Recently, I embarked on my very first Rocky Mountain elk hunt. While the elks may have eluded me, the experience brought with it a plethora of new discoveries, especially when it came to gear. Today, I want to chat about some unconventional choices I made in my hunting ensemble, and how they measured up to the demanding terrains of the Rockies.
When you’re in different locations and away from home you need gear you can trust
1. CYA Supply Co. EDC Belt
First up, the CYA Supply Co. EDC Belt. Now, I know what you're thinking - "That's not a hunting belt!" But hear me out. When you're trekking miles and miles over challenging terrains, you want a belt that doesn’t shift, twist, or turn. The EDC delivered just that. It provided stability, comfort, and the right amount of adjustability. Whether I was climbing a steep incline or hunkering down to observe the elusive elk, this belt stood its ground. And the bonus? It looks pretty sleek for casual wear too. Who says you can't be fashionable in the wild?
2. ATG by Wrangler Men's Synthetic Utility Pant
Next, the ATG by Wrangler Men's Synthetic Utility Pant. I'm a firm believer that you don't need to break the bank to get quality hunting gear. And these pants are a testament to that. They are not specifically designed for hunting, but boy, do they deliver! Breathable yet durable, they provided the perfect balance between protection and comfort. The Rockies can be quite unpredictable with their brush, rocks, and occasional drizzles, but these pants took it all in stride. The multiple utility pockets? An added blessing for stashing essentials!
3. OUTDOOR VITALS ULTRALIGHT LOFTTEK ADVENTURE JACKET
And then there was the OUTDOOR VITALS ULTRALIGHT LOFTTEK ADVENTURE JACKET. The Rockies are cold, especially at 10,000ft and above. I needed something that was lightweight (because who wants to lug around heavy gear?) but warm enough to ward off the chilly winds. Enter the LoftTek Adventure Jacket. Its ultralight design ensured I didn't feel bogged down, and the insulation kept me warm through those long, cold waits. And did I mention how compact it is? It was a breeze packing it up when the day warmed.
In conclusion, my elk-hunting expedition might not have ended with a trophy, but it was an eye-opening experience in more ways than one. One key takeaway? You don't always need to stick to hunting-specific brands. Sometimes, thinking outside the box (or in this case, outside the hunting store) can lead to some fantastic gear finds. Over 10 miles a day at high elevations gave me ample time to put these products to the test, and they didn't disappoint.
Bonus: Often Overlooked, Always Essential!
Alright, since we're deep-diving into the world of unconventional gear choices, let me shine a light on some often overlooked but immensely helpful items I found invaluable during my time in the Rockies.
1. Judo Points for Small Game Hunting
You might be wondering, "What on earth are Judo Points?" I had the same reaction when I first heard about them. But trust me; these are game-changers for small game hunting. Designed with small 'arms' or 'claws,' these points prevent your arrows from disappearing into the grass or underbrush after a miss. They're perfect for pursuing critters like grouse or rabbits during your elk hunts. Even if the big game evades you, you might still come back to camp with a tasty treat!
2. Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles
I can't stress this enough: DO NOT underestimate the power of a good pair of trekking poles, especially in challenging terrains. The Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles were my trusty companions throughout the trip. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, they're super light yet sturdy, perfect for providing that extra stability during steep climbs or tricky descents. Plus, they're collapsible, making them super convenient for transport.
3. Esee Knives
Last but not least, Esee Knives. Now, most hunters already know the importance of a reliable knife. But Esee takes it to another level. These knives aren't just sharp; they're dependable and versatile. Whether it was for prepping food, cutting cordage, or any random camp tasks, my Esee knife was always by my side. It's one of those things where once you've used it, you wonder how you ever managed without it.
To wrap up, gear is a deeply personal choice, and it's all about finding what works best for you. The Rockies taught me that sometimes, the most unexpected items become the most cherished. So, the next time you're prepping for an adventure, look beyond the conventional and give these overlooked gems a chance. They might just surprise you! Stay wild and always be prepared!
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