This is the RIGHT WAY to Hunt in the Cold Winter

Is a little snow going to keep you from hunting? Heck no. Getting out to hunt and shoot in the winter months is a great way to nab some exceptional game. There’s still time to hunt some white-tail deer, rabbits, wild hog, beaver, and even squirrel in the coming months.

Whatever you’re looking for in winter it pays to learn some helpful tricks to get you through the cold hunting season. Plus, with the advances in outdoor gear and coats, you aren’t going to freeze out there when you have high tech outerwear going for you. So, get ready to battle the cold, brave the elements, and enjoy these tips for hunting and shooting in the freezing cold of winter.

Keep Your Gun Snow Free

When you are outside in the snowy weather, and it’s coming down in big wet clumps, this can make it hard to keep your gun dry. The problem is that if it’s below 30 degrees, those wet spots can quickly ice up your weapon and the internal mechanisms. When you take a break, dry off the gun, and quickly wrap it in a plastic garbage bag.

You can also buy a waterproof gun sleeve, like this one from Alpine, called the “Gun Slicker.” Cute name, but it will keep your gun protected so that you can quickly pull it out of the bag when you are ready to shoot in just seconds.

Lubrication is Important

Cleaning your gun and putting on the proper lubrication will also repel moisture. Find a specific cold-weather lubricant, like the ones from Weapon Shield. Their gun oils have been extensively tested in all kinds of weather conditions and are environmentally friendly.

Make Sure Your Hands are Warm

When you are out in sub-zero temperatures trying to shoot, cold hands can become a problem. Invest in the best type of shooting gloves you can find, and stick packets of hand warmers in them. This will keep your hands toasty warm and nimble enough to shoot your weapon. You need to be able to have your dexterity and motor skills in peak form to shoot. If your hands are numb, you won’t be able to feel the trigger and shoot as accurately.

Dress in Layers

When you are running around out in the woods, your internal temperature is going to fluctuate. It’s important to dress in layers so that you can take some off if you are hot and add them if you are feeling cold and miserable while outside. Long underwear, insulated coats, and merino wool sweaters are a few layers you need to get through hunting in the bitter cold. And definitely don’t forget a hat that’s fuzzy and warm.

Invest in a Ground Blind

A great ground blind is going to keep you away from the elements, including the wind and snow while you are waiting to spot that treasured game. Plus, it does help to keep you warmer because you’re in a small space that naturally heats up from your own body heat. You’ll be able to hunt longer out in the cold when you have a blind that protects you from some of the cold.

Happy winter hunting season everyone!