Deer Hunting Essentials: 2021

deer hunting

Deer hunting is not just exhilarating—it’s incredibly rewarding. There is no greater thrill than taking down a high-point buck or doe. To do that, however, you need the right tools and experience. That’s where GrabAGun comes in. We provide hunters of every experience with the right equipment to have an enjoyable experience. Through our store you can find everything from tactical shotguns for sale to ammo online, all at affordable rates. In this post, we broke down all the deer hunting essentials you’ll need before, during, and after a big hunting trip. Let’s get into it. 

Pre Deer Hunting Essentials

If this is the first year you’ve decided to go deer hunting, there are a few things to get out of the way beforehand. First and foremost, start by checking your local laws regarding hunting limits, the duration of the season, and the types of weapons you are allowed to use. Next, you’ll need to pay for your hunting license. You cannot hunt in the United States without a valid license. With it, you are legally allowed to hunt during a specific time in whichever state you live. If you are going to be hunting out of state, you will need to purchase a license for the area you’ll be located. 

Note: Many areas have a cap on how many licenses and permits are issued each season. Permits are different from licenses, allowing individuals to hunt specific animals on private or public land. You don’t need a permit to hunt, but you absolutely need a license. 

Once you have your licenses and permits, the next thing to determine is the “bag” limit. A “bag” limit refers to how many deer (antlered and antlerless) you are allowed to bag and tag. Limits will vary based on location, time, and other factors. Tags can come in a package deal with your license or be purchased over the counter in most outdoor supply stores. 

Last but not least, you’ll need to decide which season you’ll be hunting in. Your hunting season is determined by your location and will help you decide which weapon you choose to use. Archers typically have the first pick with their season starting in September for most areas. After that, muzzleloaders and other firearms are next in line. So how do you know which weapon is best for you?

deer hunting essentials: bow hunting

Choosing Your Perfect Weapon

Deer hunting requires very different equipment compared to something like duck or dove hunting. In those instances, you need a firearm that can disperse a large number of pellets at varying distances. With deer hunting, however, you need a singular blow to hit accurately at a long distance. For that, hunters have a few options to choose from, including:

Crossbow/Bowhunting

For bigger game like deer, bowhunting is a much sought-after weapon. Unlike dove or duck hunting, deer hunting provides larger, more stationary targets that an arrow can hit. This is not necessarily the best method for beginners, but it certainly is an enjoyable one once you get the hang of it. When you’re packing, don’t forget extra bow releases in case something happens!

Muzzleloaders

For dynamite long-range power and accuracy, muzzleloaders are the only way to go. Not only are they inexpensive, but they also provide unmatched power. It only takes one good shot to take down a high-point buck, and this firearm can do that. This is an option for experienced hunters who want to stop a deer in its tracks. Muzzleloaders for sale shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg, and they won’t when you shop with GrabAGun

Rifle/Shotguns

Hunting rifles and shotguns are what you will most typically find in the field, specifically long-range rifles and bolt-action shotguns. Whichever you choose will be determined by the time when you go hunt, your location, and other factors. Long-range rifles for sale will obviously provide the most accurate shots from further distances. Bolt-action rifles are just as common amongst hunters, providing incredible power and accuracy. If knock-down power is what you are after, then a shotgun is what you will need. Whether it be semi-automatic or a pump-action shotgun, you won’t be missing a shot with either. GrabAGun has hunting rifles and tactical shotguns for sale and you don’t want to miss out on our prices.  

With your firearm, you’ll also need ammo. It’s unlikely that you’ll need more than a box or two the day of, but it never hurts to have a few extra on hand for target practice. For any semi-automatic rifle, you want to look for ammunition that blends high-velocity distances with weight retention for powerful impacts. Brands like Winchester, Hornady, and more produce high-quality ammo at affordable rates. 

Pick up a box of rifle ammo online with flat rate shipping from GrabAGun!

We also have plenty of shotgun ammo for sale here

Practice, Practice, Practice

Regardless if you are a new or experienced hunter, it never hurts to take the time to practice at the range. While the conditions aren’t going to be the same, getting used to setting up shots can do wonders for your performance in the field. Start by setting targets up at 25-yards and work on placing shots in the same area. Once you’ve got a grasp of it, move the target back in 25-yard until you reach somewhere between 100 and 150-yards. These are perfectly respectable distances for new hunters. What helps is picking up bulk ammo so you can practice without worrying about wasting precious rounds that you might use in the field. 

