Here’s what you need..

So you decided to move forward on that western hunt! Here is a complete gear breakdown of what you will need to be prepared for the mountain. This list that I've compiled represents years of testing and refinement.

Packs

When it comes down to having the proper pack, you're gonna want something that has a hard frame as well as some type of shelf to be able to assist you in carrying your game out safely. A hard frame pack offers better support when carrying a heavy load, as well as being extra rugged for the backcountry. A pack that is modular would be best, allowing you to be able to use a large bag to carry gear in while then swapping to a small day pack during your time hunting. Being stuck with a large pack only adds unnecessary weight to an already rigorous hunt.

Binos, Rangefinders & Bino Harness

One of the most important tools that you'll be using most is your Binoculars. Having a Binocular that's at least a 12X will do best for western hunting. Be sure to have a quality rangefinder on hand as well as you can easily find yourself alone preparing for a bow shot while the guide is yards behind you bugling the Elk in. Now all of this gear needs to be put away and packed comfortably. This is where a quality Bino harness with multiple utility pouches is essential to the success of your hunt and your comfortability while in the bush.

SideArm

No matter where you're at in these mountains, having a reliable side arm is a must for personal defense. You never know what situation you may find yourself in where your side arm becomes your lifeline. These are the three most widely used calibers for personal defense in the woods. 10mm .357mag and .44mag.

Tops

When it comes to the clothing you wear on the top half of your body you're gonna wanna make sure that you have these four items. The first is going to be a base layer which is going to help wick away sweat and keep you cool and dry. The second is a heavyweight layer, something that's slightly heavier, then your base layer, but not as heavy as say a down jacket. That brings me to the third item, which is a down jacket. Now your down jacket is going to be the most important item in your pack due to the fluctuating environments on the mountain. I've watched it snow the first week of September so you never want to leave camp without your down. The final item is going to be a Gore-Tex/waterproof style jacket. Now, although this item doesn't get used as often as the others, it has proven its weight when finally needed. Nothing breaks down a hunters desire more than being wet.