Gifts & Gear for Hunters
Holiday Savings
Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift or taking advantage of year-end savings, explore our top holiday gear ideas and verified discounts to stay ready for every moment afield.
Hunter’s Gift GuideAll About Hunting
From small game and upland birds to big game, waterfowl and even the creatures that define the term “top of the food chain,” hunting offers a priceless bond with the natural world, food for the table and a welcome respite from the world’s daily grind.
GET STARTED IN HUNTING
If just one in three hunters add one new person to our hunting traditions, we’ll secure a strong future for generations to come. Be the one. Ignite the passion that can change the course of someone’s life forever. For all hunting has done to enrich your life, join the +ONE movement and invite someone hunting. Share your experience with posts on social media. #PlusOneMovement.
+ONE Partner Organizations
Working together to encourage responsible mentorship in local communities.
FIND A RANGE
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Deer Hunting
Hear the words “deer hunting” and you’ll likely think of the ubiquitous whitetail—and for good reason. You can find this species in 44 states, usually in plentiful numbers on private and public lands. In five of the six states the whitetail doesn’t call home, you can still deer hunt, but in Alaska and California it will be for the elusive black-tail, Nevada and Utah are home on the range for mule deer, and Coues deer have Arizona for an address. (Trivia: The only state that lacks a native deer population is Hawaii!).
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Pheasants
With a helicopter rise at the flush preceding its zippy horizontal flight for yonder, a long tail that’s distracted more than a few hunters to miss and a cackle that mocks when you do, this gaudy bird reigns the world of upland bird hunting. So popular is this bird in the vast plains of the Midwest that opening day is legitimate cause to skip school, work, church and afternoon college football. If you’ve ever been to an opening day in Pierre, South Dakota, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about.
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Elk
Considered one of the most majestic animals on the continent, the Rocky Mountain elk is emblematic of western hunting. From the bugling of herd bull monarchs keeping their harems of cows in line to the breathtaking vistas and, oh, those towering tiers of antlers, this is a prized experience for anyone with the patience to hike the miles and put the hours in behind a binocular to plan a stall. Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah are always top destinations, but reintroduced populations in states like Kansas, Kentucky,
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Wild Turkeys
They’re not just for Thanksgiving anymore! In fact, America’s wild turkeys are as much a sign that spring is here as the Easter bunny. With eyesight that puts an eagle to shame and an all-too-often reluctance to come within range despite the lively “conversation” between bird and a hunter’s slate call, spring turkey seasons are a challenge that see camo-clad, shotgunners head to the woods and fields in droves.
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Waterfowl
Four flyways, colorful species small and large, the art of the decoy and the thrill of a Labrador retriever leaping over the boat’s bow to make an enthusiastic retrieve of goose or duck make waterfowling one of the most thrilling hunting sports around. It’s also one of the oldest—drawings of waterfowl have been found in Ice Age caves, Egyptian tombs and even the artwork of B.C.-era Peru. America’s earliest settlers from “across the pond” found their new home in the East boasted a nearly unlimited supply of ducks, geese and swans—good eating for starving Colonials.
Find a preserve
WHERE TO HUNT
Wingshooting
Hunting preserves—private, regulated properties that stock game animals—are a great resource for hunters. They provide a controlled environment and an increased chance for success. Big-game preserves often include one-on-one guiding, great for novices, while upland bird preserves are a favorite for training young bird dogs.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Hunting Basics And Tips
| 1 |
Hunting safety is the first priorityWatch a safety video or take a hunter education course to learn more. |
| 2 |
Read hunting laws and regulationsHunting laws and regulations vary from state to state. Learn more. |
| 3 |
Wear proper hunting gearThe more comfortable you are, the longer you’ll hunt and the better the chances for success. |
| 4 |
Essential hunting equipmentCheck out where to buy hunting firearms and ammo for your next trip. |
| 5 |
Go with a friendInvite someone new hunting. Check out the apprenticeship hunting program. |
Obtaining A Hunting License
Hunting licenses can be purchased at various places, including local firearms retailers and angler supply stores, as well as directly from the local wildlife management departments online. States usually require hunters to take a hunter education course before they take to the woods, but many make exceptions if the hunter will be accompanied by a fully licensed and experienced hunter through an apprenticeship program.
17 Holiday Hunting Discounts To Good To Pass Up
Holiday Hunting-Friendly Deals From NSSF Patron Members
The holiday season is here and if you've been thinking about upgrading your hunting gear, gifting new equipment to someone you're mentoring or getting ready for the new year's adventures, now is a great time to take advantage of December savings from NSSF Patron Member companies.
These rebates, seasonal discounts and gear promotions are official. They offer great opportunities for hunters to save on quality equipment.
Note: Promotions can change quickly. Always double-check dates, exclusions and rebate instructions on the manufacturer's site before purchasing.
Not sure what to get the hunter in your life for the holidays? Check out our Gift Guide with great suggestions.
1791 Gunleather - Holiday Holster Savings
20% Off Select Holsters
1791 Gunleather is spreading holiday cheer with 20% off a wide array of leather and Kydex holsters, belts and hunting accessories on their official offers page. The discount is automatically applied in cart for all products listed in their Offers section.
If you're looking to carry a sidearm on your next hunt or need a sturdy gun belt, now's a great time to grab one from 1791's sale selection.
(Bonus tip: Joining 1791's email club nets new subscribers an extra 10% off first orders, for even more savings.)
Explore 1791 Gunleather Holster Savings
Beretta USA - Early Christmas Deals & 50% Off Apparel
25% Off Sitewide + Free Shipping (Through 12/12)
Beretta's online store kicked off an "Early Christmas Deals" event, offering 25% off plus free shipping on orders - a great chance to pick up that new hunting shotgun or some Beretta gear at a quarter off. This promotion runs until December 12, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET, so act fast to take advantage. (Exclusions apply, but many firearms, apparel and accessories are included - perfect for last-minute gifts that will arrive by Christmas.)
Markdowns Up to 50%
Even after the 12/12 cutoff, Beretta's website features a robust Sale section with markdowns up to 50% off on select clothing, gun cases, shooting accessories and more. Hunters can score deals on high-quality jackets, vests and bags - for example, upland hunting jackets and field gear are significantly discounted in the sale outlet. Don't forget to check Beretta's "Clothing on Sale" and "Gear on Sale" pages for these half-price finds.
Shop Beretta's Holiday Deals Shop Beretta's Markdowns
Brownells - Winter Clearance & Year-End Deals
Clearance Sale - Up to 65% Off
Brownells is running a massive Winter Clearance event to close out 2025. You can "save big" on a wide range of products - in fact, items are marked up to 65% off in the clearance section. This includes hunting gear staples like ammunition (with select calibers marked down), optics and mounts, firearm parts, reloading supplies and more.
If you're gearing up for next hunting season or just stocking the safe, Brownells' year-end sale is a great opportunity.
