Hey everyone,
I'm looking for advice on upgrading my hunting gear. I hunt public land, and the areas I frequent require some effort, like hiking up and down ridges. While I think my kit is solid for shorter hunts (comfortable vest, switched to a 20ga, etc.), I've noticed a few areas where I'm limited after reflecting on my lack of success over the past few years.
One issue is comfort during longer sits. My vest is great, but after an hour or so, I start to get uncomfortable. Hunger is another problem—these hikes burn a lot of calories, and once I get hungry, it's tough to stay focused on the hunt.
The hunger issue seems easy to solve: snacks and water should do the trick. I'm also considering adding a backpacking stove and freeze-dried meals to my kit for longer stays. So, a backpack would be an easy addition.
The challenge is finding gear that helps with comfort but is still lightweight. I'm not trying to load myself down like a pack mule; I value mobility. I'm imagining something like a backpack, a chest rig for calls, and maybe a lightweight chair.
Has anyone used gear that balances comfort with mobility? I'd love to hear your suggestions!
Order a Glenda Green seat cushion, it has an inflatable tube with a waterproof cover... You can thank me later ... LOL
My buddies and I have hunted the vast mountain ranges of the west for decades probably doing something similar to what you describe. Every one of us has gotten away from wearing a turkey vest and have gone to hunting in cargo pants to carry the few things we need immediately (or regularly) and using a backpack for carrying everything else we might need.
Back in the days when we were backpacking in somewhere to stay overnight, we had larger backpacks to carry things like backpacking stoves, tents, etc. (the assorted stuff needed to be somewhat comfortable in those situations). Nowadays, we mostly use lighter daypacks for our shorter day-runs with which we can carry "the essentials" while at the same time keeping the weight down for possibly walking several miles in up-and-down mountain terrain. In addition, that weight is concentrated comfortably out of the way on our backs rather than lower around the waste and upper legs like many vests tend to do.
As for having a seat/cushion, I just strap one to the back of the pack I have (one with straps with snap-buckles on the back for attaching such things). Again, it is high on the back of the pack and completely out of the way until it is needed.
Anyway, from your comments, you seem to be leaning towards going the backpack route. As one who has done so, I highly recommend it based on where you indicate you are hunting. Turkey vests certainly have their place, but "the place" you indicate you are hunting (at least on occasion) is certainly not one of them in my opinion. :icon_thumright:
I appreciate your attention to comfort. I believe a lot of turkeys are spared every season due to hunters not being comfortable. It is extremely difficult to set motionless with a rock up your butt so far its compacting a hemi!
The day pack or light back pack would check a lot of boxes I believe. The seat issue I haven't figured out yet myself but have been lucky the last two seasons.
I went to a chest rig and added a day pack with a bladder in it. The pack is big enough for snacks/food and other essentials.
To me, the best part of a vest is the seat and game bag. I find the game bag the best way to pack out a turkey. For me.
So, you'll need a strap to pack out your turkey. Carry a zip lock bag with you to put over the turkey heads. That way you don't have blood slung everywhere when you finally get out.
Check out Alaskan Guide Gear. They have nice chest rigs. Are customizable with additional pouches and a day pack with bladder.
The day pack comes with wide shoulder straps and will replace the straps on the chest rig.
Quote from: Greg Massey on February 15, 2025, 12:30:00 PMOrder a Glenda Green seat cushion, it has an inflatable tube with a waterproof cover... You can thank me later ... LOL
x2. Comfortable. Lightweight. I use it with a minimalist vest or with her satchel.
Quote from: Notsoyoungturk on February 15, 2025, 04:20:01 PMQuote from: Greg Massey on February 15, 2025, 12:30:00 PMOrder a Glenda Green seat cushion, it has an inflatable tube with a waterproof cover... You can thank me later ... LOL
x2. Comfortable. Lightweight. I use it with a minimalist vest or with her satchel.
X3 great seat and your supporting a small business. The only thing that beats it is a gobbler lounger but you don't want to carry that around the mountains.
