Thinking about getting a new turkey vest this year. What's the best vest on the market for the following:
The best budget vest
Best middle of the road
Favorite vest regardless of price it's what you should go with.
Thanks
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I just purchased the Sitka Turkey Vest. I got a good price on EBay for it brand new with tags. I got the Optifade Timber color. I did some research before I bought it. Here's the things I like most about it:
Very light weight at 44 ounces
Fully adjustable, real nice shoulder straps
Water bladder comparable
Fantastic pocket lay-out, quality zippers, a hard pot call pocket provides protection with magnetic catch
Solid "Speed seat" type cushion. Does not flatten out. Don't be deceived by thickness, it's solid so far.
Extra long padded long box call pocket. Real nice for pushpins too
Diaphragm and striker pockets
Mesh inside pockets for head nets, gloves etc.
Rear cargo pack with solid cushioned back support that is the best I've seen
Not bulky, more than a minimalist but not cumbersome while sitting
In summary, this vest seems to be the real thing. Of course, this years field test will tell the story. I will add review after its field trial. And oh yea, it has all of Sitka quality and craftsmanship. Good luck in your search...
I'm not a vest person at all, but if i was looking for one i would look HARD at the New improved NWTF Nomad Vest at the Mossy Oak Store with free shipping and 10 percent discount...
Will Primos Signature Turkey Vest. I have 5 or 6 vests and have owned others. Primos got everything right on this vest.
It's extremely subjective in my opinion. My recommendation would be to research and try on as many as you can and then buy the one that comes closest to being what you want. Then, modify it to make it exactly what you want.
Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk
Check out grounded- I've had mine going on 3rd year - has worked great for me
This
Quote from: Happy on January 18, 2023, 08:27:50 PM
It's extremely subjective in my opinion. My recommendation would be to research and try on as many as you can and then buy the one that comes closest to being what you want. Then, modify it to make it exactly what you want.
Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk
This is good advice. I bought an Ol' Tom several years ago, probably the first year they started making them and I've modified it a little bit every single year since. I'm just about starting to like it now.
Depends on your preferences like others have said. I don't like a big heavy vest and I don't carry much. I have an Ol Tom vest that's minimalist and lightweight. I like it a lot.
Quote from: Wigsplitter on January 18, 2023, 08:35:05 PM
Check out grounded- I've had mine going on 3rd year - has worked great for me
This right here. Love this vest.
Quote from: Wigsplitter on January 18, 2023, 08:35:05 PM
Check out grounded- I've had mine going on 3rd year - has worked great for me
I watched a video review on Youtube of their Impact vest today. It checks all the boxes for me. Two things weren't answered in the video, weight without the cushion and is the material soft and quiet?
I really like the cabelas tactical tatr pro vest. But it has a slight slosh sound to it when walking. The new vests are more noisy then the originals, different material. But they don't break the bank either.
Gonna give a ol Tom vest a try this year and see how it goes. I always end up switching to my cabelas vest though.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'm in the vest market and I'm looking at the Grounded vest.
That Impact Vest video looks really impressive.
https://groundedbrand.com/products/impact-vest
Quote from: Happy on January 18, 2023, 08:27:50 PM
It's extremely subjective in my opinion. My recommendation would be to research and try on as many as you can and then buy the one that comes closest to being what you want. Then, modify it to make it exactly what you want.
Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk
X2 here, vests should fit your particular hunting style and what you carry afield. This is the best advice before you do buy one. Good luck...
Did grounded change their buckles? I know there were some complaints that the buckle got in the way when shouldering.
I will add that the Grounded Vest does look like a fine vest, looks very well made, well thought out. Another great option to consider for sure......
I wish Knight Hunting Products was still making them, I love mine. Not sure what I will do when it bites the dust. Heard lots of good about the Cabelas
Grounded. Year three and it has held up great. Buckles don't get in the way but if you carry too much, like I do, sometimes the straps will loosen up a bit. Not a big deal and it's really the only negative I've found.
I have the Cabelas speed seat half vest. Super comfortable seat that moves up annd out of the way, annd enough room in the pockets for what I need. If you're a minimalist or a bit more this is a great set-up. They were out of production for quite awhile but are available once again.