Day of Deer Hunting Essentials

Nothing is quite as exhilarating as waking up the day of a deer hunt. The night before is the best time to pack up everything. You don’t want to be fumbling around in the dark trying to find your permit or gear bag. Believe us when we say even some of the most experienced hunters have left the house without their gun on more than one occasion! 

But we understand. For your first trip, it can feel overwhelming to figure out what you need and what you don’t. It can result in overpacking, especially for first-time hunters, which is why we put together a general checklist. Items you’ll need the day of a deer hunt include:

  • Permit
  • First aid kit
  • Hunting knife
  • Weapon of choice
  • One or two boxes of ammunition
  • A blaze orange hunting cap or vest
  • Appropriate camouflaged cold-weather gear (depending on the climate)
    • Hat, gloves, shirts, jackets, waterproof boots, rain jacket, cleaning kit, etc. 
  • Scent control/scent attractant
  • Treestand/blind
  • Binoculars

This isn’t an exhaustive list. In fact, there are a few extras that you can also bring with you, including items such as a safety harness for blinds, LED flashlights, a trail camera, odorless bug spray, a rangefinder, and even a walkie-talkie for convenience. Get all of this and more items like ammo online or a quality rifle for sale from GrabAGun today!

Post Deer Hunting Essentials

At the end of your hunt, you will need to make sure that any deer you have taken down are properly tagged. As soon as that is done, you can either take your deer somewhere to be dressed or start the process yourself. Whether you are hunting on private or public land, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Mind Your Manners

  • Be respectful
    • Whether you are hunting on private land, public property, or your own land, be respectful of where you are. Don’t leave any trash or used shells behind. Not only can it spook deer for future hunters, it’s just not cool. 
  • Safety is the highest priority
    • New and experienced hunters alike must remember that safety should always be their number one priority. Never shoot above the horizon, toward homes, or populated areas, no matter how far away. The safety of yourself and others should always rank higher than bagging a deer.
  • Common courtesy
    • If you have the opportunity to hunt on someone’s private land, it’s never a bad idea to offer any meat you catch to them. While there is no rule, spoken or unspoken, this is a common courtesy that many hunters follow.  
deer hunting essentials: blaze orange vest

Final Thoughts

Whether you are an experienced hunter or this year will mark your first official hunt, a checklist for all your items is a must. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle of packing up everything that you end up missing important items. While your list shouldn’t be a mile long, it also shouldn’t be so short that you end up leaving all your essentials behind. When you need all your deer hunting essentials, including deer scents, hunting rifles, ammo online, and more; check out GrabAGun. We have everything you need plus things you may not have even thought of! 

—Kellie Krevosky

The Ultimate Checklist for Handgun Hunting

Not all hunts are the same. There are some vast differences between hunting bears and hunting elk. But it isn’t always the type of game you are after that defines your adventure. The firearm you use can completely change your hunting experience. Increasing numbers of hunters are choosing to explore the challenges associated with handgun hunting. There are several reasons why. The challenge of handgun hunting from a distance. The thrill of being close to your prey. The ability to draw your weapon quickly. Not being loaded down by a sling. Whatever your reason, handgun hunting is a thrill unlike any other.

Tips For Handgun Hunting

  • Exercise your trigger finger.
  • Perfect your trigger squeeze so that it flows perfectly and uniformly every time.
  • Keep a firm – but not too tight – consistent grip.
  • Plant yourself before you shoot.
  • Reduce anticipation and get rid of your flinch.

Each of those tips will help you be a better shot while handgun hunting. But before you rush out into the field with only an insatiable desire to take down your target with your .44 Mag handgun, you will want to do a little research on what you should have with you to increase your enjoyment and your chances of actually having a successful hunt.

Find The Right Handgun

First and foremost, you need the right handgun. There are a wide variety to choose from, though not as many calibers as rifles have for actual hunting. Four particular handguns are especially good for hunting: the .480 Ruger, .460 Smith & Wesson Mag., .44 Remington Mag., and the 10mm Auto. There are plenty to choose from, but starting with one of these four will help you get a good feel for your specific handgun style.

