Gear Up: The Best Hunting Gear for Deer Hunts (2025)

There's something about gearing up that gets me pumped. It's the excitement before the hunt and the knowledge that I will soon be out in the field. 

While it's easy to get caught up in this excitement, having a kit list of hunting gear for deer is a strategy that every hunter should stick to. It's best to have something and not need it than be stranded without an essential piece of gear. 

HuntWise is your resource for the best hunting gear! Today, we're breaking down the most essential pieces of gear you'll need on your next deer hunt, as well as some pro-recommendations (with discounts) to ensure you're getting the best out of whatever you pack out on your next hunt while saving some money. 

We'll cover:

• Clothing and Camo

• Bows, Firearms, and Accessories

• Extras

• Navigation and Safety

• And more!

Why Gear Matters For Better Deer Hunts

With advancements in technology and a booming hunting industry that continually innovates and develops more efficient firearms, warmer clothing, and cutting-edge equipment, gear for deer hunting has come a long way from flintlock rifles and animal-skin coats. While some gear can make your hunt just that little easier, other gear is an absolute necessity and crucial for deer hunting. 

Choosing the right gear for a deer hunt can also vary depending on hunting conditions and weather patterns. Early-season hunters, such as bowhunters, will need lightweight and breathable fabrics, whereas late-season rifle hunters will do better with warmer thermal clothing and greater optical capacity. 

A Breakdown of the Best Gear for Deer Hunting

So, what should you bring into the field for a deer hunt? Our team has some recommendations to help you hunt better and stay comfortable every time you go out.

Clothing and Camo

Sun protection, temperature regulation, insulation, and moisture resistance are just some of the primary reasons why selecting the proper hunting clothing can significantly impact your deer hunt.

Your Base Layer

Whether you're hunting in the cool late season and are tired of shivering away in your deer blind, or you're exhausted from sweating it out in the early season sun, your base layer is what will make the most significant difference to your thermal regulation.

• For cold-weather hunts, any base layer that's moisture-wicking and retains body heat over extended periods in the outdoors will keep you warm.
• Then, a lightweight, breathable version will keep you cool in the heat.

Natural materials, like merino, are a personal favorite. However, synthetics get the job done just as well.

Your Outerwear

For outerwear, waterproof, insulated jackets and pants that provide ample weather protection are a must. Then, in the heat, consider sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeve, moisture-wicking midlayers, and a light jacket for UV protection when the mercury soars.

Camouflage choice will depend on the environment and weather. Anything that breaks your silhouette and reflects the natural patterns of the environment will effectively conceal you. 

Blaze Orange

Don't forget that blaze orange outerwear typically includes a hat and vest, which are required in most rifle seasons for visibility and safety. Often, there are minimum square inch coverage requirements, so check your state regulations. 

Footwear 

The importance of a durable and waterproof pair of boots cannot be overstated when it comes to hunting gear for deer. Matched with a pair (and a backup pair) of heavy wool socks, you'll keep your feet dry and minimize the chance of blisters, which can become severe, especially on those long backcountry hunts.

Bows, Firearms, and Accessories 

Whether you're a rifle or a bow hunter, choosing your firearm or bow is a very personal thing.

Opting for a dealer (like our friends at Savage Arms) that can help you choose the right firearm or bow is a smart way to go. They'll also ensure the caliber or draw weight is suitable for deer.

Similarly, optics will depend on your experience and comfortable firing distance. A 3-9x40 scope is a popular choice for mid-range shooting. Our partners at Vortex Optics also recommend compact scopes as an excellent option. (HuntWise Pro and Elite subscribers can save money with discounts at Vortex!)

The quality and type of ammunition will equally have a significant impact on your accuracy and shooting precision. Use your discount as a HuntWise Pro or Elite subscriber for savings on quality deer hunting ammunition from our partners at Optics Planet.

For bowhunters, when you're ready to head out, a sling or bow carrier is an essential piece of gear for comfort and versatility. Then, when not out in the field, a cleaning kit and a decent gun cradle will keep your rifle in tip-top shape and ready for your next hunt. 

Field Dressing Tools 

It's hard to beat a sharp hunting knife for versatility.

Beyond skinning an animal, a quality knife can help with a full range of tasks such as cutting rope, preparing food, clearing light brush, opening cans, and many other duties around camp.