Browning - Firearm Rebates + Big Safe Cashback
Holiday Firearm Rebate (Dec 2-31)
Browning is rewarding hunters who invest in new guns this month. Their Holiday 2025 Rebate gives $100 cash back on each new Browning shotgun or centerfire rifle and $50 back on each new rimfire rifle or handgun, purchased between December 2 and December 31, 2025. This rebate is offered via prepaid card or check after online submission - just buy an eligible Browning firearm (think X-Bolt rifles, Citori shotguns, Buck Mark pistols, etc.), then submit your rebate claim by the deadline (mid-Jan 2026) to get a nice chunk of cash returned.
Up to $400 Back on Browning Gun Safes
Browning Safes is running a "Holiday Savings" Safe Rebate for any safe purchased Nov 1 - Dec 31, 2025. The rebate is tiered by safe price, ranging from $50 back on smaller safes (priced $699+) up to a generous $400 back on high-end safes ($5,000+ purchase). In other words, "the bigger your safe, the bigger your rebate."
See Browning's Holiday Firearm Rebate See Browning's Gun Safe Rebate
Colt's Manufacturing - Up to $100 Back on Revolvers & Rifles
Colt is running a holiday rebate program offering $50-$100 back on qualifying firearms. Hunters and outdoorsmen looking for a reliable sidearm or a new bolt-action rifle will find strong value in this program.
Eligible models include:
- $50 rebate on Cobra and King Cobra revolvers
- $100 rebate on the iconic Python or Anaconda
- $100 rebate on the Colt CBX Tac Hunter or CBX Precision bolt-action rifles
Purchase any qualifying firearm through December 31, 2025 and submit proof online.
View Colt's Holiday Rebate Information
FN America - "Season of Savings"
FN America has launched its Season of Savings holiday rebate program with $100-$125 cash-back savings on select FN pistols. While primarily a defensive-use lineup, many hunters appreciate a dependable sidearm for backcountry safety, camping or wilderness carry.
Eligible models include popular FN 509 variants and other flagship pistols. Rebate claims can be submitted via FN's official rebate portal.
Check FN's Season of Savings Offers
Hornady - Up to 30% Off Security, Reloading Accessories & Apparel
Hornady is offering a reloaders redemption through its online store. Select what suits your reloading style, premium bullets or top‑tier brass cases, FREE with qualifying purchase!
Whether you're adding reloading components or picking up quality tech for the field, Hornady's year-end sale is a strong value for hunters and reloaders alike.
Explore Hornady Reloading Redemption
Magpul - Holiday Sale and Free Gift
Magpul's 2025 Holiday Sale features significant discounts across a wide range of hunting-friendly gear, including apparel, belts, rifle accessories, magazines, gloves and more. Many items are marked down and select purchases include a free Magpul gift automatically added at checkout.
These are some of the best prices Magpul offers all year, making December a great time to pick up field gear or stocking stuffers.
Primary Arms - Site-Wide Christmas Sale
Primary Arms is running a huge Christmas Sale across its website. Throughout December, virtually all major categories are on sale - with banners touting "ALL Optics on Sale," "ALL Triggers on Sale (up to 30% off)," "ALL Lights & Lasers on Sale," and so on.
It's an across-the-board discount extravaganza: whether you're looking for a new riflescope for hunting, an upgraded trigger for your rifle, a weapon light for predator hunts or AR-15 parts for your next build, Primary Arms likely has it discounted in this event.
Savage Arms - 2025 Rebates on Renegauge Shotguns & Hunting Rifles
Savage is closing out the year with a strong set of rifle rebates that benefit hunters of all experience levels. Some of the most popular December offers include:
- $100 rebate on any Model 110 or Impulse rifle
- $75 rebate on Axis and Axis II rifles
These rifles are widely used for whitetail, mule deer, predator hunting and youth programs-making these rebates especially valuable during December.
SIG SAUER - Holiday Sale + Ammo Bonus
SIG Sauer's store is making the season bright with a wide selection of products on sale and a special ammo promotion. On the SIG "Sale" page, you'll find over 150 items marked down, ranging from electro-optics to parts and apparel.
To sweeten the pot, SIG Sauer is running a freebie promotion on ammunition. Now through Dec 31, any online ammo order over $200 will ship with a free SIG ammo bag.
Explore SIG SAUER Holiday Offers
Silencer Central - Early Deals
Silencer Central is offering to pay customers tax stamp and we'll handle the paperwork and shipping too. For a limited time, they are covering your Federal Tax Stamp on 100+ eligible suppressors from top brands, making it easier than ever to buy a suppressor.*
See Silencer Central's BOGO Offer
Silencer Shop - Holiday Suppressor Deals
For hunters in states where suppressors are legal, Silencer Shop is advertising an active Holiday suppressor sale on it site.
- Save $200 with Free Tax Stamps
Pick from its popular silencers and save while inventory lasts.
(Always check your state and local laws regarding suppressor ownership and hunting use.)
Browse Silencer Shop Suppressor Deals
Smith & Wesson - 2025 Long Gun Holiday Rebate
Smith & Wesson's Long Gun Holiday Rebate is active through December, offering:
- $50 back on select M&P15-22 rifles
- $75 back on M&P FPC and S&W Response carbines
- $100 back on select M&P15 and M&P10 rifles
Additionally, S&W's "Opti-mize the Holidays" promotion offers a free Vortex red-dot optic with the purchase of qualifying carbines-an incredible value for hunters wanting a ready-to-go setup.
Start a Smith & Wesson rebate submission
Taurus - Holiday Pistol and Revolver Rebates
Taurus is offering a range of Q4 holiday rebates, making this a great time to purchase an affordable sidearm or small-game revolver:
- $30 back on qualifying Taurus G-Series pistols
- $30 back on select Taurus or Rossi .38/.357 revolvers
- $25 back on Heritage Rough Rider .22LR revolvers and Rancher carbines
Small-caliber Heritage models are particularly popular for small-game hunters and new shooters.
Trijicon - $100 Rebate on RCR Pistol Optic
Hunters who carry a sidearm in the backcountry will appreciate Trijicon's year-end rebate:
Purchase the RCR (Ruggedized Closed Reflex) optic by December 31, 2025 and receive a $100 mail-in rebate. This durable, weather-ready optic is built for harsh environments and demanding field use.
Get More Info on Trijicon RCR Rebate
Winchester - Holiday Rebates for Waterfowl & Hunting Loads
Winchester is offering several seasonal ammunition rebates, including:
- $5 per box back (up to $200) on eligible waterfowl loads
- Additional holiday rebates on select big-game and deer-hunting ammo
- Discounted rebate pricing on qualifying target rifle and pistol ammunition purchased during the holiday window
These rebates are ideal for hunters looking to stock up before late-season hunts or preseason practice in the new year.
View Winchester Holiday Ammo Rebate
Make the Most of the Holiday Season
Whether you're chasing waterfowl, prepping for late-season deer or simply stocking up for next year, now is a great time to take advantage of these limited-time discounts from trusted NSSF Patron Member brands. From premium rifles and optics to secure storage and everyday gear, these holiday promotions offer serious value for serious hunters. Just be sure to check expiration dates and rebate instructions so you don't miss out.
