Buying quality hunting gear on a budget may seem like a daunting task but I’m here to help.  Not everyone can afford to buy a new bow every year or chase the latest gear craze that’s sweeping the industry.  However, savvy shoppers know how to maximize their dollars to get high-quality hunting gear at a great price.  In this blog, you’ll learn how and when to save money on hunting, as well as tips and tricks to help your dollar go further.  But first, let me introduce you to HuntingGearDeals.com to get you started.

HuntingGearDeals.com is your best resource for finding great deals on hunting gear all year long.  Every online retailer is fighting for a piece of your hunting budget each year, except for HuntingGearDeals.com.  HuntingGearDeals.com doesn’t sell hunting gear, they simply help you find the best deals on hunting gear from across the web.  If it’s on sale, you’ll find a link to it there.

Interested in knowing when the best time to buy KUIU is?  Hunting Gear Deals can help with that too.   The goal of HuntingGearDeals.com is to help you save money and maximize your hard-earned dollars so that you get more gear for the money.  So, if you’re interested in saving money on hunting gear, the first thing you should do is subscribe to the Hunting Gear Deals Daily Deals email so you never miss a deal!

Creating a Hunting Gear Budget

The first thing you should consider when planning for the upcoming hunting season is how much you’re willing to spend.  Setting a hunting gear budget will help you plan ahead for upcoming expenses.  I start with my intended hunting trips for the year and factor in the cost of licenses and tags.  If you’re planning an out-of-state hunt, you’re most likely going to need more money for your trip than you would if you were hunting the back forty or a local piece of public ground.  Consider the cost of hunting licenses and tags a fixed expense that you’re going to need to plan for.

Once you know where you’re hunting and how much tags are going to cost, then you can start planning on purchasing hunting gear. We will touch on this topic in more detail later.

Make a Hunting Gear Wish List

As one season ends, another begins, so keep note of the hunting gear that you need to replace or add throughout the season.  I keep a note on my phone that identifies hunting-related products that I’m looking to add to my hunting arsenal the following year.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told that I’m the hardest person in the world to buy Christmas Gifts for, so one way to solve this issue is to have a list of items at your disposal that you’re interested in buying for yourself, but don’t tell someone to buy you something for Christmas when you know you’re going to need it two months prior during your next big hunting adventure.

On a side note, if you’re ever having issues on finding a Christmas gift idea for someone that hunts, HuntingGearDeals.com has plenty of gear lists to guide you in the right direction.

Item’s that you’re likely to find on my hunting gear wish list include easy-to-find items like Energizer Lithium AA batteries.  I spend hundreds of dollars every year on batteries and getting a few here and there for stocking stuffers is a life-saver.   I also keep a list of specific sizes for clothing-related items that I plan on adding to my collection as well.  Attending local hunting trade shows gives me access to new hunting gear that my local pro shop or box store might not have in stock.  So, I keep a running list, a very large and detailed list of the items that I would like to add.

Now, it’s important to know what size you wear in each product and brand because they’re not all the same.  For instance, my Sitka pants range in sizes depending on the style.

More on Creating a Hunting Gear Budget

We talked about the fixed costs, such as licenses and tags and you should have an idea of what you’re looking to add to your hunting arsenal as soon as hunting season ends.  This is essential because you’ll be able to take advantage of sales throughout the year and get more bang for your buck.

Now you have to factor in how much money you’re willing to spend on hunting gear.  This will vary from person to person depending on your financial situation, as well as your needs.  A new hunter might need a bunch of gear to get started, whereas an experienced hunter might be looking to upgrade some additional gear that they already have.  Either way, planning early will save you money.

For example, if you know your hunting license expenditures are going to cost you $800 this year and your hunting budget is only $2,000, you’re going to have to pick and choose your battles.  Don’t get me wrong, you can get a lot of gear for $1,200, but you can also dump $1,200 in the blink of an eye on a new bow as well, so let’s be smart and plan ahead.  Saving up for these expenditures takes discipline.  For some, you might need to create a PayPal account or separate checking account to help you save money for hunting gear.  Others might be willing to stash cash in the safe all season.  Neither option is wrong, but both are right.  In fact, combining all of these options and more will allow you to save money when it’s time to make a purchase.  (More on that later).