Your Grip

After your weapon, the second-most important aspect of handgun hunting is your grip. Something that you should consider essential for every handgun hunting trip is gloves. They may not sound essential, but your grip drastically changes your handgun hunting accuracy. A good set of tactical gloves will do so much for you, from helping with your grip, to keeping your hands warm, to protecting them while shooting.

You’ll also want to have a few specific pieces of equipment with you on the trip to help you become a better handgun hunter. These are two specific hunting accessories you will want to have as part of your hunting gear.

Hunting Accessories

Leupold FX-3 Silhouette Scope

The ever important scope is doubly significant when handgun hunting. One of the best you can find for this style of hunting is the Leupold FX-3. This scope is made for everyone who wants a traditional and functional fixed power scope. This scope is widely known for being durable, exceptionally clear and bright, and very simple to operate. You can’t go wrong have those qualities backing all of your shots.

Peltor XF4 Safety Glasses

Eye protection is vital to being able to hit your target. If you can’t see, you aren’t going to shoot with any sort of accuracy. Shooting glasses are your best choice out in the elements. These adjustable safety glasses are both stylish and effective. If you are able to block debris from interfering with your eyes than you have a better chance of taking home the trophy. But don’t let the toughness of this eye protection make you think that they are not comfortable to wear. They are contoured to fit snugly on your head, and they come with soft nosepieces so they will rest easily on your nose for extended periods of time.

Follow the tips, get the gear, and enjoy the hunt. Get all of your hunting handguns, 10 mm ammo, .44 mag ammo for sale, and other accessories from GrabAGun for a price you will love!

The Best Camo Gear for Hunting

Plenty of ink has been spilled and words have been uttered about what is vital to take on a hunting trip. That’s no surprise, considering the number of products available and all the places you can find them. Hunting gear can be found online, in department stores, and in specialty stores.

The hunting gear market is flooded with so many options that picking the right choice for you can be harder than it needs to be. So let’s discuss how you make decisions about the hunting gear you purchase and then look at some of the best options available . But first, let’s answer some common considerations when determining what gear to bring along on your hunting journey.

Think About What Works For You

You know yourself better than anyone else does. Think about the qualities you like or prefer in equipment, and search for products that fit those criteria. There is no point trying to fit your needs to accommodate what someone else likes. Find the gear that works best for you.

Why Buy Camo Gear?

Simply put, camouflage is essential to hunting. Ironically, the ultimate accessory for remaining unseen just happens to be everywhere you look these days. But it’s popularity is certainly merited. You will have the best luck against your target when you cannot be easily seen by your prey. Camo comes in a variety of patterns, allowing for numerous environments to be reflected on your hunting clothing. Oftentimes it is seasonal. You’ll find everything from camo shorts for warmer temps, to camo print jackets and coats, with patterns and colors representing the Alaskan winter or fall in Appalachia.

What Hunting Apparel Do I Pack?

Depending on where you are hunting and what type of game you are going after, your gear needs will change drastically. However, most hunters look for the best lightweight gear to lighten the load and alleviate additional stress on their bodies. Another aspect they look for is functionality. When your hunting gear can fulfill several purposes, it allows you to reduce the amount of equipment you need to bring. Durability is the final universal factor hunters consider when choosing hunting gear and apparel. You want gear that can withstand the often difficult rigors of the hunt. With these three characteristics in mind, let’s take a look at some gear that will improve your next hunt.

Top Hunting Gear Picks 

Browning Hells Canyon Speed Jacket

There’s no question that a good jacket is a hunting essential. Browning Hell’s Canyon Speed Backcountry-FM Gore Windstopper jacket hits all the essentials. It’s warm, durable, and lightweight. The outer shell is designed to be both wind and water-resistant, and the sleeves have elastic cuffs to help make sure the elements do not get to you. This jacket is designed for the wearer to be more mobile. Finally, its unique camo pattern sets it apart, making this a must-have hunting jacket.

Tactical Vest

A functional vest is another necessity when it comes to having a place to easily store and access many hunting accessories. Many vests can keep all of your essentials expertly positioned for when you need them most. They can be adjustable to fit several body types. There are three detachable sections: heavy duty belt with pouches, three-section pistol magazine/flashlight pouch, and a draw holster.

