handling for one person
• Fits in the back of a standard truck bed
• Can transport one hunter, their gear, and a retriever

Cons

• Only hunts open water with certain conditions
• Holds one person

Product Description 

The MOmarsh Fatboy DP (dual-purpose) is suitable to hunt layout-boat style in open water for divers one day and then in shallow water marshes the next. It can be paddled, push-poled, or even equipped with a small outboard motor with the addition of an optional transom.

The DP is perfect for solo hunters, and their retriever and can be outfitted with a door system that turns it into a field layout blind for ultimate concealment, including a dog door. The Fatboy DP can’t handle big waves, so you’ll have to wait for perfect conditions to hunt bigger waters. But, if you enjoy solo hunting, the DP is an affordable, versatile option.

Best for Timber: Pro-Drive X Series TD Edition

Pro-Drive

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Why It Made the Cut

Expanding on Pro-Drive’s popular X series, the Timber Deck (TD) Edition is a versatility option for hunting in the timber. This hull can maneuver in the tight quarters that are common in flooded timber, and it offers easy in-out access at the rear of the boat for hunters and four-legged friends.

Key Features

• Available in 18 and 20-foot lengths
• Rear entry step (AKA Timber Deck)
• Fully flush floor design
• Triple-taper chine for increased responsiveness

Pros

• Great for different shallow-water hunting environments
• Timber Deck makes getting in and out of the boat much easier
• Interior layout offers ample floor space and minimal trip hazards

Cons

• Currently no 16-foot variation
• Flat bottom design isn’t great for rough water

Product Description 

The X Series is the most popular hull in this Pro Series line, and the addition of the Timber Deck makes it easy to adjust your setup when you need to. If you’ve hunted timber before, you know the difficulty of getting in and out of the boat. Thankfully, the TD makes it easy for you and your four-legged friend to bail in or out without damaging gear or taking a spill. This entry method also reduces wear and tear on your duck hunting waders, gear, and body. Add this feature to Pro-Drive’s triple-taper chines handling ability, and you have a great duck hunting boat for tight timber.

Most Versatile: GO-DEVIL Surface Drive Boats

GO-DEVIL

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Why It Made the Cut

Designed specifically for use with surface drive mud motors, these GO-DEVIL boats are rugged and can handle a variety of tough hunting conditions.

Key Features

• Available in 16, 18, and 20-foot lengths
• Maximized bottom surface area for increased lift
• One-piece hull design
• Responsive at lower speeds

Pros

• Suitable for everything from shallow rivers to flooded timber
• One-piece hull design offers added durability, less failure points
• Deep sides offer more cargo room and added protection

Cons

• Not for deep, choppy water

Product Description 

Putting a surface drive (AKA short-tail) mud motor on just any boat hull can lead to lackluster results. For example, you wouldn’t want to put a mud motor on a deep V-hull. To answer that call, GO-DEVIL knocked it out of the park with this Surface Drive hull specifically designed for integration with a surface drive mud motor.

With maximum bottom surface area, this hull will get out of the hole and get on plane quicker. This allows for faster response, which is important when you’re hunting areas of varying water depth to avoid getting hung up on obstructions or mud flats. Additionally, the tapered chine allows the hull to slide off banks and other obstacles with ease.

Best for Shallow Water: Excel F4

Excel Boats

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Why It Made the Cut

Excel’s comprehensive F4 line offers a variety of boat hulls designed specifically for shallow water mud flats and marshes.

Key Features

• Available in 16, 17, 18, and 19-foot lengths
• Optifade Marsh camo pattern option
• Multiple configurations available
• Built-in gun boxes

Pros

• Full flat floor
• Five different F4 models with multiple configurations
• Console and tiller configurations

Cons

• Added convenience features can increase the base cost
• Transom angle designed specifically for mud motors

Product Description 

Excel’s comprehensive F4 line includes five different models with additional configuration options available for each of them. One of their most unique offerings is the Shallow Water F4 Pro Console, which pairs a fishing style console with a duck boat designed for a mud motor. In addition to the console model, their tiller Shallow Water F4 is loaded with standard features like gun boxes for your best duck hunting shotguns and dry storage for other gear.

The entire F4 line was designed to hunt shallow water, including mud flats, rivers, and even timber. The rugged hull design has a unique bull nose that can stave off unexpected bumps and bruises. And the only drawback is that transom angle is designed specifically for mud motors, so it may not be ideal for conventional outboards if you’re into that kind of thing.

Best for Mixed Water-Depth Hunting: War Eagle Blackhawk Series

War Eagle Boats

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Why It Made the Cut

While not a conventional deep V-hull, the modified V-hull on the Blackhawk series makes these boats a versatile option for hunting a variety of water depths.

Key Features

• Available in 17, 19, and 21-foot lengths
• 18-degree modified V-hull
• Different paint/color options, including camo
• Variety of standard comfort features

Pros

• Modified V-hull cuts through waves with ease
• Suitable for big water and shallow water edges
• Doubles as a high-end fishing boat

Cons

• Only available in a console configuration
• Not as duck-hunting specific as other options

Product Description 

The Blackhawk Series by War Eagle pulls double-duty as a versatile duck hunting and fishing boat. First, its modified 18-degree V-hull cuts through choppy water, which allows hunters to cut across bigger lakes with added safety and comfort but still get shallow when they need to. Second, you can fish this boat in the off-season, but it doesn’t sacrifice comfort or features like a lot of other competitors.

While the dual-purpose is nice, depending on how may features you add, they’ll quickly take up space and add cost. Additionally, the hull design will not get as skinny as a true flat bottom that has a smooth surface and is designed to minimize friction. The Blackhawk was also designed for use with a conventional outboard, so there are limits when it comes to truly shallow conditions.

Best for Open Water: Layout Addictions GHOST 2 Man

Layout Addictions

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Why It Made the Cut

Layout boats are subjected to a lot of abuse, especially when they are deployed and retrieved with a tender boat. While fiberglass has long been the standard, this layout board adds durability by way of aluminum.

Key Features

• Completely aluminum
• Weight: 185 pounds
• Locking and adjustable spray shield
• Includes shell holders and head rests

Pros

• Durable, welded aluminum design
• Ample boot room for a layout boat
• Doesn’t lack hunting features

Cons

• Not as easy to repair as fiberglass
• Can feel colder than fiberglass

Product Description 

Layout hunting for divers has long been my favorite fall activity, even more so with a friend. After all, who doesn’t want to relive every layup miss they’ve ever made? The GHOST 2 Man allows you to do just that. This layout boat is super durable and made completely from aluminum. It hides very well, even in small chop, and includes an adjustable spray shield for rough waves. The only detractions are that the aluminum can be a little louder on calm days and transfers cold to your body easier than fiberglass, but those are minor drawbacks that the Hydro-Turf helps mitigate.

FAQs

Things to Consider When Buying a Duck Hunting Boat

When it comes time to make a purchase, start by listing out the environments you intend to hunt, the number of hunters in your party, any must-have features, and the style of outboard you intend to use. Once you have this information, you can quickly narrow down your options. It also never hurts to consider used boats, and sometimes you can find a great deal on these, as long as they’ve been maintained. Just like buying a used car, always operate in a buyer-beware mode, and make sure you check over any used boat you buy with a fine-tooth comb by looking for damage, signs of abuse, and user modifications that may be detrimental to performance.

Methodology

I’ve hunted some of the toughest ducks and other waterfowl for thousands of days over the past few decades and have had the privilege of hunting out of nearly every style of boat imaginable. To best evaluate the differences between different boat models and configurations, I always look at the finer, more subtle details that often separate one manufacturer from another. In most cases these details define the specific types of hunting environments that a boat’s hull will best fit.

