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Petzal: Pack for Hunting Like A Navy SEAL
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October 06, 2009
Petzal: Pack for Hunting Like A Navy SEAL
Navy SEALS, who are not only fierce and good-looking but smart, have a saying: “One is nothing; two is one.” This means that when they are putting together their gear for a session of killing people and blowing things up, a single piece of vital equipment is useless, since you can lose it or damage it, and then where are you? No, say the SEALS, if it’s really important you take two of it. HOO-YAH!
And so as we pack our gear to go off and slay beautiful living creatures, it’s wise to keep the SEAL proverb in mind. Ask yourself these two questions:
1. How much does it weigh and how much space does it take up?
2. If something happens to it, how deep in s**t am I?
If the answer to the first question is “Not much” and the answer to the second question is “Up to my eyes” you want to take two. Some examples: a spare pair of gloves; a spare flashlight; a spare scope; a spare 9V battery for your rangefinder or any other hideous electronic gear on which you depend; a spare compass; a spare lighter; a spare lock for your gun case if you’re flying. On one occasion every one of these spares has bailed out either myself or someone else in the party.
One is nothing; two is one.
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Comments (53)
I may be the only guy in Montana that has 25-06 shells and 30-06 shells in my pack, but doesn't own either of these calibers. Why? My old man. I have 2 of everything because, odds are, he can't remember one of something. Since he carried me and taught me all I know, having 2 facemasks, packing 20 gauge shells when all I usually shoot is a 12, etc., is a small price to pay for all he's given to me.
The batteries is always a big one for me. I always stash a handful of whatever size operates the gear in question. I don't want to get the bruiser of a lifetime only to have my camera go dead!
All so true. Other variables include the size of your pack and the length of the walk.
Batteries. Everything I own operates off of AA batteries so they are innerchangeable.
As a former spec ops guy myself (waaaaay former), I can attest to these truths:
1. If you forgot it, it will come back to bite you. If it is not on a checklist, you will forget it.
2. If you didn't bring it, you better figure out a way to do without it.
3. If it runs on batteries, the probability that it will $h** the bed is high.
4. If it ain't tied to your a$$, you will lose it the first night or insertion op.
5. Your Mama is not here for you. See Truth #1.
Good post, David.
WMH
A back up for your back up is usually my motto...started going through the pack last night for this weekends upcoming Elk hunt...going back in about 4 miles with to spike out for 3 days...it is always a struggle to find the happy medium between what you need, and how much weight you want in your pack....
A good post and good responses. Mentioning an extra lock for a gun case is a good idea that most of us forget, because most airlines require gun cases to be locked for shipping. If you lose one in an out of the way place, it can be hard to replace.
One time I arrived at Johannesburg International Airport and could not find the key for my gun case for custom inspection prior to departure for Zambia. The custom agent laughed at my concern, and pulled out a key ring with every lock in the world categorized on it. My case was open in seconds for his examination. He said if all else failed he had a huge pair of bolt cutters, but that they raised hob with the cosmetic appearance of the luggage.. I found my key at about that time.
I learned this lesson recently when I was takin my 7 year old son fishing. Got great photos of him and some fish but my batteries went dead when he caught the biggest one and when I went to get my spares out of the case and they werent there he said dad. Dont you remember giving me those for the remote in my tv last week! Priceless!
Scope failure is somewhat rare, but busting one is common on a fly in. If I go on another fly in or remote, I’d probably break down my M1 Garand with 6-8 clips (for you Range Monkeys, 1 clip = 8 rounds) of 180 grain Nosler Partitions and carry it in my “Freighter Pack”. It May not have a scope on it, but I can sure give something pure hell with it!
I think there are a few things that should not be questioned when packing extras. Flashlight, lighter, compass, knife. I have found though that you don't necessarily need a back up that is equal in size and weight. I have a cheapo light compass put away, a very inexpensive but sharp knife, matches, and a tiny light. In a pinch, these things will all do the job decently for a short time. But they are a pain in the butt just enough that I am very aware that I don't want to use them if I don't have to. That way, I always remember my good stuff but just in case I, say, break my knife point off or forget to put fresh batteries in my flashlight, I am not standing with my thumbs tied. There are light alternatives to just about anything these days and in most cases they tend to be one time use more than rugged standbye. Besides, one can never have too many knives and flashlights.
Good post Dave. I keep one of those large plastic storage bins they sell at Wally world in the back of my truck. It contains heavy duty booster cables and all the other things I might need on a trip. Even a tire repair kit.
Fortunately where I hunt I'm not having to take much very far. As time goes on I find my self thinking 'what if' and my pocket carry items have transformed to a small day pack. Every year that goes by I see things happen that I think "wow, if I'd had ________,things would be so much better." Now I am seeing the point where the day pack is almost a PITA. Compared to what?
All that said, being prepared is far better than suffering or abject disappointment. Not sucking beats suck every time.
FWIW I asked my Dad(once an exec on a minesweeper) who was the toughest in all the military. He told me,"I don't know who is the toughest in the whole world but the toughest I've ever seen is a SEAL."
I wish I had a dollar for every time someone laughed or complained that I bring too much gear and then ended up using my backup whatever when they forgot, lost or broke theirs.
