The Best Hunting Gear for the 2020 Holiday Season

Most of my hunts through the season are in pretty mild weather, so my go-to suit is the Brow Tine kit from Under Armour. It's comfortable and 100% polyester, so I know it'll hold up over time. I've worn mine for three years now and never worried about rain when I'm in the tree, because it’s water-resistant. It has a tailored fit with forgiveness in the knees and elbows, so I don’t have to worry about getting into a bind while drawing my bow. And of course, it comes in Realtree Edge, so you don’t stand out, wherever you’re hunting in the country. — Tyler Jordan

MSRP: $170 (jacket); $160 (pants)

This Italian-made bolt-action rifle has the lines of a smooth-swinging shotgun. I hunted with a Momentum a good bit when they came out a few years ago, and it was a good rifle then, especially for the money. The Momentum Elite has been updated with a detachable box magazine, Cerakote finish on the metal, a one-piece pic rail, a muzzle brake, and a stock decked out in Realtree’s sweet-looking Excape camo pattern. It’s available in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308. — Will Brantley

MSRP: $849

You’ve probably seen Dennis “Dr. Duck” Loosier and Billy Campbell, hosts of Black Cloud on Realtree 365, use their Retays with deadly effectiveness. These inertia-driven guns are becoming favorites with hardcore waterfowlers. The 20-gauge is available in Max-5 and Timber, plus receiver finishes such as Cerakote and anodizing. — Brian Lovett

MSRP: $1,225

With many local deer processors either closed or already at maximum capacity this fall, more hunters than ever are deciding it’s time to start processing their own wild game. Find everything you need to complete the task like a professional in the Weston Realtree Outfitters line of tools. From hand saws to sausage stuffers and everything in between, this line of affordable equipment will take your game meat from tailgate to table without breaking the bank. — Michael Pendley

Want to make this a Christmas to remember? Get your favorite duck hunter the Winchester SX4 Waterfowl Hunter shotgun. Now available in 12- and 20-gauge options, the new SX4 is lighter overall, and the pistol grip is slimmer and more ergonomic. A larger bolt handle and an oversized bolt release button provide easier engagement and faster operation, and the bulletproof Active Valve system automatically self-adjusts to provide the exact gas pressure necessary to cycle a wide range of loads. — Stephanie Mallory

MSRP: $1,069.99

Hoyt bows have a reputation for being tough and dependable, and that continues with the Carbon RX-4 Alpha. It’s one of Hoyt’s shortest ever axle-to-axle flagship bows at 29 1/2 inches, and it weighs just 3.9 pounds, making it ideal for hiding out in a ground blind or trekking through the elk woods. It has a 6 1/8-inch brace height and is rated for speeds of 342 ATA. Draw lengths range from 25 to 28 or 28 to 30 inches, and the draw weights from 30 to 80 pounds, in 10-pound increments. I've shot this bow, and carried it afield. It's definitely a sweet shooter and one worth adding to the arsenal.  — Josh Honeycutt

MSRP: $1,699

Wish lister? Oh yeah. I first mountain-biked for wild turkeys in the ’90s, in ninja stealth mode to wheel down distant gobbles. Back then, these modern fat-tire e-bikes would’ve been sci-fi stuff to this branch-whipped, game-trail pedaling fool. That said, meet Mule, Storm, and Flatlander: Bakcou’s “smart motor” eBikes answer to those names. A headlight and mud fenders trick them out, and you can bungee-tie a wild turkey to the rear pannier rack. — Steve Hickoff

MSRP: $2,998 to $5,698 depending on specs and options

I first played with a Browning Maxus at a SHOT Show and wanted one immediately. It features the Speed Lock Forearm, which makes the gun easy to take apart for cleaning or storage. Plus, the Maxus uses the Power Drive Gas System for unparalleled reliability, and has Speed Load Plus, which lets you load shells in an empty gun or quickly unload a full magazine without manipulating the bolt. It comes in Timber and Max-5. — B.L.

MSRP: $1,699.99

Give the gift of comfort and warmth to the hunter on your list with the ScentLok BE:1 Fortress Parka and Bib. This late-season, cold-weather bowhunting apparel is fully waterproof, windproof, and insulated. The brushed-fleece shell is soft, quiet, and flexible, with thermal-mapped Thinsulate insulation that provides a ton of warmth. To top it off, ScentLok’s proprietary Carbon Alloy technology adsorbs odor for a stealthy hunt. — S.M.

MSRP: $299.99 (parka); $299.99 (bib)

Duck Commander’s new CDTimber has great range and volume, and with the proper hand placement, you can control it to produce loud hail calls or adjust it for softer cadences. I tested this double-reed call, available in Timber, on November mallards this season, and it helped me coax a full strap over the decoys before the sun was up. — B.L.

MSRP: $39.99

The Mathews CrossCentric cam system is one of the best out there, and the new V3 promises to be a fine complement to the lineup that has included modern classics like the VXR, Triax, and Halon series. The V3 is available in 27- and 31-inch versions, both with 6-inch brace heights and 336 and 342 IBO ratings, respectively. Upgrades include a new Centerguard cable containment system and the Nano 740 vibration dampener. — W.B.