Whatever option you choose for setting aside some money for hunting gear, stick to it.  Don’t blow your budget on a shiny new bow when last year’s model is just as good.  Also, don’t be afraid to find other ways to make money as well.  The goal here is to help you become a savvy shopper, not a cheapskate.

Generating Additional Money for Hunting Gear

Making extra money for hunting gear isn’t hard if you’re creative.  The hardest part is probably devoting the time to make the extra cash to invest in your hunting gear.  I feel strongly that everyone needs a side hustle but not everyone is willing to invest the time and money into it to be profitable.  Here are a few quick ideas to generate cash flow to put towards your hunting gear.

Garage Sale

Chances are, you’ve got a bunch of junk lying around the house that you don’t use anymore.  Instead of throwing it away, have a yard sale.  Timing this at the beginning of the month with a couple of neighbors will help you be more successful usually.  Don’t expect to make a fortune having a yard sale, but it’s worth a shot.

Sell Your Old Hunting Gear

Facebook Marketplace is a tough place to sell hunting gear but there are options out there for you to sell your old hunting gear before replacing it with new hunting gear.  Just don’t be that guy that expects to sell your used hunting boots for more than they’re currently on sale for new somewhere.  I used to be big into trading hunting gear on online forums such as ArcheryTalk but I’ve since given that up after a couple of bad apples ruined the trading process.  Sadly, it’s hard to trust people nowadays.  eBay is an option, but thanks to new IRS laws, you’re going to be taxed on that.

Trade Time and Manual Labor for Money

Who would’ve thought that manual labor could help you make more money?  Cut grass, chop wood, pressure washing, washing cars, and the list goes on and on.  Who knows, a little side hustle like this could replace your day job someday

Sell Your Shed Antlers

Are you a diehard shed hunter?  If so, you could always sell your Antler collection.  Last I heard, $15 per pound was the going rate on antlers that are in good shape.  Big antlers are often sold individually at a higher price.  I’ve never sold my shed antlers but I know people that buy them if you’re interested in selling.

Own land?  

Look into subleasing your land for a week during hunting season.  Maybe you’re not a turkey hunter but your place has turkeys all over it in the spring.  Lease it out.  Just check with your local rules and regulations that pertain to hunting leases in your state first.  A lot of people that I know sublease their hunting leases for a week or two a year to cover the cost of their hunting lease fees each year.

Other ways to make a dollar.

There are a million ways to make money out there but you’re the only one that can decide which option is best for you.  It takes time and effort, but it can be done.  However, if you decide to earn extra money, make sure you do it legally.

With my obsession with whitetail deer hunting, I’m always looking for hunting gear that will enhance my hunting experience, especially in the toughest conditions. When the temperature drops below freezing, I grab my Sitka Fanatic jacket and bib to keep warm even though I’m sitting all day.

I’ve been wearing Sitka Gear since their second year of production and I haven’t looked back. I’ve seen many hunting brands and clothing options come and go over the years, but nothing quite like Sitka. I’m excited to share my in-depth and unbiased review of the Sitka Gear Fanatic Jacket and Fanatic Bib with you in a future review. Designed for the coldest days, the Fanatic collection is crafted with the utmost precision. The Fanatic Jacket is a testament to Sitka’s commitment to quality and innovation. Here’s my honest review, the good, the bad, and if you should buy it.

