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Deer Hunting Tips – 11 Critical Steps To Whitetail Success

Even when it’s not deer season, it’s important to be thinking about ways to make your whitetail deer season a big winner. If you’ve found this page, it is likely that you are wondering, “how can I be a better deer hunter?”

Below are 11 winning deer hunting tips for a successful deer hunt:

  1. Be obsessed with scent control
  2. Make the wind your friend
  3. Just be quiet already!
  4. Let your imagination guide preparation
  5. Don’t let your deer stand give you away
  6. Know thy land
  7. Aim for low scores in predictability
  8. Be a doe stalker
  9. Know that the rut changes things
  10. Don’t let technology get you busted
  11. Take an ethical shot

READY TO DIVE INTO OUR TOP 11 DEER HUNTING TIPS TO BECOMING A BETTER HUNTER? READ ON BELOW!

Deer Hunting Tip #1: Be obsessed with scent control

Never, ever underestimate the importance of wind direction and scent control when hunting whitetail deer. Their noses are sensitive defense systems that help alert them to predators… and that includes you!

whitetail buck walking in high grass

A deer’s best defense mechanism is its nose. You have to figure out how to stay out of its way. (Photo by Jeff Coldwell)

If you want to increase your chances of taking a whitetail, you need to be as “invisible” to the deer as possible. This is why being obsessed with scent control is #1 on our list of deer hunting tips.

Can you just roll up into the woods with a smoldering Marlboro Red dangling from your lips, randomly pick a tree stand or blind to hunt in, and get lucky? Sure, there’s always a story. But, taking this approach is not setting you up for hunting success.

You smell good… or do you?

Let’s face it, you stink. Sure, you may practice good hygiene, but the truth is, to a whitetail, you are a foul odor!

There are a variety of products on the market that allow hunters to get clean without smelling like a perfume commercial.

Generously using a scent-free soap when you shower (before you go in the woods, not the night before), is a big step in the right direction. But wait, but there’s more you can do.


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12/24/2024 10:28 pm GMT

deer nose

You need to be as under the radar as possible when it comes to defeating the nose of the whitetail deer. Scent control is an absolute must.

Your significant other may love that you shower and use sweet smelling soaps, but if you want a deer hunting date with destiny, you’d better be diligent with smelling, well, like nothing.

What about the towels you dry off with? Do they smell like a rose garden? How much good do you think it will do you to wash with scent-free soap if you immediately dry off with a towel that smells “mountain fresh?”

Do yourself a solid and take care of the scent on your bath towels. Your hunting success could depend on it.



Clothe your body with… nothing

Well, not literally nothing. What we mean here is after you have used a scent-free soap on you and your towels, be sure that your hunting clothes are as scent-free as possible.

Again, there are many scent-free laundry detergents out there to choose from. Washing your hunting clothes in baking soda is also helpful.

And, it probably goes without saying, but when you dry your clothes, don’t add a sweet smelling dryer sheet to the load and completely ruin all the work you’ve done!

When you’re not wearing your hunting clothes, store them in a bag or tote where they can stay as scent free as possible.


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IF YOU’RE WONDERING WHAT YOU SHOULD WEAR WHEN HUNTING WHITETAIL… READ ON



The right hunting gear for the weather

A big part of scent control is making sure that you are wearing the right hunting clothes for the type of weather you are hunting in. A good rule of thumb when thinking through what hunting clothes you’re going to wear is this… don’t wear something that will make you sweat.

Whether the forecast calls for hot weather or frigid weather, when it comes to whitetail hunting, sweat is definitely not your friend.

As your skin’s bacteria begins to break down the sweat your body produces, odor occurs. And, of course we’ve already talked about how a whitetail feels about your B.O. So, why give them one more reason to bust your while you are walking into the woods or in your deer stand?

snowy hunting weather

Be sure you wear appropriate clothing for the weather you are hunting in. Too little clothing and you’ll be too cold. Too much and you’ll sweat, be cold… AND smell bad!

Even if it’s cold weather, wearing too much clothing, especially on a long walk carrying hunting gear, can lead to sweating. Not only will you stink, but you’ll have a very cold day in the deer stand once your body temperature cools down.

One way to prevent sweating is to dress lightly on cold days when walking to your deer stand or permanant blind. You may be cold at first, but as you walk, your body temperature will rise. Once you get to your hunting location, you can add layers to your light clothing. If you’ve avoided sweating and can keep your head and feet warm, you’ll likely be ready for a long sit.



