Selling my metcalf I got this year. Used mostly during archery elk season, a few days for bears. Just a little more bag than I thought I’d use. Small size waist belt, Ponderosa color. $475
Honestly am a little intrigued to try CA bear. I met this cool old hunter in Idaho who's got a Sheep Grand Slam. He gave me an awesome little tour of his house and had a great looking B&C bear he said he shot in California.
As many others have said a patch kit and shovel are big on my essentials list. Food and water, TP for real emergengies ;) maybe a few warmer clothes if you don't have those already.
I did a huge boot testing this spring to find the best boot I could. The Crispi Lapponia would be perfect for what you’re doing as long as you like the fit. I wanted to like the boot but just couldn’t pull the trigger. The mountain extremes were my favorite fit (although I went with the Schnees...
I’m a really big fan of all of my Mystery Ranch packs I’ve had. They’ve got a meat “shelf” between your back and the bag so it sits tight to your body. It can fit an elk quarter with a full pack pretty comfortably. Boned out you can carry two quarters plus gear but that’s obviously a little more...
Drew a December coues deer hunt. I’ve already got a general idea of where I want to check out but would love any insight on Coues deer hunting you have. This elevation seems to be 3500-7500. Where would you start to look? What slopes? Angles or direction?
I know water and thick timber areas is...
Hunting wise it doesn’t sound like there’s much more prep to be done. Maybe just really getting comfortable in hunting situations with the rifle. Not just shooting from a bench but practicing on uneven terrain with a less than perfect rest (ie. pack or tree or even kneeling). Then just make sure...