The Practical Approach to Bow Hunting Gear: Function Over Fads

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Words, Photos & Video by: Patrick, Teagan, and Cade McKewen

As hunters, we are often bombarded with advertisements for the latest and greatest equipment. It is impossible to be on any of the socials without seeing your favorite "huntfluencer" pushing the newest jacket drop or upgraded sight.

But is the newest, most expensive gear always the best choice?

Let's explore a more practical approach to gear selection that focuses on what truly matters in the field.

Functionality Over Fads

Please note this article and video are not sponsored and everything we talk about is gear we purchased with our own money and use in the field. The full list of our individual gear that we use as east coast (U.S.) woodland whitetail hunters for the 2024 season is found at the end of this article.

When selecting hunting gear, it is crucial to prioritize functionality over brand names or current trends. The most important question to ask is: "Does this equipment work for me and my hunting style?"

A lesser-known brand that fits your needs perfectly is far more valuable than a popular name that does not quite suit your requirements.

The Hunter Makes the Difference

Remember the old saying, "It's not the bow, it's the hunter"?

This could not be more true.

And not just in the arena of hunting, it applies to everything in life. Your skills, knowledge, and experience are far more important than having the most advanced equipment.

A skilled hunter can achieve great results with modest gear, while all the high-tech gadgets in the world won't compensate for lack of practice and fieldcraft.

Case in Point: Success with Entry-Level Gear

To illustrate this point, consider Teagan's personal experience from last year:

He managed to harvest his first two deer within one calendar year using a semi-entry level setup. One of those was his first buck. Both deer were from the same plot of land that he scouted and studied for well over a year to know the best shot angles and movement patterns of the herd.

This proves that you do not need top-of-the-line equipment to be successful. What matters most is your ability to use your gear effectively, and taking the time to know your environment.

Your goal should be to know the land as well as the animal you are hunting knows it....although you never really will. They win the pursuit more times than we do.

Master What You Have

Before rushing to upgrade or relying heavily on technological features, focus on becoming proficient with your current equipment.

Spend time practicing and truly understanding your bow's capabilities and limitations. This knowledge and skill will serve you far better than constantly chasing the next shiny thing showing up in your ads.

The Pitfall of Comfort and Customization

While comfort and customization do have their place, be wary of over-relying on them. Too many adjustments and add-ons can actually hinder your growth and success as a hunter.

By working with more basic equipment, you are forced to develop and hone fundamental skills that will make you a better overall hunter.

If It Ain't Broke...

There's wisdom in the old adage, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

If your current setup is working well for you, there is no need to change it just because something new hit the market. Consistency with your gear allows you to focus on what really matters - your hunting skills and strategy.

Natural Growth of Your Gear Arsenal

As you gain experience and spend more time in the field, you will naturally discover areas where your gear could be improved or expanded.

This organic process of testing and refinement will lead to a personalized kit that truly meets your needs, rather than a collection of items you thought you should have based on marketing or peer pressure.

Approaching gear selection with a functional mindset will not only save you money but also make you a more skilled and self-reliant hunter.

Focus on mastering the basics, choose gear based on your specific needs and hunting style, and let your equipment evolve naturally as you gain experience.

Remember, the most important tool in your arsenal is your own skill and knowledge – invest in those first and foremost.

If you are interested to see more of what we chose to use this year, our full individual setups are listed below with helpful links to learn more about each item and decide if it will work for you.

We will be talking more about our hunting philosophy and exploring stories about the ways of the wild in future articles and videos, so if you would like to be the first to see those, consider subscribing to our Newsletter.

Teagan's 2024 East Coast Woodlands Whitetail Hunting Gear

The Huntsmen 2024 Bow Season Hunting Gear - Teagan

Bow

Stand

Accessories

Clothing

Cade's 2024 East Coast Woodlands Whitetail Hunting Gear

The Huntsmen 2024 Bow Season Hunting Gear - Cade

Bow

Stand

Accessories

Clothing

Patrick's 2024 East Coast Woodlands Whitetail Hunting Gear

The Huntsmen 2024 Bow Season Hunting Gear - Patrick

Bow

Accessories

Clothing

Video Produced by: The Huntsmen Media

Cinematographers: Patrick McKewen, Cade McKewen, Teagan McKewen

Location: Chatahoochee National Forest, Georgia

Music Credits:

"Northern Ballad" by William King
"Outlaw's Reckoning" by Vlad Krotov
"When I Play Alone" by Van Van Grace
"Pending" by William King
"Mountain Road" by Olexy

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