Avoid the sausage biscuit run

Josh Wells of N1 Outdoors with a south georgia whitetail

Your deer hunting success – or lack thereof – is often tied to your attention to detail when it comes to scent control.

Remember, a quick stop at a fast food restaurant before your deer hunt may curb the hunger pains, but it could also undo all the painstaking scent control preparation you’ve done leading up to this point.

Hot sausage biscuit smell is not a scent that is natural to the deer woods. So, as good as that greasy goodness may sound to you early on hunting day, try an apple, banana or granola bar instead.


THIS is why you should avoid the sausage biscuit run!

Final scent control steps

So, you’ve been careful to eliminate as much human scent as possible prior to walking to your deer stand or blind… but, you’re not done yet! Scent control clothing is another layer of detection protection against a deer’s nose.



There are plenty of scent control clothing items, suits, etc on the market, so it won’t be hard for you to find some options here. It’s important to not only cover your body, but also your head and face, when possible. Remember, the goal is to have as little of your scent floating through the air or left on the ground as possible.

In addition, you can also use scent eliminator sprays to spray down your hunting clothing, boots, etc before walking to your hunting location. Again, there are many available on the market to choose from.



Tip #2: Make the wind your friend

So, you’ve been careful to remove and keep as much human scent off you as possible prior to the hunt. But, that’s only a part of a good scent control hunting strategy.

It’s imperative that you pay attention to wind direction each and every time you prepare to hunt. Ignoring wind direction is one of the biggest mistakes you can make as a hunter. That’s why wind direction makes our list of deer hunting tips. And, it goes hand in hand with scent control.

Even if you’re hunting in suburban areas, where deer are more accustomed to human presence, you need to be in tune with the wind.

maston boyd with whitetail buck

The whitetail not only sees movement extremely well, it has a nose that is made to smell trouble. If you expect to harvest a mature buck, you had better not ignore the wind.

As we’ve already mentioned, a deer’s nose is a defense mechanism. If it smells you, it smells danger. So, you don’t want your scent blowing over areas that are holding deer (the last thing you want to hear is a deer blowing because it smelled you).

It’s important, whenever possible, to be familiar with deer patterns on the property you’ll be hunting. Know where the bedding and feeding areas are, as well as the travel routes that deer take between the two.



Know what food sources are on the property you are hunting and the specific times of the season where deer are frequenting those areas.

If you know where deer tend to be, then you know you need to avoid the wind carrying your scent in their direction. Staying downwind of where the deer typically are is very important.

Paying attention to these details is not only important for when you are hunting in your deer stand or blind, but also when you are entering and exiting your hunting location.

DO YOU KNOW HOW TO BE DOWNWIND OF THE DEER? READ ON…



Be sure the wind is working in your favor when hunting whitetail deer. Read on to find out how!

So, what is upwind vs downwind?

Maybe you’re new to deer hunting or maybe you just haven’t ever paid attention to wind direction when you hunt.

But, you’ve heard hunters using the terms “upwind” and “downwind” and you’re wondering what that really means. It’s really fairly simple.



Being “upwind” of the deer means you’re above, or upward, of their location. So, that means if the wind blows over you, everything below you would potentially be detecting your scent.

That’s not what you want.

Being “downwind” of the deer means that you are below their location as it pertains to the wind. This is what you want. You want to be downwind of the deer so that when the wind blows, it does not blow toward the deer you are hunting.


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12/24/2024 11:49 pm GMT

hunting wind direction graphic

Being “downwind” of the deer you are hunting is critical to your hunting success.

If you know where deer typically bed down and feed, an easy way to remember how to stay downwind is to try to always have the wind blowing in your face as you approach those locations. This will keep your scent downwind of the deer your are hunting. Remember, you don’t want a deer’s nose to detect you while you are hunting in the stand or in the blind, but you also don’t want them to smell you when you leave. If they do, they could pattern you and of course, avoid those locations, which means less deer for you to potentially see and kill. So, be sure that your exit route is downwind of where the deer are as well. This takes careful planning.



Tip #3: Just be quiet already!

Sorry, didn’t mean to yell that tip at you.

It seems like it should go without saying, but you are arguably a deer’s #1 predator. It’s going to be hard to be a good predator, though, if you announce you are coming.

Let me explain.