Quote from: roosterstraw on January 19, 2023, 06:43:59 AM
Did grounded change their buckles? I know there were some complaints that the buckle got in the way when shouldering.
If they do, I'm buying one. I had one and no matter what I did, my gun seemed to center right on the buckle. I do wish they had a box call pocket similar to the exterior styles on many vests vs the tube with elastic on ea end. Can't have it all, but it was a solid vest. The guy that makes them is a member here and he should be proud....expect for those buckles. Ha!
I have a few vests right now
Newest old Tom gun slinger is light and decent quality (real light)
Nomad vest that I sewed claw straps in.. decent vest but not as comfortable and materials aren't as great it isn't comfortable to me. I am not a fan of nomad quality (on vests)
Original cabelas TATR 2. I love it but it's a hair on the heavy size. It's an XL so that could be why it's not the only one I consider.
I am still on the hunt as well. I will be going after another vest when it drops in feb.
Quote from: richard black on January 19, 2023, 09:23:18 AM
I have the Cabelas speed seat half vest. Super comfortable seat that moves up annd out of the way, annd enough room in the pockets for what I need. If you're a minimalist or a bit more this is a great set-up. They were out of production for quite awhile but are available once again.
Ditto, I have 2 of these. Fantastic run & gun option....
Most vests weigh more empty than my rng 200 does whn full! If they still made them I would buy another, otherwise I would look at the Sitka vest for sure.
For those of y'all interested, I'm working with a supplier to create a run and gun vest alternative that is specific to turkey hunters right now. Should be on the market in a few months I would think. I'll make a post when it has come to fruition but I think it'll be pretty slick for the way I like to hunt
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
Quote from: richard black on January 19, 2023, 09:23:18 AM
I have the Cabelas speed seat half vest. Super comfortable seat that moves up annd out of the way, annd enough room in the pockets for what I need. If you're a minimalist or a bit more this is a great set-up. They were out of production for quite awhile but are available once again.
Does the seat really stay out of the way? I feel like it would've bouncing around a lot and uncomfortable
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The Grounded Impact. A very well thought out, comfortable, and tough vest. I was a fan of the old school style super elite vests, but they were always too hot it felt in the Oklahoma Springtime. No issue with heat at all on the Grounded, plus it looks awesome as a bonus perk.
Quote from: richard black on January 19, 2023, 09:23:18 AM
I have the Cabelas speed seat half vest. Super comfortable seat that moves up annd out of the way, annd enough room in the pockets for what I need. If you're a minimalist or a bit more this is a great set-up. They were out of production for quite awhile but are available once again.
:z-winnersmiley:
I used one for all my hunting this fall and was totally impressed. If Cabela's would just offer decent camo patterns again this thing would be darn near perfect!
Quote from: btomlin on January 19, 2023, 09:38:02 AM
Quote from: roosterstraw on January 19, 2023, 06:43:59 AM
Did grounded change their buckles? I know there were some complaints that the buckle got in the way when shouldering.
If they do, I'm buying one. I had one and no matter what I did, my gun seemed to center right on the buckle. I do wish they had a box call pocket similar to the exterior styles on many vests vs the tube with elastic on ea end. Can't have it all, but it was a solid vest. The guy that makes them is a member here and he should be proud....expect for those buckles. Ha!
We have not released any information on the new vet yet but the buckles have changed to curb the issue of shouldering the gun. We are planning to unveil the new vest in a few weeks!!
Drew
There is no Best Vest! Happy said it best.
When you find exactly what you think you want in 3-4 years it will probably change. No one vest will ever fit all!
Last year I ran two vests, one warm weather one cool weather. This year I just need to do a little better job stocking both with calls that I run.
Come on Cody.....I need some pot calls.
Warm weather rig was a bino harness with auxillary side pockets, a water bladder inside a small pack. I loved it. Alaskan Guide gear, it did cost a couple dollars to put together.
I bought one of the original grounded vest when they came out 3 years ago - buckle is in the way a little when shouldering your gun or it will make a little noise if you have a plastic stock BUT that is only disadvantage I have found - a little bit heavy if you fill all the many pockets - great seat with good magnets- inside pocket for strikers which is a plus and soft quiet material - and drew is a great guy who reached out to me when I had questions- not many times the CEO gonna reach out to you!! - I need to be on his pro staff!!???? - I'm expecting the revamp vest to be even better I can't wait!!!!
