Hunting is challenging, but good gear can be a difference maker. The right equipment can create fantastic food plots, proper clothing can keep bugs off and warmth in, and a good scent can draw in deer for a shot. There are so many products to choose from as a deer hunter it can be overwhelming to find which gear is right for you. The D+DH team has rounded up the top 50 deer hunting products of 2021. Here is Part 5 on our list (see Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4).
10. Cuddeback G Series CuddeLink Cell
Cuddeback is an industry leader in trail camera technology, and it recently introduced the CuddeLink Cell trail camera. It utilizes patented CuddeLink technology, which allows up to 24 cameras to share one $10 per month plan, providing up to 750 images per month. Users can get unlimited images for only $30 per month. So, instead of paying for multiple cell plans that can add up to $50, $75, or even $100-plus per month, get unlimited photos from 24 cameras all on one cell plan. With the launch of the Gen 2 firmware in 2020, CuddeLink cell users get complete control over their CuddeLink network. They can view and change the settings of home and remote cameras from any web browser. Users have remote access to adjust the camera delay, time lapse mode, camera name, camera location number, camera mode (remote or repeater), clear the SD card, change the cell sending rate configuration, and more. It’s connected with Verizon 4G LTE towers. Over to camera features, thanks to the Power House IR Flash technology and 56 850nm LEDs, this camera has 100 feet of illumination range. It has a 0.25-second trigger speed, and takes crisp, 20-megapixel photos. Cuddeback’s Solar Power Bank provides uninterrupted power that can run CuddeLink cameras continuously for years. When doing this, the batteries in the camera serve as a backup in the event the solar panel is depleted due to excessive cloud cover. CuddeLink will notify users in its daily report as to which battery source it is using.
MSRP: not available | Info: cuddeback.com
9. AXE AX440
At a maneuverable, stable and easily shouldered 30.5-inches long and less than 12-inches axle-to-axle (cocked) the weight of the AX440 crossbow is centered over the shooter’s hand by way of a balanced shoot-through stock and riser design and reverse limb system. This configuration empowers the most efficient part of the split limb system from just 15 inches of power stroke to launch bolts at 440 feet-per-second. The proprietary AXE cam system is linked by cables that run parallel to each other, rather than from the top of one cam to the bottom of the other. This unique configuration eliminates cam-lean, limb torque and is further enhanced by an exclusive cable brace that engages the riser to aid in the limitation of flex away from the center of the crossbow. When combined, these features center the string to move along the same plane throughout the entire power stroke.
Beyond safety, the AXE 2-stage sliding trigger assembly is crisp, clean and factory set to 3.5-pounds with less than .020 of trigger creep.
MSRP: $2,099.99 | Info: feradyne.com
8. Mathews V3
The all-new V3 from Mathews is built on innovation. The company redesigned the geometry of modern archery to add more riser, all while keeping a compact profile. As a result, this bow packages both agility and stealth into the same unit. And it does so without compromising accuracy. Furthermore, the Centerguard Cable Containment system delivers optimal cam timing; while the new Nano 740 damper decreases noise and vibration. Overall, it is 27 inches axle to axle. It has a 6-inch brace height. The bow weighs 4.29 pounds. Peak draw weight options include 60, 65, 70 and 75. Draw length options range from 25-29.5 inches. Let off is 80 or 85%. And this bow sends arrows out of the gate at 342 fps (IBO).
MSRP: $1,199 | Info: mathewsinc.com
7. Mossberg Patriot LR Hunter
When you’re hunting or target shooting far downrange, every detail and every fraction of an inch counts. Mossberg designed the new Patriot LR Hunter stock with precise contours for comfort and accuracy. The Monte Carlo elevated comb works in combination with the optics top rail to keep you reliably on target. And the new stock utilizes a special coating process for a full-rifle micro-textured surface that provides a comfortable, firm hold in the field or at the range.
Attractive, accurate and affordable. These rifles offer premium features at a great value, including LBA adjustable triggers, 22- or 24-inch fluted and threaded barrels with cap, oversized bolt handles, spiral fluted bolts and box magazines. The patented LBA Adjustable Trigger is user-adjustable from 2 to 7 pounds, and the oversized bolt handle provides a sure grip, even with gloved hands.
Each LR Hunter stock has aluminum pillar bedding for stability and accuracy. The symmetrical profile with deep contoured grip wells provides a comfortable hold for left- or right-handed shooters.
The flat-bottom benchrest fore-end provides a stable resting surface for steady shots over long-range distances and tapers inward toward the barrel for easy handling. Dual swivel studs simultaneously accommodate a bipod and sling.
Available in .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC and .300 Win. Mag.
MSRP: $766.00 | Info: Mossberg.com
6. Scent-Lok Bowhunter Elite Series
Scent-Lok unveils a Bowhunter Elite series of clothing, including the Divergent jacket and pants system. This outfit includes premium features, including Carbon Odor-Adsorbing Technologies not available anywhere else. The Divergent system is the most advanced bowhunting outerwear Scent-Lok has ever produced, resulting in more warmth, comfort weather protection and, of course, scent-elimination. This ground-breaking apparel will be available in July. Visit www.scentlok.com for links to the videos on the Divergent series, plus information on the all of the technology that’s built into these premium products.
