Aug 2010
Elk hunting for the first time?
My father hunts with a rifle and bow and hunts deer. He just retired and all his life wanted to go on a elk hunt. So the family surprised him and bought him a elk hunting trip for this upcoming season. Is there any “must have” hunting equipment that any of you elk hunters suggest for this hunt? He wants to try and get the elk with his bow and mentioned arrows but I know nothing about them. I can’t afford an expensive rifle but maybe I could find a used one? Any help from experienced hunters would be appreciated.
Lisa
It depends on where and when the hunt is. The basics are a good rifle that he can shoot well. 308 Win 30/06, 270 Win, 280 Rem. are all good choices. You don’t need a magnum! Optics on the rifle to make the through the hole in the brush and not hit a twig. A good set of binoculars (absolute) and spotting scope (really nice to have) can make or break the hunt.
A knife and sharpener are necessary. Game bags and hauling rope if not a wheeled carrier. Ice chests to bring back the meat.
Weather depending will tell you what kind of sleeping gear and clothing. Clothing layers are always a good way to go.
Where do you live? Where is he going to hunt? When is he going on this hunt?
Lisa, to give you valid information we need to know where your father is going to hunt as mentioned above. The basics I would suggest is several pair of warm wool sox or a good knife is always a sure bet. Or you could buy your father some cow/bugle calls or even a good backpack. Most guides will already have the calls, but he just might like his own. Or you good give him a gift certificate to have the meat processed. It can run a couple hundred bucks though.
Hope this helps
First, I would recommend he stick with a rifle for his first elk hunt outside of the rut. I have listed several “have to have” pieces of equipment that are recommended as specific elk hunter gifts on our website: Edited by admin………………………….