Final Thoughts

The best duck hunting boats have come a long way over the past decade. Boat manufacturers have seen the need for duck hunting specific hull designs and features, which has given buyers plenty of options for boat hulls that are specific for their hunting environments. This includes everything from obstruction-choked timber to the ocean. So, whatever hunting styles and waters apply to you, there’s a boat that can fit them.

The post The Best Duck Hunting Boats of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best Overall		Surefire G2X Pro	SEE IT
Best Budget		Coast G29	SEE IT
Best for Blood Tracking		Primos Bloodhunter	SEE IT

Hunting flashlights are a piece of gear you can’t fully appreciate until you’ve been miles from the truck without one. Most flashlights can make sure you find your way back in the dark, but most of them also aren’t reliable enough for the unexpected turns that hunting often takes. Like when you arrow a buck at last light and need a solid flashlight to follow a pin drop blood trail. And if you’re lugging around granddad’s hefty old Maglite, your chances of finding that trail, (even after you give those D batteries a good pack) are probably smaller than those blood drops.

Flashlights don’t just help you recover game and find your way back to camp, they can even save your life in extreme instances. Whether you’re hunting the family farm or the backcountry, I’ve narrowed down a list of the best hunting flashlights to make sure you’re not left in the dark this hunting season.  

• Best Overall: Surefire G2X Pro
• Best for Deer Hunting: Black Diamond Cosmo
• Best Budget: Coast G29
• Best Lantern: Streamlight Siege AA Outdoor Lantern
• Best for Blood Tracking: Primos Bloodhunter

Best Overall: Surefire G2X Pro

Surefire

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Why It Made the Cut

This lightweight handheld flashlight has plenty of battery life and lumens no matter where or what you’re hunting.

Key Features

• Weight: 4.4 ounces with batteries
• Length: 5.2 inches overall
• Lumens: 600
• Settings: High and low
• Batteries: Two CR123A included

Pros

• Super bright
• Low setting great for up close tasks
• IPX7 waterproof rating

Cons

• Expensive

Product Description

When it comes to finding your treestand before daylight or spotting the perfect slip for your duck boat to catch the morning flight, this 600 lumen, 8700 Candela beam lights the way. The hybrid beam reflector provides both distant direct light and wide peripheral light. This gives you a good scope of your surroundings without losing focus on your objective.

While these are awesome features, I do wish this flashlight provided a bit more run time than the 1.5 hours at full power, but that’s to be expected with a beam this bright. And it will give you the punch to spot objectives quickly and at distance. 

The heat generated in the aluminum head is noticeable if you run it for an extended amount of time, but the polymer body does not transfer the heat of the light down the grip. I also appreciate the quiet polymer body, especially compared to metal flashlights. At just over 5 inches in overall length, the G2X Pro fills the hand nicely without feeling oversized. The single push-button tailcap switch is easy to manipulate with bare hands or with thick, insulated gloves.

It also turns the light on and switches between high and low power. At the low power setting, the light is a mere 15 lumens, which gives you just the right amount of light in front of your face. Surefire claims a 52-hour runtime at this level. 

Like most Surefire lights, the G2X Pro runs on two CR123A batteries. This makes it a bit pricey when you need to swap batteries. But with the power output and reliability, this light deserves a place at the top.

Best for Deer Hunting: Black Diamond Cosmo 300

Black Diamond

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Why It Made the Cut

This budget-friendly headlamp offers hands-free versatility, multiple settings, and long battery life.

Key Features

• Weight: 2.9 ounces with batteries
• Lumens: 350
• Settings: Flood, spot, red, all dimmable
• Batteries: Three AAA included

Pros

• Compact
• Fully adjustable fit, brightness, and beam direction
• Long battery life
• Affordable
• Buttons can be locked to prevent accidental use

Cons

• Not rechargeable

Product Description

While this isn’t technically a flashlight, it’s too handy not to include. I first received my Black Diamond Cosmo 300 a few years ago as a stocking stuffer. It quickly earned a permanent place in my hunting pack.

At less than $30, this light can fit almost any budget or need. This lightweight headlamp is so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing it. The two plastic sliders on the band provide full adjustability for its fit and position on your head. The main button features textured knurling on the top and is intuitive to find and activate with or without gloves. However, the smaller switch next to it isn’t as easy to adjust with gloves. 

I’m a big fan of the red dimmable light, which lets me perform close-up tasks without ruining my nighttime vision. And the range of brightness settings in the other two LEDs allows you to see things up close or at distance. The hinge on the back of the light has five different positions, with a detent to hold it in the one you choose.

This light can be used for just about anything, but it shines brightest when it comes to deer hunting. With a day pack on my back, a rifle or bow in hand, I can head to my stand unencumbered. When I use the dim settings, I don’t have any issue picking up the high-vis reflective material woven into the safety line of the tree stand from a distance. Even running the red light, I was able to find my way and adjust the intensity to get my gear safely into the treestand. When it’s time to track a deer, this light makes blood trailing easy. And because it’s a headlamp, both of my hands are completely free to field dress and pack my game out of the woods.

Best Budget: Coast G29

Coast

Why It Made the Cut

This affordable flashlight has adequate brightness for most hunting scenarios.

Key Features

• Weight: 4.59 ounces with batteries
• Length: 4.29 inches
• Settings: High, medium, low
• Batteries: Three AAA included

Pros

• Inexpensive
• All metal construction
• Adjustable beam from flood to spot

Cons

• Not the brightest
• Not waterproof

Product Description

For this specific review, I went to my local Sportsman’s Warehouse, where I found and purchased the G29 flashlight for less than $20.

The G29 is a budget-friendly, feature-packed little torch. Its all aluminum construction is sturdy but light, and the tail cap features a push-button switch, which is shrouded to protect from accidental use. In one of the shrouded sections is a small hole for running a wrist loop or lanyard through. The light did not come with a lanyard, but it’s a nice feature to have, should you want to add one later. At first, the lens focus ring was stiff but loosened up after a short break-in period and allowed enough adjustability with one hand.

Under each threaded piece is a small rubber o-ring, sealing the electronic components enough to give it an IP54 water resistance rating. IP54 indicates dust resistance and protection from water spray. Though not built with the waterproof construction of others on this list, this light will work just fine as long as it doesn’t take any unexpected dunks.

On high, the G29 can run upwards of four hours, while the lowest setting gives you as much as 27 hours of continuous light. High boasts 370 Lumens, while medium offers 160, and low produces about 50 lumens. The beam is bright, although not as sharp as others in this review. But for an affordable hunting flashlight, this one is hard to beat.

Best Lantern: Streamlight Siege AA Outdoor Lantern

Streamlight

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Why It Made the Cut

Compact and rugged, this small lantern is equal parts versatile and durable.

Key Features

• Weight: 8.8 ounces with batteries
• Lumens: 200
• Size: 5.44 inches tall, 2.37 inches wide
• Batteries: Three AA not included
• Settings: High, medium, low, red, red SOS

Pros

• Affordable
• Long battery life
• Waterproof

Cons

• Bulky
• Heavy

Product Description

I purchased my Siege just over five years ago before a grizzly hunt I filmed in Alaska. I needed a lighting system that would help me in the tundra after dark or in my tent. I’ve since taken the Siege across the country and around the world. Like my Black Diamond Cosmo, it has become a regular tagalong on trips.

While bulkier and heavier than a simple handheld light, the Siege offers a lot as a small lantern. The globe gives a nice ambient fill light to whatever tasks you need to accomplish. If you remove the globe, it presents a wide, bright beam that can fill a tent and casts enough light to act as a handheld flashlight. With or without the globe, it still retains its IPX7 waterproof rating, so you don’t have to worry if you accidentally drop it in a stream or lake.