Are you walking through the woods like, well, a human? Deer know what other animals sound like moving through the woods. They also know what people sound like.

deer hunting megaphone

Don’t make it easy for deer to know you are there by making unnatural noises.

So, do all you can to be as stealthy as possible. Try walking on the heels of your boots to make less noise.

Also, if you are stand hunting, the unwanted “ping” of your bow, gun or other gear hitting your stand is enough to make a deer take notice that something isn’t right. Be as quiet as possible.



Also, take care to be as silent as possible when getting your bow or gun up to your hunting stand. Wrapping metal gear in duct tape or applying foam padding to load items is sometimes helpful.

And then there’s the dreaded cough. Do everything you can NOT to cough, but certainly try to muffle the sound as much as possible if a cough is unavoidable. You might should stay home and rest rather than educate the deer to your presence.



Tip #4: Let your imagination guide preparation

Every hunter fantasizes about that perfect hunting scenario… There you are in your favorite hunting location.

Out walks the buck of a lifetime.

If you’re a bowhunter, maybe you imagine him walking 15 yards upwind of your stand.

Then, he magically turns broadside, presenting the perfect shot for a clean pass-through. He stands there, looking the other direction, as you stand, draw, put the pin on him and release the perfect shot, at the perfect time, on the perfect buck.

Wake up!

Can scenarios like that happen? Sure they can. But, what is more likely, is that there will be a lot of things that factor into whether or not you get the chance to take the deer. Are you going to be prepared for those factors?

whitehail hunting imagination

It may be virtually impossible to think just like a deer, but hunters need to use their imagination to try and pre-determine all the possible scenarios that can happen during a whitetail hunt… and practice for them!

While rifle or archery target practice is an important part of honing your hunting skills, you also need to be prepared for the things that can happen during a hunt that you can’t control.

For example, can you shoot your bow effectively from varying stances? Are you as accurate standing up as well as sitting down? Have you practiced shooting at varying heights and angles and in different types of weather?

For spot and stalk hunters, how about on your knees? Rifle hunters, have you practiced shooting off-hand?

Use your imagination and dream up all the possible scenarios that could happen during a hunt. Rely on past experiences as well. Chances are, something is going to happen on a hunt that you didn’t expect… unless of course, you’re ready for it!


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Tip #5: Don’t let your deer stand give you away

It’s not enough to know where the deer are on your hunting property and simply hang a lock-on stand or to use a climbing stand. Be sure what that stand placement will look like during the time of day you are hunting.

lock on tree stand

Be sure that your stand placement doesn’t create silhoetting or shadowing that will get you busted.

You might have picked a location for your deer stand that is covered up with scrapes, licking branches, rubs and other deer sign. You may have even imagined what the deer you’re going to shoot looks like. But, you also need to imagine what you’re going to look like to the deer while you’re in that stand.



Silhoetting

Let’s say you find a great location to hunt. So, you pick a tree for your stand placement, but it has no other trees or cover around it. And, let’s say you will be hunting that stand at a time of day when the sun will be behind you.

Without any surrounding cover, when that big ‘ole sun shines behind you, the deer could potentially get a silhouette of your body against the sunlight.

tree stand in tree

Trees like this might be too small to hide your shape from a wary whitetail, especially after the leaves fall. If available, trees with wider trunks can help conceal you better.

A wary doe or buck may not hang around to see what happens next. And, they will likely be cautious when entering that area again.

So how can you prevent this? One way is to try and select trees that have a wide base that your body’s shape can disappear against.

Trees like this obviously cannot be climbed with a climbing stand. They can, however, be very good trees for lock-on deer stands.

If you wear some good camo clothing, it will be more difficult for a deer to silhouette you when you’re sitting with your back against a tree that is wider than you are.



Get coverage…

No not insurance coverage! Whether using a climbing stand or a lock-on stand, is to try to pick a tree that has another tree right beside it, behind it, or around it that can provide some cover for you.

It’s important to remember that a deer’s line of sight is often different than yours. Try to visualize what you look like from their perspective.



Any leaves, branches or trees that will provide some break up of your silhouette without hindering your shot can be very beneficial in keeping your location concealed.

Contrary to what some believe, deer can and will look up. If they hear you or run across scent near your tree stand location, they might look up to see what that strange looking thing is above them. That usually doesn’t end in success for the hunter.




Rise above

Hunting higher up in a tree can benefit you in a few ways. First, it can allow your scent to blow higher across the ground, and give you somewhat of an edge in the scent control game. In addition, hunting higher often makes a deer in close range less aware of your presence.

