Many deer hunters are natural explorers who never really stop looking for their next target buck, or promising tract of public or private land. But when the itch hits to run down those remote two-tracks to see where they might lead — or maybe use a sketchy woods road in-season in a quest to recover a downed trophy — you’ll save time and effort, and travel with more confidence, knowing your rig holds some critical emergency gear.
Following is a list of emergency gear I always carry in my hunting rig:
PORTABLE FOLDING SAW
I like a sturdy, well-built saw that can perform any number of functions beginning with cutting trees that have fallen across the road or are otherwise impeding travel. In a pinch, you can also use it to cut saplings to create an impromptu traction board in muddy/wet conditions, or maybe act as a solid jack stand base. If you’ve got room, adding a full-size axe is a smart and versatile luxury.
COMPACT SHOVEL
Nothing helps you get unstuck in watery muck or a snowy ditch like a shovel, which enables you to dig a straight channel, allowing your truck to crawl out. It’ll also help speed up the process if you’re being winched out from behind.
TOW STRAP
A 20- or 30-foot tow/recovery strap doesn’t take up much space and can be a lifesaver if a potentially helpful passerby does not have one. You’ll also be able to help others.
HEADLAMP
There’s nothing like hands-free lighting when things go sideways. If you have room, add a full-size standard flashlight as well.
COMPACT TOOL KIT
Include an adjustable wrench or two, a few screwdrivers, a deep socket set for your vehicle, electrician’s tape and other items you deem critical.
NALGENE/BOTTLED WATER & ENERGY BARS
Getting unstuck in a remote area is much easier if you’re hydrated and fed.
FOLDING KNIFE/LIGHTER
When you need them, you need them.
COMPACT AIR COMPRESSOR
Bring one of these and you’ll be able to air-down your tires to improve off-road traction in sand, snow or mud — and then inflate back to recommended highway pressure for the trip home.
PORTABLE HITCH-MOUNTED WINCH
If you do a lot of off-roading, one of these makes a lot of sense, allowing you to self-recover in what is often the smartest direction: backing out the way you got in.