The Siege features many mounting options. It can stand on its own on any relatively flat surface, and it has a handle that doubles as a hook for hanging. The underside features a flip out carabiner style clip for other mounting or hanging options as well. Streamlight also offers a magnetic battery cap that features strong magnets for mounting on any steel surface that you can purchase separately.

Its rubberized body and caps keep it both quiet and protected. The three AA batteries can run upwards of seven hours on high, and 37 hours on low. This lamp also features a red light for preserving night vision and can be set to a flashing red SOS setting, which can run for days on end in case of an emergency. 

The power button is used to adjust settings and even changes from green to yellow to red, indicating battery levels. While this lantern doesn’t necessarily give me the distance and directional light offered by the other lights in this review, it definitely has a place at hunting camp.

Best for Blood Tracking: Primos Bloodhunter HD

Primos

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Why It Made the Cut

This light features a special lens coating and high output to make even the smallest blood trails visible.

Key Features

• Weight: 10.6 ounces with batteries
• Lumens: 600
• Size: 5.5 inches long, 2 inches wide
• Batteries: Four CR123A, included
• Settings: High, low

Pros

• Lens coating separates red tones from other colors
• Bright

Cons

• Bulky
• Heavy
• Expensive

Product Description

Primos’ Bloodhunter HD serves a specific task: game recovery. Let’s get the elephant out of the room first. This light is heavy and bulky. It’s the heaviest one I tested for this review. Width wise, it’s almost as big as the Siege AA Outdoor Lantern, and it also carries a hefty price tag for an application-specific flashlight. It also requires four separate CR123A batteries to function, making it one of the most expensive to run on the list. Those things aside, it’s one of the best hunting flashlights for blood tracking.

While you might have enough light for that ethical shot just before dark, the blood-trails quickly become obscured in darkness. Luckily, Primos has found the ideal material and color for a lens filter that makes blood stand out from its surroundings, even in sketchy terrain. 

The Bloodhunter HD features a high, 100-lumen setting when you’re blood trailing. To note: The LED produces 600 lumens, but once through the proprietary filter, it is reduced to 100. The four CR123A batteries produce enough power to last about two hours, which should give you plenty of time to recover your game, but for especially sparse trails, it might not cut it. On the low setting, it casts about 50 lumens for general illumination and can run for about eight hours at this level.

This is one of those lights you don’t really need until you do. While a tool this specialized would not live on my belt, it might find its way into my pack for hunts in dense vegetation.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Hunting Flashlight

Not all lights are created equal. If you just need something to help you get to your ladder stand in the dark, you probably don’t need one of the best flashlights. On the other hand, if you’re planning a 10-day backcountry hunt, this isn’t the time to try and save a few bucks on a cheap light.

Output

Lumens describe the amount of light put out by the flashlight. Just because a light has a high number of lumens, does not mean you’ll necessarily be able to see long distances. Candela, on the other hand, measures the amount of light in a specific direction. The higher the candela, the further the visibility remains clear. If your goal is to see long distances clearly, make sure you’re opting for a light with a high candela.

When you’re hunting, brighter lights make it easier to find your stand, while dim light helps you perform tasks up close. This is why I prefer a light with multiple brightness settings whether I’m looking for my stand or hoisting my bow up in the dark.

Size

This goes for both dimensions and weight. If you’re packing a long way into a hunting spot, a lighter option might be more appealing than a heavier model. If you’re hunting a ground blind or tree stand on your family’s farm, weight probably isn’t a big deal. Bigger lights will obviously take up more space. If space is at a premium, you might even consider one of the best headlamps for hunting instead of a regular flashlight. You’ll need to consider where and when you’re hunting to determine what option fits best.

Power Source

The type and amount of batteries your flashlight requires can make it more or less expensive to use. Battery life is directly affected by power setting, which is why it’s important to consider how each brightness setting works. 

There are many rechargeable options on the market, but I personally stay away from these for a couple of reasons. First, rechargeable options tend to be more expensive. Second, if my built-in rechargeable battery dies, my light is useless until I can find a plug. As long as I have extra batteries, I can replace the dead ones in an instant. This is subjective, of course, so make the choice that works best for you.

Weather Resistance

If you’re a regular waterfowler, you’ll want a light that can take a dive while you’re setting decoys. If you’re hunting in the high desert, you’ll want a light that keeps the dust and dirt from seeping into the housing. Look for the lights that will stand the test of Murphy’s law and still come out shining.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Even if you’re hunting a generational family spot, investing in one of the best hunting flashlights can make getting around in the dark much easier. And if you’re ever in a situation where you desperately need a flashlight, you’ll be glad you have one.

Methodology

For this review, I considered what flashlights have and haven’t worked for me on past hunts. I’ve either hunted with or personally tested these lights. With each of these flashlights, I specifically focused on battery life, brightness levels, and types of batteries that each flashlight requires. How a light functions in adverse weather conditions also helped me determine which ones made this list. 

The post The Best Hunting Flashlights of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best Multi-Purpose		Danner Grouse	SEE IT
Most Comfortable		Meindl Vakuum Hunter	SEE IT
Best for Late Season		LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro	SEE IT

As an upland bird hunter, I don’t mind dropping cash on a pair of well-made hunting boots. I’ve hunted upland birds for more than 25 years, and I’ve worn through my fair share of treads. One lesson I’ve learned is that cheap or ill-suited boots can derail your hunt faster than anything. Don’t let a subpar pair of boots be the reason for cutting your hunts short this season.

Whether you’re chasing birds on the prairies or across rugged mountain sides, make sure your boots are best suited for the terrain and conditions. To help you do that, I’ve compiled a list of the best upland hunting boots to keep you in the field longer no matter where you hunt.

• Best for Western Hunts: Crispi Wyoming II GTX
• Best Multi-Purpose: Danner Grouse
• Best Casual: Irish Setter Wingshooter
• Most Comfortable: Meindl Vakuum Hunter
• Best for Late Season: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro

Best for Western Hunts: Crispi Wyoming II GTX

Crispi

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Why It Made the Cut

Crispi’s Wyoming II GTX boots provide serious comfort, support, and breathability in a reasonably lightweight boot that’s perfect for chasing birds in rugged terrain.

Key Features

• Weight: 3.9 pounds (size 10)
• Gore-Tex lined
• Non-insulated
• Shock absorbing Vibram Sole
• Removable Crispi Air Mesh insole

Pros

• Comfortable
• Substantial ankle support
• Minimal (less than 5 miles) break-in
• Waterproof and breathable

Cons

• Expensive

Product Description

Besides your trusty bird dog or your best shotguns for bird hunting, Crispi’s Wyoming II GTX boots will be your best friend in the field. These boots provide plenty of comfort and support for your feet and ankles even for those days when you log double digit miles. I immediately noticed how comfortable these were when I first tried them on. As far as a break-in period, these were good-to-go after I wore them around town for a day. Even when I did break them out on the trails, I was impressed with their breathability, especially on the hottest summer days. After several hikes with them, my feet didn’t sweat excessively, and I didn’t notice any hotspots.

It is worth noting that these boots have a fairly stiff sole, which I prefer in terrain with drastic elevation changes. But if you’re hunting gently rolling prairies or fairly monotonous terrain, these might be unnecessary. The Wyoming II GTX boots come with a steep price tag, but if you cover plenty of rugged ground, these are hard to beat.

Best Multi-Purpose: Danner Grouse

Danner

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Why It Made the Cut

The Grouse boots from Danner have the quintessential fit and feel of an upland hunting boot but still provide support and comfort for long days in the field.