One disadvantage to hunting higher, especially for bowhunters, is that it narrows the window of a clear vitals shot.

At steeper angles it can be difficult to get a clean pass-through shot. The last thing you want to do is take a shot that will not allow the deer to have as quick a demise as possible.


THIS was a steep angle, but that’s not why he missed… check it out!

Also, if you climb high, be sure that you have enough length on your pull-up rope to get your bow or gun up to where you are in your stand. The last thing you want is your bow or gun dangling off the ground.

So, choose your hunting location after giving much thought to sun location as well as surrounding cover and tree stand height.


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12/24/2024 11:09 pm GMT

big buck standing broadside

Hunting higher in the tree might help to blow your scent over a mature buck’s nose. But, it can also make shot angles steeper and more difficult.

Tip #6: Know thy land

If at all possible, you should be familiar with the land you are hunting. Sure, you may get an opportunity to hunt a piece of property, or even public hunting land that you don’t have the opportunity to scout prior to the hunt. However, if you do have full access to the property you will hunt, you should put in the time to be well versed in the details of that property.



Where are the deer and where are they going?

It’s hard to ignore an area of your hunting property that is full of deer sign. But, sometimes, you need to dig deeper into the details. It’s not just important to know where the deer are at a particular time… you also want to know where they’re going. After all, deer tracks tell you where they’ve already been!

Do you know where the deer typically bed down? Are you familiar with the feeding areas and water sources? Where are the travel routes that the deer typically use to move from one area to the next?

For example, it can be very difficult to sneak into and setup in a deer’s bedding area without getting busted. However, if you know where the deer typically go when they leave the bedding area, that’s important to note in formulating a plan to harvest whitetails. Then, be there waiting on the deer when they get there!

whitetail standing in high grass under large tree

It’s important to not only know where the deer are on the property you’re hunting. It’s also critical to know where they are travelling to and from. (photo by Matt Hartsky)



Don’t forget the wind

As referenced earlier, all of this must be done while thinking about and paying attention to wind direction. Is your entry route to your hunting spot accessible without having your wind blow to the deer’s location?

It doesn’t matter how many deer you may have on your hunting land. If you don’t have a plan to approach your hunting location downwind of the deer, your hunt could be over before it even begins.

whitetail buck in grass

It’s wise to have multiple stand locations to account for various wind directions. (Photo by Jeff Coldwell)

This means you should consider having multiple deer stand locations for varying wind directions. So, if the wind isn’t right on a particular day for that location, resist the urge to hunt it until it is.

When possible, take advantage of creek beds and ditches to access your blind or deer stand location, so that you can minimize the amount of scent you leave on deer travel routes and feeding areas.

Also, be sure you are aware of the prevailing winds on the property you are hunting. And, don’t just know the wind direction. Know how the topography and lay of the land can cause wind currents to swirl or move erratically. Remember, the wind can make or break a hunt. So, know how the lay of your hunting land affects it.


If you bowhunt, you understand!

Tip #7: Aim for low scores in predictability

When it comes down to it, you want to be where the deer are going to be when you are hunting. Hopefully, you have done enough scouting of the land and reviewing of trail cam pictures that you can predict deer movement. But, while you want predictable deer, you don’t want to be predictable yourself.

For example, let’s say you knew that a dump truck would speed by, dangerously close to your front door, every single morning at 8:05 am. You would probably be sure you aren’t anywhere outside your front door at that time of day!

Deer are no different. If you are lazy in your hunting strategy and become predictable, deer will simply avoid those hunting locations during the times you try to access them.

Mix things up. Don’t hunt the same deer stand or blind location every time, even if the wind is right. Have multiple hunting locations and multiple ways to access them. And, of course, always pay attention to the wind when you make your entry and exit.



Tip #8: Be a doe stalker

There are meat hunters and trophy hunters. This article isn’t about arguing which group is more right in its hunting approach. But, there is a hunting tip that helps both groups… hunt the does.

Sooner or later, as the rut begins to heat up, bucks will go on the prowl for hot does. It’s an inevitable part of the whitetail life cycle. And you want to know where the does typically are when it begins.


whitetail doe on trailcam

Sooner or later, bucks will be where the does are… be sure you know where that is.


Even Mr. Big Buck can throw caution to the wind when a hot doe is the prize. If you hunt the does throughout the season, he just might eventually show up in your cross hairs or behind one of your bow sight pins.