Wind Resistance

Even in the freezing cold, the Fanatic Jacket is a virtually indestructible barrier. It’s windproof and warm thanks to a double-layer Gore-Tex Infinium fabric with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. Warmth isn’t an issue with the Fanatic jacket, but keep in mind it’s not waterproof. If so, you’re missing out on the quiet fleece coating that makes this the ultimate cold-weather bow hunter jacket. Here’s what I’ve noticed: When it’s cold enough to wear a Fanatic jacket, it’s usually too cold to rain. Snow clings to a fleece jacket, and over time moisture seeps into the jacket, but not enough to keep it from snowing.

This jacket is great for keeping out the cold, especially in windy weather. The wind chill factor can greatly affect how cold it gets outside, and the Fanatic Jacket does a great job of protecting the body from those cold winds. High-loft jacquard Berber wool and silver Hi-Loft Ultra insulation work together to provide superior insulation technology and maximum warmth. Even in the harshest conditions, we can rely on the Fanatic Jacket to protect us from biting winds and lock in our body heat.

Built to be Quiet

Silence is our best ally when you’re only moments away from drawing your bow to your target buck. The Sitka Gear Fanatic Jacket effortlessly combines ultra-quiet Gore-Tex Infinium technology with an ultra-quiet high-loft Berber wool finish. This strategic combination ensures that your moves will remain undetected even when fully drawn! The jacket’s body-mapping construction uses state-of-the-art noise-canceling fabrics to eliminate layers of noise from the surrounding environment.

Whitetail-Specific Features:

Sitka Gear understands the specific needs of whitetail hunters. The Fanatic Jacket incorporates burr-resistant textiles in key areas to prevent burr pickup and allows for the convenient placement of critical accessories. However, it’s important to note that the entire jacket is not burr-resistant.

To tackle freezing temperatures, I recommend combining the Fanatic Jacket with other Sitka Gear items, such as the Fanatic Bibs, Fanatic Beanie, and Downpour Gloves, for a comprehensive cold-weather clothing system.

Sitka’s attention to detail shows in every aspect of the Fanatic jacket design. The jacket has a diagonal YKK zippered pocket strategically placed to provide easy access to essential gear and ensure we can focus on the field. Low-profile hand warmers and hand warmer pockets provide much-needed warmth on chilly mornings, while the jacket’s raised position allows for comfort and freedom of movement. Plus, integrated harness ports allow for easy integration of key Whitetail accessories for safety and convenience.

Product Improvements Ideas:

While the Fanatic Jacket offers exceptional performance, there are areas for improvement. The price may deter some, and the lack of a hood. The lack of a hood as a built-in feature is a notable drawback of the Fanatic Jacket. Adding a detachable or integrated hood would enhance its functionality, especially in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, incorporating additional ventilation options, such as pit zips, could provide better temperature regulation during periods of physical exertion.

Should You Buy the Sitka Fanatic Jacket?

Overall, the Sitka Gear Fanatic Jacket is a top-tier choice for hunters seeking reliable and warm apparel for cold-weather expeditions. Its innovative design, sound-suppressing fabric, and strategic features make it a worthy investment. While there is room for improvement, particularly in terms of pricing and the inclusion of a hood, the Fanatic Jacket remains an excellent option for serious hunters looking to maximize their comfort and stealth in frigid conditions.

SITKA Gear, the leading producer of high-performance hunting clothing, has unveiled its groundbreaking Mountain Evo Jacket. This innovative jacket is specifically designed for demanding backcountry activities in varying climates and sweat-inducing conditions. It incorporates strategically positioned windproof materials in areas that are most crucial for active hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the jacket features flexible stretch panels in key body areas, such as under the arms and on the back, to enhance breathability.

The Mountain Evo Jacket is available in black as well as OPTIFADE Open Country and Subalpine patterns, catering to a wide range of outdoor pursuits that require a pack, including hunting, mountain biking, backpacking, and backcountry skiing. As a recent addition to SITKA’s technical apparel line, this jacket ensures optimal comfort during any outdoor adventure, offering ample freedom of movement and breathability.