MSRP: Pants $379, Jacket $399 | Info: scentlok.com
5. Banks The Stump 4 Blind
The Stump 4 by Banks is built upon a round design concept that makes it perfect for bowhunters. A rigid, heavy-duty, steel-plate base fosters easy, secure mounting. Once in place, this model has 360-degree viewing, which allows for excellent visibility. It accommodates the hunter with more than 30 square feet of room. It offers an enlarged 34-inch by 14-inch rear window, a three-point door latching system, foam floor mat, gun shelf, and vent kit. On the exterior, it has a paintable, bark-like texture. Windows open silently, seal tight and contain scent. The extremely durable, weather-resistant, UV-stabilized polyethylene construction is sure to hold up to both the elements and time, too. Get yours now. Leg system not included.
MSRP: $2,599 | Info: banksoutdoors.com
4. Browning X-Bolt 6.8 Western
Browning introduces the new 6.8 Western caliber in multiple X-Bolt configurations. The 6.8 Western was designed to be the ultimate all-around long-range hunting cartridge and the Browning X-Bolt is an ideal delivery vehicle. The 6.8 Western delivers magnum performance from a short-action magnum cartridge with less recoil than its long-action counterparts.
With a maximum cartridge length of only 2.995″, the 6.8 Western falls into the short-action rifle realm. Short-action rifles offer the advantages of being faster cycling and lighter overall than their long-action counterparts. With comparable performance to many long-action magnums, there’s little need to bring along the extra burden of a long-action magnum rifle.
In terms of weight and performance the Browning X-Bolt in particular benefits from a short-action magnum like the 6.8 Western. The X-Bolt features a trim receiver that is smaller and lighter than the competition. The accuracy of the X-Bolt has been lauded since it’s introduction. Most of the credit can be attributed to the barrel that is precision button rifled and triple-checked for interior finish, straightness and air gauged for uniformity. The action of every X-Bolt is bedded into the stock to ensure the barrel is free floating.
Info: browning.com
3. Scent Crusher Rapid Mobile Shower Suit
Using ozone technology, you will rid the scent of the human body while driving to your stand without even changing clothes with the new Rapid Mobile Shower from Scent Crusher. The one-size-fits-most suit will have you ready to hit the field the moment you step out of your vehicle. Use the included digital maintenance-free ozone generator with attached hoses for recommended ozone penetration to become scent-free. Plug the suit in using the included 110v AC or 12v DC cords and let the suit do the work. This fits men size Medium to XXXL (up to 6-6 in height). The suit weighs 2 pounds and is made from Techno-lite fabric and includes heavy-duty zippers. The included ozone generator requires a power cord with 110V plug and 12V adapter. It is aiport and TSA compliant, and comes with a two-year maintenance-free warranty.
Retail: $199.99 | Info: scentcrusher.com
2. TenPoint Vapor RS470 Xero
The TenPoint Vapor RS470 Xero is the first hunting crossbow with a built-in range-finding scope, and features the revolutionary Garmin XERO X1i. It automatically ranges game up to 250 yards away with the press of a single button. Precise illuminated aim points automatically adjust for both distance and brightness. This helps hunters to see their target unobstructed by reticle patterns. This thing doesn’t just look good, though. Powered by a reverse-draw design that utilizes its full 17 inches of power stroke, the Vapor RS470 Xero generates up to 470 fps of speed. It’s also equipped with the revolutionary ACUslide — a silent cocking and safe de-cocking system. It also incorporates the Integrated String Stop System. Another impressive statistic? It measures an ultra-narrow, 6.5-inch cocked width, 12-inch uncocked width, and 31-inch length (without foot stirrup). The crossbow weighs 8 pounds. It sports a 3.5-pound, two-stage S1 trigger. It also comes with a six-bolt quiver, crossbow bolts, neoprene sling, and soft crossbow case.
MSRP: $4,049.99 | Info: tenpointcrossbows.com
1. Burris Optics Oracle X Rangefinding Crossbow Scope
The Oracle X features a built-in laser rangefinder that is activated via the wireless remote or the range button on the scope. At the push of a button, the Oracle X instantly displays the distance to your target and provides an exact aiming point factoring in the angle of your shot. Other features include 2-7X Variable Zoom with Magnification Compensation that ensures your aiming point stays accurate while you zoom, and a wireless remote that can be placed anywhere on the crossbow. Its integrated inclinometer factors in steep angles and shots common in treestand hunting. Plus, it has an electronic bubble level to reduce unwanted cant, precise aluminum mount/adjustment system, a battery life of 3,000-plus activations, and Auto-Brightness and manual adjustments to allow you to fine-tune your aiming point. The Oracle X is lightweight and robust enough to weather any conditions and is always backed by the Burris Forever Warranty. Weight: 30.8 oz.
MSRP: $899 | Info: burrisoptics.com