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X4 trying to figure out how to add one to my vest permanently
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Quote from: GobbleNut on February 15, 2025, 01:49:31 PMMy buddies and I have hunted the vast mountain ranges of the west for decades probably doing something similar to what you describe. Every one of us has gotten away from wearing a turkey vest and have gone to hunting in cargo pants to carry the few things we need immediately (or regularly) and using a backpack for carrying everything else we might need.
Back in the days when we were backpacking in somewhere to stay overnight, we had larger backpacks to carry things like backpacking stoves, tents, etc. (the assorted stuff needed to be somewhat comfortable in those situations). Nowadays, we mostly use lighter daypacks for our shorter day-runs with which we can carry "the essentials" while at the same time keeping the weight down for possibly walking several miles in up-and-down mountain terrain. In addition, that weight is concentrated comfortably out of the way on our backs rather than lower around the waste and upper legs like many vests tend to do.
As for having a seat/cushion, I just strap one to the back of the pack I have (one with straps with snap-buckles on the back for attaching such things). Again, it is high on the back of the pack and completely out of the way until it is needed.
Anyway, from your comments, you seem to be leaning towards going the backpack route. As one who has done so, I highly recommend it based on where you indicate you are hunting. Turkey vests certainly have their place, but "the place" you indicate you are hunting (at least on occasion) is certainly not one of them in my opinion. :icon_thumright:
What day packs are you using?
Quote from: WV Flopper on February 15, 2025, 03:27:44 PMI appreciate your attention to comfort. I believe a lot of turkeys are spared every season due to hunters not being comfortable. It is extremely difficult to set motionless with a rock up your butt so far its compacting a hemi!
The day pack or light back pack would check a lot of boxes I believe. The seat issue I haven't figured out yet myself but have been lucky the last two seasons.
I went to a chest rig and added a day pack with a bladder in it. The pack is big enough for snacks/food and other essentials.
To me, the best part of a vest is the seat and game bag. I find the game bag the best way to pack out a turkey. For me.
So, you'll need a strap to pack out your turkey. Carry a zip lock bag with you to put over the turkey heads. That way you don't have blood slung everywhere when you finally get out.
Check out Alaskan Guide Gear. They have nice chest rigs. Are customizable with additional pouches and a day pack with bladder.
The day pack comes with wide shoulder straps and will replace the straps on the chest rig.
Thank you for the game sling suggestion. I did not take that into consideration at all! How are you carrying your gun? I think I bought a Claw sling for my 20ga.
Claw sling.
I prefer a Butler creek sling, neoprene with the rubber nipples. But....My BPS would destroy one in 1.5 seasons. I switched over to the claw a few back. They are tough and ride good on my shoulder.
I have a new gun, 4# lighter than the BPS. I did get a Claw for it but maybe should give another BC a try on it. I liked the give too the BC on the shoulder, felt like carrying nothing.
Two thumbs up for using a backpack and added a chest rig last fall for the binos.
I can strap a cushion or chair to backpack and have a homemade turkey carrying strap.
Same pack I use for deer hunting. I'm still old school with an ALICE pack for elk.
Two big things for me are the game bag and the ability to carry water in a vest.
Restless alternatives don't mention carrying water much. If you have to use a camelbak and a bag/fanny pack/backpack, may as well have a vest.
The game bag on a vest is very handy for a variety of items, including carrying a bird out.
I often carry the gobbler lounger, but have been using a Beardbuster high back self supporting seat with an additional Klymit air cushion for some longer walks. They fit nicely in the game bag. These two items weigh about 2.5 lbs total and they keep me comfortable for some time and is good for days where you're moving more.
Food wise I carry jerky, clif bars, and lightly salted almonds. Sometimes I will slip in a little Debbie cake for a bit of sugar. I hunt with an old primos vest that has a water bottle holder on the side. Toss another bottle in the back of the game bag. That bottle is frozen when I leave the house. Comfort I do carry a turkey lounger. For me it's worth the weight to sit comfortably and have some back support.
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I must be unusual... I have a small boney butt, and I have not issue sitting on the ground comfortably. Only time I use any type of seat is when it is wet. I generally find the ground perfectly comfortable to sit on.
I hunt some steep country, sometimes with some long walks. Heaviest thing I take is water, and sometimes, I will leave a bottle (or two) on the trail I know I will also be taking back out.