Waders

Waders are another great accessory to have, whether you’re cold water hunting or fishing. And Lacrosse Boots Wetlands Waders are a great choice. These waders feature a high-back design so you can venture further into the water than with other pairs. With both adjustable suspenders and a waist belt, these will fit nearly everyone. The durable design also helps protect your feet even when you can’t see your footing in muddy or fast-moving water.

Hunting Gear at GrabAGun

Each of these items on our list come with the three major characteristics you want: durability, functionality, and a lighter weight. Supplement these with a few other great products to optimize your next hunting trip.

Now that you know what you need for your next hunting adventure, you might be asking yourself where is the best place to find hunting apparel and equipment? In addition to offering a wide variety of firearms for sale, GrabAGun.com supplies hunters with all the gear they need for a successful hunt. From jackets, to carrying cases, to chairs; if there is gear you need, GrabAGun.com is ready to provide you with all of your hunting, fishing, camping, and firearm needs.

Picking a New Gun Laser

Gun Lasers at GrabAGun

Selecting a Gun Laser

My first gun laser was mounted on a 9mm carbine. I received a lot of comments along the line of, “if you can’t acquire a target you don’t need a gun.” One of these men lost every single calf born that year to coyotes. One Saturday after a group of us had been coyote hunting, and seeing how many more I was able to take down with a laser, half of them were soon on the internet comparing lasers and other gun parts and accessories.

When sighting with a scope to target one coyote the others are running at the sound of the first shot, leaving insufficient time to draw a bead on coyotes running the 30 to 50 ft. to the woods. The laser does not require me to sight my target, I simply point the laser on the target, fire, and have it on another before they can disappear into the woods.

A laser will increase your accuracy and target acquisition speed. Having a laser is no reason to stop practicing. Any equipment will eventually fail so keep plinking on the range, with and without the laser.

Multiple Options to Choose From

That said, with the large number of options available today, you will need to do some homework when making a choice. First, you will need to answer some questions before you begin your search:

  • What firearm are you mounting the laser on? The manufacturer, model, caliber, and length of the barrel will matter. How the laser sight will be mounted is all important.
  • Whether you will be shooting in the day or night will affect your laser choice and color.
  • Whether you will or will not be mounting a light or night vision will be a consideration.
  • If the weapon will be used in a holster will also be a factor.

Knowing these answers before you buy will avoid the mistake of a laser that’s insufficient, that you can’t mount on your gun, or that won’t fit into your holster.

Some pistols will accommodate red or green lasers while others are too small for anything but red. Holster fit may be another consideration. You can probably use the same holster with a grip or slide mount laser, but are almost certain to need another holster with a rail mount. I would recommend a laser to anyone considering one. If you are planning to customize a weapon with new gun parts and accessories I would definitely recommend a laser.

Installing Your Laser

Finally, you may be asking if you can install a laser yourself. That depends upon the weapon and laser, as well as your skills in installing gun parts and accessories. The best advice is to ensure a purchase of a laser made for your weapon, model, barrel length and caliber specifically.

Some lasers come with great instructions (and sometimes the tools) for mounting and adjusting. Other laser manufacturers require that you ship your unloaded firearm to their factory for mounting. Your warranty may be voided unless shipped to the manufacturer for the mounting of any gun accessories. The variables are going to depend upon the specifics of your weapon and your choice of laser.

Lasers at GrabAGun

If you are considering the purchase of a new pistol for sale or a rifle for sale, you can order a model with a factory installed laser. Once you try it, I have no doubts many more people will be impressed.

GrabAGun is an online gun dealer offering an extensive selection of guns for sale, and gun accessories. Give us a call if you need assistance, we will be happy to help you.

New Game & Trail Cameras of 2014

trail and game cameras

Game Cameras of 2014

Have your game cameras and trail cameras been going missing? We now have a solution. Some feature smaller than average size reducing visibility helping to deter the growing theft of game cameras. There has also been advances in features that may provide the face of the thief, increasing the chances of recovery.

There are a large number of game cameras new for 2014 and a large many of them are smaller and even wireless. The following are a few with good potential to evade all but the sharpest eyes thieves.