God bless you Rob for looking out for the old man. I've got one about like yours. He would leave his butt behind if it wasn't in his pants... He taught me most of what I know and I know the rest because he taught me to think and learn from my mistakes. Most of my mistakes came from not doing what he said to start with! I'll keep on taking him even if I have to carry him. He did it for me when I was little.
Most excellent post Dave. I find the list is absolutely essential as I gain seniority. I've never thought to carry a spair lock for the gun case... guess I've been lucky so far. Something new for the list!
Keep up the good work and make Phil share that new Dino gun with you when he gets back!
Mr. Myles, Check my post from earlier today. I'd like to share something with you.
If I am driving to a hunting camp and have access to everything I can transport in my pickup, then yeah, I have backups for almost anything and will be well prepared. However, compare that with a backpack sheep hunt where you might have to pack in eight, ten miles or more. On such a trip, unless you are crazy, I assure you that you won't be packing an extra binocular, a second pair of boots, or an extra 20-round box of ammunition.
I enjoyed Rob's post about his father. My own father, Jake, will be 92 in December. He has never in his life made an equipment list for a hunting trip, yet I do not remember him ever forgetting an important item! In my own case, if I didn't make a list (I have equipment lists for a dozen different "trip types" that I photocopy), I'd probably forget my rifle or my boots!
After a few decades of hunting its easier to know what you can do without and what is absolutely essential. The distance from civilization dictates the basics required to deal with situations. You need to be able to plug a tire and do basic mechanical if way out in wilderness. Many places I hunt now have cell service so hunting alone is safer and can just call when animal is down. Knowing how to dress and how to live outdoors with bare essentials ensures you can survive almost anything. I always have at least box of ammo and further you go more you need because not all available at gas stations.
People make fun of me whenever they see me with my flashlight, Swiss Army knife, Leatherman Multi-tool, digital camera with extra battery on my belt, and an extra folding knife in my pocket. Then when blackouts happen, I'm the first one they ask for a flashlight. Or if something needs fixing, I'm the first one they ask for the multi-tool or Swiss Army knife. I carry a digital camera for those times when photographic evidence is needed (such as a car accident) that will prove, without a doubt, that I did not cause it (yes, that has happened a few times and I am glad I had a camera of some sort with me at those times). I don't mind that I am the target of their ridicule, but we all know that in a pinch, I'm the one they can rely on. So, the last laugh's on me.
The rule to have a checklist is worth the price of admission all by itself. Too true. Add to that, CHECK for the items. Usually when I forget something, it is because I'm so sure I already have it packed that I don't go back and look.
It also doesn't hurt to ask, when going hunting, "What could go wrong?" Because of this my list starts with five items;
1. Fire (2 ways to start one)
2. Space blanket
3. SAK
4. Moleskin
5. Compass
WaMtnhunter -your list is priceless. Especially #3 - LMAO!
Rob-well said sir! How many of us here owe what we do (and are) to someone else? I owe a lot to my old man.
Excellent post, Dave. A checklist should trump CRS every time. Then there's that human factor....
I always pack two of the additional items for use in the filed:
1. Fire-starting equipment (matches, lighter & flints)
2. Water equipment (Camelback & bottles)
3. Water-purifying equipment (tabs & filter)
4. Location equipment (map, compass & GPS)
5. Knives
6. Firearms (handgun & rifle)
7. Emergency-signal equipment (mirror & engineer tape)
8. Key to my vehicle
Excellent post! I've had this mentality since my early Boy Scout days... "Be Prepared". Take a backup & be creative. The #1 weapon for anything is the mind. An example: Years ago while camping in the wilds of Oregon with some friends, they were BS'n about how Animal is prepared for anything. One friend's wife says, "Yeah, right. I just lost the back to my earring. Got one of those?" Within minutes I located a pencil in my pack, cut the eraser off and poked a hole through it with a fish hook. She shut up.
Prepare & Be Prepared.
i have a hunting pack that i take with me. it has a large fanny pack, plus a smaller pouch on each side. i keep all sorts of goodies in there. it is basicly a survival kit, in the event that i for some reason, can not make it back to camp at the end of the day, and am forced to stay in the woods. in my 40+ years of hunting, i have not needed it, yet. i have used some of the items occaisionally, more for comfort or conveinience than need. but i am still willing to pack it in and out of the woods every time i go, just in case. i would rather pack in and out an xtra 5 or 6 pounds, than be caught out in the woods, with nothing. with this kit, i can survive a couple of days, without it, i may not make it through the night. your body can take a lot of punishment, as long as you keep hypothermia and dehydration at bay. i am a firm believer in murphy's law! it is 10 times better to be prepared, than be up the crick, with nothing.
One morning at 4 am a few years ago I pulled up to get registration cards from a box near Cheyenne bottoms waterfowl refuge. My friend got out after me and accidently locked the doors with the motor running. Thank God I had another key. The year before I locked my myself out and had to break a window (no cell service). Guessing which was the cheapest to break I broke a small window in the back of my supercab Ranger. Turned out to be the most expensive SOB of the bunch.