Key Features

• Weight: 3.87 pounds
• Full-grain leather and cordura denier nylon upper
• Gore-Tex lined
• Danner Bob outsole
• Uninsulated

Pros

• Waterproof
• Comfortable
• Great traction

Cons

• Expensive
• Longer break-in
• Slightly narrow footbed

Product Description

With a name like Grouse, these boots set high expectations for me. And they delivered. The impressive grip on the Bob outsole provided great traction while I climbed steep, rocky sidehills. And the durable, full-grain leather works great in a variety of conditions, and it should also expand the life of these boots as well.

Danner advertises that these boots run narrow. My feet are stuck between too wide for some regular width boots and not wide enough for most “EE” footbeds. I chose the regular footbed for these, and they were a tad tight when I first put them on. After several mountain miles they stretched slightly, but they’re still a bit narrow. If your feet lean more towards a wider footbed, go with the “EE” width for these. 

Best Casual: Irish Setter Wingshooter

Irish Setter

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Why It Made the Cut

An upgrade on Irish Setter’s classic upland boot, the Wingshooter is completely waterproof, and the 9-inch version gives excellent ankle support. Best yet, these stylish boots look great whether you’re trying to flush a bird or grab a casual dinner. 

Key Features

• Weight: 4 pounds
• Waterproof
• Steel shank
• Removable insole
• Uninsulated

Pros

• Durable, abrasion-resistant leather
• Affordable
• Doubles as a great work boot

Cons

• Substantial break-in process
• Gets steamy on long walks

Product Description

There’s a reason upland bird hunters have been wearing these boots in the field longer than I’ve been alive. The Wingshooters are an affordable, comfortable, and durable upland hunting boot. While all-leather, waterproof boots have their advantages, they can struggle with breathability. Unlike the Crispis I tested, these boots made my feet constantly sweat on warm days. You’ll definitely want to save these for late season roosters, especially if you get the insulated version. But in reasonable temps, these boots will do just about everything you ask of them and more.

Most Comfortable: Meindl Vakuum Hunter

Meindl

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Why It Made the Cut

The Air-Active insoles in Meindl’s Vakuum Hunter boots mold to your feet for an extremely comfortable fit.

Key Features

• Weight: 3.87 pounds
• Gore-Tex lined
• Nubuck leather upper
• Air-Active insoles
• Vibram Alpin outsoles
• Uninsulated

Pros

• Extremely comfortable
• No break-in necessary
• Waterproof

Cons

• Slightly stiffer outsole

Product Description

The Meindl Vakuum Hunter boots are the most comfortable boots out of the box that I’ve ever tried on. They required a zero break-in period for me. I just put them on and didn’t have any issues or noticeable hotspots even after trekking several miles in them. If comfort keeps you in the field longer, these are the best upland hunting boots for that purpose.

The Vakuum Hunters feature an aggressive Vibram Alpin outsole that provides great traction when you’re pursuing that next covey in steep country. Like the Crispi Wyoming II GTX boots, these feature a slightly stiffer outsole than you might need if you’re hunting primarily flat terrain. The Vakuum Hunters come with a hefty price tag, but these boots are so comfortable you’ll be lacing them up to chase other game too.

Best for Late Season: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro

LaCrosse

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Why It Made the Cut

For those cold, late season hunts, LaCrosse’s Alphaburly Pros will keep your feet dry and toasty.

Key Features

• Weight: 5.2 pounds
• EVA midsole
• Embossed neoprene liner
• Insulated and non-insulated options available

Pros

• Comfortable
• 100 percent waterproof
• Aggressive traction
• Adjustable gusset

 Cons

• Not the best for all day hunts

Product Description

LaCrosse’s Alphaburly Pros are my go-to rubber hunting boots for chasing wily roosters in everything from swampy cattail bottoms to snow drifted plains. These boots come in various insulation options that range from uninsulated to a whopping 1600 grams of Thinsulate. So, whether you just need to keep your feet dry or from going numb, there’s an insulation option to fit your needs. 

The Alphaburly Pros might seem like overkill, but a lot of other upland hunting boots might not cut it when you’re trudging through ankle-deep snow. I definitely leave these at home if temps and conditions are mildly nice, and their weight makes them less than ideal if you plan to cover a ton of ground. But for the die-hards who want to kick up a few no matter the conditions, these boots can make sure you don’t miss any days in the field.

Things to Consider Before Buying Upland Hunting Boots

Where and when you hunt plays an important role in determining which boots best fit you. A long day chasing birds will quickly tell you if you have the correct footwear. To make sure you don’t learn that the hard way, here are a few things to consider.

Terrain

This might be the most important factor to help you find the best boot for your needs. I hunt upland birds across the rugged mountains of the West. My main concern is support and breathability because I know I’m going to cover several miles on any given hunt. A lightweight, breathable boot like Crispi’s Wyoming II GTX provides plenty of support, yet they won’t make my feet sweat like a heavily insulated boot.

But if you hunt pheasants and quail in the Midwest plains, you can probably get away with the Irish Setter Wingshooters or a pair of rubber boots like the Alphaburly Pros. 

Insulation

If you hunt the West or early season birds, an uninsulated or low insulation number will suffice. But for late season roosters or frigid temps, consider an insulated or rubber boot that will keep your feet dry and warm.

Cost

The truth is, good boots aren’t cheap. If you have the extra coin, solid boots are a great investment, and you’ll save money in the long run instead of buying cheaper pairs that don’t last long. Even worse, cheap boots can ruin a hunt. It’s also worth having multiple pairs, so you’re covered for a variety of weather conditions, especially if you hunt various regions of the country.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When you’re buying a pair of the best upland hunting boots, it’s best to try them on if you can. Pick the one that can handle the conditions you hunt most and provides you with maximum comfort. Those two factors are a recipe for long, memorable hunts, and if your boots can give you that, they’ve outdone their job.

Methodology

To test these boots and the best upland hunting pants, I spent this summer hiking in them through a variety of terrains, especially where I’m likely to encounter birds this fall. By covering terrain I’m likely to hunt, I was able to give an assessment of how each of these boots would perform.

• Best for Western Hunts: Crispi Wyoming II GTX
• Best Multi-Purpose: Danner Grouse
• Best Casual: Irish Setter Wingshooter
• Most Comfortable: Meindl Vakuum Hunter
• Best for Late Season: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro

The post The Best Upland Hunting Boots of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best Late Season		Stone Glacier M7	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Excels in a wide range of hunting conditions and terrain.
Most Versatile		Kuiu Chugach TR	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Stealth and rain protection on a budget.
Best Budget		RedHead Silent Flex	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Tough enough for the wettest, coldest conditions.

Rain gear is one of the most critical parts of any hunting clothing system. It’s the piece of gear that you might not consider until you are sitting in a merciless downpour reevaluating your life decisions. Nothing can be more humbling than sitting in the onslaught of mother nature’s deluge as you realize that you probably shouldn’t have skimped on your rain gear. Almost every hunter has most likely had their own defining moment of suffering when they reach the point of investing in good rain gear. For me, that moment occurred on my first trip to Alaska. I went for two weeks as an assistant guide to see if I wanted to guide full time. Actually guiding in the wild is the only way to get all those unanswerable questions thoroughly answered. I got answers alright. All of them. 

After two weeks of 100-percent outside living, in what at that time was considered the wettest Alaska season in history, I quickly found that I needed to invest in quality rain gear. I wasn’t just damp, I was bone-soaked from day one of the job. From that point on, I critiqued every piece of rain gear I came across as to whether it would be “Alaska proof.” Now, quite a few years later, I still use the “Alaska Proof” system of measurement, but there are so many other applications for many other environments. So, I had to modify the system.