If I am walking in a ways, I leave decoys behind. Go as light as possible. and make sure my vest is snug (yes I still like a vest). I use the game bag to carry a bird out (hopefully). Were I to have a vest without a good game bag, I would certainly have an after-market game pack, as that turkey feels like 50 pounds when walking up hill. I have not like shoulder tote game bags when doing long walks out with a bird.
Sometimes you have to set up quickly, but if I feel I have time, I not only look for a strategic location to set up, but a comfortable one. If possible, I like a log or rock in front or near me, that I can set my gun on, and use friction calls behind of, or use to eat lunch on (usually a sandwich and crackers).... And no ants on the tree (our red ants BITE). I am usually hunting hilly areas with oaks, and lots of rocks, with few scattered pines.
I used to like to set up behind falls, but having bobcats sneak up behind me, and being in mountain lion country, I have become a bit more careful. I have seen big cats three times turkey hunting, and I do not want to be sitting were one could sneak up behind me, while I am attempting to sound like one of their favorite meals.
Snacks for me are peanut butter crackers or protein bars... Sometimes a Snicker's Bar.
Gobbler chair, it can be a little much to carry, but I use it year round now, turkey or even deer when I want to move around. Very comfortable.
I have found that the m2 vest checks all those boxes you're talking about. Tight and form fitting for an athletic build with a small backpack for food, water or whatever other pieces of gear are not a quick easy access type of thing. Butt pad is pretty thick and easy to pop on and off for short/long hunts
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I honestly feel that for hunting rugged terrain, the single most important piece of apparel is foot-wear. I am in California, and heavily insulated boots are too hot for that type of moving around.
I like light-weight boots, that are water-proof, and wear good (non-cotton) socks as well. Having good and comfortable footwear can really improve the enjoyment of a hunt.
Mornings can be cool and heat up later in the morning, so I like light-weight clothes that I can wear in layers, that is easy to pack. I will sometimes stow a jacket to pick up on the way out, as my longest sit is generally early morning waiting for birds to come off the roost.
Not a fan of cotton, especially for my top... Cotton pants do not bother me as much. I will generally wear a thermal wool shirt, long-sleeve synthetic camo over that, and then a light-weight synthetic pull-over... All of which can be shedded and stowed in my game-bag... If I kill a bird, I will tie the tops around my waist or neck (very fashionable).
I have some 5-6 mile round trips in the Northeast mountains in some of my areas. Rocky, fairly rugged terrain. I wear Danner Boots, lightweight, waterproof, great cushioned soles. On these long treks I use my Sitka vest. Carry's just what I need. I changed out the inside seat cushion with a thicker more comfortable one. Fits real nice, very comfortable. I use a Vero-Vellini Sling with my 5.5 pound Browning 16 gauge. Very comfortable carrying with this sling. I have to say it truly is a comfortable set-up, in, and out. I also carry a Turkey-Tote, works real good hauling out a gobbler....
Good luck...
If I think I'm sitting for over an hour, I'm bringing a light weight turkey chair.
Otherwise I carry either a funky chicken or a Cherokee blow up in my Sitka back pack. Camel pack. And some dude wipes. I don't really like to eat while hunting, but usually carry a couple granola bars.