This is a great post. Del, I used to make fun of my buddy who wears an extra truck key around his neck. Now so do I. The first thing on my check list is the statement, "Do Not Loose this List." I keep a couple on top of the sunvisor, each for a different type of hunt.
I once insulted son # 3 when I mentioned the gear guidelines for Marines, "If you issue a Marine two rocks, he will loose one and break the other." I listened to a short speech about mission accomplishment.
Okay, so what does everyone else do while they're sitting on the stand? As I'm sitting there enjoying my rare time in the woods, I'm thinking about "what ifs". And amen to "your backups can be one use or smaller", Gritz. How many of you have a donut spare tire? One of the problems I have with a full size-equal quality spare is that you loan it to someone and never see it again.
I have in my hunt pack at least two flashlights, two firestarters, an extra release, a compass, my cellphone (even in no coverage areas), Knife, rope, an extra tree belt, a field point and blunt tip, a knife and folding saw and lots of surveyors tape, a few tacks and other miscellaneous crap that at one point i thought would be useful. The whole thing only weighs a couple pounds. I always stow my keys before i shut my truck door.
sgaredneck -
Ask your dad if he has ever heard the saying, "Every Ship a Minesweeper ...Once".
LOL
Interesting and useful blog. I think that Hunter-shooter-types are often among the most resourceful people. I have been at office meetings, cookouts and other social gatherings where a SHARP knife was needed, and only the hunters had a pocket knife...with an edge. I once asked my father about his father, who had died during the Depression, about whether or not Granddad had carried a pocketknife. He smiled, and said, "Dad carried two pocketknives. Once for the rough stuff, and one for fine work, like castrating." I had to smile back, because I have carried two for many years...both small, for my white collar work. And no, I don't need to castrate anything but Son-in-laws.
Blue
"Watch the ounces and the pounds will take care of themselves". That was the sound advice of Colin Fletcher who wrote the first comprehensive backpacking guide back in 1968 (The Complete Walker). Over the years I've applied this rule to my hunting pack, exchanging larger, older items for newer, lighter, technologically improved items. The "obsolete" items go on ebay to offset the cost of the new purchases.
Dad said there was a picture of a minesweeper (that was posted somewhere, probably in SWO school) that was caught as it hit a mine. A catastrophic explosion to say the least. Bits and pieces flying, and one little speck with a circle drawn around it with the caption "this is the XO after he f----- up"...... Dad said that they were never let to forget that picture.
And yes, I think he has made that statement a time or two. I think I remember him hitting me with that remark when I grounded us on an oyster bed once at low tide....LOL
As you can imagine my boat handling skills were immediately called into question.
Blue
ROTFLMAO
Wamtnhunter - thanks for that quote -I had all but forgotten about that little episode. I was a young youngster back then, and Dad was still barking orders so I had probably sorta parked that memory back a ways. Now that he's mellowed and I've gotten about 3% smarter memories like that are good to have.
And to tie it all in, this means I should throw a box of .270 in my pack for him since he's subject to forget things....
Mr. Petzal,
You forgot to add the most important SeAL mantra.
K.I.S.S.- Keep It Simple Stupid !
Complex plans,items,tools, etc. are ALWAYS subject to Mr. Murphy at any given time, and ALWAYS at the wrong time.
Just trying to help out.
Good Luck and Good Hunting to you Mr Petzal.
Heck-I carry triple stuff; I'm a pack rat!
My son always laughts at how much I carry in the field, but once I am out there I usually stay until sunset.I despise walking back to the truck more so then carrying it out in the field!
Ralph -
Darn straight. If it's not dark I'm not heading for the truck except to get the dragging sled or to go help someone drag one out. I've never shot a deer or elk sitting in camp.
Two little things I ALWAYS carry in every pack and pouch I carry, besides the other stuff that has already been mentioned, is a little bar or pc of soap and a little bottle of iodine. I have accidents...
Never count on high tech or anything too mechanical. When I lived one winter in the Alaskan bush, I had a chainsaw with extra chains and sparkplugs. I also had a one-man crosscut saw, a bowsaw and two axes. Firewood was going to get cut somehow.
Always have a backup of some kind, the simpler the better. Take care of your gear and watch what you do like your life depends on it. It just might.
If your outdoor trip has much "adventure" to it, you screwed up. Keep it fun,but routine.
I always, always have an extra pair of socks.
A few years ago, we were going snowboarding for a day. We got about halfway to the mountain and realized we forgot our snowboards. We were so worries about remember everything else, we forgot the most important thing. That's why making lists of what you need can be a lifesaver!
When I was a Communication NCO for a combat Engineer battalion, I always carried a small bag with small , hard to find fittings and enough wire to make an expediant antenna with me . Many repair parts ar hard to get in the field and I carry on the tradition today. We are going to ride our 4-wheelers on an outing to look at the Elk here in Ky.in a couple of weeks and I have been packing special stuff on my ATV all week.
I've been carrying around buckets full of everything I could possibly fit in it. Thinking this year I want to be more like Rambo and just carry a knife around.
Ross
-----
visit www.norop.com the search engine for Hunters.
Rambo had help you probably won't. In all seriousness though I believe 99% of former military men, at least the ones who have been in combat, follow those rules simply to survive!