You might be a casual hunter, or only have time to hunt a few times a season. Or, you might have the luxury of getting to hunt as often as you like. Either way, knowing where the does are and how they move on a property throughout the course of a hunting season gives you a higher probability of taking a deer, and possibly, the buck of a lifetime.


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Tip #9: Know that the rut changes things

Most deer hunters would probably say that if they could only hunt one time a year, they would want to hunt during the rut.

The rut is indeed a magical time of year for the whitetail hunter. Bucks that have been mostly nocturnal can show up out of nowhere, trailing or chasing hot does. But, it’s important for hunters to be aware that while the rut can ramp up deer movement and buck activity, it also brings changes.

N1 Outdoors South Carolina buck

The rut certainly provides some opportunities to see daytime bucks. But, remember that as phases of the rut change, so do bucks’ patterns and behaviors.

For example, prior to the peak of the rut, you may have hunted scrape lines and rub lines, hoping to get a shot at bucks that might be working those locations. During this time, bucks are looking to leave their territorial scent as well as checking scrapes for any receptive does in the area.

But, when bucks are locked up with does during peak phase of the rut, scrape activity can seemingly vanish. It’s important to know be aware that as the phases of the rut change, so does buck activity.

Tip #10: Don’t let technology get you busted

Communication while hunting has come a long way over the years. Hi-tech hunting used to mean having a walkie-talkie with an ear piece. Now, cell phones allow us to text our family and friends as well as take and send pictures and video… all while in the deer stand or blind.

However, if we took a poll of all deer hunters, we would probably find that more than a few have been busted by deer because they were paying more attention to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram than they were their surroundings.

If you give a deer enough chances, they’ll eventually be able to spot those busy little fingers texting away on a that wonderful piece of technology called a smart phone. When that happens you’ll wish you had been, well… smarter. Aside from that, there are so many things (other than deer) in the great outdoors that you can miss. Don’t let staring down at a screen keep you from fully enjoying the wonderful creation around you.

Tip #11: Take an ethical shot

south georgia archery buck

Be sure to take a shot that will lead to the quickest possible kill.

Of all the deer hunting tips you may have used to this point to finally get a shot on a deer, this one may be one of the most important.

Whether with a bow or a gun, taking an ethical shot on a deer is an important part of being a responsible hunter.

Now, the definition of an “ethical shot” has certainly been hotly debated. But, however you define it, hopefully it leads to the cleanest and quickest kill possible for the scenario.

To do this requires practice, patience and sometimes even the ability to pass up a shot that is not ideal. It’s part of being a disciplined hunter.

whitetail deer diagram standing broadside with vitals showing

You want to have the best chance of a quick and ethical kill. Be sure you are familiar with a deer’s anatomy and how your angle position will impact the entry and exit wound.

Will you always succeed in a clean and quick kill? Probably not, especially if you are bowhunting. But, doing so effectively means you have probably learned some lessons by not taking some ethical shots.

When you make your shot, you might feel like celebrating, but be sure to watch the deer for as long as possible to watch its path and where you last saw it.

Even if you are bowhunting and using lighting nocks, don’t bank on that helping you find that deer. The arrow could break off long before the deer expires.

Whatever the case, do your best to learn from others, as well as your own experiences, to take the most ethical shot possible.


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12/25/2024 01:30 am GMT

Final Thoughts On Deer Hunting Tips

There are certainly many more deer hunting tips to be shared, but hopefully these 11 have provided you with some knowledge and insight into how to improve your hunting strategy and increase your rate of hunting success. We hope you put a hole N1!

  • Be obsessed with scent control
  • Make the wind your friend
  • Be quiet
  • Let your imagination guide preparation
  • Don’t let your deer stand give you away
  • Know thy land
  • Aim for low scores in predictability
  • Be a doe stalker
  • Know that the rut changes things
  • Don’t let technology get you busted
  • Take an ethical shot

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view from inside of a tent

Types Of Camping | Embrace The Adventure!

on . Posted in Blog, camping

Camping is an enjoyable outdoor activity that has been around since ancient times. Of course, ancient camping was just called “life.”

Now, all joking aside, camping connects us with the outdoors and allows us to disconnect from the stressors of a daily connected life.

old compass and map

Camping doesn’t have to look like might have imagined. Let’s take a look at several types of camping that could lead to your next big adventure!