I strap one of these to my backpack. It is the best ground seat of any kind I've tried. It's a sit anywhere style and very well built. The must have discontinued the camo options. I bought an extra one on clearance last year for like $10
https://www.sportsmans.com/camping-gear-supplies/camp-furniture/chairs-seats-loungers/alps-mountaineering-weekender-stadium-seat-cactus/p/1865586?channel=shopping&gclid=27b6380cdc1014f6b3235fbd36cf6467&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=27b6380cdc1014f6b3235fbd36cf6467&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing%20-%20Shopping%20-%20NB%20-%20Camping%20-%20No%20Stores&utm_term=4581046493971810&utm_content=Camping%20-%20No%20Stores
Quote from: Number17 on February 16, 2025, 08:44:08 AMI strap one of these to my backpack. It is the best ground seat of any kind I've tried. It's a sit anywhere style and very well built. The must have discontinued the camo options. I bought an extra one on clearance last year for like $10
https://www.sportsmans.com/camping-gear-supplies/camp-furniture/chairs-seats-loungers/alps-mountaineering-weekender-stadium-seat-cactus/p/1865586?channel=shopping&gclid=27b6380cdc1014f6b3235fbd36cf6467&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=27b6380cdc1014f6b3235fbd36cf6467&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bing%20-%20Shopping%20-%20NB%20-%20Camping%20-%20No%20Stores&utm_term=4581046493971810&utm_content=Camping%20-%20No%20Stores
Picked up something similar to try out this spring. There have been times when I was wishing I had that back support while waiting for a gobbler to arrive. Also have a roll-up pad to put in the seat, as well, to add a bit of cushion to the bottom. We'll see how it works out... :icon_thumright:
I hike in miles sometimes...I'm still carrying my chair if I'm planning on sitting for long periods. I'm leaning to buying a Glenda Green cushion as I'm getting older. My plan would be to stuff it in my game pouch on the back of my vest or look at someway attaching it to my vest with clips.
Anyway, I can't live without my vest as others can. I don't use mouth calls so I have a vest that holds two box calls, several pots and other things I deem as necessary for my hunt. On long hikes, I reduce what I bring in that vest to lighten the load. I don't carry binos either. To me, they are a waste of weight when hunting the timber.
I have the old gobbler lounger at chair at 6.5 pounds. It's about on it's last leg. So I ordered a back up recently...the Rogers turkey chair. It's just over 6.5 pounds. I looked at tons of chairs and went with Rogers based on weight only.
If it's the first time on a property and I think I'm going to be scouting, running and gunning and such, I leave the chair in the truck. I'm good on the vest cushion for an hour or so.
I will say this too...there have been many times I've abandoned the chair to chase a turkey up a mountain or similar. Then I have to go back and get the chair, which sometimes can be a long hike that could have been avoided. So I'm looking at not doing that stupid act much longer lol.
Others have gave much better advice. But I have yet to learn to live without my old vest.
Quote from: deathfoot on February 16, 2025, 02:26:08 PMI hike in miles sometimes...I'm still carrying my chair if I'm planning on sitting for long periods. I'm leaning to buying a Glenda Green cushion as I'm getting older. My plan would be to stuff it in my game pouch on the back of my vest or look at someway attaching it to my vest with clips.
I think it comes with a handle. You could by a cheap carabiner and attach it to a belt loop or a belt.
Quote from: deathfoot on February 16, 2025, 02:26:08 PMI hike in miles sometimes...I'm still carrying my chair if I'm planning on sitting for long periods. I'm leaning to buying a Glenda Green cushion as I'm getting older. My plan would be to stuff it in my game pouch on the back of my vest or look at someway attaching it to my vest with clips.
Anyway, I can't live without my vest as others can. I don't use mouth calls so I have a vest that holds two box calls, several pots and other things I deem as necessary for my hunt. On long hikes, I reduce what I bring in that vest to lighten the load. I don't carry binos either. To me, they are a waste of weight when hunting the timber.
Others have gave much better advice. But I have yet to learn to live without my old vest.
It sounds like a vest/chair combination will be my ticket to success. If I am planning on a shorter hunt, I will bring the vest. If I am planning a longer hunt- I will bring a chair. I am honestly looking at adding a chest harness for this set up. I run a turkey trumpet, boxcall, and a couple pot calls.
Another post season assement I have done is I am historically awful at judging ranges. I asked for a range finder for fathers day last year. I plan on taking that turkey hunting. My plan is to range a couple different trees when I set up so I have a referrence point. I have been thinking about adding some binos to my kit, but man... I cant think of a time when I was like I wish I had a pair of binos right now (not so much for the range finder). I can see a use for them when Im scouting a couple areas.
If you get the Glenda Green seat let me know what you think of it compared to chair.
Quote from: logy on February 16, 2025, 03:25:10 PMQuote from: deathfoot on February 16, 2025, 02:26:08 PMI hike in miles sometimes...I'm still carrying my chair if I'm planning on sitting for long periods. I'm leaning to buying a Glenda Green cushion as I'm getting older. My plan would be to stuff it in my game pouch on the back of my vest or look at someway attaching it to my vest with clips.