What I consider to  be “Alaska Proof” may be an infinite amount of overkill for a hunter that only deals with precipitation two or three days per hunting season. If you fall into that category, may God bless you and your sunburn. These days there are multiple manufacturers that produce quality rain gear for hunting. In fact, some would argue that there are too many options. It can be a little overwhelming. I’ve narrowed down the list below to what I believe to be the best hunting rain gear for almost every application. 

• Best for Backcountry Hunts: Sitka Dew Point 
• Best for Late Season: Stone Glacier M7
• Most Versatile: Kuiu Chugach TR
• Best for Spot and Stalk: Sitka Thunderhead
• Best for Treestand Hunting: Kryptek Koldo
• Best Budget: RedHead Silent Flex

How I Chose the Best Hunting Rain Gear

For this review, I included the best hunting rain gear that I’ve personally used in the field or tested myself. I made sure to test the durability of any gear I didn’t hunt in by intentionally walking through thick briars. For the waterproofing capabilities, I then had my fiancé spray me continuously with a water hose for at least 15 minutes. Rain conditions obviously vary, but if these products can withstand a max blast from a water hose, then I considered them more than sufficient for surprise rain conditions. 

Best Hunting Rain Gear: Reviews & Recommendations

Best for Backcountry Hunts: Sitka Dew Point 

Sitka

SEE IT

Key Features 

• Three layer Gore-Tex 
• Articulated elbows and knees 
• 100 percent polyester
• YKK pit zips

Pros 

• Lightweight 
• Easily packable
• Incredibly breathable
• Two way side zips open all the way to the waist

Cons 

• Not durable enough for extended daily wear 

At just under 1.5 pounds the packability of the Dew Point rain system is astonishing and doesn’t take up much room in your backpack. The pocket/zipper placement in regards to wearing a backpack means that the waist belt and shoulder straps on your backpack won’t affect the use of the pockets or pit zips. And the leg side zips come all the way to the waist from the ankle cuffs for easy on/off. The Dew Point system is great for multiple day backcountry hunts if you only need something for those surprise rain storms. But it’s probably not the best option if you plan to hunt consistently wet conditions. I put this gear on just before a downpour in turkey season.

During turkey season, I used the Dew Point rain gear on a hunt in Georgia, and it couldn’t have worked better. It kept me plenty dry during a surprise rain storm, when the bottom fell out for a solid minute. But when the sun came back out, the Dew Point provided plenty of breathability, and I didn’t sweat my way out of it like other rain gear I’ve tried in the past. Even though this rain gear is light, it doesn’t sacrifice durability. On this same hunt, I had to maneuver through a briar thicket, and I just knew by the time I made it to the other side that the Dew Point would be ripped to shreds. Luckily, it made it through without any major wounds, and it still keeps me dry. 

Best for Late Season: Stone Glacier M7 

Stone Glacier

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Key Features 

• HydraShield SS fabric tech
• Fleece backing on soft shell 
• Mechanical stretch
• Dual chest pockets 

Pros

• Intuitive pocket designs 
• Excellent durability 
• Articulated elbows and knees
• Keeps you plenty dry

Cons

• Legs do not zip all the way to the ankle cuffs 
• A tad noisy 

Late season hunting can be grueling, downright cold, and unpredictable. The Stone Glacier M7 series is a testament of intuitively designed gear that’s built to endure late season hunting conditions. The fleece backing on the HyperShield Soft Shell adds insulation without adding any significant bulk. I wore a thick base layer (top and bottom) along with a puffy vest during testing. I had full range of motion to shoot my bow sitting, kneeling, and even standing. Plus, it’s plenty warm. And you can add or subtract insulation garments as the conditions change and still have full range of motion. 

Both the pants and jacket have ventilation zippers which allow added flow during strenuous activity if needed. However, the zippers on the pants legs don’t open all the way to the ankle cuffs. They stop just below my calf, which makes it impossible to put these pants on without removing your hunting boots. However, these pants are designed to be worn as a main outer layer in lieu of your regular hunting pants. Another feature that I find critically important is the ability to access all the pockets/features of the garment while wearing a backpack. All the vent zippers, chest pockets and hand warmer pockets are easily accessible. 

Like everything associated with late season, Stone Glacier built the M7 tough. Really tough. I didn’t have a shale cliff face to climb close by, so I wore my test gear walking through a briar patch for about 100 yards. Immediately following, I had  my fiancé spray me with a water hose, much to her chagrin. And there were no water leaks after 15 minutes of continuous spray. This level of toughness usually comes with a tradeoff. Tough fabric usually means noisy fabric. But the M7 outer fabric is pretty damn quiet to be as durable as it is.

Most Versatile: Kuiu Chugach TR 

KUIU

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Key Features 

• Torain waterproof system 
• Streamlined fit 
• Four-way stretch Primeflex nylon 
• Jacket Weight: 14 ounces
• Hook-and-loop adjustable cuffs

Pros

• Lightweight
• Extremely packable 
• Super comfortable shoulders in the jacket 
• Scuff guards on the instep of the pants 

Cons

• Legs do not unzip all the way to the waist of the pants 

The Kuiu Chugach TR could  be the “one size fits most” for hunters that want one series of rain gear to cover most of their needs. It’s an extremely versatile system that’s lightweight enough to use in the backcountry and quiet enough to use on a spot and stalk hunts. This jacket breathes well, and the pockets and zippers are placed so that you can access everything while wearing a hunting backpack. It is not as durable as some of the other gear I tested, but it isn’t designed to be. However, the Chugach TR did pass the 25 yard briar patch test followed by the water hose during turkey season. It also gave me zero issues climbing a tree and sitting in a treestand. 

One of the more pleasant things I noticed about the Chugach TR is that the shoulders were very comfortable. Nothing felt binded in any of the usual  spots. As a guy that wears a backpack close to 100 days a year, those comfortable shoulders make a difference. I wore this rain gear for half a day, with a backpack, while I scouted turkeys one day. It’s comfortable, and I barely noticed it when I layered it over my regular hunting clothes. And if you appreciate sweet camo patterns, you can get the Chugach TR in three different camo options or one solid color.  

Best for Spot and Stalk: Sitka Thunderhead 

SITKA

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Key Features 

• Three-layer Gore-Tex 
• Brushed poly knit face 
• Weight: 25.5 ounces

Pros 

• Dead quiet
• Articulated elbows and knees 
• Gusseted wrist cuffs 
• Wear as a single outer layer
• Alaska proof 

Cons

• Packs a little big 

The Sitka Thunderhead’s design excels at spot and stalk hunting with a few added bonuses. First and foremost, this system is quiet. Dead quiet. And it’s tough as nails. Typically you don’t get durability and silence in one set of gear. Not to mention, every single feature of the jacket and pants are easily accessed while you wear a backpack.

This jacket is streamlined enough to wear during archery season and provides just enough warmth that you can wear it with some of the best base layers, yet it’s big enough to get a puffy vest underneath. And the pants are cut so that I easily wore them over my regular hunting pants in an emergency.

However, if I knew that my hunting day was going to be constantly wet, I could wear them with only a base layer underneath without sacrificing any of the features of my regular hunting pants. I’m thinking Alaska Moose or Pacific NorthWest Roosevelt Elk. It  rains torrentially in both places. My experience usually goes: if the season is 10 days it will rain every day of my hunt. But the Thunderhead rain gear is rugged enough for anyone to wear for 10 days as their primary clothing, and you can be confident that it’ll keep you dry and silent.