Right you are Moshi,.. it never leaves,
Nor apparently does the gut wrenching instant conditioned reaction to dive under or behind the nearest thing available that looks like cover when someone shoots close and your not ready. Jaysus !!
Went to a new range last week ,.. (other than general safty rules most have their seperate edicate)
This one had 50 yd range to the side and slightly behind the 100 yd range .
Walking up to the 100 fireing line ( it was quiet ) just a few guys making adjustmenst to rifles ,..
I introduced my self to a couple guys standing and talking . Both were friendly and helpfull ,.
Was beginning to relax when a guy on the 50 yd fireing line let go twice with a 357 Herrate (sp?) wih 8 " barrel,.( i know cause I asked him later )
and instant later another shot came from the 100 yd line in front.
Behind and to the side, classic ambush ,position .. then the shot from in front ,..In less time than it takes to think,.. 40 yars melted away.
By the time I started thinking istead of reacting
was 1/2 under near by jeep.
Couple good laughs over that one after which I had all the help and info i needed.
Yup,..
take two of everthing and an extra role of butt wipe if your going to a new range YUK YUK
After dropping my headnet out of my tree stand while bow hunting last year, now I carry a spare, in addition to the extra gloves and flashlight, and when I was still shooting fingers, also carried an extra bow tab.
Blueridge,
I have a son-in-law that needs castrating...what do you charge?...he's outside of Dallas...I tried to do it myself and they pulled me off of him.
DUCKCREEKDICK & JIM FROM MO,..
Busy lately ,. real busy ,.but today had a chnce to y ( scan through some of the posts at something less than warp speed.
Extra sox are the mark of a foot soldier,nd fundamental knowlege only gained (usally) through painful experiance .. and the idea.
"If your outdoor trip has too much adventure in it you screwed up."
Should be words required to be printed on evry piece of outdoor eqipment from camo-toilet paper to ammunition boxes to 4 wheelers.
Ive heard no truer words spoken since I heard my attorney say :"The divorce is final"
At which point the preditory witch pretending to be a woman ( attorney ) representing my former spouse chimed in to say "and now you pay." Boy was that the truth !
In my business ,.. there is an axiom ,. if you fail to plan ,. you are planning to fail. Trite as that may sound ,. if more people baught the idea that "too much adventure in an outdoor excursion means you wandering arounf 1/2 cocked or neglegent or both.
We would save untold difficulty,.. both inconsequential and life threatening and provide much less fodder for the anti hunting tribe.
Damn ,. that was an inpresive statement !!
Yohan-
Good to see you back ...your statement,"Extra sox are the mark of a foot soldier,nd fundamental knowlege only gained (usally) through painful experiance .. and the idea."got me to thinking.
Why don't sock manufacturers begin to sell us three socks of the same kind? That way they would last longer,and if we ever lost one to the sock thief that resides in our washing machine ... We'll still have a pair!
Pack 'em high and tight,and don't forget your AMERICAN EXPRESS card. Just in case you forgot something else ...
Yohan: Combat reflexes never fail do they? I allow my buddies to have their little laugh at my jumpy behavior. In a real situation, I'd be nice and safe while they would be scratching their behinds, wondering what those bee-like sounds were.
2Poppa
Well put, sir. Good hunting this year.
WMH
2 Poppa & Duckcreekdick,..
1st Poppa I dont spell well unless i really take my time and lately I just dont have a lot (time that is ) ,..not that Im such a bad speller its that Im a bad typist.
Which is why I even use spell check on the checks I write ( kidding of course) but I'll be damnd if I can find spell check on this blog .
So in my case,.. is what it is OK ? Will do my best not to offend your senitive spelling sensabilities.
About the sox,.. my father told me when i was really short When you go to war ( no cluse how he knew I would ) 1st thing you learn other than to watch the older guys & pay attention is make sure you get plenty of sox ,,. dry feet take you one H of a lot further and faster than wet blisterd feet with frost bite or Jungle rot.
So depending on the state of my involvement with one of the fairer sex (some one ) she or me buys a faily good sized wad ( of socks) from time to time . None of this argyle S&it,.. blue black brown green etc etc. I take em all apart and throw em in a drawer .
When I need two ,. I get two ,.. and I dont worry if the count is even . (something that used to drive my wife and as I have recently learned apparently every other female on the planet,. mildly insane)
Something that does not compute with me
But I dont give a ( U know what)
Because when I need two socks I need two socks and I aint gonna go nuts trying to keep the cout even.
Also Im pretty sure the last washer and dryer I purchased are possessed by evil spirts that eat blue socks especially .
Duckcreekdick Im still turning your statement over in my
head ,.. as I said one impressive statement . and I dont impress easy.
Combat reflexes ,. now know,.. they do not ever go away .But honstly I wouldn't have said that until last week. Over the years I got less and less nervous and jerky ,.But for a few seconds I was 19 yrs old and movin like a MF er,.so charlie didnt get apiece of nmy tender scandahoovian A%% yuk yuk
Im out for few days ( gonna go hunt )
Best to all !!
