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Guided September Elk Hunt
The best gear you can bring is a pair of lungs and legs in the best shape possible. All the money in the world can't buy gear that will replace fitness. If you smoke, try your best to quit before your trip.
Use all your gear before your trip. This especially applies to boots, day packs, and safety equipment. New, not-worn-in boots can ruin a trip. Making sure your day pack fits well will make your trip more enjoyable.
Pack your weapons in hard cases.
The weather in September is unpredictable and any day can turn out to be a winter day up in the high country. A large portion of our hunting area is around 8,500ft. Days are typically into the 60's-70's with nights typically in the 30's and 40's. Highs can get into the 80's and lows can be below freezing. A good layering system is the best way to stay comfortable with the big fluctuation of Colorado weather. The following is a guideline on what we pack.
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Binos
I use a 10x42 as my everyday carry. These things go everywhere with me. I like having 8 to 10 powers around my neck at all times. I spend 100+ days in the field a year and with that, I buy the best. Any decent 8 or 10 power will work.
Spotting Scopes
Range Finders
Backpacks & Gear
Backpack
I used a badlands day pack for years combined with an old frame meat pack for my heavy loads. This worked great for a weekend warrior hunter. However, when I started spending more time in the field I knew I needed more space. I went with the Kifaru Nomad pack due to its versatility. I completely remove the pack when carrying meat. It has been super comfortable and the customer service at Kifaru has been top-notch to me.
Knives
Sharp knives matter so having a reliable fixed blade is a must and also having a replaceable blade knife with a couple of spare blades has made quick work of game in the field.
Hydration
Game Bags
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Accessories
I usually go with what I'm comfortable with in the field and what I've found has worked for me in the past. However, I'm a gadget junky so I'm always sprinkling in new things to see how things are evolving.
Blinds/ Tree Stands
Miscellaneous Safety Items
Camping Equipment
Most of our hunts are run out of our cabins but when we venture out and are backpacking somewhere this is what I use.
Food & Nutrition
Food and fuel for your body are so important. It is paramount that you stay properly fed and hydrated so you can get after it when the time comes.
Clothing
When it comes to clothing I've been down several paths but am pretty dialed on my system now. I like appropriate layers and things that are quiet.
Baselayers
Insulation/ Midlayers
Pants
Footwear
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Accessories
Gloves
Headwear
Firearms
Archery
I am a big advocate of shooting all the bows and figuring out what "sings" to you. Everyone is different and there really isn't a one bow fits all. I currently have a Hoyt RX1 Ultra - I'll be upgrading this winter and will shoot all the models to see what I like.
Rifle
I use very good rifles on my personal hunts and they are always available to hunters who have equipment malfunctions when on their rifle hunts with me.