Best for Treestand Hunting: Kryptek Koldo 

Kryptec

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Key Features 

• Three-layer DWR Waterproof fabric 
• Helmet compatible hood 
• Bonded laminate elbows and knees
• Jacket Weight: 1.65 pounds

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Articulated reinforced elbows and knees 
• Backpack friendly pockets 

Cons

• Belt buckle on the pants comes unsnapped when wearing a backpack belt

During a particular hunting trip in Missouri, it rained a lot. My hunting buddies and I had to use ATV’s to access our stands, and the first day wasn’t too muddy, but the second became much worse. By the third, the trails turned into an outright mud bog. I can’t remember what rain gear I had at the time. But I do remember that it didn’t work for any of it. The outer material ripped on tree limbs along the trail, and it didn’t have much waterproofing, if any. Long story short, it doesn’t matter how waterproof your rain gear is, if it can’t hold up to a few pricks and scratches from brush or limbs, it won’t keep you dry.

However, upon opening the Kryptek Koldo rain gear for this test, I immediately noticed the rugged build. In fact everything about the Koldo rain gear is tough. The welded Bemis Seam Taped Waterproof zippers and reinforced articulated elbows and knees won’t tear under pressure. And you can even cinch up the hood over your ATV helmet to prevent yourself from collecting water in your hood. 

However, the hood runs really big when you aren’t wearing a helmet, but as long as you cinch it down tight, it’s more than comfortable. The super tough fabric is a bit noisy when dry but after sitting in the rain, the fabric softens and makes it plenty quiet for treestand hunts. So, whether you’re driving or trudging through limbs and brush on your way to the stand, the Kyrptek Koldo will get you there without tearing to shreds. 

Best Budget: RedHead Silent Flex 

RedHead

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Key Features 

• Bone-Dry 100 percent tech 
• Four-way stretch fabric 
• Included small stuff sack
• 100 percent polyester

Pros

• Lightweight 
• Packs down pretty small
• Budget friendly
• Quiet

Cons

• Legs only zip to the knee 

Maybe you’re new to hunting and not ready to make the financial commitment to purchase technical hunting rain gear. I get it. But if you’re just starting out or hunt in areas that don’t receive much rain, the RedHead Silent Flex rain gear will work just fine. This rain system was actually a pleasant surprise to test and review. It’s not super fancy, doesn’t have high tech bells and whistles, but it did pass the most critical aspect of the test. It kept me dry in the rain for over an hour. I didn’t  abuse it like I did some of the other rain gear. No briar patch tests, no water hose. But it did keep me dry during a rainstorm. 

The RedHead Silent Flex rain gear runs just under $120 for the set, which is significantly less than other options in this test, and it kept me dry. This set is also very comfortable to wear. It fits baggy to accommodate multiple sizing and layering scenarios, and the pants have a drawstring waist instead of a belt. The Legs only unzip to the knee but were remarkably easy to put on and take off over my boots despite this fact. Plus, each garment comes with its own stuff sack. 

This system should also work brilliantly for younger hunters (12-14 yrs old and growing like a weed in a fertilizer farm) without parents having to mortgage the house for a set that won’t fit by the end of hunting season. Keep it simple. It only has to keep you dry for now. 

Things to Consider when Buying Hunting Rain Gear 

Hunting Conditions

When you’re choosing rain gear, consider where you’ll use it as well as how many days a year you expect to wear it. Just knowing those two things will narrow down your options considerably. For example, the rain gear I choose to wear in Alaska will see more use than the rain gear I wear in Mexico. Likewise, rain gear you wear in the Rockies might be overkill for the Southeast. Figure out what conditions you’ll hunt most, and go from there.

Breathability

A rubber rain suit is waterproof, but hiking in one will result in you getting drenched with sweat. That’s why Gore-Tex is so common in hunting rain gear. It’s a material that repels water, yet has some breathability. As a general rule, the more active and warmer your hunt, the more a breathable rain suit is a big deal. If maximum rain protection is the main concern, then plan on sacrificing breathability.

Noise

One of the most challenging things about rain gear is finding a quiet set that you can stalk in. The material plays a big role in quietness, but so does fit. If your rain gear is baggy, it’s more likely to rub against itself and other objects as you move.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Hunting Rain Gear

I can honestly say that every set of rain gear I tested for this review did not leak, even the ones that did not make the cut. Clearly the manufacturers are not only listening but actually putting their gear to the test in order to give hunters the options we want and need. While those factors may differ depending on the hunter, the best hunting rain gear should keep you dry.  

• Best for Backcountry Hunts: Sitka Dew Point 
• Best for Late Season: Stone Glacier M7
• Most Versatile: Kuiu Chugach TR
• Best for Spot and Stalk: Sitka Thunderhead
• Best for Treestand Hunting: Kryptek Koldo
• Best Budget: RedHead Silent Flex

The post The Best Hunting Rain Gear of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best Overall		SpyPoint Flex G-36	SEE IT
Best Standard Cam		Lone Wolf Custom Gear Undercover Trail Camera	SEE IT
Best Under $50		Tasco 12mp Tan Low-Glo	SEE IT

If you break into a cold sweat at the thought of leaving a $500 trail camera on public land, you’re not alone. Those high-dollar cameras take great photos, but they’re overkill for most hunters’ needs.

After all, you can get a great trail cam for under $150 and it’ll still have top-end features like video, quality photo, long battery life, and cellular connectivity. To help you find the best budget trail camera, a team of three hardcore whitetail hunters spent months testing the trail cameras in the field and in a standardized backyard test. Here are the team’s top picks at the end of testing. 

• Best Overall: SpyPoint Flex G-36
• Best Image Quality: Tactacam Reveal X Pro
• Great App: Moultrie Mobile Edge
• Best Standard Cam: Lone Wolf Custom Gear Undercover Trail Camera
• Best Under $50: Tasco 12mp Tan Low-Glow
• Bushnell Cellucore 20
• SpyPoint Flex
• SpyPoint Link Micro LTE

How We Tested the Best Budget Trail Cameras 

Testing Trigger Speed, Flash Range, and Detection Range 

Each of the best budget trail cameras was set to its fastest shooting mode and highest sensitivity. Markers were placed at 10 feet, 60 feet, and 110 feet. Then the tester walked past the camera (left to right and then right to left) at a medium pace at the distance of each marker. This test was conducted during daylight and at night. 

The test measures the camera’s detection range, trigger speed, shutter speed, and flash range. We looked for blank photos, failures to trigger, blurry images, and overall photo quality. 

In the Field 

Each camera was set out in the field to see how it performed in the real world and stood up to the elements. In the field testing ran from three weeks to six months. In the field, we evaluated the camera’s photo quality, reliability, and ease of setup.

Price

Trail camera’s range from about $30 to $600 with a lot of variance in price and features in between. We decided to make the cut off for a “budget” camera at 25 percent of the most expensive camera, $150. You’ll notice that most of the cameras in this review still cost about $100 or more. That’s because the truly cheap cameras typically deliver cheap performance. They fail to trigger, they spook deer, or they die after a season of use. You can spend more money replacing cheap cameras than you would by buying a few quality cameras. The trail cameras in our list still feature advanced features like video, infrared flash, cellular connection, and quality images. But, they lack the sting when you buy multiples or one goes missing. 

The Test Team and Locations

Scott Einsmann, gear editor, Virginia
Drew Palmer, contributor, Kansas 
Alex Robinson, editor-in-chief, Minnesota and Wisconsin

Best Budget Trail Cameras: Reviews and Recommendations

Best Value: SpyPoint Flex G-36

Scott Einsmann

SEE IT

Key Features

• 8 AA batteries
• 0.3 second trigger speed 
• Advertised Detection Range: 100 feet
• Uses micro SD cards from 2 to 512 GB
• Two-year warranty

Pros

• Fast trigger speed
• Good flash range
• Detected movement at 10, 60, and 110 feet

Cons

• About 1 minute delay between bursts—even on instant setting

The Flex G-36 improves megapixels and performance over last year’s Flex without a price hike. It costs $100, which is $50 less than the similarly photo specced Tactacam Reveal X-Pro. 

