What does a new hunter need?

Hey guys, so I am completely new to all things hunting and am looking at getting into it for a hobby as well as to stock a freezer. I have never had any experience in hunting or shooting anything other than rabbits. I am planning on getting some basic tramping gear and going on some hunts with my cousins and friends to watch without shooting and get some experience and will buy more gear as I go along to be able to hunt by myself. I was wondering what sort of gear I will need and any recommendations on the types of gear or good brands that are good to have with you. I'm thinking of doing both day trips and multiday trips and mainly going after deer but really I'm just looking to start building up the basic gear to get started. If anybody can help it would be much appreciated.

Cheers

gun,ammo,SHARP knife....bag to carry lunch in and meat out....binos are good.....patience and perseverance

Avoid getting upsold by sales staff, ask a few older hunters what they use they will have sorted out a lot of the rubbish and use that as a guide.
Same goes for rifles get something in a common readily available cal like 308 and practice practice practice.

A Howa 308 or a 2nd hand Parker Hale - 308 cos it is common and hence the ammo is cheap but a 270/7mm 08/ 6.5 all will do what you need easily
Don't start on deer with a 223 or smaller - later on when you get more accurate they are ok
A scope that costs as much as the rifle if not more - 3-9 x 40 or similar
Good binos (try mates' ones to see what suits you)
Do the HUNTS course at your local Deerstalkers, you don't have to join if you don't want to but it usually comes with access to a range to practise your shooting (which is important)
The HUNTS manual is good as is Lentle and Saxon's book "Red deer hunting in NZ" which your library system down there is bound to have a copy of

Good boots

As above - good boots are essential.
And a Silva compass.

I am using mostly all the gear I have been using for tramping for years and will upgrade the things I need to when I can afford it, the only extra things I have bought are rifle, ammo and a knife.

You need to be able to navigate off track through the bush using a map and compass. It's just as important as having a rifle and knife.
Oh and you need a head torch.

Binoculars , Boots and raincoat , buy the best of each you can afford.
You can shoot animals with the cheapest rifle and ammo , you can process the animal with the cheapest knife
You will not shoot the animal if your wet and hypothermic , your feet hurt and and you can’t see them before they see you .

Also think about a small cooking unit of some sort. We use the type you screw on top of the small gas canisters (kovea brand) and a titanium 500 ml pot/mug that can be used to boil water for a cuppa (a real luxury out bush) or to add to a dehydrated meal such as backcountry. Small, light , cheap to buy and a real handy little setup that can be used anywhere. And believe me just having the ability to make a cuppa can really brighten your day at times

Dont get hung up on the latest plastic fantastic rifle, or the bestest model, most bloody expensive this or that. And dont get hung up on calibre, anything above a 243 should be good to start with. But good glass, both bino's and scope, good rain gear, comfortable pack, and bloody good boots, are probably the most important bits of gear. Spend heaps on glass, as much as you can possibly afford and then some. After you've got a basic set of gear and a rifle, I believe one of the most important things is trigger time, shoot lots, with mates, on your own. Shoot targets, shoot cans, shoot steel. Learn to judge distance and keep your shooting within your own limits, and then shoot some more. And a DA Hunts course is an excellent starting point.

its also good to see you are keen to just tag along without any expectation of shooting anything there's heaps to learn even before you get to that stage :thumbsup:

For a cheap and sharp knife the wee Bahco knives in a plastic sheath are good. I used that before getting a folding knife, depending on the trip depends what one I'll take with me.

$11 from George Henry: https://www.georgehenry.co.nz/shop/C...n+Holster.html

You shoulda seen the stuff we started with in the late 60's as trampers. And hunting is really only armed tramping (sorta;-))

Get the skinny on surviving in the bush as a tramper, sorted, then add rifle and knife and binos. And patients. Lots of patients.

Thanks for all the quick replies, I'm learning a lot. How about clothing and backpacks? I'm not sure what types I would need e.g. fleeces, pants, base layers and waterproofs. Would it be better to get expensive stuff (hoping that it will last a long time) or just cheap out? I know to get a decent pair of boots but unsure about all other clothing.

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Originally Posted by XR500

And patients. Lots of patients.

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With all due respect @XR500 I think we need less patients. In fact the less patients we have the better for everyone's sake.

What the lad really needs is patience. Lots of patience.