Only thing I did not take two of on our last trip was a DeWalt reciprocating saw. Had spare batteries, two battery chargers, and somewhere between two and six of everything else, but the guy who was supposed to bring the other saw, forgot it!
Moral of that story is, depend on yourself, and be prepared!
I have a tool box in the back of my truck and it has very little tools in it. What is does have is 2-3 hundred feet of rope, extra socks, pants, sweater, gloves, hat, and shoes. I haven't forgot about knives, I got'em more than one guy needs. It pays to be prepared, when you are the only guy in camp. Now this works for me because I live in the city and drive to hunt e every night. I don't have to fly in or hike in or swim in, I don't have the sponsers to do that.
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I may be the only guy in Montana that has 25-06 shells and 30-06 shells in my pack, but doesn't own either of these calibers. Why? My old man. I have 2 of everything because, odds are, he can't remember one of something. Since he carried me and taught me all I know, having 2 facemasks, packing 20 gauge shells when all I usually shoot is a 12, etc., is a small price to pay for all he's given to me.
As a former spec ops guy myself (waaaaay former), I can attest to these truths:
1. If you forgot it, it will come back to bite you. If it is not on a checklist, you will forget it.
2. If you didn't bring it, you better figure out a way to do without it.
3. If it runs on batteries, the probability that it will $h** the bed is high.
4. If it ain't tied to your a$$, you will lose it the first night or insertion op.
5. Your Mama is not here for you. See Truth #1.
Good post, David.
WMH
Interesting and useful blog. I think that Hunter-shooter-types are often among the most resourceful people. I have been at office meetings, cookouts and other social gatherings where a SHARP knife was needed, and only the hunters had a pocket knife...with an edge. I once asked my father about his father, who had died during the Depression, about whether or not Granddad had carried a pocketknife. He smiled, and said, "Dad carried two pocketknives. Once for the rough stuff, and one for fine work, like castrating." I had to smile back, because I have carried two for many years...both small, for my white collar work. And no, I don't need to castrate anything but Son-in-laws.
Blue
I think there are a few things that should not be questioned when packing extras. Flashlight, lighter, compass, knife. I have found though that you don't necessarily need a back up that is equal in size and weight. I have a cheapo light compass put away, a very inexpensive but sharp knife, matches, and a tiny light. In a pinch, these things will all do the job decently for a short time. But they are a pain in the butt just enough that I am very aware that I don't want to use them if I don't have to. That way, I always remember my good stuff but just in case I, say, break my knife point off or forget to put fresh batteries in my flashlight, I am not standing with my thumbs tied. There are light alternatives to just about anything these days and in most cases they tend to be one time use more than rugged standbye. Besides, one can never have too many knives and flashlights.
I wish I had a dollar for every time someone laughed or complained that I bring too much gear and then ended up using my backup whatever when they forgot, lost or broke theirs.
People make fun of me whenever they see me with my flashlight, Swiss Army knife, Leatherman Multi-tool, digital camera with extra battery on my belt, and an extra folding knife in my pocket. Then when blackouts happen, I'm the first one they ask for a flashlight. Or if something needs fixing, I'm the first one they ask for the multi-tool or Swiss Army knife. I carry a digital camera for those times when photographic evidence is needed (such as a car accident) that will prove, without a doubt, that I did not cause it (yes, that has happened a few times and I am glad I had a camera of some sort with me at those times). I don't mind that I am the target of their ridicule, but we all know that in a pinch, I'm the one they can rely on. So, the last laugh's on me.
Excellent post! I've had this mentality since my early Boy Scout days... "Be Prepared". Take a backup & be creative. The #1 weapon for anything is the mind. An example: Years ago while camping in the wilds of Oregon with some friends, they were BS'n about how Animal is prepared for anything. One friend's wife says, "Yeah, right. I just lost the back to my earring. Got one of those?" Within minutes I located a pencil in my pack, cut the eraser off and poked a hole through it with a fish hook. She shut up.
Prepare & Be Prepared.
The batteries is always a big one for me. I always stash a handful of whatever size operates the gear in question. I don't want to get the bruiser of a lifetime only to have my camera go dead!
All so true. Other variables include the size of your pack and the length of the walk.
Batteries. Everything I own operates off of AA batteries so they are innerchangeable.
A back up for your back up is usually my motto...started going through the pack last night for this weekends upcoming Elk hunt...going back in about 4 miles with to spike out for 3 days...it is always a struggle to find the happy medium between what you need, and how much weight you want in your pack....
Scope failure is somewhat rare, but busting one is common on a fly in. If I go on another fly in or remote, I’d probably break down my M1 Garand with 6-8 clips (for you Range Monkeys, 1 clip = 8 rounds) of 180 grain Nosler Partitions and carry it in my “Freighter Pack”. It May not have a scope on it, but I can sure give something pure hell with it!
God bless you Rob for looking out for the old man. I've got one about like yours. He would leave his butt behind if it wasn't in his pants... He taught me most of what I know and I know the rest because he taught me to think and learn from my mistakes. Most of my mistakes came from not doing what he said to start with! I'll keep on taking him even if I have to carry him. He did it for me when I was little.
Most excellent post Dave. I find the list is absolutely essential as I gain seniority. I've never thought to carry a spair lock for the gun case... guess I've been lucky so far. Something new for the list!