SpyPoint didn’t just give the new Flex G-36 a glossy veneer of three additional megapixels. It gave the trail cam a serious upgrade under the hood. Last year, the Flex only triggered at 10 and 60 feet. The Flex G-36 triggered at 10, 60, and 110 feet—day and night. It shot three photos of me in frame at each distance too. 

The photos are crisp with no motion blur, and while the daytime photos are excellent, the night photos are the most impressive. The IR flash is even and reaches far into the night to produce high-detail photos after sunset.

The SpyPoint app is intuitive and easy to use. If you have hundreds of photos you can easily sift through them using the “buck” filter. I’ve used it on my other SpyPoint cameras and it’s not 100 percent accurate, but it’s a quick way to find peak deer activity times frames.

 My one knock on the best trail camera for the money is that it takes about a minute to reset between bursts of photos even though I had it set to no delay. In the walkthrough test, I walked from left to right and then right to left. The camera wasn’t capturing my second trip unless I waited about a minute between triggerings. That slight delay could cost you a photo of the second deer down the trail, which so often is the mature buck following a doe. But still, for $100 you can’t go wrong with the Flex G-36. —S.E.

Best Photo Quality: Tactacam Reveal X Pro

SEE IT

Key Features

• 12 AA Batteries
• Less than 0.5 second trigger speed
• Advertised Flash Range: 80 feet
• Advertised Detection Range: 96 feet
• LTE/4G wireless module
• IP66 waterproof certified
• External port for solar panel
• Accepts Tactacam’s rechargeable lithium cartridge
• No Glow IR Technology 
• Built-in LCD Screen and GPS

Pros

• No Glow IR 
• Simple to set up
• Excellent photo quality 
• Superior battery life with Tactacam’s solar panel and rechargeable lithium cartridge

Cons

• Cell data plans are expensive per camera
• Requires a class 10 U3 SD Card (16GB-32GB) 
• Multi-shot sending requires an additional fee

The Reveal X-Pro is the most recent addition to Tactacam’s popular lineup of trail cameras. A new built-in LCD screen makes the X-Pro even easier to set up when compared to the rest of the lineup. Just turn the camera on, and use the LCD screen to frame your photos without the guesswork of snapping test shots. This makes it virtually impossible to miss your intended target within the camera’s field of view.

With optional accessories like an integrated solar panel and rechargeable lithium cartridge, the X-Pro provides the user with plenty of solutions to extend their camera’s battery life. Optional password protection, a built-in GPS, and the ability to run a single cable lock through the camera body and door make the X-Pro a great option for anyone concerned about trail cam thieves.

But what really won us over is that the X-Pro provides top-notch image quality that Tactacam’s lineup is known for. Most impressive, the X-Pro captured nighttime images at 110 feet during the test (30 feet farther than the 80-foot detection range advertised). All of the IR photos were crisp, and the camera’s shutter snaps with stop-motion speed to give superior detail at night. This is the difference between counting a buck’s tines and blurry, washed-out photos. Daytime photos were clear and vibrant. In addition, the camera settings can be adjusted so that HD videos with audio can be retrieved on-demand via the Tactacam Reveal app. We ran four Tactacam Reveal X Pros throughout last fall and winter and they worked without fail. —E.B.

Read our full Reveal X-Pro review to learn more.

Great App: Moultrie Mobile Edge

Moultrie

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Key Features

• 16 AA
• 0.85 trigger speed
• Advertised detection range: 80 feet
• Free unlimited cloud storage
• Internal memory (no SD card)
• SmartTags for species and buck recognition 

Pros

• Awesome features
• Easy setup
• Affordable for a cell cam

Cons

• Slower trigger speed

The Moultrie Mobile Edge is a functional, capable camera and costs only $100, which is impressive. But what’s truly remarkable about this budget trail camera is all of the features it brings to the table through its Moultrie Mobile app. The camera automatically connects to the strongest network in the area (without needing to switch sim cards) and promptly sends photos to the app on your phone. Here’s the cool part: The Moultrie Mobile app is designed with image recognition, so it identifies deer (including bucks vs does), turkeys, vehicles, and humans in photos. From there, you can sort your photos based on species. Say, for example, you set the camera in the summertime and by November you have a few thousand photos, including some shooter bucks, does, squirrels, coyotes, and that damn neighbor who keeps riding by on his ATV. The app allows you to filter images so you’ll only see the buck photos (or the ATV photos if you wanted). What’s more, it gives you activity data, showing when bucks are passing by the camera most frequently. 

I hung my test camera on a cornfield edge in a core area of our hunting property. According to the app, the highest buck activity for this site is 6 a.m. (I looked through the photos manually to confirm that the app was correct, and it was). Besides time of day, the activity data also accounts for temperature and moon phase. The possibilities for this technology are incredible. With a few cameras running on a hunting property over the course of several seasons, you’d have a powerful data set showing when bucks are moving based on time of season, time of day, temperature, and moon phase. This camera will do more than just pattern a specific buck, it will help you pattern deer activity in your area for a lifetime of good hunting. 

The only thing I’d knock the Moultrie Edge on is its slightly slower trigger speed. It had a hard time catching me at the 10 foot walkthrough (I was almost out of frame). However the slower trigger speed didn’t seem to hurt the camera in the field; it captures multiple photos every time a deer walks by. The camera did perform well in the night walkthrough capturing me at the 60-foot range and producing solid nighttime images. -A.R.

Read Next: Best Trail Cameras

Best Standard Cam: Lone Wolf Custom Gear Undercover Trail Camera

Lone Wolf

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Key Features

• Wi-Fi picture retrieval
• 12 megapixels
• 1080p video at 30 frames per second
• 0.4 second trigger speed
• Flash range: 20 feet
• Advertised detection range: 65 feet 
• Accepts SD card up to 32 GB

Pros

• The Wi-Fi transfer system is economical and efficient
• The Ultimate Aim Technology and ball joint bracket make setup easy

Cons

• Battery life is below average 
• 12MP photos lack clarity
• The night range is average at best

Lone Wolf came up with a solution to breaking sticks to get the camera angle just right: their ball-joint mount. It’s also one of the few budget trail cameras that can Wi-Fi transfer photos to your phone with an app. The app can also organize and store photos based on several filters. 

The Undercover’s camera performance was a little disappointing. At 12 megapixels, it’s not going to capture print-quality images for the trophy wall. The battery life on it was iffy past 6,500 images, which is below average compared to many of our other cameras. 

The daylight performance of the camera is definitely as advertised with satisfying trigger speeds. It captured me in the center of the frame at the 10-foot distance. The colors were also rich and the image sharp. At night, the camera triggered at 10 feet, but the photo quality was not great. The camera did not trigger at 60 or 110 feet. -D.P.

Best for Under $50: Tasco 12mp Tan Low-Glow

Tasco

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Key Features

• 8 AA batteries
• 12 megapixel images
• 720p video
• 1 second trigger speed, 5 second recovery time
• Flash range: 50 feet

Pros

• Easy setup with only two options for photo/video
• More than 15,000 images on one set of alkaline batteries
• Most retailers sell this camera for under $50

Cons

• Limited function settings
• Can be picky about card sizes/types
• Video lengths can be irregular

I rave to anyone that will listen about these amazing “cheapies.” I’ve had over 50 Tascos in the field over the past 12 months and haven’t had one issue. The simplicity of this camera makes it fast and easy to set up. It has a one or three shot burst mode for photos, and multiple interval adjustments. The only downfall I’ve found is that the videos can be irregular in their length, which cuts off some activity.