Find More Deals
While these offers highlight confirmed holiday promotions from NSSF Patron Member companies, they're far from the only deals available. Many additional firearms, optics and hunting-gear discounts are offered through major retailers, local gun shops and online outlets, so be sure to check your favorite stores for even more savings this season.
Need Gift Ideas?
Looking for more great gifts or gear ideas this season? Be sure to check out our Holiday Hunter's Gift Guide, packed with curated picks for every type of sportsman and woman on your list.
10 Great Gift Ideas for Hunters This Holiday Season
Thoughtful presents that add comfort, capability and confidence in the field
The holidays are the perfect time to surprise the hunter in your life with something they’ll actually use, whether they’re heading out on their very first hunt or already filling the freezer every fall. To help you choose the right gift, we’ve rounded up a list of practical, field-tested items that hunters of all skill levels appreciate. From safety gear to useful tools and confidence-boosting accessories, these ideas are sure to bring joy long after the wrapping paper is gone.1. Trail Cameras (Game Cameras)
A trail camera is a gift that keeps giving all season long. These compact scouting tools help hunters better understand wildlife movement, feeding patterns and habitat use. They’re also helpful for general property surveillance year-round.
2. Practice Targets
Animal-depicted targets or steel gong plates make training sessions more realistic and engaging before heading afield. Whether practicing archery, handgun skills or sight-ing in a rifle, targets help shooters build confidence and ensure ethical shots on game.
3. Hunting Apparel
From warm layers to weather-resistant outerwear and high-quality boots, hunters can never have too much reliable clothing. Performance apparel keeps hunters comfortable during long sits and unpredictable weather—something every seasoned hunter can appreciate.
4. Hearing Protection
Good hearing protection is essential, whether at the range or in the field. Gift options range from inexpensive foam earplugs to electronic protection with sound-amplification features that allow hunters to remain aware of their surroundings.
5. Firearm Cleaning Accessories
Proper maintenance keeps firearms reliable and safe. Cleaning kits come in all shapes and sizes—from caliber-specific brushes and patches to full multi-caliber sets for hunters with several firearms.
6. Training Resources
Books, magazines, apps and online tutorials can open the door to new skills and deeper knowledge. You can also gift a registration to a learn-to-hunt class, mentored hunt or range session.
7. Flashlights & Headlamps
A dependable headlamp or flashlight is a must-have for walking in before sunrise or navigating out after dark. Look for models with adjustable brightness settings and colored filters (like green or red) to avoid spooking game.
8. Optics (Binoculars, Monoculars & Spotting Scopes)
Few upgrades make as big a difference as quality glass. Whether spotting distant game or verifying antler characteristics, optics help hunters make better decisions afield. They also make wildlife-watching enjoyable year-round.
9. Gun Locks & Safes
The gift of safety is invaluable. Gun locks, safes and secure storage options come in every size and budget—from compact travel locks to full-size safes. Safe storage protects both families and firearms.
Learn more in NSSF’s Project ChildSafe® program here.
10. Gift Cards to Local Retailers
When in doubt, let them choose! A gift card to a local sporting goods retailer allows hunters to purchase the perfect item—and importantly, to do so legally when it comes to firearms or ammunition. Supporting local shops helps strengthen your community, too.
Find retailers near you through Where to Buy.
Give the Gift of Confidence This Season
No matter which item you choose, the best hunting gifts make time afield safer, more enjoyable and more successful. Whether you’re shopping for a new hunter or a seasoned pro, these holiday ideas show you care about their passion—and help support a lifetime of outdoor adventure. If you know someone who’s hoping to get started this year, consider taking the extra step and invite them on a hunt. A little mentorship can be the best gift of all. Explore NSSF’s +ONE® Movement to learn more about how you can help someone take their first step afield.Giving Back: How Hunters Can Make a Difference This Holiday Season
Donate Wild Game to Those in Need
One of the most direct ways hunters can make a difference is by donating harvested game to food banks and programs that provide meals for families in need. Organizations like Hunters for the Hungry and Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry make it easy to donate processed venison and other game, ensuring that your efforts in the field help feed those who might otherwise go without. If there’s no formal donation program in your area, consider reaching out to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, local food banks or community organizations to explore ways your harvest can help others.Support Conservation Programs
Hunters are at the forefront of conservation, with their contributions funding wildlife management, habitat restoration and public land access. This holiday, consider supporting conservation organizations that align with your values. Groups focused on preserving wild spaces, protecting wildlife or mentoring new hunters can amplify the positive impact of your giving. Beyond the field, hunters can lend their time to causes that support their communities. From helping at a local food bank to assisting with youth outdoor programs, your time and skills can make a lasting impact.Mentor a New Hunter
Sharing your knowledge and passion for hunting is one of the most rewarding ways to give back. Consider mentoring a new hunter—especially someone who might not otherwise have access to the outdoors. Learn more about getting started mentoring through NSSF's +ONE® resources.Support Firearm Safety
A cornerstone of responsible firearm ownership is ensuring safety at all times and one way to give back this holiday season is by supporting Project ChildSafe®. This initiative provides free firearm safety kits, including gun locks, and promotes secure storage to help prevent accidents and unauthorized access. By donating to or raising awareness for Project ChildSafe, hunters can play a vital role in fostering safer homes and communities while demonstrating their commitment to responsible firearm ownership. Learn more and get involved at projectchildsafe.org.Celebrate the Spirit of #GunOwnersCare
As hunters, you’re already contributing to conservation through license fees, equipment purchases and excise taxes that fund wildlife management. Take the extra step this holiday season to show how much hunters care. Share your stories of giving back using #GunOwnersCare to inspire others in the hunting community to follow your lead. NSSF celebrates the generosity and impact of hunters across the country. Together, let’s showcase how hunters care not just for wildlife and wild places but for our neighbors and communities, too.21 Black Friday Hunting Deals You Don't Want To Miss
Black Friday & Holiday 2025: Hunting-Friendly Deals From NSSF Patron Members
If you've been thinking about upgrading your hunting rifle, adding a new optic or picking up better field gear, Black Friday and the year-end holiday sales are a smart time to buy.
Several NSSF® Patron Member companies are running confirmed 2025 Black Friday, Cyber Monday or Q4 holiday promotions on firearms, accessories and apparel that hunters can put to good use. Below is a roundup of standout offers, along with direct links so you can check the details and fine print before you buy.
Note: Promotions can change quickly. Always double-check dates, exclusions and rebate instructions on the manufacturer's site before purchasing.
Action Target - Up to 35% Off Black Friday Target Deals
If you're heading to the range to confirm your zero or stay sharp between seasons, Action Target has a dedicated Black Friday promotion on its online store.