There are many types of camping, each with unique characteristics and appeal. We’ll take a look at several types of camping, ranging from prefabricated shelters like a cabin or lodge, to “bare-bones” camping. (You can jump straight to the camping style you want more information about by clicking the links below!)

Glamping

night view of glamping house

What is “glamping” you might ask? Well, it’s “glamorous camping,” and it probably looks a lot different than the camping images you have in your mind!

For many years the term “glamping” (or, glamorous camping”), was used as a dig for campers who wanted to enjoy the outdoors without the added hassle of “roughing it.”

Rather than taking the remark as an insult, campers have leaned into the concept, and now families can enjoy the outdoors while enjoying many amenities of home.

glamping yurt

Glamping involves staying in powered campsites with rigid wall structures like yurts or cabins.

While the level of luxury can change, glamping lets campers stay out of the wind, with power for lights and amenities, and sleep on beds instead of sleeping bags on the ground.

Many families who love the outdoor activities without having to worry about setting up a tent and an entire campsite will enjoy glamping as well!



Car Camping

Car camping is one of the most popular type of camping, and is great for those who want to enjoy nature without having to go too far from the comforts of home.

view from a tent car camping

Car camping is great for those who want to stay close to a restroom and shower facilities, as well as access to electricity. Not to mention there is some comfort in being able to stay in the car if the weather turns rotten.

Car camping involves bringing a vehicle to a designated campsite via a paved or unpaved road, depending on the campground.

After campers have arrived at their designated campsite, the vehicle is unpacked. The campsite is carried to the campground by vehicle, but the tent, cooler, chairs, cooking area, and the like are assembled away from the vehicle itself (unless you have a vehicle rooftop tent).

Most campgrounds that offer car camping have electricity, bathrooms, and running water nearby.




RV and Van Camping

vw van with rooftop camper

RV or van camping combines the mobility of car camping with even more comforts of home.

Vans and RVs (recreational vehicles) can utilize traditional campgrounds or designated RV parks with additional hookups to accommodate the vehicle’s power needs.

The bathroom convenience of RV camping is particularly appealing for those looking to not walk through a dark campground for a late-night bathroom trip.

rv for camping

Unlike car camping, where sleeping is done outside of the vehicle, RVs and camper vans provide a sleeping area inside the vehicle away from the elements.

While many campers still set up a traditional camp outside of the vehicle, many RVs are equipped with refrigerators, kitchens, and bathrooms.





Dry Camping

An offshoot of RV and van camping is dry camping.

Unlike traditional RV campsites that have hookups for power, water, and even a location to pump your wastewater, dry camping has none of those.

Dry camping is popular for its reduced cost compared to the nightly fees for campsites with power and water hookups.

For full-time RVers, dry camping is a great way to travel at a lower cost.



Overlanding

There is a more rugged form of car camping called Overlanding.

Overlanding involves carrying everything needed for a camping trip in an off-road capable vehicle.

car camping tent

Unlike traditional car campers, “overlanders” find their own paths into the wild and often use their vehicles as sleeping quarters, cook stations, and charging ports.

The thrill for overlanders is the ability to explore new places and get away from crowds that can frequent well-known spots.



Tent Camping

A departure from camping with a vehicle or solid structure, tent camping involves a bit more “roughing it.”

Within tent camping, levels range from the backyard to the wilderness.

Backyard Camping

While pitching a tent in the backyard doesn’t sound like camping, it’s a great way to conduct a trial run for a more extensive camping experience.

kids backyard camping

Parents will also appreciate backyard camping when they turn a raucous slumber party into an adventure by keeping the kids outside rather than jumping on the bed.

Being able to pack it in is a nice convenience, should the weather turn foul and your rainfly isn’t as weatherproof as you thought.

Not only can you test your gear under prime conditions, but it serves as a great first step to acclimate children to camping.


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Primitive Camping

Primitive camping is the next level up from car camping and is a great way to fully immerse yourself in nature.

With primitive camping, you’ll need to be prepared with your food, shelter, and supplies.

campfire flame

Primitive camping involves leaving all of the amenities of home behind and camping in remote and secluded locations. Without a car’s storage and carrying capacity, campers need to prioritize lightweight, compact items.

If you choose to go to a campground that offers primitive campsites, you’ll need to be sure you reserve and stay in designated sites that are marked on trails in the area.



The challenge with primitive camping that also makes it the experience so rewarding is that campers must carry in everything needed.