Keep up the good work and make Phil share that new Dino gun with you when he gets back!
The rule to have a checklist is worth the price of admission all by itself. Too true. Add to that, CHECK for the items. Usually when I forget something, it is because I'm so sure I already have it packed that I don't go back and look.
It also doesn't hurt to ask, when going hunting, "What could go wrong?" Because of this my list starts with five items;
1. Fire (2 ways to start one)
2. Space blanket
3. SAK
4. Moleskin
5. Compass
WaMtnhunter -your list is priceless. Especially #3 - LMAO!
Rob-well said sir! How many of us here owe what we do (and are) to someone else? I owe a lot to my old man.
Excellent post, Dave. A checklist should trump CRS every time. Then there's that human factor....
I always pack two of the additional items for use in the filed:
1. Fire-starting equipment (matches, lighter & flints)
2. Water equipment (Camelback & bottles)
3. Water-purifying equipment (tabs & filter)
4. Location equipment (map, compass & GPS)
5. Knives
6. Firearms (handgun & rifle)
7. Emergency-signal equipment (mirror & engineer tape)
8. Key to my vehicle
i have a hunting pack that i take with me. it has a large fanny pack, plus a smaller pouch on each side. i keep all sorts of goodies in there. it is basicly a survival kit, in the event that i for some reason, can not make it back to camp at the end of the day, and am forced to stay in the woods. in my 40+ years of hunting, i have not needed it, yet. i have used some of the items occaisionally, more for comfort or conveinience than need. but i am still willing to pack it in and out of the woods every time i go, just in case. i would rather pack in and out an xtra 5 or 6 pounds, than be caught out in the woods, with nothing. with this kit, i can survive a couple of days, without it, i may not make it through the night. your body can take a lot of punishment, as long as you keep hypothermia and dehydration at bay. i am a firm believer in murphy's law! it is 10 times better to be prepared, than be up the crick, with nothing.
One morning at 4 am a few years ago I pulled up to get registration cards from a box near Cheyenne bottoms waterfowl refuge. My friend got out after me and accidently locked the doors with the motor running. Thank God I had another key. The year before I locked my myself out and had to break a window (no cell service). Guessing which was the cheapest to break I broke a small window in the back of my supercab Ranger. Turned out to be the most expensive SOB of the bunch.
I have in my hunt pack at least two flashlights, two firestarters, an extra release, a compass, my cellphone (even in no coverage areas), Knife, rope, an extra tree belt, a field point and blunt tip, a knife and folding saw and lots of surveyors tape, a few tacks and other miscellaneous crap that at one point i thought would be useful. The whole thing only weighs a couple pounds. I always stow my keys before i shut my truck door.
sgaredneck -
Ask your dad if he has ever heard the saying, "Every Ship a Minesweeper ...Once".
LOL
"Watch the ounces and the pounds will take care of themselves". That was the sound advice of Colin Fletcher who wrote the first comprehensive backpacking guide back in 1968 (The Complete Walker). Over the years I've applied this rule to my hunting pack, exchanging larger, older items for newer, lighter, technologically improved items. The "obsolete" items go on ebay to offset the cost of the new purchases.
Blue
ROTFLMAO
Mr. Petzal,
You forgot to add the most important SeAL mantra.
K.I.S.S.- Keep It Simple Stupid !
Complex plans,items,tools, etc. are ALWAYS subject to Mr. Murphy at any given time, and ALWAYS at the wrong time.
Just trying to help out.
Good Luck and Good Hunting to you Mr Petzal.
Heck-I carry triple stuff; I'm a pack rat!
My son always laughts at how much I carry in the field, but once I am out there I usually stay until sunset.I despise walking back to the truck more so then carrying it out in the field!
Ralph -
Darn straight. If it's not dark I'm not heading for the truck except to get the dragging sled or to go help someone drag one out. I've never shot a deer or elk sitting in camp.
Only thing I did not take two of on our last trip was a DeWalt reciprocating saw. Had spare batteries, two battery chargers, and somewhere between two and six of everything else, but the guy who was supposed to bring the other saw, forgot it!
Moral of that story is, depend on yourself, and be prepared!
A good post and good responses. Mentioning an extra lock for a gun case is a good idea that most of us forget, because most airlines require gun cases to be locked for shipping. If you lose one in an out of the way place, it can be hard to replace.
One time I arrived at Johannesburg International Airport and could not find the key for my gun case for custom inspection prior to departure for Zambia. The custom agent laughed at my concern, and pulled out a key ring with every lock in the world categorized on it. My case was open in seconds for his examination. He said if all else failed he had a huge pair of bolt cutters, but that they raised hob with the cosmetic appearance of the luggage.. I found my key at about that time.
I learned this lesson recently when I was takin my 7 year old son fishing. Got great photos of him and some fish but my batteries went dead when he caught the biggest one and when I went to get my spares out of the case and they werent there he said dad. Dont you remember giving me those for the remote in my tv last week! Priceless!
Good post Dave. I keep one of those large plastic storage bins they sell at Wally world in the back of my truck. It contains heavy duty booster cables and all the other things I might need on a trip. Even a tire repair kit.