Their paper/cardboard targets page advertises "SAVE 35% FOR BLACK FRIDAY WITH CODE: PAPER35" on a wide selection of targets.
You'll also find Black Friday sections for:
- 30%, 40% and 50% off select steel and paper targets
- Free-shipping items and clearance gear that help stretch your budget further
Explore Action Target Black Friday Offers
Beretta USA - 25% Off Sitewide Early Black Friday Deals
Beretta is running Early Black Friday Deals with 25% off sitewide, with some exclusions, through November 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
That discount applies across Beretta's online store, including:
- Hunting clothing (upland, waterfowl and cold-weather layers)
- Gun accessories and cases
- Lifestyle apparel you can wear from camp to town
Shop Beretta's Early Black Friday Deals
Blade-Tech - 20% Off Holsters and Range Gear
For hunters who carry a sidearm while scouting, camping or in the backcountry, a good holster matters. Blade-Tech Industries is running an "EARLY BLACK FRIDAY SALE" with:
- 20% off Tek-Mount, Velocity holsters and more, using code EARLYBLKFRIDAY on their website banners and product pages.
These Kydex holsters and attachments are well-suited for range practice and carry around camp or in the truck.
See Blade-Tech's Early Black Friday Sale
Brownells - Black Friday 2025 & Early Savings on Hunting Gear
Brownells has a dedicated "Black Friday 2025" page plus Early Black Friday promotion messaging across its site.
Highlights include:
- Black Friday 2025 event with products "up to 40% off" and 15% off many items with a promo code listed on the page
- Early Black Friday messaging featuring free shipping on orders $47+ and "massive savings" on brands like Magpul, Hornady, Faxon, Leupold, ATN & more that are highly relevant to hunters (stocks, ammo, scopes, range gear, etc.)
This makes Brownells a strong one-stop option for:
- Rifle scopes & red dots
- Hunting ammunition and reloading components
- Gun parts, slings, bipods and cleaning supplies
Shop Brownells Black Friday 2025 Check Early Black Friday Deals
Browning - 30% Off Sitewide + Black Friday Rebates
Browning is rolling out a strong mix of savings this season, offering 30% off sitewide on its online store during Black Friday. While firearms are excluded from the sitewide sale, hunters will find excellent discounts on hunting apparel, gear bags, shooting accessories, gun safes, gloves, hats and lifestyle clothing built for the field.
In addition, Browning is offering a limited-time Black Friday rebate on select new Browning firearms. Eligible rifles and shotguns purchased during the promotional window qualify for cash-back savings through Browning's official rebate portal. If you've been looking to upgrade your waterfowl shotgun, add a versatile all-terrain rifle or introduce a new hunter to quality equipment, this is a great time to explore Browning's lineup.
Explore Browning's holiday deals
Camillus Knives (Acme United) - 25% Off Sitewide
Camillus is offering 25% off every knife and tool on its website now through December 2, 2025 when shoppers use the code GIFT25. Hunters will find reliable fixed-blade and folding knives, bone saws, machetes and other field tools designed to stand up to tough conditions.
Colt's Manufacturing - Up to $100 Back on Revolvers & Rifles
Colt is offering 2025 holiday rebates on a selection of its most iconic firearms. Eligible purchases include:
- $50-$100 rebates on Colt revolvers such as the Cobra, King Cobra, Python and Anaconda
- Up to $100 back on new Colt CBX Tac Hunter and CBX Precision rifles
For hunters, Colt's bolt-action Tac Hunter rifle offers a modern, accurate platform suitable for deer and predator hunting and this rebate adds extra value during the holiday season.
View Colt's Holiday Rebate Information
FN America - "Season of Savings"
FN America has launched its Season of Savings holiday rebate program with $100-$125 cash-back savings on select FN pistols. While primarily a defensive-use lineup, many hunters appreciate a dependable sidearm for backcountry safety, camping or wilderness carry.
Eligible models include popular FN 509 variants and other flagship pistols. Rebate claims can be submitted via FN's official rebate portal.
Check FN's Season of Savings Offers
Hornady - Up to 30% Off Security, Reloading Accessories & Apparel
Hornady is offering a 2025 Black Friday sale through its online store with generous discounts on several hunter-focused product categories:
- 20% off Hornady security products and safes
- 30% off security accessories like RAPiD® safes and lockboxes
- 20% off reloading die accessories
- 30% off hunting apparel, gifts and branded gear
Whether you're upgrading your secure storage, adding reloading components or picking up quality apparel for the field, Hornady's Black Friday sale is a strong value for hunters and reloaders alike.
Explore Hornady Black Friday Deals
Magpul - Holiday Sale and Free Gift
Magpul's 2025 Holiday Sale is one of its biggest yet, featuring steep discounts across popular accessories, including magazines, slings, stocks, field gear, apparel, gloves and shooting accessories that hunters rely on year-round. Select items are marked up to 80% off and Magpul is also offering a free gift with purchase when shoppers add participating Black Friday products to the cart.
For hunters, this sale includes durable field gloves, cold-weather layers, rifle slings, hard-use accessories and other essentials designed for rugged conditions. Whether you're upgrading your rifle setup or looking for affordable stocking stuffers, this Magpul sale delivers excellent value.
MIRA Safety - 25% Off Sitewide Black Friday Sale
While not traditional "hunting gear," MIRA Safety has products that can matter for wildfire smoke, hazardous environments and backcountry emergencies hunters sometimes encounter.
MIRA's site is currently running a "Black Friday Sale 25% Off Sitewide - No Code Required" banner with discounted prices shown across multiple products, including apparel and preparedness gear.
This is a good time to consider:
- Protective masks and filters for smoke and ash
- Preparedness kits and apparel for harsh conditions
Shop MIRA Safety's Black Friday sale
Savage Arms - 2025 Rebates on Renegauge Shotguns & Hunting Rifles
Savage Arms, a staple for deer, predator and upland hunters, is running several 2025 rebate programs that overlap the Black Friday / late-fall timeframe. On Savage's official Promotions & Rebates page you'll find:
- $100 mail-in rebate on any Savage Renegauge shotgun
- Valid for purchases October 1-November 30, 2025
- $200 mail-in rebate on any Model 110 or IMPULSE rifle with a Proof Research barrel
- Valid for purchases November 1-November 30, 2025
- Additional rebates on rimfire models (Rascal, 93, 93R17, Mark II) useful for small-game hunting and training
While these are technically rebate programs rather than coupon codes, they function like a holiday savings event that lines up perfectly with your Black Friday shopping window.
View all Savage promotions and submit rebates
SIG SAUER - Free Gear with Select Optics + Black Friday Bundles
SIG SAUER's official Black Friday page features standout bundles for hunters and shooters alike: purchase select red-dot or thermal optics and get a free accessory like a FOXTROT1X weapon light or JULIET3 magnifier. These offers are displayed on SIG's "Black Friday" page and call out free gear with qualifying optics purchases.