:thumbsup:

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Thanks for all the quick replies, I'm learning a lot. How about clothing and backpacks? I'm not sure what types I would need e.g. fleeces, pants, base layers and waterproofs. Would it be better to get expensive stuff (hoping that it will last a long time) or just cheap out? I know to get a decent pair of boots but unsure about all other clothing.

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My only concern with clothing would be to avoid all the thin super lightweight macpac type trendy gear as it won't last 5mins in a bush hunting scenario , boots included. Others may possibly disagree but I went through all this with my family , the missus in particular as all her tramping friends use that type gear and I was proven correct in... well...5mins of bush hunting.

You don't need flash stuff...or at least you didn't 50 years ago...

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albu...Picture682.jpg

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Thanks for all the quick replies, I'm learning a lot. How about clothing and backpacks? I'm not sure what types I would need e.g. fleeces, pants, base layers and waterproofs. Would it be better to get expensive stuff (hoping that it will last a long time) or just cheap out? I know to get a decent pair of boots but unsure about all other clothing.

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For tops, a 3-layer system is effective
Merino baselayer/ thermal type thing
polarfleece windbreak mid-layer for warmth and a top waterproof coat layer

Adjust according to temperature
Good waterproof coats can be had from the army surplus guys cheaply

I'd recommend starting out with a surplus one first and not rush out and spend 600 odd on a Swazi straight away

Someone will be along shortly with a surplus recommendation


And always hunt into the wind if you can

Deer will wonder what you look like and wonder what that noise is but one whiff of you and they'll bolt in most cases

Not said yet but as a starter please do get a PLB! This little bad boy might just save your life!

As said above learn map reading and compass work there’s plenty of google ways to learn this!

Good case for your phone water proof if you can and then get the topo map app! When using this there’s a few tricks so it won’t drain your battery one is put it in flight mode and shut down all your other apps. But make sure you mark and check your progress on the other paper map!

If you have a place that is going to be a regular hunting ground then get that map laminated.

Try and find someone that has shot a few and tag along. Even if your just to help carry the meat out if your successful:)

Learn the art of bush stalking....as you have no doubt seen they can be closer than you think.

Clothes: use the search engine on here and have a good look through. There’s loads of stuff. Boots that fit and are comfortable and are suitable for the area you are hunting. Mountains are different to bush in that bush hunting you can use a lot lighter boot. Sometime you have both in the same area.
A good rain coat! Also a good water bottle and a filter if your in a Giardia area....you don’t want this:O_O:

Again use the search engine to look for light weight cooking gear!
Some of the flys these days are brilliant.
But again all this can come latter.
Join NZDA do the hunt course this will give you a huge step up.
Rifles and scope and bins have been covered.
Hope this helps......don’t forget the PLB have fun ah:thumbsup:

Just join the local nzda and get a good mentor to take you out and show you the ropes. Good boots sleeping bag and pack is what I’d be doing. As funds allow get some good binoculars and don’t skimp. You can shoot deer with any old thing as mentioned above. Get used to walking long distances carrying weight. Get hard and fit. Get hard mentally too. Push yourself.

What's wrong with the super tough CCC stubbies, I wear them almost year round if it gets super cold some thermals under do the trick. Just rfemember not everyone thinks Merino is the bees knees I don't as I can't wear it and its damn expensive too.

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Originally Posted by 308

And always hunt into the wind if you can

Deer will wonder what you look like and wonder what that noise is but one whiff of you and they'll bolt in most cases

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This for me as a beginner was huge, because when I started I didn't have deer hunting mates to pass that sort of wisdom along. I knew they used their noses, but had no concept of quite how much the deer relied on their sense of smell. Their eyesight is pretty good too, especially for movement. So take advantage of that invite to tag along with your mates, there is a bit to learn. And then join/do the Deerstalkers Assn Hunts Course, well worth it as it covers clothing, equipment, maps, rifles etc.

And clothes wise, you don't "really need" camo. If you are in open country, staying downwind and low to the ground helps lots. If you are in the bush, finding sign, and slowing down hugely and looking lots will help.

Good luck.

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Thanks for all the quick replies, I'm learning a lot. How about clothing and backpacks? I'm not sure what types I would need e.g. fleeces, pants, base layers and waterproofs. Would it be better to get expensive stuff (hoping that it will last a long time) or just cheap out? I know to get a decent pair of boots but unsure about all other clothing.

