Ist time deer hunter

Deer hunting is something that has been on my bucket list for a long time.
This summer I was diagnosed with cancer. I had surgery to remove the tumor and just spent the last 6 weeks in radiation treaments down a Rochester Mayo. So I am on my way to recovery.
I got an offer to go deer hunting this year so I am going to take it.
I spent the night at Cabelas and bought myself a Savage arms Axis 25.06 with a scope. Nothing fancy but it will be mine.
I bought some ammunition, soft side case and a sling. I will have to make another trip to get some blaze orange gear.

My question to experience guys what is some other gear that is a must have when you deer hunt?

What type of area are you hunting? Are you going to be in a stand, ground blind or still hunting? Binoculars are a good one to add.

DT

A few calls are always with me. A grunt call and a can call. Some scent killer is also a must have. Good luck, let us know how you do.

I would also advise getting the Can. No skills or technique required.
I would also make sure you are going to be warm and dry with quality hunting clothing. You can have a very short hunt if you get cold and wet. Nobody has fun hunting like that.
Good luck to you.

Some nice boots
Sharp knife
gutting gloves
fanny pack or small back back for snacks and gear.
Also a set of scope covers are nice.

First and foremost I applaud you for not letting the cancer take your spirit! Best wishes for a long term recovery!

Comfort! The more comfortable you are, the more enjoyable it is. As mentioned, determine what style of hunting you’ll be doing the most of – long sits in a tree stand, spot stalk,… and dress accordingly.The mosty miserable thing is fighting the damp cold when under-dressed.

I like a good fanny pack that is adjustable and can easily be worn facing front or back. Very easy/convienent way to carry all the little things. I don’t like fumbling around digging in pockets for stuff.
I like a good knife that has a very form fitted grip that prevents my wet, cold, slippery hands from sliding onto the blade. Don’t need the Rambo hatchet, a good 2″-3″ is plenty for field dressing a deer.
A roll of marking ribbon. I hope it lasts a lifetime, but its great to have if you have a poor shot on a deer and need to trail it. I like marking the blood trail so if it becomes faint, its easier to line your self up with the “path” it may have taken.

Spare detachable magazine!

I’m so happy to hear you are on the way to recovering!! Lots of good suggestions above. Best of luck!!!! I hope you get a deer so we can get a proper avatar for this side.

Good luck!

Good luck on the recovery! Everyone has listed some good stuff, I like a nice warm neck guard, this can be pulled up over your face and ears as well and helps keep your face and neck warm especially in the wind. I’m a wuss when it comes to cold weather, so staying warm in means more hours in the stand. Hand/foot warmers can also help.

If you will be in a tree stand a safety harness is a must , most of the other items listed above will be plenty to get you started. You can keep the camera in the truck but make sure you have one available .

Zone 256 is where I will be. In a tree stand.

Thanks guys for all the tips I knew I could count on the IDO Guys!!