I was truly shocked at the 50 feet of flash range for a budget trail camera around $50. In my walkthrough test it captured me in the center of the frame at 10 feet both day and night. It didn’t trigger at 60 or 100 feet. I operate almost all my Tascos on three shot bursts, and on several occasions they captured deer running in all three frames. For the price and performance, these are my personal choice for mapping properties and putting patterns together. -D.P.

Best Image Quality: Tactacam Reveal X and XB

Tactacam

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Key Features

• 12 AA Batteries
• Less than 0.5 second trigger speed
• Flash range: 80 feet (XB) and 96 feet (X)
• Advertised detection range: 96 feet
• LTE/4G wireless module
• 12 AA Batteries
• IP66 waterproof certified
• External port for solar panel

Pros

• Reliable
• Simple to set up
• Solid photo quality

Cons

• Cell data plans are expensive per camera 
• Requires a class 10 U3 SD Card 
• Limited HD downloads on the app

The Tactacam Reveal X and Reveal XB cameras combine all of the features that most hunters want in a cell camera, at a price we can all still afford. Let’s start with image quality, which is the backbone of both cameras. Over the thousands of images we scoured, only extreme fog defeated this camera. The XB took beautiful daytime photos on a property in Wisconsin, and the X recorded thousands of quality photos in Kansas. 

The two cameras are very similar. The Reveal X is a “low glow” camera, meaning it emits a red light while taking nighttime photos. The XB is a “no glow” camera, meaning it emits no visible flash while taking nighttime photos. As you can see in our images, the XB no glow photos are on par with the X’s low glow photos. Beyond that, XB has an integrated GPS, so you can see where the camera located within the Tactacam app. The XB is a little pricier, but there are often online deals that bring it down to the same price point as the X.  

The megapixel modes of 8,12, or 24 create versatility for folks who want to make a set of lithium batteries last 12 months. The only downfall of the camera is that if you own more than one, there is no way to set up different plans under the same account for different cameras. So, if you want one camera to have unlimited photos and another to have limited photos, you have to create different accounts for each trail cam.

At $120 this is one of the best budget trail cameras out there. In our walkthrough test, the X triggered out to 60 feet, however at night it only triggered at the close distance. The XB triggered at 60 feet during both day and night walkthroughs. -A.R., D.P. 

Bushnell Cellucore 20

Bushnell

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Key Features

• 12 AA
• Less than one second trigger speed
• Advertised detection range: 80 feet
• Accepts up to 32 GB SD card
• Low glow 
• 20 MP photo and HD video 

Pros

• Easy-to-use app
• Triggered at 60 feet at night
• Customizable flash
• Solar compatible 

Cons

• Inconsistent triggering at far distances  

Cell cameras used to be expensive pieces of tech, but they’re now becoming affordable and offering a lot of value for the money. One of the best buys in cell cams is the Bushnell Cellucore 20 with its 20 MP photos, customizable low glow flash, and easy-to-use app. 

During the walk-through test, the Cellucore triggered at 10 feet with a perfectly centered photo—day and night. The camera didn’t capture me at 60 or 100 feet during the day, but at night it captured a series of five photos of me walking at 60 feet. 

The Cellucore has three flash settings: short range, fast motion, and long range. I used the long-range flash setting during the walk-through test and it illuminated out to 43 yards. The downside of the long-range flash is that close objects will be over exposed. For my in-the-field test, I used the fast-motion flash and it produced evenly illuminated photos with good detail from 5 to 15 yards. It also captured several deer walking without much movement blur.

The daytime image quality was fair with good color and detail as well as no motion blur. At night, the photos had good black and white contrast with even exposure when using the fast-motion flash. -S.E.

SpyPoint Flex

SpyPoint

SEE IT

Key Features 

• 8 AA batteries
• 0.5 second trigger speed
• Flash range: 100 feet
• Advertised detection range: 100 feet
• 0.3 second trigger speed
• 33 Megapixels
• 1080p video with sound
• 2 SIM cards included

Pros

• Good videos
• Good night photos
• Easy to use
• GPS enabled

Cons

• Receiving full HD video costs extra

The latest trend in cell cams is the ability to automatically choose the network with the strongest signal. It’s a feature you’ll find on expensive cameras, but it’s cool to see it in the SpyPoint Flex, which retails around $130. I’ve had a Flex for one month and moved it between travel corridors, mock scrapes, and feeding areas. While it’s nearly twice the price of some of the cheaper options in the best budget trail cameras test, it brings plenty of performance to justify the price. 

That improved performance was evident during the walkthrough test. At 10 feet in daylight and night the camera captured three photos of me in frame. During daylight it caught me in frame three times at 60 feet, but it did not capture me at night. The camera did not trigger at 110 feet. 

The Flex’s photo quality is excellent—day or night. The video quality is also great and the addition of audio to the video is a cool feature. But SpyPoint charges an additional fee to send the full 15 second video to your phone. If you don’t pay the fee, you get the equivalent of a flip-book video. Another thing to keep in mind is that sending a lot of video will hurt your battery life. -S.E. 

SpyPoint Link Micro LTE

SpyPoint

SEE IT

Key Features 

• 8 AA batteries
• 0.5 second trigger speed
• Flash range: 80 feet
• Advertised detection range: 80 feet
• 10 Megapixels
• LTE cellular network 

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Good app

Cons

• Inconsistent detection
• Not recommended for trails

I had a Link Micro LTE set up under dropping oaks throughout the 2021 season. I didn’t need a camera with excellent photo resolution; I just needed to know when the deer were hitting those acorns. The Link Micro worked well for that purpose. This year I placed it on a trail that leads to a food source and I have a lot more blanks or pictures of tails. 

During the walkthrough test, I got one photo where I was in frame at the 10 foot mark and a couple blanks—both day and night. At 60 feet the camera triggered during daylight, but I wasn’t in the photo and it did not trigger at 110 feet. At night, the camera did not trigger at 60 feet or 110 feet. 

The Link Micro’s photo quality is OK. The daylight photos are sometimes under or over exposed—especially during dawn and dusk. The night time resolution is good enough to count tines, but don’t plan on zooming in and retaining photo resolution. -S.E.

How to Choose the Best Budget Trail Camera

Flash and Detection Range 
If your cameras are mostly tucked into thick cover, then you don’t need a camera with a long flash and detection range. But, if your camera is overlooking a clearcut or open field, then good flash and detection range are a must. 

Photo Quality
Even if you don’t care about naming deer or counting every tine, a quality image is still nice to have. Whether you’re sharing trail cam photos or you capture a crazy wildlife moment, you’ll be glad you have a crisp clear picture. Image quality is about much more than advertised megapixel capacity. In fact, more megapixels doesn’t necessarily mean better images. Instead, it’s more useful to look at sample images (our review is a good start) to see the image quality that each camera produces. For daytime photos, look for detail in the background, where big bucks tend to lurk. In nighttime photos, look for the camera to stop motion. You want to see a clear picture of the buck (or in our case, the tester) as he walks across the frame, not a blurry white shape. 

Trigger Speed 
If you have the camera on a trail, a fast trigger speed is more likely to capture a walking deer. That’s why we do the walkthrough test for each camera. Despite what each company advertised, the cameras that caught us in the middle of the frame at close range have the most effective trigger speed in the field. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Budget Trail Camears

The original trail cameras used film and giant lantern batteries. Some of them were just disposable cameras linked to a motion sensor in a waterproof housing. In 2009, trail cameras became smaller and had IR flash, but still were only 5 megapixels at most and those top-of-the-line models cost around $600. The $50 Tasco in this review would blow those cameras out of the water with its features and performance. 

You get a lot of camera for your money these days and you don’t need to spend a wad of cash on a fleet of cameras. Whether you need a standard or cell cam, there are plenty of options within the best budget trail cameras to find one that’s right for you. 

The post The Best Budget Trail Cameras of 2023, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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