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I wouldn't over think it at this stage. You may not like or be any good at hunting. I would go for some un armed game spotting trips first before buying gear. If your heart races and pounds in your chest when you see a deer and when you sneak in close then hunting is for you. If there is no buzz and you dont like being in the hills it might not be your thing.

Learn to read the weather forcasts a few days ahead and river level data from ecan web sites.Watch the good weather coming over from Australia,gives you a good idea whats coming from here and the southerlys coming up with the cold weather.Good weather makes hunting more enjoyable.Deer stalkers association clubs a very good place to learn as well.

always buy good quality gear, doesnt have to be a name brand. good boots are a must! even 2nd hand ones (ask sarvo)
and best of all is a hunting mate you can trust

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Hey guys, so I am completely new to all things hunting and am looking at getting into it for a hobby as well as to stock a freezer. I have never had any experience in hunting or shooting anything other than rabbits. I am planning on getting some basic tramping gear and going on some hunts with my cousins and friends to watch without shooting and get some experience and will buy more gear as I go along to be able to hunt by myself. I was wondering what sort of gear I will need and any recommendations on the types of gear or good brands that are good to have with you. I'm thinking of doing both day trips and multiday trips and mainly going after deer but really I'm just looking to start building up the basic gear to get started. If anybody can help it would be much appreciated.

Cheers

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Items/brands that are possibly the best despite being relatively cheap:

Mora knife- If you are prone to losing/dropping things get a pink or orange one(or both!), get a stone and learn how to sharpen

Opinel knife for backup

Aliexpress titanium gas stoves with pot supports (buy three and you are still less than half of a fancy MSR cooker)

Casio digital watch (waterproof and accurate yet replaceable)

Vortex binos (cheap, come with a harness and will retain some value, forever warranty)

Silva Compass (get one 'baseplate' type one for map reading and a watch strap one for taking bearings)

Osprey backpack (get a bigger one, secondhand)

Do not ever skimp on:

Quality wool Socks

Sphur Hunting series (not tactical) scope mounts

GPS (Garmin Marine are my pick, they are accurate and float!)

Join NZDA, do their HUNTS course. It's not the kind of thing I'd normally do, but was advised to on this forum when I asked the same question as you a year or so ago.

It was the best thing ever in terms of getting started. You don't need the kit to do it, I didn't even have a rifle as my license took a while to come through.

When it did come through, I went to Reloaders Supplies where after some discussion with the guy got sold a rifle that I needed rather than the one I thought I wanted. I remain pleased that I took the advice - which is a long way around of saying "Find a decent gun shop".

Start small, work your way up as you find what you need.

And being able to find your way around in bush is far more part of making it all work than I realised.

Edit: and to level up quicker, pay someone like Paul Carmine to spend a couple of hours with you and your rifle getting you and your shooting sorted out, plus all sorts of hunting advice.

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Thanks for all the quick replies, I'm learning a lot. How about clothing and backpacks? I'm not sure what types I would need e.g. fleeces, pants, base layers and waterproofs. Would it be better to get expensive stuff (hoping that it will last a long time) or just cheap out? I know to get a decent pair of boots but unsure about all other clothing.

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Personally I wouldn’t cheap out on packs, boots and waterproofs, especially down where you live.

Waterproofs can save your life in shit conditions and also act as windproof layers, if you have shit boots you’ll regret every step you take in them, and getting the right pack is key to being able to make the most of your time hunting. Get one fitted for you in a store if you can.

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Originally Posted by mimms2

To up your shooting skills, a .22 and a shitload of ammo. All ranges, all weather.

"Shooting rabbits" may or may not have been good practice... were you head shooting them? Stalking them?
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And here's where the humble .223 comes into its own. If you have access to plentiful bunny hunting areas, then once you are happy tipping over bunnies @ 200- 250m then Deer become big big targets. :thumbsup:

"what you need" has pretty well been covered over the last couple of pages ....just to add you need an old codger to be camp mother ,cook big feeds for you , show you how to sharpen your knife keep the campfire going and pass on his local knowledge around said campfire ...... alot of guys had their father to do that for them .....some of us didnt ....so dont be shy if an old grizzled hunter offers to take you bush ......take every opportunity you never go away without having learnt something

Try not to walk 15ks into the hills and shoot a deer until you've carried one for 1or 2 ks and realise how heavy 30 to 40 kilos weighs on your back.
Study the area you intend to hunt on a map and know what direction will get you out even without a map or compass. Learn how to find direction using sun and time.