This type of camping is great for those who want to connect with nature and have a unique outdoor experience.

For those looking at a team-building exercise, assigning each member of a camping party to carry specific pieces of gear increases the camp’s ability to have more. So, you could say that in primitive camping, “teamwork makes the dream work.”




Dispersed Camping (Go “Remote”)

The last type of camping we’ll cover is dispersed camping.

Out of all the styles of camping, dispersed camping is the most remote, challenging, and rugged.

camping vehicle in the starlight

Unlike car camping or primitive camping, dispersed camping is where you go off the grid and venture into the wilderness beyond any designated campsites.

In many areas of designated wilderness, there is a minimum distance that camps must be from the road. Without those minimums, campers would quickly overuse the areas near roadways that are critical for wildlife (and from an adventure standpoint, it’s kind of cheating to have your car just a few yards away!)



camping stars

Dispersed camping requires the most preparation. Unlike camping at assigned campsites where the ground is level and often free of any dangers like flooding, a dispersed camper needs to consider the overall safety of their campsite as well as proximity to resources like water.

This type of camping is great for those who want to experience the ultimate in solitude and remote camping.

Just like with primitive camping, you’ll need to bring your gear, food, and water.





While fire safety should be practiced with all forms of camping, the lack of premade fire pits means that you, as the camper, must pay extra attention to how and where you build your fire.

For all of the responsibility and effort required in dispersed camping, it is no wonder why few campers attempt it. However, the challenges and rewards of total freedom and isolation are also the reason why campers who complete these trips want to embark on more.




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Final Thoughts On Camping Types

While we all may come from different backgrounds and have different outlooks on life, we can all successfully share in the outdoors.

campfire with sparks

Nature is deeply rooted in our psyche. The desire to put the phone away, hold calls and status updates for a sunrise, and take in the smells of a campfire runs through all of us.

Every type of camping listed above can be broken down into smaller sections for more niche activities. Rather than carrying the campsite on your back, you can use bikes, horses, or even llamas.

Car camping can quickly become boat, canoe or kayak camping.



No matter which type of camping you choose, from packing the family sedan full of coolers and lawn chairs for a weekend camping or planning a getaway in the wildest edge of the backcountry you can find, you’re sure to have an unforgettable outdoor experience.

So, get out there and start planning your next camping trip! And who knows, we may even see you out there because, as John Muir once said, “The mountains are calling, and I must go.”

handgun and camo holster

Handgun Hunting 101: Gun and Gear Basics

If you’re looking to get started with handgun hunting, you’ll want to be sure you have the proper equipment and skills. So, let’s cover the basics and some tips that will help you lead you to positive results.

Choosing The Right Handgun And Gear For Hunting

minnesota whitetailed buck

The first step in handgun hunting might sound simplistic, but it’s true… you need to select the right gun and gear.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a handgun:

  1. Weight And Size

First, you ought to select a handgun that’s the appropriate size and weight for the type of hunting in which you’ll be engaging. Too heavy of a handgun can be difficult to shoot accurately, while one that’s lightweight may be more difficult to control.

If you are building your firearm or accessory, choosing the right polymer frame is important as well.

Various Polymer 80 Frames and those for other pistol types are in the market, so ensure to choose the most suitable ones for your needs..

  1. The Type Of Handgun

When choosing a hunting handgun, consider the type you want. Handguns come in many styles, such as revolvers, semi-automatics, and single-shot pistols.

  • Revolvers
loading revolver

Revolvers are reliable, but can also be somewhat difficult to shoot accurately when hunting.

Revolvers are the oldest and most reliable type of handgun. They have a cylinder that holds the ammunition and a trigger that rotates the cylinder when pulled. Generally, they’re the most reliable type of handgun, although they can be more difficult to shoot accurately.


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  • Semi-Automatic Handguns

Semi-automatic handguns are the most popular type for handgun hunting. They use a magazine to hold the ammunition and the trigger pulls the slide back to chamber a round. They’re more accurate than revolvers, but require more maintenance and can be more difficult to handle.

  • Single-Shot Pistols

Single-shot pistols are often used for small-game hunting. These guns are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and offer a range of ammunition choices. They’re the least expensive type, as well as the least powerful, but they can still be effective when used correctly.

It’s important to use the right gun for the job. Smaller caliber handguns are great for smaller game hunting, while bigger game, such as deer or elk, will require a larger caliber handgun.