Browning Strike Force and Dark Ops

Browning claims its Strike Force and Dark Ops Trail Cameras are the smallest game/trail cameras ever made, with a size of 2.4 × 3.8 × 4.3 inches. The small size provides a definite advantage in deterring thieves, as well as escaping the notice of sharp eyed game. They are powered by 6 AA batteries they are capable of capturing up to 10,000 images in a single set. The Strike Force/Dark Ops also supports SD cards up to 32GB, includes a silent image feature, and has the ability to record HD video with sound. The trigger speed is .67 second with a 2.1 second recovery time. Get these Browning trail cameras from GrabAGun for the best price today!

Minox DTC 700 Trail Camera

Minox has tailored the DTC 700 to best suit your needs. The Minox modular camera housing makes it incredibly easy to install the camera. The innovative feature is that the camera module can be quickly and easily removed from the protective housing. The REALTREE Camouflage coated housing can be permanently mounted at any desired location.

Game & Trail Cameras at GrabAGun

GrabAGun offers an variety of trail cameras. Visit our site and check out the fantastic savings on trail cameras, guns for sale, supplies for hunters, and much more! GrabAGun’s great prices and our willingness to locate any available firearm is part of the GrabAGun advantage. Give us a call. We will be happy to assist you.

An Alternative to Hunting Guns – Hunting Bows

hunting bow for sale at GrabAGun

Archery for Hunting, Pleasure, and Self Defense

While it is true that an arrow has little chance against a bullet, don’t discount the hunting bow as an unworthy weapon. Proficiency in archery played a vital role in mankind’s survival for thousands of years. The skill of archers often determined the fate of kingdoms, societies, and countries. Ancient man even depended upon the bow for food and protection. As a sport, target archery is very popular and has had a place in the Olympic Games since 1972. Many hunters have taken to hunting bows in place of their usual hunting shotguns or hunting rifles.

History of the Compound Bow

The invention of the compound bow in 1966 by the late H. Wilbur Allen of Missouri created a more efficient bow for hunting. It is very popular due to its being easier to handle at full draw as well as providing a greater velocity arrow, which results in better penetration than recurve or long bows are capable of.

As a defense weapon, a great number of ‘preppers’ have bows in their arsenal. Not only is it useful in hunting and fishing, but it provides an almost silent weapon. Under cover, an archer can strike without the smoke and noise of guns. Today’s graphite and alloy arrows do not bend and are shatter resistant. They also attain a higher velocity and flatter trajectory than older arrows.

The Science Behind Bow Hunting

There are many factors to consider when a novice begins with archery. Any novice can do well to take archery instruction. It is easier to learn proper form and habit than to ‘un-learn’ improper habits. Here we will look at just a few of the factors that influence becoming a more accurate archer, and will enable the novice to realize that there is a science behind archery.

To become an accurate archer, spine is something to take into account. Spine is the stiffness of an arrow shaft and must be compatible with the archers bow weight. The reason for this compatibility requirement is a phenomenon called the Archer’s Paradox. When the arrow leaves the bow it does not fly straight toward the target, rather it actually deflects around the bow. A properly released arrow of correct spine will stabilize itself, whereas one that is too stiff or too flexible will create target acquisition problems. The use of improperly spined arrows will cause an inconsistent grouping of arrows. Your individual arrow length and grain, as well as arrow point type and weight, are important factors to be considered as well.

If you do not already know your individual arrow ‘fit’, your best option is to request it at an archery pro shop where professionals can provide the correct arrow. Archery pro shops are not the same as your local sporting goods store which generally will not know the grain of arrows or how to determine your proper length so make sure to find a place that will do fittings.

Types of Hunting Bows

Modern hunting bows include the compound hunting bow, crossbow, long bow, and recurve bow with the compound bow being the most popular. Hunting bows have higher draw weights than target bows. Hunting draw weights are determined by state and wildlife regulation, but generally are established at a minimum of 40 pounds. The crossbow generally has a higher draw weight minimum of 125 pounds. The higher minimum draw weight ensures adequate penetration for taking down game. Most experienced bow hunters will use even greater draw weights. Check your states requirements under bow hunting rules and regulations to ensure your compliance with the rules in your area.

GrabAGun stocks bows, arrows, shafts and points, and archery hunting supplies. Go to GrabAGun.com to check out our extensive stock of guns for sale, gun parts, and hunting accessories.