You need a Mercator knife, a sharpening stone and steel and a 35l ish pack and some basic on sale merino Macpac layers.

Forget about the super expensive and ridiculously heavy hunting coats. It’s not a fashion show. A lightweight plastic type raincoat will do what it’s supposed to do and will fold down nice and small so you’ll never need to question bringing it along or not.

All the best mate :cool::cool:

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Originally Posted by scotty

"what you need" has pretty well been covered over the last couple of pages ....just to add you need an old codger to be camp mother ,cook big feeds for you , show you how to sharpen your knife keep the campfire going and pass on his local knowledge around said campfire ...... alot of guys had their father to do that for them .....some of us didnt ....so dont be shy if an old grizzled hunter offers to take you bush ......take every opportunity you never go away without having learnt something

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Nice one @scotty :thumbsup:

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Hey guys, so I am completely new to all things hunting and am looking at getting into it for a hobby as well as to stock a freezer. I have never had any experience in hunting or shooting anything other than rabbits. I am planning on getting some basic tramping gear and going on some hunts with my cousins and friends to watch without shooting and get some experience and will buy more gear as I go along to be able to hunt by myself. I was wondering what sort of gear I will need and any recommendations on the types of gear or good brands that are good to have with you. I'm thinking of doing both day trips and multiday trips and mainly going after deer but really I'm just looking to start building up the basic gear to get started. If anybody can help it would be much appreciated.

Cheers

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hi mate- firstly you will need, an overwhelming desire to do and learn whatever it takes to be successful finding deer/Tahr/Cham or whatever. Reason I'm saying this is, often there are posts here and elsewhere with guys starting out- asking for opinions on gear etc- but then sometimes/often find in real life- in practice, finding the animals and getting to them is a lot harder than they first thought it would be. You most likely will get this insight hopefully from your mates. Sounds like you are on the right track starting off slowish.If your mates get animals 50% of the time/trips outdoors- or better, then you are on the right track.
If so, then good luck to ya- plenty starter packages out there for firearms + scopes. Plenty of deals on here.

Do look after your feet first- with the best fitting- comfiest foot wear and socks you can get for your type of adventures- expect to spend $300 plus.

Do get a PLB- locator beacon.

Do get a good qual rain coat + mid insulation layer and baby them with your life.

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Originally Posted by RUMPY

Try not to walk 15ks into the hills and shoot a deer until you've carried one for 1or 2 ks and realise how heavy 30 to 40 kilos weighs on your back.
Study the area you intend to hunt on a map and know what direction will get you out even without a map or compass. Learn how to find direction using sun and time.

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I'd add to that spend a bit of time understanding the lie of the land from a topo map on your back to base/exit routes. Shitty bush on the way home just means you might get the torch out at some point. Steep bluffs or rock faces means something a bit more serious if you try and push on rather than double back.

Sent from my LM-G710 using Tapatalk

Here is a cooker and a pot that in my opinion is best matchup. Nice and lightweight and if you pair it with a 110g gas can you got a bloody reliable/lightweight cooking setup.

https://www.toaksoutdoor.com/collect...ucts/pot-550-l

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3277...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

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Originally Posted by Madridista22

Thanks for all the quick replies, I'm learning a lot. How about clothing and backpacks? I'm not sure what types I would need e.g. fleeces, pants, base layers and waterproofs. Would it be better to get expensive stuff (hoping that it will last a long time) or just cheap out? I know to get a decent pair of boots but unsure about all other clothing.

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In terms of a backpack, I started off with one of those ex NZ military packs, worked a treat. Depends on your budget too. If you have a bit of cash to play with I'd also look at the NZ Made cactus packs.

For clothing - a lot of guys wear shorts and longjohns(personally I wear light weight pants). I'd recommend wearing a merino baselayer top and then a synthetic style grid fleece. You can get these at a good price from Bivouac.

PM me if you want more info, backcountry gear is my passion and I enjoy helping people out with this sort of thing. A lot to discuss

Cheers