Facemask/headcover for archery

[sf jakey]

Can anyone recommend a good facemask to use fo archery elk hunts. Most I have found are either too thick and hot, or don’t allow me to find my anchor to execute a good shot. Looking for a good, lightweight face cover that doesnt muffle hearing or obstruct my anchor point.
Or am I wasting my time and don’t need it? I have always either grew a beard, which won’t happen this year, or worn a mask of some sort that has affected my shooting.

 

[WannabeHunter]

Going on my first elk hunt this year so can't speak to whether is completely need or not.

But I have used this type of mask for turkey hunting for years. Lightweight, open mouth area for mouth calls and anchor point.

 

[elkguide]

I have used lots of lightweight masks including some turkey hunting masks but for the last few years I have exclusively gone with face paint.

 

[ElkNut1]

Personally, I don't use camo paint or wear a camo mask, works just fine for me!

If you feel more confident wearing something go with it, but it's not mandatory!

ElkNut/Paul

 

[LostArra]

Original Buff
seamless microfiber
Nice weight and multi use.
can be a neck gaiter, cap or face mask
I've got a few in different camo patterns. I've worn it in warm and cold weather.
I wear it all the time when shooting my recurve as my tab puts a mark on my cheek bone.

Similar items from Kuiu and First Lite are not the same and don't compare.

BUFF® USA Official Store | Multifunctional Headwear

The Original Multifunctional Headwear. Shop BUFF® USA Official Store. FREE SHIPPING on orders over $50

buffusa.com

 

[archer60]

I have the Sitka face mask.....its mesh so it stays cool and hardly know its there, sometimes a PIA but I don't take chances when in close

 

[mmac]

The Sitka face masks are good. Face paint is good too, putting it on it is about getting my mind ready . However, I also believe neither would make a real difference vs. doing nothing.

 

[Whiskey_Fish]

The Merino Buff is money after about 15 washes. Surprisingly cool when it's hot and excellent on brisk mornings. The Firstlite is pretty close... But nobody beats buff.

Plus the Merino one is a smidge looser than the original, so I feel like the anchor is better. UV buffs are kinda stiff and throw off the anchor. But great for fishing!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Obsessed1]

Face paint for me

 

[wytx]

Spandoflage face mask is pretty cheap and form fitting. I've used full and the half .

 

[longspeak74]

I just use my beard

 

[5MilesBack]

Never used a mask, but sometimes I use Carbomask face paint.......mostly as sunscreen because it's clay based.

 

[Ridge Ghost]

Save your money and grow your beard out. The times I have been busted by elk I'm confident it had nothing to do with me not having a mask or facepaint. 100% of the time they either smelled me or caught me moving at the wrong time.

 

[Still Hunter]

go to safishing.com, Salt Armour Fishing. They have lots of various SPF face shields. They are ultralightweight and give you protection from the sun also. Lost of styles. The run specials occasionally and I believe Amazon has a link to them on also . They have lots cool of patterns and have several in different camo styles. I will wear one when sitting on stand, ambush on a trail or a on wallow.

I bought some several years ago and they have held up well. Roll it up and stick it in your pocket.

 

[DAOutfitters208]

You dont need one. Face paint isn't necessary either, unless you have Instagram, then you need lots of facepaint.

 

[elkocd]

IMHO paint or masks are for youtube and IG pics. Might make you look cool to other humans, but the bulls don't give a chit I've stood face to face with more bulls than I could remember and they don't spook from looking at your face. They spook from smell and or movement. Masks are hot and uncomfortable. Paint is a mess when hunting the backcountry.

 

[ozyclint]

Original Buff
seamless microfiber
Nice weight and multi use.
can be a neck gaiter, cap or face mask
I've got a few in different camo patterns. I've worn it in warm and cold weather.
I wear it all the time when shooting my recurve as my tab puts a mark on my cheek bone.

Similar items from Kuiu and First Lite are not the same and don't compare.

BUFF® USA Official Store | Multifunctional Headwear

The Original Multifunctional Headwear. Shop BUFF® USA Official Store. FREE SHIPPING on orders over $50

buffusa.com

go one better and get a TUSX buff. same BUFF product but the only BUFF that is not UV reflective.
https://www.tusxhunter.com/product/omniveil-buff/

 

[sf jakey]

thanks for the feedback. I've killed bulls with and without face cover, but I also notice how much a face stands out on other hunters. Usually on a setup it isn't necessary, but on a stalk I want every advantage. Beard isn't an option this year, going from a wedding to the hunt and the scruffy look won’t fly. Im going to give the Sitka a try, looks very minimal which is what I want. I can double up with it on ducks.

 

[Cng]

+1 for the camo Buff. Works as a bandana, sweat rag, pot holder, light weight beanie when it’s cool, cooling rag when it’s hot, and a face mask when you feel like you need one.

 

[Catahoula]

FL balaclava. Thin merino wool.