  1. Grip
pistol grip

Another factor to consider in choosing the right handgun for hunting is the grip. It’s necessary to select a gun that’s comfortable to handle. It should be the correct size for your hands and the type of hunting you’re doing.

 Here are several ways you can determine the right grip size for your handgun:




  • Feel The Grip

One of the most straightforward ways to determine the right grip size for a handgun is to feel the grip. It should comfortably fit in the palm, and you should be able to wrap your fingers around it with minimal effort.

  • Measure The Hand
hand holding pistol

Measuring the hand to be sure it’s a good fit for the manufacturer’s specs is an important step in choosing the right hunting handgun for you.

And remember, no matter what type of handgun you go for, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to ensure its reliability and accuracy during hunting trips.




Other Equipment Necessary For Handgun Hunting

In addition to the gun, several other pieces of equipment are necessary for successful handgun hunting. These include:

  • Ammunition
handgun in bullets

Ammunition refers to the projectiles and cartridges used in firearms. It typically consists of a bullet, primer, powder, and casing.

There are different types of ammunition suitable for handguns and game animals.

For example, hollow point ammunition is a great choice for small game hunting as it’ll expand upon impact and cause less damage to the meat. On the other hand, full metal jacket ammunition is better for larger game as it’ll penetrate deeper and cause more damage.

If you are hand gun hunting for deer, some cartridge choices to consider are:

  1. 9mm Luger
  2. .327 Federal Magnum
  3. .45 Auto
  4. 10mm Auto
  5. .357 Remington Magnum
  6. .44 Remington Magnum
  7. 40 Smith & Wesson


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  • Holster

A holster is a type of accessory typically worn on a belt or any other clothing piece around the waist and is used for carrying a handgun. It’s designed to provide a quick and secure way of carrying and concealing a firearm. 

gun in holster on hip with camo shirt

A holster should be comfortable and secure, allowing easy access to the handgun when needed. It should also be compatible with the gun and the type of clothing worn.


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  • Protective Gear
protective shooting equipment

Eye and ear protection are also a must. Eye protection will help prevent debris from getting in your eyes that may kick up when firing your handgun. This particular activity can also be loud, so it’s important to protect your ears to avoid hearing damage.

  •  Jig

A jig is used to help with precision and accuracy. It ensures the handgun is held in the same position each time, allowing the shooter to make consistent shots. 

The jig typically consists of a base, an adjustable arm, and a clamp to secure the handgun. It also helps reduce muzzle rise and can be used to mount optics and other accessories.

These are the basic items you’ll need to get started with handgun hunting. But, depending on your needs, you might also require other tools, such as a rangefinder for determining the distance to your target, a scope for longer-range shooting, or a bipod for more stability.



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Tips For Successful Handgun Hunting

Here are ways you can ensure successful handgun hunting:

  • Practice Your Shooting

Handgun hunting requires a high level of accuracy, and you’ll need to shoot accurately and quickly to take down game successfully. That said, constant practice is essential to become proficient with your handgun.

man shooting handgun on range

Ensure that your are familiar with your handgun and comfortable with safely aiming and firing it before you ever go hunting with it.

Since you never know what situations may arise when hunting, you should always practice shooting from different positions, such as from a bench, a tree stand, or the ground, while considering the target’s distance, size, and wind direction.

elevate stand fixed position tree stand

Hunting from a treestand can help conceal you from your target animal’s normal line of sight.

One effective technique for handgun hunting is to use a tree stand or blind to help conceal your presence and get closer to the game. This can help you get within range for a successful shot without spooking the game.

Additionally, ensure the gun is always pointed in a safe direction and never loaded until you’re ready to shoot.



  • Adopt The Right Mindset

When hunting with a handgun, approach the hunt with the right mindset. Unlike rifle hunting, where you can take longer shots, handgun hunting requires a closer proximity to your game.

This means you’ll need to be stealthy and patient to get close enough to the game for a successful shot. And, always remember that wind direction is critical to having the best chance to harvest your target animal.

  • Know And Follow All Firearms Laws

Finally, as a hunter, it’s your responsibility to follow all applicable laws and regulations concerning the use of firearms. Make sure you understand and abide by them.





Final Thoughts on Handgun Hunting

Handgun hunting is both challenging and rewarding. It’s important to select the right gun and gear, and understand the basics of the activity before heading out.

With the right knowledge, equipment and practice, you can have a successful, unforgettable, and enjoyable handgun hunting experience.