The Will Primos Signature vest is a bit pricey. But it is very well made. Lots of pockets inside so you can separate all sorts of gear with out them being in the same pocket. The seat is very thick and is held up with a long magnet that is very strong. I've yet to knock it down going through brush. The other thing I like is that on the shoulder straps there is a place to mount my Go Pro.
(https://i.imgur.com/5rje8xa.jpg)
I have 8 different vests and not a single one of them is perfect. A couple come close though. The cabelas Tactr, Nomads Killin' time, and Ol' Toms Time & Motion gunslinger are my favorites but each has their unique qurks. If I could take components from each vest I could create one super vest.
I WILL tell you the best replacement for a Vest , is one of those double wheel - wheelbarrows from Lowe's or Home Depot. I have used vests over the years and i always ended up still carrying way too much stuff it felt like a backpack full of rocks ... so I decided there had to be something better and thank goodness i found Glenda Green and the satchel she makes and the tire inter-tube seat cushion for my old butt ... game changing in my books to replace that old bulky hot vest ... just throwing this out there for a vest alternative... Really i agree with others i don't think you will find the perfect VEST.... IMO....LOL....
Quote from: Terry on January 19, 2023, 04:58:58 PM
Quote from: richard black on January 19, 2023, 09:23:18 AM
I have the Cabelas speed seat half vest. Super comfortable seat that moves up annd out of the way, annd enough room in the pockets for what I need. If you're a minimalist or a bit more this is a great set-up. They were out of production for quite awhile but are available once again.
Does the seat really stay out of the way? I feel like it would've bouncing around a lot and uncomfortable
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Yes Terry, it definitely stays out of your way, and sets up nice and quick to sit. That's why I got the Sika vest, same exact concept....be safe
I made the decision some time back that I couldn't go vestless. Hip packs and smaller options just don't work for me. So many great vests these days to choose from but for this year I'm trying something different. The turkey lounger with double shoulder straps for carrying and side bags for carrying calls, water and all the rest. I'll let you know how it works out after my hunt in FL this March.
https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/cabelas-deluxe-hunting-lounger
If this doesn't work out, next spring I'll probably be sporting a revised edition Grounded.
I agree with Greg. Tried a lot of vests and could not find that perfect fit. Bought one of Glenda Green's minimalist satchels and never looked back. It doesn't have a seat, like your vest, and that will be a deal breaker for some people. I prefer my turkey chair and can live without a seat if I moving quickly. Just dittoing an outside the box thought.
Quote from: turkeygod4 on January 20, 2023, 09:16:33 AM
I have 8 different vests and not a single one of them is perfect. A couple come close though. The cabelas Tactr, Nomads Killin' time, and Ol' Toms Time & Motion gunslinger are my favorites but each has their unique qurks. If I could take components from each vest I could create one super vest.
You can, scissors, needle and thread. :you_rock:
Quote from: Greg Massey on January 18, 2023, 07:44:12 PM
I'm not a vest person at all, but if i was looking for one i would look HARD at the New improved NWTF Nomad Vest at the Mossy Oak Store with free shipping and 10 percent discount...
Where did you find the discount? I went to their site and didn't see it.
The last 25 years I have been running Cabelas rubber tire vest and has not broke yet. But im up in the years and looking for something of quality and lighter. what I have noticed is most vest are designed for only one box call while you can carry 4 pot calls. I guess nothing is perfect. Two that have caught my eye are The Gunslinger and Tenzing TV18. Chime in about my possible selections.
I had a herters vest I used for years. Last season I got a vest from Walmart, a mossy oak brand vest. It has plenty of storage and compartments. The seat is a little lacking but it works!
Quote from: Tom Threetoes on January 22, 2023, 09:36:12 AM
Quote from: Greg Massey on January 18, 2023, 07:44:12 PM
I'm not a vest person at all, but if i was looking for one i would look HARD at the New improved NWTF Nomad Vest at the Mossy Oak Store with free shipping and 10 percent discount...
Where did you find the discount? I went to their site and didn't see it.