Fortunately where I hunt I'm not having to take much very far. As time goes on I find my self thinking 'what if' and my pocket carry items have transformed to a small day pack. Every year that goes by I see things happen that I think "wow, if I'd had ________,things would be so much better." Now I am seeing the point where the day pack is almost a PITA. Compared to what?
All that said, being prepared is far better than suffering or abject disappointment. Not sucking beats suck every time.
FWIW I asked my Dad(once an exec on a minesweeper) who was the toughest in all the military. He told me,"I don't know who is the toughest in the whole world but the toughest I've ever seen is a SEAL."
Mr. Myles, Check my post from earlier today. I'd like to share something with you.
If I am driving to a hunting camp and have access to everything I can transport in my pickup, then yeah, I have backups for almost anything and will be well prepared. However, compare that with a backpack sheep hunt where you might have to pack in eight, ten miles or more. On such a trip, unless you are crazy, I assure you that you won't be packing an extra binocular, a second pair of boots, or an extra 20-round box of ammunition.
I enjoyed Rob's post about his father. My own father, Jake, will be 92 in December. He has never in his life made an equipment list for a hunting trip, yet I do not remember him ever forgetting an important item! In my own case, if I didn't make a list (I have equipment lists for a dozen different "trip types" that I photocopy), I'd probably forget my rifle or my boots!
After a few decades of hunting its easier to know what you can do without and what is absolutely essential. The distance from civilization dictates the basics required to deal with situations. You need to be able to plug a tire and do basic mechanical if way out in wilderness. Many places I hunt now have cell service so hunting alone is safer and can just call when animal is down. Knowing how to dress and how to live outdoors with bare essentials ensures you can survive almost anything. I always have at least box of ammo and further you go more you need because not all available at gas stations.
This is a great post. Del, I used to make fun of my buddy who wears an extra truck key around his neck. Now so do I. The first thing on my check list is the statement, "Do Not Loose this List." I keep a couple on top of the sunvisor, each for a different type of hunt.
I once insulted son # 3 when I mentioned the gear guidelines for Marines, "If you issue a Marine two rocks, he will loose one and break the other." I listened to a short speech about mission accomplishment.
Okay, so what does everyone else do while they're sitting on the stand? As I'm sitting there enjoying my rare time in the woods, I'm thinking about "what ifs". And amen to "your backups can be one use or smaller", Gritz. How many of you have a donut spare tire? One of the problems I have with a full size-equal quality spare is that you loan it to someone and never see it again.
Dad said there was a picture of a minesweeper (that was posted somewhere, probably in SWO school) that was caught as it hit a mine. A catastrophic explosion to say the least. Bits and pieces flying, and one little speck with a circle drawn around it with the caption "this is the XO after he f----- up"...... Dad said that they were never let to forget that picture.
And yes, I think he has made that statement a time or two. I think I remember him hitting me with that remark when I grounded us on an oyster bed once at low tide....LOL
As you can imagine my boat handling skills were immediately called into question.
And to tie it all in, this means I should throw a box of .270 in my pack for him since he's subject to forget things....
Two little things I ALWAYS carry in every pack and pouch I carry, besides the other stuff that has already been mentioned, is a little bar or pc of soap and a little bottle of iodine. I have accidents...
Never count on high tech or anything too mechanical. When I lived one winter in the Alaskan bush, I had a chainsaw with extra chains and sparkplugs. I also had a one-man crosscut saw, a bowsaw and two axes. Firewood was going to get cut somehow.
Always have a backup of some kind, the simpler the better. Take care of your gear and watch what you do like your life depends on it. It just might.
If your outdoor trip has much "adventure" to it, you screwed up. Keep it fun,but routine.
I always, always have an extra pair of socks.
A few years ago, we were going snowboarding for a day. We got about halfway to the mountain and realized we forgot our snowboards. We were so worries about remember everything else, we forgot the most important thing. That's why making lists of what you need can be a lifesaver!
When I was a Communication NCO for a combat Engineer battalion, I always carried a small bag with small , hard to find fittings and enough wire to make an expediant antenna with me . Many repair parts ar hard to get in the field and I carry on the tradition today. We are going to ride our 4-wheelers on an outing to look at the Elk here in Ky.in a couple of weeks and I have been packing special stuff on my ATV all week.
I've been carrying around buckets full of everything I could possibly fit in it. Thinking this year I want to be more like Rambo and just carry a knife around.
Ross
-----
visit www.norop.com the search engine for Hunters.
Rambo had help you probably won't. In all seriousness though I believe 99% of former military men, at least the ones who have been in combat, follow those rules simply to survive!
Blueridge,
I have a son-in-law that needs castrating...what do you charge?...he's outside of Dallas...I tried to do it myself and they pulled me off of him.
2 Poppa & Duckcreekdick,..
1st Poppa I dont spell well unless i really take my time and lately I just dont have a lot (time that is ) ,..not that Im such a bad speller its that Im a bad typist.
Which is why I even use spell check on the checks I write ( kidding of course) but I'll be damnd if I can find spell check on this blog .
So in my case,.. is what it is OK ? Will do my best not to offend your senitive spelling sensabilities.