Explore SIG SAUER Black Friday Offers
Silencer Central - Buy One, Get One Free
Silencer Central is delivering one of the most eye-catching deals of the season: buy any BANISH suppressor priced at $849 or more and receive a FREE BANISH 22K suppressor. This BOGO promotion is ideal for hunters wanting to expand into suppressor use or equip multiple firearms for quieter, more efficient field performance.
The BANISH series is well regarded for its lightweight titanium construction, easy maintenance and sound reduction-useful for everything from hog hunting to predator control. With suppressor wait times improving, this holiday season is an excellent opportunity to start the process.
See Silencer Central's BOGO Offer
Silencer Shop - Black Friday Suppressor Deals
For hunters in states where suppressors are legal, Silencer Shop is advertising an active Black Friday suppressor sale on its own site.
Their "Suppressor Deals" and homepage banners highlight:
- Black Friday deals on a wide range of suppressors
- Free tax stamps and free gift cards on select models
- Ongoing free shipping
Many of the featured suppressors are well-suited for:
- Hog and predator hunting
- Low-recoil, hearing-safe deer rifles
- Reducing muzzle blast and noise on ranch or property-management guns
(Always check your state and local laws regarding suppressor ownership and hunting use.)
Browse Silencer Shop Black Friday Suppressor Deals
Smith & Wesson - 2025 Long Gun Holiday Rebate
Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. is running a Long Gun Holiday Rebate for 2025 that covers a variety of rifles and carbines suited to small-game, predator hunting and training.
According to official rebate documentation and industry announcements:
- The Long Gun Holiday Rebate runs November 1 - December 31, 2025
- Buyers can receive $50-$100 back on eligible M&P15-22, M&P FPC, S&W Response carbines, M&P15 and M&P10 models after mail-in or online rebate submission
These rimfire and centerfire platforms are popular for:
- Small-game and varmint hunting
- Youth and new-hunter training
- General range use that builds skills for the field
Start a Smith & Wesson rebate submission
Taurus & Heritage - Q4 2025 Pistol and Revolver Rebates
Taurus Holdings, Inc. is running multiple Q4 2025 rebate offers that can appeal to hunters and folks who carry a sidearm in the field:
From the official Taurus Rebates and TaurusPromos pages:
- 2025 Q4 Taurus G-Series $30 Savings Event
- Buy a qualifying Taurus G-Series pistol between October 16 - December 21, 2025 and receive a $30 rebate.
- 2025 Q4 Taurus/Rossi Revolver $30 Rebate
- Same dates; $30 back on qualifying Taurus or Rossi revolvers.
In addition, the associated Heritage Manufacturing/Taurus rebate portal offers:
- "Heritage Rough Rider + Rancher $25 Roundup"
- Buy a new Heritage Rough Rider® revolver or Rancher™ carbine between October 16 - December 21, 2025 and get $25 back.
These rimfire revolvers and carbines are especially useful for:
- Small-game hunting and pest control
- Plinking and skill-building for new shooters
View Taurus & Heritage Rebate Offers
Trijicon - $100 Rebate on RCR Pistol Optic
While not a rifle optic, Trijicon's rebate on its RCR (Ruggedized Closed Reflex) pistol sight supports hunters relying on a dependable sidearm for back-country safety. Purchases made Aug. 1 - Dec. 31, 2025 qualify for a $100 mail-in rebate.
Get More Info on Trijicon RCR Rebate
Winchester - Ammo Rebate for Waterfowl & Hunting Loads
Winchester (under Olin) is offering a shotshell rebate tailored for hunters: buy select waterfowl ammunition (e.g., Black Cloud series) and receive $5 per box back, up to $200 total. Qualifying purchases must be made before Dec. 31, 2025, with rebate submission by Jan. 31, 2026.
View Winchester Holiday Ammo Rebate
XS Sights - 30% Off Sitewide
XS Sights is offering a 30% off sitewide Black Friday promotion, making this a perfect time to upgrade your firearm with high-visibility sights built for low-light conditions. No code is required-discounts apply automatically at checkout.
XS is also including free bonus items with select sight sets, including some popular Glock-compatible options. For hunters who spend time in dense timber, predawn blinds or twilight stands, sight upgrades can make a real difference in clarity and confidence.
See XS Sights Black Friday Savings
Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) - Black Friday/Cyber Monday Week Deals
YHM is running a full Black Friday/Cyber Monday Week of discounts with substantial markdowns on firearms parts and accessories. Offers include:
- Barrel Blowout: AR-15 barrels marked down to budget-friendly prices
- Scope mount and ring specials
- Discounts on magazines, gas blocks, handguards and hardware
- Special sales on KeyMod rail accessories and YHM-branded gear
For hunters who run AR-platform rifles for hogs, predators or property management, these component deals offer an affordable way to upgrade or build out a reliable setup.
Make the Most of the Holiday Season
From sitewide 25% savings on Beretta apparel and accessories to Savage shotgun and rifle rebates, Smith & Wesson long gun incentives and Silencer Shop's Black Friday suppressor promotions, NSSF Patron Members are offering a wide range of 2025 holiday deals that can make your time in the field more effective and enjoyable.
If you've been waiting for the right moment to invest in new hunting gear or upgrade your setup, these Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Q4 rebates are worth a look, just be sure to double-check the details on each company's site before you buy, many companies refresh their deals daily throughout the holiday shopping season.
Find More Deals
While these offers highlight confirmed Black Friday and holiday promotions from NSSF Patron Member companies, they're far from the only deals available. Many additional firearms, optics and hunting-gear discounts are offered through major retailers, local gun shops and online outlets, so be sure to check your favorite stores for even more savings this season.
How to Read Topographic Maps for Deer Hunting
Topographic maps (topo maps) can be a secret weapon for turning a planned hunting trip into a successful harvest. Topo maps will help you find pinch points, funnels and hidden bedding areas that will help guide your hunt. In this guide, we'll cover contour lines, mapping strategies and essential terrain features so you can plan smarter, stealthier hunts and zero in on high-probability zones. Whether you're a novice still learning the ways of the woods or a seasoned hunter fine-tuning your strategy, mastering topographic maps will help turn the odds in your favor next time you're in the field.
Helpful Topo Map Features for Scouting Deer
Contour Lines
Contour lines are the lifeblood of a topographic map. Elevation dictates nearly all hunt-planning considerations: wind, access, thermals and more. Each contour line represents a specific height above sea level, and the vertical distance between adjacent lines - or the contour interval - tells you how much elevation changes. Lines packed tightly together indicate steep slopes or cliffs, while widely spaced lines reveal gentle inclines and flats. By identifying the darker, labeled contours and counting the lighter intermediate lines, you can visualize ridge tops, saddles and valley bottoms - key terrain features that influence deer movement and stand placement.
The top image is a traditional satellite view, the middle image is a "hybrid" view, where contour lines are overlayed a satellite image. The bottom view is a traditional topographic map.
