Hunting Equipment – Essential Deer Stalking Equipment

Posted by Derek Townsend on November 23, 2009 under Hunting Equipment | Be the First to Comment

In an earlier post, I discussed how important it is to have the correct clothing and firearms for successful deer stalking. Now, I’d like to share my thoughts on the subsidiary equipment you might need, such as rifle scopes, binoculars, knives, stalking sticks, bipods and tripods.

Hunting Equipment – Rifle Scopes and Binoculars

Deer have superior eyesight, so it’s important to enhance yours with a quality rifle scope and binoculars. These instruments enable the hunter to see at great distances.  An image in a rifle scope or binoculars is rendered brighter, an important feature since deer often are most active in low light conditions. Choose optics made by well-known manufacturers like Leopold, Swarovski and Leica. Remember to select your optics based on where you’ll be doing most of your stalking. In northern Europe and the UK where the light is often poor, you’ll need better optics than in more southerly regions, where the light is better.

Knives

Select a knife with a handle that is non-absorbent, easy to grip and won’t slip. While many hunters prefer wood, it’s not my top choice because of its porosity. I prefer a sturdy plastic, heat-proof handle that can withstand sterilisation by boiling. Choose a single rather than a double edged blade and avoid knives with a concave edge as these don’t stand up well to heavy field work. I also prefer a sheath knife over a knife with a locking blade. Over time, the mechanism of a locking blade can degrade, making the knife unsafe. For maximum comfort, choose a knife with a blade that’s about the same length as the handle. A stainless steel knife blade is a better choice than one made from high carbon steel.

Hunting Equipment – Stalking Sticks, Bipods and Tripods

When you meet with a situation in the field where a good shot presents itself, it’s important to be able to make the shot quickly and accurately. Stalking sticks, bipods and tripods provide a stable base from which to shoot. While it does take some practice to use them, you’re certain to improve your accuracy shooting from a fixed position. Whichever you choose, be sure that it is easy to set up and take down and that the legs are adjustable for uneven terrain.

By following the few simple guidelines for deer stalking presented in this article and in Part 1, you’re sure to increase your chances of making a successful kill.