Today’s hunters can choose from a dizzying array of high-tech gadgets, but how many of these devices actually improve our experiences afield? Items that work as advertised and solve common problems in many different hunting applications are well worth the investment. Here are five no-brainers.
Smartphone Mapping App
Next to a good pair of binoculars, maps and geographic reference materials are a hunter’s most valuable scouting tools. And if you haven’t checked what’s available in the way of mapping for your smartphone, tablet or computer these days, boy are you going to be surprised. Apps such as HUNT by onXmaps include detailed satellite images with landowner overlays. While these apps aren’t free, they’re worth every penny in areas fragmented with a mosaic of different landowners. Obtaining permission to hunt private ground just got a whole lot easier. Learn more at HuntingGPSMaps.com.
Thermal Monocular
Once reserved for military and law enforcement use, thermal-imaging technology is becoming better, increasingly affordable, and is now widely available to civilians. FLIR’s Scout TK pocket-sized thermal vision monocular retails for under $600 and is a powerful tool for hunters. The Scout TK works in all lighting conditions, making it the ideal optic for scouting game in full sun, fog or total darkness. In addition to aiding in game recovery, the FLIR Scout TK also helps hunters detect and elude large predators and avoid bumping game animals while traveling to and from hunting stands in the dark. Did I mention it records still images and videos? Learn more at FLIR.com.
Digital Scouting Camera
Wherever and whatever you hunt, regular scouting is a key to success, and a digital scouting camera allows hunters to be there, when it isn’t possible or practical to take to the field. Wildgame Innovations’ new Mirage Series cameras feature high-resolution 14- and 16 MP processors and rapid trigger speeds of less than a half-second, and record professional-grade still images and stunning 30-second HD 720p video clips. Best of all, remarkable battery life up to one full year on just 8 AA batteries and the ability to accept up to 32 GB SDHC cards means these performers don’t require undue levels of babysitting. Starting at an MSRP of just $99.99, Mirage 14 and 16 models are available with a high-intensity LED infrared flash or a super stealthy high-intensity invisible black LED LightsOut flash. Learn more at WildgameInnovations.com.
Laser Rangefinder
Regardless of how much practice one puts in at the range, no other single variable plays a greater role in hunting success than knowing the actual distance to the downrange target. At best, just a few yards of misjudged distance can result in a miss, and, at worst, a wounded animal. Halo Optics makes a full range of hunter-friendly laser rangefinders that employ Angle Intelligence technology to compensate for slope, and quickly and accurately determine the actual ballistic distance between a hunter and his or her quarry. Halo rangefinders start at an MSRP of just $99.99. Learn more at HaloOptics.com.
Scent-Control Headcover
Experienced deer hunters understand the critical importance of scent control, and most employ a detailed scent-control regimen. What they may not realize is the high percentage of their overall odor signature coming from their head and face. ScentLok Technologies, the industry leader in scent control apparel, makes a several models of head covers for hunters using their proven and patented Carbon Alloy technology, which combines the power of activated carbon, treated carbon and zeolite for maximum adsorption of breath, hair and skin odors. Available in five top camo patterns, their Full Season Ultimate Headcover (MSRP $39.99) features a ScentLok short-billed cap with a built-in face and head cover. The hinged facemask is easily pulled down while calling or anchoring a shot. Learn more at Scentlok.com.