About the sox,.. my father told me when i was really short When you go to war ( no cluse how he knew I would ) 1st thing you learn other than to watch the older guys & pay attention is make sure you get plenty of sox ,,. dry feet take you one H of a lot further and faster than wet blisterd feet with frost bite or Jungle rot.
So depending on the state of my involvement with one of the fairer sex (some one ) she or me buys a faily good sized wad ( of socks) from time to time . None of this argyle S&it,.. blue black brown green etc etc. I take em all apart and throw em in a drawer .
When I need two ,. I get two ,.. and I dont worry if the count is even . (something that used to drive my wife and as I have recently learned apparently every other female on the planet,. mildly insane)
Something that does not compute with me
But I dont give a ( U know what)
Because when I need two socks I need two socks and I aint gonna go nuts trying to keep the cout even.
Also Im pretty sure the last washer and dryer I purchased are possessed by evil spirts that eat blue socks especially .
Duckcreekdick Im still turning your statement over in my
head ,.. as I said one impressive statement . and I dont impress easy.
Combat reflexes ,. now know,.. they do not ever go away .But honstly I wouldn't have said that until last week. Over the years I got less and less nervous and jerky ,.But for a few seconds I was 19 yrs old and movin like a MF er,.so charlie didnt get apiece of nmy tender scandahoovian A%% yuk yuk
Im out for few days ( gonna go hunt )
Best to all !!
Wamtnhunter - thanks for that quote -I had all but forgotten about that little episode. I was a young youngster back then, and Dad was still barking orders so I had probably sorta parked that memory back a ways. Now that he's mellowed and I've gotten about 3% smarter memories like that are good to have.
Right you are Moshi,.. it never leaves,
Nor apparently does the gut wrenching instant conditioned reaction to dive under or behind the nearest thing available that looks like cover when someone shoots close and your not ready. Jaysus !!
Went to a new range last week ,.. (other than general safty rules most have their seperate edicate)
This one had 50 yd range to the side and slightly behind the 100 yd range .
Walking up to the 100 fireing line ( it was quiet ) just a few guys making adjustmenst to rifles ,..
I introduced my self to a couple guys standing and talking . Both were friendly and helpfull ,.
Was beginning to relax when a guy on the 50 yd fireing line let go twice with a 357 Herrate (sp?) wih 8 " barrel,.( i know cause I asked him later )
and instant later another shot came from the 100 yd line in front.
Behind and to the side, classic ambush ,position .. then the shot from in front ,..In less time than it takes to think,.. 40 yars melted away.
By the time I started thinking istead of reacting
was 1/2 under near by jeep.
Couple good laughs over that one after which I had all the help and info i needed.
Yup,..
take two of everthing and an extra role of butt wipe if your going to a new range YUK YUK
After dropping my headnet out of my tree stand while bow hunting last year, now I carry a spare, in addition to the extra gloves and flashlight, and when I was still shooting fingers, also carried an extra bow tab.
Yohan-
Good to see you back ...your statement,"Extra sox are the mark of a foot soldier,nd fundamental knowlege only gained (usally) through painful experiance .. and the idea."got me to thinking.
Why don't sock manufacturers begin to sell us three socks of the same kind? That way they would last longer,and if we ever lost one to the sock thief that resides in our washing machine ... We'll still have a pair!
Pack 'em high and tight,and don't forget your AMERICAN EXPRESS card. Just in case you forgot something else ...
Yohan: Combat reflexes never fail do they? I allow my buddies to have their little laugh at my jumpy behavior. In a real situation, I'd be nice and safe while they would be scratching their behinds, wondering what those bee-like sounds were.
2Poppa
Well put, sir. Good hunting this year.
WMH
DUCKCREEKDICK & JIM FROM MO,..
Busy lately ,. real busy ,.but today had a chnce to y ( scan through some of the posts at something less than warp speed.
Extra sox are the mark of a foot soldier,nd fundamental knowlege only gained (usally) through painful experiance .. and the idea.
"If your outdoor trip has too much adventure in it you screwed up."
Should be words required to be printed on evry piece of outdoor eqipment from camo-toilet paper to ammunition boxes to 4 wheelers.
Ive heard no truer words spoken since I heard my attorney say :"The divorce is final"
At which point the preditory witch pretending to be a woman ( attorney ) representing my former spouse chimed in to say "and now you pay." Boy was that the truth !
In my business ,.. there is an axiom ,. if you fail to plan ,. you are planning to fail. Trite as that may sound ,. if more people baught the idea that "too much adventure in an outdoor excursion means you wandering arounf 1/2 cocked or neglegent or both.
We would save untold difficulty,.. both inconsequential and life threatening and provide much less fodder for the anti hunting tribe.
Damn ,. that was an inpresive statement !!
I have a tool box in the back of my truck and it has very little tools in it. What is does have is 2-3 hundred feet of rope, extra socks, pants, sweater, gloves, hat, and shoes. I haven't forgot about knives, I got'em more than one guy needs. It pays to be prepared, when you are the only guy in camp. Now this works for me because I live in the city and drive to hunt e every night. I don't have to fly in or hike in or swim in, I don't have the sponsers to do that.
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