It will pop up on your screen ,, it's one of those sign up and get 10 percent off ...
Quote from: bigdrumnc on January 22, 2023, 02:44:48 PM
I had a herters vest I used for years. Last season I got a vest from Walmart, a mossy oak brand vest. It has plenty of storage and compartments. The seat is a little lacking but it works!
If you need a little extra cushion, look at the inflatable Klymit cushion. Man that thing works good! I use it with a stadium type seat, not sure how it would work with a regular vest cusion but at the price, it's worth a shot. Also works great for bleachers and such at sporting events.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Klymit-V-Seat-Inflatable-Air-Cushion-14-5x13-5x1-5in-2-6oz-Gray/917055998?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&http://clickserve.dartsearch.net/link/click?lid=92700060762254883&ds_s_kwgid=58700006715445296&ds_s_inventory_feed_id=97700000003583668&ds_a_cid=654818135&ds_a_caid=13956209185&ds_a_agid=126452889113&ds_a_lid=pla-1392082700544&ds_a_cid=116919406&ds_a_caid=361575031&ds_a_agid=1200667322826314&ds_a_fiid=&ds_a_lid=pla-4578641339573147&&ds_e_adid=&ds_e_matchtype=search&ds_e_device=c&ds_e_network=o&ds_e_product_group_id=4578641339573147&ds_e_product_id=917055998_0&ds_e_product_merchant_id=27449&ds_e_product_country=US&ds_e_product_language=EN&ds_e_product_channel=Online&ds_e_product_store_id=&ds_url_v=2&ds_dest_url=?adid=2222222242031946843&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=e&wl1=o&wl2=c&wl3=&wl4=pla-4578641339573147&wl5=&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=%7baceid%7d&wl9=&wl10=27449&wl11=Online&wl12=917055998_0&wl13=&veh=sem_LIA&msclkid=fe888d3554c712264f76eef8c851cfaf&gclid=fe888d3554c712264f76eef8c851cfaf&gclsrc=3p.ds
I've been using the same vest I bought 21 years ago. Mossy Oak NWTF vest. Has the right amount of pockets for me. But I'm a minimalist lol. 2short boxes, 2 slates, 1 striker a few locators. A Gatorade, my license, gloves and face mask. TP as well. Maybe a snack and a nice back pouch for decoys if I choose one that day.
I love that vest. And want trade it until it's in shreds. Lol
I've had 2 different ol tom vests, 2 alps vests, the grounded vest, 2 different nomad vests, a cabela's tactical tat'r original, a couple old original mossy oak vests, the newer mossy oak strap vest, and the other mossy oak vest, a Glenda Green satchel, the Knight and Hale RNG 200 and 300, and I'm sure there are a couple I'm missing within the past 10 years and I always come back to the RNG 300. Light weight, adjustable from a 40 pound 4 year to a 245 pound man and beyond. Plenty of pockets, but still minimal, pockets are in the right places, nice seat, I'd buy it if it was 20$ or 400$. I like it that well. I actually bought 2 of the 300's and 2 of the 200's.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: Dtrkyman on January 19, 2023, 03:50:30 PM
Most vests weigh more empty than my rng 200 does whn full! If they still made them I would buy another, otherwise I would look at the Sitka vest for sure.
You can still get the 200 from sportsman's guide
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
RNG 200 weighs 24 ounces, the RNG weighs 48 ounces, and the Sitka weighs 44 ounces respectively. Sitka gives you way more than a minimalist vest, and still managed to keep the dry weight down. I will be giving a review this season on the Sitka once I put it through the field test. The RNG's are nice vests, great for a minimalist approach....
Quote from: Tom007 on January 23, 2023, 08:45:19 PM
RNG 200 weighs 24 ounces, the RNG weighs 48 ounces, and the Sitka weighs 44 ounces respectively. Sitka gives you way more than a minimalist vest, and still managed to keep the dry weight down. I will be giving a review this season on the Sitka once I put it through the field test. The RNG's are nice vests, great for a minimalist approach....