John Barklow, Senior Product Manager at SITKA Gear, described the versatile Gore WINDSTOPPER® jacket as suitable for year-round active endeavors. The WINDSTOPPER panels integrated into the Mountain Evo Jacket effectively shield against convective cooling and light precipitation. Meanwhile, the breathable 4-way stretch panels minimize the need for pit zips, allowing unrestricted movement and keeping adventurers dry and comfortable throughout their pursuits. The ultrasonically welded and taped seams eliminate bulk, reduce weight, and effectively block out wind.

Key Features:

  • WINDSTOPPER by Gore-Tex Labs technology provides 100 percent wind protection while remaining lightweight and breathable.
  • Body-mapped 4-way stretch panels maximize breathability and mobility in crucial areas.
  • Ultrasonic welded seams minimize weight and bulk.
  • Contoured hood offers wind protection and concealment without compromising peripheral vision.
  • Zippered hand and chest pockets provide convenient and secure storage.
  • Weighs 13.6 oz.

SITKA Ambassador Beau Martonik shared his experience using the Mountain Evo Jacket during spring shed hunting. He praised its exceptional breathability during strenuous activities, preventing excessive sweating on the back caused by wearing a pack. When at rest or during slower moments, the jacket effectively blocks wind, eliminating the usual chill. Martonik expressed excitement about utilizing the jacket while pursuing turkeys in the Appalachian Mountains during the upcoming season.

MSRP: $329.00
Available: April 3rd, 2023 
To learn more about SITKA Gear, click here.
 
About SITKA Gear
SITKA Gear, based in Bozeman, Montana, created and leads the technical hunting apparel
category. The company is recognized for its commitment to continually improving the life
experience of the hunter and for its support of healthy ecosystems and wildlife populations.
SITKA products work together in systems, and each piece is designed and tested rigorously in
both the lab and the field. SITKA is owned by W.L. Gore & Associates, an advanced materials
company well known for Gore-Tex™ fabrics and many other industry-leading innovations that
provide durable comfort and protection to outdoor enthusiasts. Go to sitkagear.com to learn more
about how SITKA enhances the full life experience of the hunter.

Man I have never had so much optimism hunting one buck, then had so many first hand encounters with him but have him walk away unscathed every single time. I named him Lucky and he seems to live a charmed life. On Saturday evening, my last night, I went back to my stand on the north end where he has been appearing every day. The wind was southwest and it was predicted to be that direction all evening. Anything with south in it is a bad wind for the stand on the south end, but SW is good for my north stand. I hoped this time he would come out within shooting range on the north end, and hopefully come down the trail at the stand for an easy shot.

p1010155At 5:30 I heard a doe snort down at the south end of the field so I stood up and put my binoculars to my eyes. Lo and behold there stands a 10-pointer at the southeast corner of the field, a place where I had never seen him before. My heart sank. Then I got to looking at the deer closely and I became convinced it was not him. This deer looked like a 3-year-old and wouldn’t score nearly as high.

So with my optimism back up, I held my vigil until about 6:30 when inexplicably, the wind changed to the southeast. Horrible for this stand I was in. In any other situation, I would have immediately gotten out and left, but it was my last day and I had no where to go, so I just sat it out with the faint hope that maybe it was my turn to get lucky. I did not. In fact, he didn’t show at all so I suspect he winded me and left. Lucky once again.

That deer down in the southeast corner of the field walked south right up into Tom’s yard where Tom took a few photos of him out of the picture window and from the front door as he walked across the yard. This is a buck for next year.

What a fun hunt even though it was incredibly frustrating. I came so close to getting that big deer so many times, but it was simply not meant to be. I learned that Tom’s property has a lot of nice deer on it, even though I hardly scratched the surface. I found three mature target bucks yet I only thoroughly scouted about a third of his 1600 acres. I’m definitely going back to do this again. He tells me what I saw was nothing compared to what shows up during the rut, because he has a large herd of resident does on his property. He guides a small number of muzzleloader and rifle hunters each year and the shoot quite a few 170 and 180 class bucks. I’m definitely not done deer hunting here.