I think it comes with a handle. You could by a cheap carabiner and attach it to a belt loop or a belt.
Quote from: deathfoot on February 16, 2025, 02:26:08 PMI hike in miles sometimes...I'm still carrying my chair if I'm planning on sitting for long periods. I'm leaning to buying a Glenda Green cushion as I'm getting older. My plan would be to stuff it in my game pouch on the back of my vest or look at someway attaching it to my vest with clips.
Anyway, I can't live without my vest as others can. I don't use mouth calls so I have a vest that holds two box calls, several pots and other things I deem as necessary for my hunt. On long hikes, I reduce what I bring in that vest to lighten the load. I don't carry binos either. To me, they are a waste of weight when hunting the timber.
Others have gave much better advice. But I have yet to learn to live without my old vest.
It sounds like a vest/chair combination will be my ticket to success. If I am planning on a shorter hunt, I will bring the vest. If I am planning a longer hunt- I will bring a chair. I am honestly looking at adding a chest harness for this set up. I run a turkey trumpet, boxcall, and a couple pot calls.
Another post season assement I have done is I am historically awful at judging ranges. I asked for a range finder for fathers day last year. I plan on taking that turkey hunting. My plan is to range a couple different trees when I set up so I have a referrence point. I have been thinking about adding some binos to my kit, but man... I cant think of a time when I was like I wish I had a pair of binos right now (not so much for the range finder). I can see a use for them when Im scouting a couple areas.
If you get the Glenda Green seat let me know what you think of it compared to chair.
Definitely a rangefinder. That stays in my vest and doesn't add much weight at all. And what you said is correct, range a few trees for reference when you set up and you're good to go. I plan on ordering a cushion for this spring and I will let you know. I will say everyone on here raves about the cushion so I'd say it is great.
I hunt that way as well. I often wear a backpack that has a kangaroo pouch. I slip one of Glenda's seats between the main pack and the kangaroo pocket. This works well for me. A backpack carries the essentials for a long haul. Only call I need is a trumpet so that hangs around my neck.
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I should add I use a Kuiu Divide 1500 and had to cut the material that attaches the two compartments. Took 2 minutes.
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Quote from: NYturkey on February 16, 2025, 03:35:34 PMI should add I use a Kuiu Divide 1500 and had to cut the material that attaches the two compartments. Took 2 minutes.
That backpack checks a long of my boxes and the price isnt that bad!
My public land hunts for deer, elk, and turkey hunts occur 1 to 7 miles hike in and sometimes a 12 mile bike ride before the hike in. I have found home made burritos, sausage and fried egg sandwiches plus protein bars, candy bars and hard candy to suffice.
Side note; I have 5 toms about 2 feet away from my face just outside my front door at this moment and they are not shy about gobbling!
I see a lot of very good comments about gear. My only advice that could be usefull for you would be about food. Your talking about bringing snaks... Don't bring 'snacks', bring real wholefood ;) A good breakfast with eggs and bread in the truck ride to your spot and then, whatever food you'd eat at your break and at dinner at work. I would not go light on this. I eat two dinners with meat and carrots and potatoes during the morning so that's what I'd carry.
Quote from: YoungGobbler on February 16, 2025, 05:12:33 PMI see a lot of very good comments about gear. My only advice that could be usefull for you would be about food. Your talking about bringing snaks... Don't bring 'snacks', bring real wholefood ;) A good breakfast with eggs and bread in the truck ride to your spot and then, whatever food you'd eat at your break and at dinner at work. I would not go light on this. I eat two dinners with meat and carrots and potatoes during the morning so that's what I'd carry.
I was looking at getting a backpacking stove to bring with me. I was looking at the jetboil minimo or something along those lines. On opening morning I have a tendacy to show up extremly early at my spot. I have never seen anyone hunting this spot, but it is a good one and I would rather error on the side of caution. I figured I would have some time to make a little breakfast while I am waiting to head out.
Marc was on to something with the boots. Take care of your feet, public land can be pretty big. Good boots are a must.