Backcountry Hunting Gear: What You Need For 2023

As the 2023 hunting season nears, it’s time to get prepared. Check out our favorite backcountry hunting gear for the year.

It’s time to cut the excuses and finally get on that backcountry hunt you have been talking about for years. But just because you have the gear doesn’t mean you have what it takes.

Hunting where most aren’t willing to go takes endurance, confidence, and training. In this roundup, we give you the tools and then some of our favorite gear we have taken with us on far-flung hunts that will hold up to the challenge. Will you hold up?

Backcountry Hunting Gear: 2023

Kings Camo XKG Leg Gaiters 

These gaiters provide outstanding protection against dirt, debris, insects, and/or whatever weather conditions nature throws at you, keeping your legs dry and comfortable during rugged treks in and packouts. Crafted with 4-way stretch tri laminate material, they withstand harsh conditions while ensuring a secure fit with the adjustable straps and buckles. 

MKC Blackfoot Fixed Blade 2.0

When Master Bladesmith Josh Smith, launched Montana Knife Company, he set out to create the ultimate do-it-all knife. It needed to be small and light enough to pack on a goat hunt, durable enough to completely field dress a moose, and shaped to gut, cape, skin, and debone with ease. He called this flagship knife “The Blackfoot”.

Crafted from cryogenically treated 52100 high-carbon ball-bearing steel, the blade balances edge retention, toughness, and wear resistance. Its compact size, 3.5″ blade length, and 7.75″ total length, make it portable, yet robust enough for heavy-duty tasks. The bulletproof G-10 handle scales offer unmatched strength, durability, and grip, while the handle contours ensure comfort during extended use. The knife comes with a promise of free sharpening, cleaning, and repairs for life through the Generations program.

Kings Camo XKG Preacher Pant 2.0 

Made for active hunters, the Preacher Pants feature a new and improved design with lighter, quiet four-way stretch fabric. Equipped with Polygiene Odor Control Technology, it ensures odor management during extended hunts. The pant also includes six easily accessible pockets, hip vents for temperature regulation, and articulated knees with removable knee pads for added comfort.

With a grip strip waistband and two vented side zippers, it provides convenience and functionality. The 275-gram fabric weight makes it suitable for rugged terrains, allowing hunters to get even closer for the perfect shot.

Stone Glacier Grumman LITE Down Jacket

The Grumman LITE Down Jacket is designed for use during static activities in cool conditions or as a layer underneath a shell in cool, wet conditions. It features ultralight 850+ fill HyperDry goose down insulation and a weather-resistant Pertex Quantum shell.

The minimalist design is ideal for milder conditions and weighs only 11.1 oz (size Large). The jacket includes an articulated adjustable hood, YKK zippers, and comes with a stuff sack. Its low-volume hood design ensures optimized hearing and vision for hunters. A versatile and packable option that complements the original Grumman Down Jacket for early season outings.

Sitka Intercept Hoody

The Intercept Hoody is designed for stealthy approaches to big game like elk and mule deer. Made with ultra-quiet merino wool blend, it suppresses sound, scent, and sight for bowhunting. The wool also naturally resists odor, regulating temperature during stop-and-go movements. Reinforced with ArmorSpun merino wool and nylon, it withstands rugged terrain. Removable elbow pads add protection while crawling.

The fitted hood has an integrated merino wool mesh facemask for concealment. With a center front zipper for easy on/off and ventilation, it weighs 14.4 oz. Ideal for spot-and-stalk bowhunting, the Intercept Hoody ensures a successful approach to game.

KUIU Katana Storm Shell Set

A full set of rain gear is crucial for backcountry safety. And the Kutana Storm Shell Jacket and pants boast an innovative microporous hydrophobic membrane sourced from Toray. This membrane remains breathable even during low-intensity activities and boasts exceptional water-repellent properties for remarkably swift drying. Stretch nylon 6/6 exterior fabric provides remarkable tear strength amidst densely vegetated landscapes, and its endurance against moisture is extended by the enhanced K-DWR treatment. The novel Torain 3-layer construction by Toray introduces a groundbreaking seam tape that, combined with the membrane, enhances resistance against seepage.

Both the Kutana Storm Shell Jacket and pants incorporate an array of built-in pockets, ventilation features, and cinch options, catering to the demands of arduous hunts.

Zamberlan Baltoro Lite GTX RR Boot

The Zamberlan 1110 Baltoro Lite GTX RR is a high-performance backcountry hiking, backpacking, and hunting boot that offers technical excellence and lightweight construction. It features Perwanger leather uppers known for their durability and resistance against rocks and harsh usage. The PU-coated rubber rands on the toe box and heel enhance durability and prevent delamination.

The boot’s exclusive Zamberlan Vibram Starlite outsoles provide high traction in various backcountry applications. It’s also equipped with anti-corrosion hardware with an easy-pass design to reduce lace wear and tear.

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