MSRP: $1,199

Who doesn’t need a good all-purpose hunting boot? The LaCrosse Windrose Boot in Realtree Edge checks off all the boxes with a rugged leather and textile upper and a lightweight, comfortable platform. The DuraFit heel cup wraps the heel in a rubber shell for added durability and support on uneven terrain. A Dry-Core lining makes this boot 100% waterproof, and those who enjoy late-season hunting will appreciate the option available with Thinsulate Ultra Insulation. — S.M.

MSRP: $160

From a company known for making indestructible cases comes a line of soft-sided and rotomolded Realtree coolers. Built tough to withstand the rigors of hunting camp, these coolers will hold ice for days. American made with a lifetime warranty, Otterbox Coolers are an investment that will pay off for years to come. Prices range from $195.99 to $349.99, depending on size and style. — M.P.

MSRP: $195.99 to $349.99

Another great upper option is the Harvester Jacket from Nomad. This medium-weight garment is just right for rut-time weather, and those chilly mornings in early turkey season, too. The jacket is water- and wind-resistant, and made of 100% polyester. It has a soft, high-pile interior for increased comfort and a durable outer shell with secure chest and side pockets. Available in sizes from small to 3XL. — J.H.

MSRP: $129.99

The Banner series has always been a lot of scope for the money, and Bushnell’s Banner 2 lineup has some improvements to the classic like the Dawn and Dusk coating for low-light performance, the DOA ballistic reticle, waterproof construction, and a lifetime warranty. Plus, they come from the factory with a set of rings. I mounted a 3-9x40 Banner 2 on my lever-action .357 this fall and used it to kill a big pronghorn buck. My son shot his first whitetail with it a few weeks later. That’s a good start for a sub-$100 optic. — W.B.

MSRP: $90 (3-9x40)

Bear Archery’s Redemption EKO is a sweet shooter. This 31-inch, 342 IBO bow has a 6 1/4-inch brace height and weighs 4.1 pounds. You can customize the draw cycle to your liking with four different let-off settings (75%, 80%, 85%, and 90%), optional limb stops, draw weight ranges of 45 to 60 pounds or 55 to 70 pounds, and draw lengths of 26 to 30 inches. The Align Lok Technology aids in perfect sight alignment, and the Vibration Reduction System (VRS) helps for a whisper-quiet shot. — J.H.

MSRP: $999.99

Cold hands can ruin a hunt. Solve that problem for the hunter in your life with these super-warm and flexible ArcticShield Classic Elite Gloves. The Retain heat-retention technology combined with the polyester shell and fleece interior keep the cold at bay. A textured palm and fingers provide for easy grip, and the elastic wrist allows for ease of movement. These gloves are waterproof and windproof, as all gloves should be. — S.M.

MSRP: $39

My body runs on caffeine like a jacked-up ’78 Blazer runs on gasoline: gallons to the mile. There’s no better way to start the day than with a cup or three of freshly brewed Death Wish Coffee. Made with 100% organic fair-trade beans, uniquely roasted to make the World’s Strongest Cup of Coffee, the highly caffeinated coffee is robust but still smooth. It’s the perfect brew for both camp and home enjoyment. If you need a jolt of afternoon energy after several early mornings in the deer stand or duck blind, try the Death Wish Cold Brew in a can. Available online or in stores everywhere. — M.P.

Non-Typical by Drake’s Endurance 3-in-1 Systems Coat with Agion Active XL is quality stuff for serious deer hunters. It’s versatile, with a soft shell that stretches as you draw a bow, shoulder a gun, or twist around in a tree to glass a cruising buck. It’s quiet, with plenty of pockets. And with 100% polyester, high-gauge, stretch-interlock fabric, it fits comfortably, keeps you warm, and doesn’t sound like a snowsuit swishing through the woods. In sizes from small to 3XL. — J.H.

MSRP: $229.99 to $239.99

I’ve worn Banded Red Zone waders in balmy Arkansas pits and during frigid Maine eider hunts, and they’ve always kept me comfortable. Their light weight allows great mobility. Made for comfort and performance, they feature an over-the-boot protective pant with the RZ-Clinchfit strap system. The Go-Flatseam assembly with single-stitch design provides an ultra-smooth surface, and the RZ-Traction Boot is molded to match foot movement. Lightweight GO3-Layer fabric construction provides durability. They’re available in Max-5 or Timber. — B.L.

MSRP: $399.99 to $419.99

The 340 IBO EnKore is the bow I hunted with most this season, and I used it to bag a big Tennessee buck and a Texas 10-pointer — along with a couple of pigs and a Rio Grande turkey. I was in Texas, after all. The EnKore is a 33-inch bow with a 6-inch brace height featuring the S.E.T. Technology that debuted on the 2020 Kure (a bow I also hunted with this fall). This has some upgrades over the Kure, though (in addition to speed), including a new module system that allows you to customize the let-off, speed, and draw length without a press. — W.B.

