Mule deer gear priority list

[TheGDog]

Oh... if ya don't yet have a small tarp, you can use one of those cheapie emergency ponchos to put the deer on top of it to help keep debris out while processing in the field.

Or heck even thinner (think they go down to 1mm) plastic/vinyl drop-cloth sheeting pre-cut to juuust big enough for your needs.

 

[DeerCatcherUT/CO]

You don’t need much of a sleep system in my opinion if you’re in a wall tent. Get a cot, plush foam pad, and a rectangle Browning plaid/canvas sleeping bag and sleep like a baby. I would spend your last budget on your tripod and pan head. You can go with a cheaper tripod (slik) and splurge on an Outdoorsman’s pan head setup and bino adapter. Gotta send your EL’s to Arizona (Outdoorsman’s) to get the stud installed but it’s worth it. Enjoy a plush camp and good food and sleep and wake up a little earlier to get to your spots is my opinion.

 

[mtnbound]

I am headed to Idaho to a unit that has a ton of roads. I’m trying to prioritize the little bit of budget I have left. I’ve got a good rifle and scope setup, just upgraded to Swarovski EL binos and a new pack. I feel good with my layering system and boots. If I think I’m going to be able to day hunt for the most part due to the road access, where do I prioritize the little bit of budget hunting have left on gear? We are base camping in a wall tent. I’ve yet to upgrade to a legit sleep system, haven’t bought a tripod, or a tent in case we decide to spike camp. What am I missing?

You have already answered your question,"legit sleep system". A tripod is nice, but if you are not sleeping well, a tripod isn't going to matter.

 

[WinterT]

I'd reccomend a tripod and head. In the wall tent you can't beat the memory foam topper on the cot. I also am a fan of a quilt for my sleep system.