Map Scale and Ratio
A map's scale defines how distances on the paper translate to real‐world ground distances. A ratio scale (also called a fractional scale) expresses this relationship numerically; 1:24,000 means that one unit on the map corresponds to 24,000 of the same units on the ground. Measure the map distance (in inches or centimeters) and multiply by the ratio to get the actual distance (for example, 2 inches × 24,000 = 48,000 inches or 4,000 feet). A bar scale (graphical scale), on the other hand, presents a drawn line segmented into real‐world units, miles or kilometers, that you can directly compare against a ruler or the map's edge. Because a bar scale retains accuracy if the map is enlarged or reduced, it offers an easier way to gauge distances in the field.
Legends and Symbols
A map's legend is the decoder ring for every symbol, line style and color you see on a topo map. It tells you which squiggly blue line represents a perennial stream, which dashed line marks an unmaintained trail and what shade of green denotes dense timber versus open meadow. By consulting the legend, you transform abstract icons into real-world features, such as waterholes, ridgelines, logging roads, fences and even deer food plots. Cross‑referencing the legend with the terrain prevents mistaking a swamp for a hayfield or a faint game trail for a logging road, keeping you oriented and confident when planning your hunt.
Finding Key Terrain Features
Ridges and Saddles
On a topo map, ridges appear as elongated "U" or "V" shaped contour lines whose closed ends point downhill, marking the crest of high ground. Saddles show as gentle dips between two peaks, where contour lines squeeze into an hourglass or figure-eight shape before opening back up. Deer favor ridgelines for the ease of travel and concealed routes they offer and use saddles as natural funnels between these high-ground travel highways. By tracing ridges and spotting adjacent saddles, you reveal pinch-points where deer are most likely to pass. Overlay aerial imagery or hike in to find worn trails and thick cover to confirm these travel corridors. Positioning your stand at a saddle's narrow point or right on a ridge crest intersection places you in their path and gives you a tactical advantage.
The above image is a great example of both a ridge and a saddle. You can see the two higher points on the left and right dip and narrow to form a saddle in the middle.
Valleys, Draws and Drains
On a topo map, valleys show up as "U" or "V" shaped contour patterns pointing uphill, marking channels where water gathers and flows. Draws are narrower, steeper channels with tightly packed contours that feed into larger valleys. These low-ground routes offer deer water, cover, shade and energy-efficient travel through rugged terrain. By tracing valleys and draws, you uncover the natural highways deer prefer, especially where multiple small draws funnel into a bigger bottomland. Use aerial imagery or elevation overlays to confirm pinch points and bedding areas along these corridors. With these tips, you can pinpoint high-traffic zones at junctions where a draw spills into a valley or meets a ridge saddle. Positioning a stand or blind at these intersections, with wind and light in your favor, creates a targeted hunting setup.
The draw shown here can be seen both via satellite and on the topo map. In arid climates, the exposed dirt and shade from the steep banks create cool spots of dirt for deer to bed in.
Pinch Points and Natural Travel Routes
Deer instinctively gravitate toward the landscape's natural chokepoints; narrow saddles between ridges, tight draws carved by streams or slim strips of cover bordering open fields because they conserve energy and stay concealed. These pinch points concentrate movement much like a bottleneck funnels water, guiding deer along the easiest, most sheltered path. By methodically mapping these funnels and linking them to broader corridors such as creek bottoms, ridge trails, field edges or old logging roads, you transform a large area into a handful of high-traffic hotspots. Aerial imagery and topographic maps reveal the subtle rises and falls in terrain, while on-the-ground scouting confirms worn trails, rubs and scrapes. Once you've connected the dots, you will see how a wide travel area near a potential ambush location forces deer into a smaller gap, channeling deer into predictable, repeatable pathways.
With chokepoints and corridors in hand, you can shrink acres of dense cover into a pinpointed hunting zone. Position your stand at the intersection where a dry run meets a ridge saddle or where an ag-field's edge narrows downwind of thick cover. Factor in prevailing wind directions, daily light angles and seasonal shifts in deer behavior, and you've found the sweet spot. Once you're on location, you'll know precisely where a buck is most likely to appear, long before he steps into your shooting lane.
When cover is limited, intersecting lines of cover create natural pinch points.
Water Sources
Water holes, whether a spring-fed pond, a winding creek or the edge of a seasonal swamp, are deer magnets year-round. On a topo map they're always marked in blue, often positioned between wider, gently sloping contours that reveal basins or drainage bottoms. Look for V-shaped contour intersections pointing upstream; they signal the flow feeding that pond or creek. These wet spots usually sit between benches and draws where deer pause to graze before and after drinking.
Beyond simply pinpointing the water source, study the terrain that funnels deer in. Thick draws or ravines on one side and low benches on the other create natural travel corridors, while adjacent ridges offer perfect concealment for a stand. Remember, deer don't want to expend more energy than necessary and will often choose the path of least resistance. Pay close attention to wind patterns: a breeze rolling off the water can lift your scent into a draw or carry it uphill, so position yourself downwind with clear sightlines down the slope. Overlay satellite imagery when possible, since game trails often converge on these spots. By combining contour analysis, wind direction and satellite mapping, you'll transform a basic water hole into a high-confidence ambush spot.
Water holes will appear on traditional topo maps highlighted in blue. This is true for both standing and running water.
Analyzing Deer Behavior and Habitat
Bedding Areas
Bedding areas are harder to spot directly on a topo map, so combine map reading with general knowledge of deer behavior. Typically, deer like to bed on north-facing slopes in the summer to stay cool and south-facing slopes in the winter to stay warm. Bucks and does often bed separately, with bucks tending to go deeper into cover and farther from food. Areas with thick ground cover and multiple escape routes are preferred because they offer security and browse under a lower, sheltered canopy.
Common areas include recently logged locations, where the tops of harvested trees combined with extra sunlight reaching the forest floor provide growth and cover. On public land or unmanaged properties, look for thick swampy areas, areas with lots of fallen trees and ridges with slopes facing in optimal directions. In hilly regions, deer often bed on the downwind side of a ridge or slope. This way, they can use their sense of smell to detect any threats from behind them while using their eyesight to stay alert downhill.
The northern ridge showcases several great bedding locations, high ridges with southwestern exposure, directly adjacent to a food source and with cover to escape towards in three directions.
Feeding Zones
Knowing where deer bed is only half the battle. To really up your success rate, you need to trace their post-bed routines and intercept them along well-worn travel routes. First, identify the general direction deer leave their bedding areas at dawn and dusk, usually toward reliable food or water sources. Then, use your topo map to find the natural funnels and corridors they're most likely to use, such as saddles between two ridges, small draws that connect a hollow to a flat bench or the edge of thick cover.
Feeding areas vary dramatically by region and season. On your topographic map, search for sections where contour lines spread wide and flatten out, which indicate benches or terraces where deer can graze with minimal effort. These flats are often marked with a green vegetation symbol, but don't rely on that alone. Overlay aerial imagery or satellite views to confirm food types: low grasses, brushy browse or planted food plots. Notice how these flat benches usually sit just below or above steeper slopes, offering quick escape routes back into cover when danger approaches.