MSRP: $1,099

When I’m packing for a hunt, making sure I have something to eat and drink is just as important as packing my gun or bow. The Realtree Cooler Bags from Igloo are perfect for single-day or overnight trips. Constructed of durable, washable, and antimicrobial materials, these coolers range from lunch-pail-sized all the way up to models that will hold 36 cans plus some ice. They’re inexpensive, too, starting around $20 and ranging up to around $60 for the larger sizes. — M.P.

MSRP: $19.99 to $59.99

Minutes after first picking up a Benelli Super Black Eagle 3, I watched 30-some mallards helicopter into a Missouri timber hole and felt the shotgun come to my cheek like I’d owned it forever. The SBE 3, available in Timber and Max-5, has an updated design, improved ergonomics, and Benelli’s flawless functionality. You get the Comfort Tech recoil-reduction system and Combtech, which reduces facial impact and vibrations. The Inertia-Driven System never requires adjusting, cycling light field loads to 3 1/2-inch magnums in all conditions. — B.L.

MSRP: $1,999

Bacon tastes good. So does sausage. The folks at Uncle John’s Pride do both up right with their Team Realtree line. With both hot and mild smoked sausages in link and bun-length sizes, plus thick-cut hickory smoked bacon, the Team Realtree line is right at home at camp or in the kitchen. If you enjoy quail but don’t get to hunt them as often as you like, Uncle John’s Pride also offers whole plucked quail for your dining enjoyment. Available in stores throughout the Southeast or by mail. — M.P.

This is some awesome early-season stuff for the money that’s way better than bargain-bin cotton camo without the price tag of comparable high-end clothing. Our crew wore it during Realtree’s 2020 Bow Camp, opening week of archery season in Kentucky, when it hit 90 degrees most afternoons. It’s lightweight, breathable, and durable. — W.B.

MSRP: $65 (quarter-zip shirt)

If you own a retriever, you know the importance of high-performance food. That’s why Realtree and Victor partnered to create an exclusive line of premium formulas — Realtree Max-5 Pro and Realtree Edge Energy — for adult working and hunting dogs. Packed with high levels of quality protein from multiple meats, they feature enhanced levels of essential nutrients for energy and stamina. My 9-year-old Lab, Birdie, has been enjoying the food for weeks, and it helped keep her fit during a rugged prairie hunt. — B.L.

MSRP: $57.49

In the past, hunters had physical maps and just a short supply of digital versions. Now, onX makes far more than that available, all right there on your phone in a game-warden-approved service. America has 975 million acres of public land, and onX will help you discover your share of them. Plus, gain access to 421 map overlays (and counting), 10,668 unique hunting units, and more. In-app tools can make dozens of day-to-day hunting tasks much simpler, such as measuring food-plot size, charting blood trails, marking stand locations, sharing waypoints with friends, recording scouting notes, and much more. There’s even an offline version for areas with little or no cell service. — J.H.

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MSRP: $29.99 yearly for Premium (one state); $99.99 yearly or $14.99 monthly for Elite (50 states)

My personal favorite turkey hunting suit, the Midway USA Men’s Stealth Softshell Jacket and 2.0 Softshell pants in Realtree Edge give me the ease of wear I want, and concealment from the X-ray stare of a turkey gobbler in range. As the versatile jacket goes, I can slip a turkey vest over it, and even layer a vest under it for warmth on frosty mornings. The pants, like the jacket, have multiple pockets for keys, your phone, wallet, snacks, and other gear. — S.H.

MSRP: $59.99 (jacket); $47.99 (pants)

Serious waterfowlers know all about Frogg Toggs. The company’s Grand Refuge 2.0 Bootfoot Chest Waders are breathable and have a removable zippered liner system for adaptive comfort. With 1,200 grams of Thinsulate in the boots and abrasion-resistant nylon on the shin, knee, and seat, they’re rugged and comfortable in all conditions. Available in Timber and Max-5, in standard or stout sizes. — B.L.

MSRP: $289.99 to $309

Dennis “Dr. Duck” Loosier and Billy Campbell have made quite an impression on the waterfowling world since the inception of Black Cloud on Realtree 365. The public-land gurus regularly invite other folks to join them in the field. Now you can get in on the action with Dr. Duck apparel, including T-shirts, hoodies, and long-sleeved shirts. These comfortable garments will help you live the duck hunting lifestyle year-round. — B.L.

MSRP: $29.95 to $44.95

Heck, I wear Crocs at home every day kicking around my Maine cabin. Light, yet sturdy, camo decked, and as comfortable as footwear gets, these classic clogs have heel straps for when you need to tighten things up to register your bird at the checking station. I love them, own multiple pairs, and will get some new ones for 2021. — S.H.

MSRP: $44.99 to $49.99, with many choices

Just imagine the outdoor adventures your little one can enjoy on the Realtree Whipsaw UTV Ride-On Toy by Kid Trax. This toy UTV is like the real thing with working LED headlights, sound effects, FM radio and MP3 input, plus it has real foot-pedal acceleration. The Realtree Whipsaw can reach a top speed of 2.5 mph for safe fun, and the ride is smooth and steady thanks to Power Trax rubber traction strip tires. — S.M.

MSRP: $149