A decent knife will be durable and last through many hunts. However, accidents can occur, and it's always best to carry a backup knife in case of emergencies. For large game, a bone saw will make the butchering process significantly easier, especially when out in the field.

Additionally, pack game bags for the storage and transportation of meat, keeping out dirt and bugs that can carry bacteria. They also keep flies off your harvest. They can lay larvae a lot quicker than you think out in the field.

On the theme of hygiene, a pair of nitrile or latex gloves will further reduce the incidence of contamination. 

Stands, Blinds, and Seating

Selecting a stand or blind will depend on the hunting environment and personal preference. Stands such as a ladder stand will typically suit wooded areas, giving you a broader field of view. 

Get started (or upgrade) your tree hunting gear with HuntWise Pro and Elite discounts from our partners at Tethrd.

On flatter terrain and near high-traffic areas, such as pinch points or water access, you may be better off opting for a well-concealed ground blind (add some local vegetation for added realism). 

Essential "Extra" Hunting Gear For Deer in the Field 

But wait, there's more!

A Hunting Gear Pack

The hunting backpack or daypack should meet your specific hunting needs. In my case, it's all about accessibility and how easily I can get to tools or hunting gear as quickly as possible when out in the field.

Pack storage is another significant consideration, as you'll be lugging gear, snacks, and any extras depending on your hunt. Try out a few different bags and assess your options based on storage capacity, compartments, comfort, and adjustability. Don't forget to match the camouflage to your hunting zone. 

Binoculars

For late-season glassing and in-person scouting, you'll need a high-quality set of optics to spot and judge deer from a distance, as well as locate high-potential hunting zones. If you're keeping costs low or are making an entry into the sport, a decent set of binoculars will be enough to spot and locate game. 

You can also save money on some of the best optics by using your HuntWise Pro or Elite discount with our partners at Maven Optics.

Hide Your Scent

Getting winded: we've all been there, and it's easy to forget just how powerful the nose of a whitetail truly is.

Getting familiar with scent control practices, as well as how to utilize cutting-edge scent products, such as sprays, soaps, ozone devices, and clothing, is important. The attention to detail and focus on quality scent control will pay huge dividends out in the field. 

Check out some highly-recommended options (and use your HuntWise Pro or Elite discount) through our partners at Scent Thief to mask your scent.

Deer Calls

Once mastered, game calls will enable you to attract deer using grunt tubes, bleats, and rattling antlers. Using the power of vocalizations, game calls that focus on realism and natural sound will maximise your hunting potential. 

We love the calls available through our partners at Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls (and you can save money when using your HuntWise Pro or Elite discount!)

Navigation and Safety

Mobile mapping apps have become standard for e-scouting and planning hunts. For features that enhance both your hunting outcomes and safety in the field, Huntwise helps with tracking animal movement, locating stands, assessing weather patterns, determining wind direction, and much more.

Then we also recommend:

• Carrying a physical compass and map is always a great backup in case any technology fails.
• For late-night camp setups, early morning walks, and keeping safe after sunset, a decent headlamp is the way to go. 
• A well-stocked first aid kit.

Remember to keep up to date with first aid training, as first aid best practices tend to change over time. 

Pack Smart, Hunt Smart 

Gearing up for a hunt starts long before you jump in the car and head out into the field.

Remember to keep all gear for deer hunting well-maintained with cleaning and storage. I keep a running spreadsheet of gear cleaning dates as well as any expiration times to ensure I'm on top of everything before the season rolls around. 

Then, keeping your gear choice flexible will allow you to best match your options with the forecasted weather and environmental shifts. Don't forget to pack high-energy snacks, water, electrolytes, as well as all your licenses and tags. 

If you need to update your gear or are just getting started as a hunter, then take a look at the HuntWise Pro and Elite subscription to save money with discounts from our partners. We've highlighted some of the best stuff for deer hunts today!

Your Hunting Gear for Deer Must Include HuntWise (for Better Hunts)

Smart, multifunctional, and durable gear is the key to a successful deer hunt. From stands and blinds to clothing, optics, and essential tools, every item should serve a purpose and help make your hunt as smooth as can be. 

Your gear for deer hunting isn't complete without HuntWise! For elite mapping insights, state hunting guides, and gear discounts that will help you prepare a kit tailor-made to your hunting needs, download the HuntWise app. 

Get your first week of HuntWise free!

Then, check out all of our Gear Partners and discounts for Pro and Elite Subscribers.