It depends honestly. A lot of it boils down to how manufacturers measure the temperature rating of their bags/quilts. Most large companies go for a survivability rating (i.e. a 20 degree bag means you'll survive at 20 but you definitely won't be comfortable), that holds true for both sleeping...
UGQ Bandit XL 20 degree quilt to replace an old North Face synthetic bag. The quilt is lighter, warmer, and fits me much better than that old mummy bag.
Soto Windmaster to replace my Jetboil. I like the Jetboil and it'll reside in my truck fulltime for day hunt usage, but it weighs 14.7 oz...
I know it's not the Stormfront, but if you're interested in the Sitka Cloudburst, there's a good deal to be had here: https://www.eurooptic.com/Sitka-Cloudburst-Jacket-Optifade-Subalpine-50221-SA.aspx?variantId=b8d2f10d-fa23-4ac6-a3ab-1f814ed7fe1f
$179.99 in most sizes.
I just got it in my...
I'm a big fan of front cargo pockets also. I don't tend to overload or have any heavy items (too much sway) in my cargo pockets though. Usually a neck gaiter or knit hat at most.
I got into archery last year and did something similar to you. I'm drawing 70# now, but I started at 50# and worked my way up to get my form down first. One thing I had to adjust was the timing on my drop away rest. At around halfway up my climb in poundage, it become out of tune but it was...
I'm new to the muzzeloading world and as I haven't been able to find Federal or CCI magnum primers this fall, I've been using W209. I've fired approximately 20-25 shots so far out of it with 70 grams by weight of Blackhorn 209 and haven't had an issue. It's gone bang every time and I've had...
I’ve never tried the Ferrosi grid fleece, but I have the regular Ferrosi. It’s a soft shell, so go with some form of the Arcteryx Gamma line. Either the LT or the thicker MX would be an equivalent.
That sounds a lot like the Schnee's Beartooth Classic. It doesn't say so in the description, but it certainly looks like full grain leather to me. If you want 200g of insulation, you'll have to go with the regular Beartooth which is made from nubuck. I have flipper feet and the wide uninsulated...
Scentless antiperspirant has been crucial to keeping my feet warm this year. I've always had poor circulation in my feet and it's compounded by having them get rather sweaty with any activity at all. Antipersipirant definitely helps control moisture and keeps my feet much warmer once I stop...
It looks like a slightly more abstract Flecktarn. It's a fine pattern, but it's really just a reason to sell fanboys their same clothing in a new color. I say that as a guy who owns a decent amount of FL also. Unless it comes with new wind stopping/resistant items, it's an easy pass.
Sitka Ascent cap feels like absolutely nothing on my bald head while still providing good coverage. Perfect for summer wear.
The other hat I love for my giant dome (7 7/8) is the North Face Horizon. The L/XL is literally the first cap I've ever had that has fit me with room to spare if need be...
I could see that. I'm 6'4" and in XL First Lite seems like it's tailor made for me in regards to length. Sitka in comparison is far too short in torso and sleeve length unless I go with their tall sizes (which is not available in everything they make unfortunately).
One thing that jumps out at me is the Nalgene. I know they're the holy grail water bottle for hunting, but they're damn heavy. Look into Smart Water bottles as a replacement. A 1L Nalgene weighs 6.2 oz, while a 1L Smart Water bottle weighs 1.2 oz. They're the preferred method of water carry for...
I find an illuminated reticle invaluable, so that eliminated most cheap options but one: Sig Kilo 1600. I got mine for just a little over $200. 5 year warranty on it also, so I’m not too concerned about durability.
Good call. I always keep chapstick in my pocket, so it slipped my mind to list it. A backup one would be good though considering if I run out on the one I have with me, I’ve been known to drop by a store and buy one for the rest of the day.
Good catch. I was planning on wearing a Sitka Ascent...
I've decided I want to try my hand at Elk archery in an OTC Colorado unit September next year. I fully expect to come up empty handed but I think the experience itself will be entirely worth it regardless. I'm never hunted out West before, but I've backpacked quite a few times there but never in...
No experience with the grinders, but if it's colder weather, I'd prefer the Mountains over the Corrugates. Corrugates are very stretchy and durable, so they're good for warmer weather and brush busting, but they're still fairly thin. But I think Mountains are a bit warmer and would be better for...