Beyond open grazing flats, deer gravitate toward high nutritional-value forages. Look for clusters of mast-producing trees; oaks, hickories, beeches or areas marked by fruit symbols that signal apple, crabapple or persimmon stands. On the edges of agricultural fields, you'll find early-season greens in alfalfa, clover or oats, shifting to corn and soybeans in late summer and fall. By linking bedding zones to these feeding hotspots with your contour-line analysis, you can position your stand or blind where deer travel from bedding to food, giving you a clear, wind-safe ambush point and the element of surprise.
The following is a great example of a "staging plot", or a small food plot where deer first enter in the evening prior to moving to destination food sources such as large agricultural fields.
Route Planning and Stand Placement
Selecting Access Points
Identifying the perfect entry route on a topographic map is part instinct, part science. Unlike defined game trails, access points depend on shifting elements such as wind direction, precipitation, cloud cover and deer habits. Your goal is simple: slip in undetected, keeping the wind in your favor and your silhouette hidden from sharp eyes and keen noses.
Begin by plotting the prevailing wind against the deer's approach path. On the map, tightly spaced contour lines reveal steep slopes you can hug to break line of sight. Saddles, the low connections between two high points, act as natural funnels for wind, channeling air away from the deer's direction while giving you a shallow depression to move through. Draws and small ravines offer similar cover, especially when you enter from below the top of the bank, where you stay below the horizon.
Weather factors can tip the balance toward a noiseless approach. Rain, fog or low cloud cover quiets footsteps and conceals movement against a grey sky. Match these conditions to the terrain: terraces and benches tucked beneath ridges are less likely to draw a deer's attention, yet they position you downwind of major travel corridors. By factoring wind, weather and contour-line analysis, you'll pinpoint access points that maximize stealth and minimize detection, setting the stage for the perfect ambush.
Wind Direction
Deer rely on their noses more than any other sense, especially mature bucks that can smell danger from hundreds of yards away. By mastering how air moves through the landscape, you can turn your scent into an ally instead of a giveaway.
Before you head into the field, analyze where deer originate and where they're headed on your topo map. Then ask yourself:
- What is the prevailing wind during your hunt?
- How will morning and afternoon thermals shape your scent cone?
- Could deer slip in behind you with a shifting breeze?
Tightly spaced contour lines mark steep ridges and hillsides that become natural windbreaks. Position yourself on the downwind side so your scent rides over the crest and dissipates above the deer's path. Small draws, ravines and creek bottoms work like scent funnels at dusk, pulling cooler air and your odor downward and away from your stand.
Thermals shift with the sun. In the morning, cold air settles into low spots, rising over ridgelines as the sun warms the slopes. Plan a stand on the ridge top's sheltered, downwind slope, so your scent lifts and drifts away at first light. By late afternoon, those same ridges channel cooler air back into draws and hollows, creating a natural barrier between you and passing deer. This information will also help you determine if certain locations are better for morning or evening hunts.
Combine wind-direction data with contour-line reading and you'll identify entry points and stand locations that maximize cover and minimize scent exposure. With practice, you'll slip into position undetected, leaving deer none the wiser until it's too late.
Putting it All Together
Mastering topographic maps turns acres of confusing terrain into a handful of predictable hunting zones by revealing ridges, saddles, draws, benches, water sources and natural pinch points. Use contour spacing, map scale and legends together with aerial imagery and on‑the‑ground scouting to identify bedding areas, travel corridors and high‑probability ambush sites. Always plan entry routes and stand placement with wind, light and seasonal behavior in mind, and confirm land access and safety before you go. With these skills you convert map study into safer, stealthier hunts and consistently higher odds in the field.
10 Tracking Tips to Help Find Your Deer After the Shot
You shot your deer, but it took off. Now what? Follow these 10 tracking tips to recover your deer and make your hunt a success.
Every deer hunter dreams of the perfect shot-but whether the hit is solid or less than perfect, the work continues after you pull the trigger. Tracking is a skill every hunter must master because recovering your deer is just as important as making the shot.
By Bryce M. Towsley
Very rarely do deer "drop in their tracks" at the shot. Once you make your shot, stay focused on the deer noting where it was when you fired and the direction it took off in.
Despite what we may see on television, deer usually do not drop in their tracks at the shot. Sometimes, too, "stuff" happens and the shot is less than perfect. That's when you have to unleash your tracking skills and go find them. Here are 10 tried-and-true tracking tips that have served me well over the years in finding deer after the shot.
What Should You Do First After the Shot?
Tip 1. Stay Focused
After the shot, stay as calm as you can and stay focused on the deer. Watch it as long as you can then listen even longer. Often you will hear the deer long after you can't see it anymore.
Before you leave your stand, pick a clear landmark where you last saw the deer and another where you last heard the deer. Also, pick a landmark noting where the deer was when you shot. Have these landmarks firmly in your mind before you exit your stand. If you have a compass, take a bearing to each of these locations. Snap a few photos with your cell phone or use a small notepad to note the locations or draw yourself a little schematic that shows these three key landmarks.
Before you leave your stand, use your phone to take a photo of where the deer was standing when you shot and the landmark where you last saw the deer before it disappeared.
Go to where you last saw the deer and look for blood and tracks. Remember to look on the bushes as well as on the ground for blood. If you fail to find any, go to spot where you shot the deer and search for blood and/or hair. If you still don't find a blood trail of any kind, go back to your stand and double check to make sure you were looking in the right places.
Next, start where you last saw the deer and walk to the location where you last heard the deer. Watch for blood and other sign along the way. Sometimes it takes a while for the blood trail to start.
How Do Blood Color and Clues Change Your Game Plan?
Tip 2. First Blood
When you find blood, note its location. Is it high up on the bushes and far out from the trail? That might indicate arterial spurting. Does it seem to be in the center of the tracks, even though you took a broadside shot? That might be lung blood leaking out of the nose and mouth. Is the blood in the track? Maybe it's running down the leg.
Is there green gunk on the ground with a little blood? That's a gut shot. Resist the tendency to keep tracking that deer. Leave quietly and come back in the morning, or at least six hours later. A gut shot deer will lie down very quickly and if you leave it alone, it will die in that bed. Usually it will be relatively close to where you shot it. But if you keep pushing and jump the deer, they can turn into the Terminator, unable or unwilling to die and they can run for miles.
When looking for a blood trail, heavy signs higher up on bushes or spurts off the trail may indicate arterial bleeding, which means you should find your deer shortly.
Did you find pieces of bone? Trust me, it's not ribs as so many people think; 95% of the time it is pieces of leg bone. You may get that deer, but it's not going to be easy.
A lot of blood at the start that turns into a few drips and then stops in a ¼ mile or so, is usually a low hit in the brisket. You are in for a long day with that deer.
With a leg or brisket hit, the deer is very mobile and will keep moving if pushed. If you can get some help, it's best to place hunters along the escape routes and hope the deer comes by as you track the blood.
