Traditional Archery: Breaking Down the Gear

Published 2019-09-15

By: Lindsey Davis

Out of any outdoor pursuit I’ve been a part of, hunting has my favorite gear. I will attribute some of my affinity to growing up as a tomboy in Girl Scouts and finally getting the knives and technical toys I’ve always wanted. On a broader scale, I don’t know a single product designer in the hunting industry who doesn’t actually hunt themselves. This is paired with a strong feedback loop from us, their customers because season after season we truly put things to the test.

Hunters go from hot, dry environments to freezing temps within the same day. We endure every element, and if all goes well add hundreds of pounds of extra weight to everything we’re wearing and carrying.

This year I’ve forayed into bow hunting, which has unique early-season nuances. For me, being organized is key, so I can take full advantage of the weekends and have quick transitions from the city to the hills. My base camp is a ‘01 Toyota Tacoma — it has 4WD and enough existing pinstripes and dents that I don’t mind taking her down roads with character. With the basics of the bow, training, and landscape in the first story of this series, here is the gear you won’t find me without in the field and in camp this year.

 

Packs

 

 

Clothing

Optics

Footwear

 

 

Field Dressing Kit

Not to be forgotten: bear spray, a ‘shit-kit,’ first aid kit, and archery repair kit.

Camp

Add a few adult beverages of choice, a good book, ample snacks, and you’re well on your way. All of the above tucks neatly into my truck for when I’m out in the hills. To note, the ice-loaded Yeti stays put once she’s full, so this is a solo camp ladies and gentleman. If you’re taking a page from my book, get ready to spoon your cooler at night. A bonus you’ll find is that it serves as a table inside the shell. Good luck out there everyone!

To follow along with this hunt and our exploration of the American Prairie Reserve this fall, stay tuned with @lindsey.browne.davis, @modernhuntsman, @americanprairie, and @ryan__holm.

Photo credit for all imagery to Lindsey Davis.