I have no experience with the Sitka vest but I'd like to see more on it. The RNG 200 is a touch small for what I carry but I wouldn't consider the 300 a minimalist vest. It has the 2 outside pot call pockets, on the two large inner zipper pockets you can put another 2 pot calls each, plus a waterproof pocket on the front with shell holders on the outside, two smaller zipper pockets on the front both with shell holders in them, a box call pocket, a pocket for 4 strikers, a smaller storage pocket close to the shoulders in behind a small pocket for mouth calls. Then has 2 large outer pockets that can hold quite a bit, and then the backpack part has a hydration bladder pocket, and 4 or 5 smaller pockets that can hold pot calls or your odds and ends. Plus still have the backpack itself and then can strap extra layers to the outside of it. I wouldn't consider it a minimal vest at all, it has way more pockets than I would ever want to fill
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: Tom007 on January 18, 2023, 07:34:27 PM
I just purchased the Sitka Turkey Vest. I got a good price on EBay for it brand new with tags. I got the Optifade Timber color. I did some research before I bought it. Here's the things I like most about it:
Very light weight at 44 ounces
Fully adjustable, real nice shoulder straps
Water bladder comparable
Fantastic pocket lay-out, quality zippers, a hard pot call pocket provides protection with magnetic catch
Solid "Speed seat" type cushion. Does not flatten out. Don't be deceived by thickness, it's solid so far.
Extra long padded long box call pocket. Real nice for pushpins too
Diaphragm and striker pockets
Mesh inside pockets for head nets, gloves etc.
Rear cargo pack with solid cushioned back support that is the best I've seen
Not bulky, more than a minimalist but not cumbersome while sitting
In summary, this vest seems to be the real thing. Of course, this years field test will tell the story. I will add review after its field trial. And oh yea, it has all of Sitka quality and craftsmanship. Good luck in your search...
tom I read your reviews on the badland vest you seemed to really like it. Are you updating or is there something you did not like about it? thanks
Been using an Ol Tom for a number of years, bought a grounded bottom land vest last year which did not hold up. Called grounded and they were great. Wanted my old vest back to see how and what went wrong, then sent me a new vest. I checked my credit card statement the next month they had refunded my money. I called them to report the error and was told it was not an error. I gave new vest to my grandson and am buying two more for presents. Grounded folks are A plus people.
I got an Ol Tom gunslinger on clearance last summer. Haven't hunted with it yet but I really like the layout and quality. Very light and a ton of storage. Way more than I need.
For you guys who have the run and gun 200 how do you like the pot call pockets on the outside? Did they hold a pot pretty well? I have a halloran pot if that helps any. Have a tidewe vest now and looking for something different but wondering about how well they hold the pots in
I've been using the Alps Outdoorz Grand Slam for a couple of seasons and love it. The vest has legs, so it will allow you to lean comfortably when there is no tree to lean up against.
Last year I shot a Tom in Kansas, and had to set up on some Yucca bushes, and was nothing to lean up against. The vest's legs were the ticket. Sometimes here in Florida you need to set up under a Palmetto, which you cant really lean against comfortably, and this vest allows you to do that.
Downside is the vest is a little heavier than most because of the metal frame.
Quote from: Mick2394 on February 02, 2023, 07:43:43 AM
For you guys who have the run and gun 200 how do you like the pot call pockets on the outside? Did they hold a pot pretty well? I have a halloran pot if that helps any. Have a tidewe vest now and looking for something different but wondering about how well they hold the pots in
I have the RNG 300 and the pot holders are the same as the 200. They work just fine. One of the shock cords on mine that latch over the front broke on mine, but it stays in just fine without. It's really stretchy material that holds them good enough without them falling out. I have a halloran pot call too.
Quote from: Jordan121787 on February 02, 2023, 09:23:56 AM
Quote from: Mick2394 on February 02, 2023, 07:43:43 AM
For you guys who have the run and gun 200 how do you like the pot call pockets on the outside? Did they hold a pot pretty well? I have a halloran pot if that helps any. Have a tidewe vest now and looking for something different but wondering about how well they hold the pots in
I have the RNG 300 and the pot holders are the same as the 200. They work just fine. One of the shock cords on mine that latch over the front broke on mine, but it stays in just fine without. It's really stretchy material that holds them good enough without them falling out. I have a halloran pot call too.
Great, thank you! I was worried about it being an open pocket design that they would fall out, but that makes me feel better