How Should You Mark a Faint Blood Trail?
Tip 3. Mark the Way
If the blood trail is tough to follow, mark the blood you found with toilet paper or torn paper towels, so you can easily find it again. Although many people recommend using flagging material, I don't use it. I know you plan to come back and take it all down, but plans rarely work out. Flagging tape lasts a long time in the woods. Paper towels or toilet paper are biodegradable and will disappear rather quickly.
Often, if you line up several pieces of paper you left hanging on branches you can see a clear direction of travel, which is a good place to continue the search if you have lost the blood and tracks.
Why Stepping Off-Trail Protects Critical Sign
Tip 4. Watch Your Step
Take care to walk to the side of the deer trail. You never want to step on the tracks or the blood. You may think you won't need to come back and find them again, but you will probably be wrong. Leave all the sign untrampled.
What to do When the Blood Trail Disappears?
Tip 5. When the Blood Stops
If you lose the blood trail, make wide sweeping circles that start and end at the last place you found blood. Keep your eyes on the ground and miss nothing. If you fail to find the trail, make a bigger circle. Repeat as necessary.
How a Ground-Level View Reveals Hidden Tracks
Tip 6. Get Low
The recent passing of a deer will scuff up the leaves. Older tracks will settle from time and gravity, but a fresh track will show a bit higher. It's usually not noticeable when standing up, but when you get your eyes to ground level you can often see the trail very clearly.
How to Run a Systematic Grid to Recover Deer?
Tip 7. When All Else Fails
A grid search is just what it sounds like. Divide the land into a giant grid, just like on graph paper. The lines should be close together so that no part of the land is unseen. Walk along these imaginary lines one by one until you find the deer, or some sign of the deer, or have walked the entire grid.
If you simply cannot find a blood trail of any kind, divide the land where you last saw the deer into a grid and walk each grid point until you find the deer or a sign of its trail.
In that case, expand the grid and repeat. Look under every bush and in every brush pile. A mortally wounded deer will often crawl under cover and will die there.
What Lighting Works Best for Night Tracking?
Tip 8. Light the Way
You have no doubt read that when tracking at night, a Coleman lantern, "makes blood glow like neon." The lantern does show blood a bit better than a conventional flashlight, but it's always been a disappointment to me when I have used one. Besides, who has a Coleman lantern in their backpack?
A quality flashlight will show blood like its electrified. It's a good idea to have one in your pocket or backpack when hunting.
Where Would a Wounded Deer Go?
Tip 9. Become the Deer
Walk along while thinking, "If I were a wounded deer, which way would I go?" Just follow your instincts. You may have to return to the last sign and strike out in another direction a few times, but sooner or later the odds are you will find a new spot of blood or identifiable track and you'll be back in the game.
Can Intuition and Terrain Flow Lead You to Your Deer?
Tip 10. Turn Off Your Brain
Another approach is to turn off your brain and just walk. Let the terrain and vegetation guide your feet. Deer and other animals will take the path of least resistance and if you walk in a "Zen" state, going with the flow, you will find you do the same thing.
Once you get in tune with the woods, things like that just happen in the back of your mind. If you try to think about it too much, you screw it up, but if you just let the reptilian part of your brain operate then eons of evolution are suppressed and the caveman in you will come out of hiding and turn you into a creature of the woods, just like the deer. I know this may sound a bit too "new age," but I have found several animals we thought were hopeless using this technique.
How to Read the Land for Deer Hunting in Different TerrainsTracking with Technology
I used a thermal imaging unit in Zimbabwe a few years ago to watch for lions while the PH and trackers cut up a buffalo I had shot just before dark. Back then they were very expensive. Today, there are several affordable units designed for tracking.
Photograph Courtesy of Leupold® & Stevens, Inc.
I have been using a Leupold LTO Quest. This is their entry-level unit and it has a camera and flashlight built in with the thermal sensor. Leupold claims the LTO Quest can detect heat signatures out to 300 yards. Deer season is closed as I am writing this, so I am finding alternatives to test it with. It easily can find my dogs even when they are out some distance.
I couldn't find a blood donor to help with the test, so I spit on my walkway on a cool night. The unit could easily see it, even after several minutes. This unit is sensitive enough that when I stood on my deck in my socks, the unit could detect my foot prints for several minutes after.
This technology may well be a game changer for tracking and finding wounded deer in the years ahead.
Conclusion
Recovering a deer after the shot isn't just about skill-it's about patience, persistence, and respect for the animal. By staying calm, reading sign carefully, and knowing when to push forward or back out, you dramatically increase your odds of success.
Remember: every track tells a story. Learn to read it, and you'll not only recover more deer but also deepen your connection with the hunt itself.
About the Author
Bryce M. Towsley has been writing about guns for 36 years and has published thousands of articles in most of the major firearms magazines. He has hunted all over the world and is a competition shooter in several disciplines. Towsley has several books available on guns, shooting and hunting as well as an adventure novel, The 14th Reinstated. Signed books are available on his website.
Bryce Towsley
Quick Takeaways: Tracking a Deer After the Shot
Stay calm Read the blood Be patient Follow all sign Stay calmMark the exact spot of impact before leaving your stand.
Read the bloodcolor and consistency reveal where the deer was hit.
Be patientRushing can push a wounded deer farther away.
Follow all signTracks, broken brush and scuffed leaves all tell the story.
FAQ: Common Deer Tracking Questions
Even experienced hunters run into tracking challenges after the shot. These quick answers cover the most common questions about when to follow, how to read sign and what to do when the trail goes cold.
How soon should I start tracking after shooting a deer? ExpandThis can vary depending on shot placement. If the downed deer is in sight and you are sure you made an accurate heart or lung shot, you can begin your cautious approach shortly after the shot, keeping your eyes on the deer.
If the deer is not in sight, you should wait 30 minutes to an hour before beginning to track.
What's the easiest way to find first blood? Expand
Start at the point of impact and look for hair, disturbed soil, or leaves with tiny blood droplets.
What should I do if I lose the blood trail? ExpandReturn to the last sign and begin making slow, wide circles until you pick it up again. If needed, switch to a grid search in thick cover.
What's the most common mistake hunters make after the shot? ExpandPushing too soon. A wounded deer can travel much farther if pressured. Waiting and reading the sign carefully increases recovery success.
Deer Hunting Strategies
Field to Fork: Venison Recipes
Venison is lean, healthy, and full of flavor. From simple burgers and chili to roasts and stews, it's a versatile meat that turns your harvest into delicious meals for family and friends.
Smoked Venison Meatloaf Recipe
Everyone needs a little comfort food from time to time, and meatloaf definitely fits the bill.
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BBQ Venison and Sauerkraut Sandwiches
These quick and easy BBQ sandwiches are perfect for a quick venison meal.
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Stuffed Shells with Venison Meat Sauce
This Stuffed Shells with Venison Meat Sauce recipe will hit the spot.
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