Deer Hunting Tips

Tips for Hunting Whitetail Deer

Deer hunting is one of the top hunting sports. With deer populations soaring many areas have increased bag limits and/or provide an extended season to allow for thinning of the deer population to provide better health for deer. GrabAGun online gun dealers has compiled a list of tips from successful deer hunters nationwide and are happy to provide the top 10 favorites.

1. Use effective scouting. Scouting can identify bedding areas, food sources, water holes, funnels, and deer trails. Gone are the days when scouting by foot or 4 wheelers were necessary. These means of scouting, while effective leave scent and spook deer. With today’s technology hunters can use game cameras, aerial photos and in some areas game maps are available.

2. Get the most out of game cameras. Set out mineral blocks or feed to bait your cameras locations. This maximizes your cameras potential to locate areas frequented by deer. Keep in mind your states hunting laws and don’t attempt to hunt game at cameras, baiting game is illegal in many states.

3. Hang treestands 20-ft. or higher, as you are more likely to be detected by sharp eyed deer at lower levels. At this height a deer has to look up to see you. This allows you to have some movement and get away with a little noise, and may make your scent less detectable. Better yet, use multiple treestands in several locations. Take wind direction into account for placement as well as the choice stand of the day. If you locate a stand on a frequently traveled trail for example, use the tree for shielding as an extra advantage. Exercise prudent precautions and wear a good quality safety harness when hunting from tree stands.

4. Avoid walking through direct areas where deer frequent. This will prevent introducing your scent to the area. Rake leaves, and trim branches in a planned path to and from the stand that avoid bedding areas and game trails and to prevent making noise as you travel to your tree stand.

5. Assure that you have a clear shot from your hunting stand or blind by trimming tree limbs. Use prudence, take away too much and the deer may avoid the area entirely. Use the branches below, along and slightly above your stand. It provides cover to break up your outline and helps to keep you hidden. Fresh cut cedar, spruce and pine can also help to mask your scent as well.

6. Many hunters swear by odor elimination, others hunt without it with successful results. If you don’t want to spray down on the hunt, use wind as your friend. If you stay downwind of deer they aren’t going to smell you. Be clean and perfume free by all means, but keep in mind many hunters have successful hunts without having to scrub up and spray as if you are a biological weapons manufacturer.

If you do find you have better results by utilizing scent eliminators, then by all means use it. Shower using scent-eliminating soap and shampoo. Use unscented laundry detergent on all hunting clothing and store them inside a sealed plastic bag. The odor-free group of hunters recommend while hunting to routinely spray down with a high quality odor eliminator, and not to forget your shoes!

7. Don’t forget to clean gear. If you store your gear in a garage, attic, basement or closet reeking of gas and grease, perfumes or other scents your gear can absorb the odor. Clean and air out equipment ahead of time. If bags can’t be laundered clean them with a scent eliminating soap and allow plenty of sunshine and air to clear the scents out. Spray with odor eliminators as necessary.

8. Practice makes perfect. There is no better tool to improve shooting accuracy than practice. Sights can break, fail and be bumped out of place. Learning to shoot deer hunting guns accurately minus the sights at various yardages is the best way to assure your aim.

9. In a perfect world you will have located your tree stand downwind of the deer. When the world isn’t perfect use the ancient trick of wetting a finger and holding it up to the wind to determine which direction it is blowing from, then get down wind of where you expect deer to approach from. A handy tool to have is a wind direction indicator, but lacking it taking note of the first to dry spot on a wet finger can accurately indicate the direction wind is blowing from and has worked well for many generations.

10. Don’t Smoke! Deer don’t smoke, and neither should you if you expect to tag a deer. Tobacco scent not only carries, it lingers. Many a soldier has met his death due to an enemy smelling burning tobacco. Deer have a much more sensitive sense of smell than enemy soldiers, so don’t smoke.

Make your hunt an enjoyable safe experience. Practice all hunting and firearm safety procedures, be aware of gun and tree stand safety, and inspect before and during the season for potential problems. Finally, be aware that though rare, deer can attack hunters, especially during the rut.

Inexperienced deer may allow a hunter to approach within 50-70 feet if the hunter appears non-threatening (no eye contact, slow movements, moving parallel rather than directly towards the deer), but the mature buck can and have been known to attack. Injuries can be life threatening or even fatal.

Get the best deer hunting guns for sale online from GrabAGun today! Shop shotguns for sale, gun sights, and scopes.