Remi Warren's Best of Gear List

Stuff that I am constantly stoked on and some of the best gear I have gotten to sample.

Vortex LHT 3-15x42

When I think of the perfect hunting scope, this one is what I visualize. It is lightweight but with all the features of a tactical scope for precision long-distance shots as well as locking turrets and a light-up reticle. I was waiting for something like this to come around. I got to field test this one early, and it did not take more than a single sight-in to make this my favorite scope I have owned thus far.

Downside: It is not a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope if you prefer that. I personally like the set crosshair size of a second focal plane scope for hunting, but some prefer an FFP scope.

UA Ridge Reaper Infil Windstopper Jacket

I like a good softshell type of jacket that I can hike around in but still stop and glass in and be warm. It is comfortable, durable, cuts the wind, and I really like the pocket locations. I have worn it for days on end for the past three years and love it! It goes down as my favorite hunting jacket.

Downside: For super cold hunts, I add a light down layer or warmer base layer for extra insulation, but that is only for stationary, long glassing when it is well below freezing.

Stone Glacier Skyscraper 2-person Tent

I have been through some rough weather in the Skyscraper and survived. That is what you want in a tent, but honestly, for me, the selling points are the double vestibule, light weight for size, and being a four-season tent with a good amount of headroom. It is also a plus that it is called a two-person tent and actually fits two people.

Downside: It would be rad if there was a one-man version for solo trips.

MSR Reactor Stove

Water-boiling, snow-melting workhorse. I like this stove; I feel like it is fast but also works well in inclement and cold weather.

Downside: The pot lid is weird, and the handle comes off and is hard to put back on, but it is worth the small struggle for the great burner.

MEAT! Chamber Vac

When it comes to processing, the weak link for me was always the vac sealer. This commercial-grade chamber vac is a miracle of science. It is crazy how easy it is to use and how good it works, plus, it is fun to watch!

Downside: Heavy and takes up some space, but it is worth it when you use it!

Schnee’s Beartooth Boots 200 g

I started running the Beartooths in September 2019. I needed a new pair of boots and was dreading the break-in process. I did not get them until mid-bow season. I threw them on and ended up chasing elk 10 miles that day. I never had a single hot spot. They were incredible, and I have been rocking them ever since. I like the combination of flex, support, and warmth; they are perfect. I have gone from elk to goat hunting with them and have really enjoyed them.

Downside: They have 200 g of insulation. If you are a person who gets hot feet, they do make them uninsulated as well, so if that is what you are looking for, you are in luck. My feet tend to run cold, so I chose the insulated version.

Garmin Tactix® Delta - Solar Edition with Ballistics

This one surprised me. I have not worn a watch since my Suunto, circa 2006. At the time, having my elevation on a watch was awesome, but since then, I felt like smartphones slowly took over the job. I was skeptical of a $1300 arm piece that I thought might not have many uses. After my first trip with it, I quickly realized the benefit. I could record my days, track my path, look at a map, check my ballistics, and have an alarm clock with plenty of battery to spare. It saved pulling out the phone, carrying a GPS, or sleeping in because I turned off my phone alarm to save battery. As a bonus feature, while not hunting, I can go for a run with a downloaded playlist and not need to bring my phone for music.

Downside: The charger cord is proprietary. I lost mine, so I ordered about 10 of them from Amazon so I did not have to look for it when lost again. To be fair, I really only lost the cord because it was a while between having to charge it.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite

I picked this gem up between hunts a few years ago when I lent my old pad out to a friend and it came back like swiss cheese… of course I found this out five miles from the trailhead. I swung by a sporting goods store after and was glad my old one got tattered. This pad is way lighter and more padded when inflated. I have been really happy with it ever since.

Downside: With the light weight you sacrifice durability. I have not had any issues, but I do pack the patch kit just in case.

Federal Terminal Ascent Ammo

I have literally shot nearly every bullet and have been disappointed with the hunting performance of most of the “ballistically superior” (high-BC) rounds in the past and their killing power in the field. This is probably the first high-BC bullet the works better than it says. I have done nothing but drop animals at ranges from 100 yards out to 475. I have not had any really far shots on game yet, but I am getting great long-range groups at the range and am stoked on the knock-down performance on big game.
Downside: Like all ammo right now, it is hard to find. I am down to my last few rounds but hoping that changes soon. Also, they don’t currently sell just the bullet for reloading. They are all sold as factory-loaded, but the ammo shoots great. I would not have any need to change it or load myself.

Gerber 6” Controller Knife

When you think of a hunting gear list, a fishing knife may not be your guess as to something at the top, but I feel like the hardest thing to find is a great knife for processing. This blade is the perfect length and just the right flex for butchering. As a bonus, it stays sharp and re-sharpens easily with the provided steel on the case. Every time I break it out while butchering with someone, they end up trying it and buying one.

Downside: Currently only one handle color, but I would probably pick blue anyway, so it works for me. If you want something more portable, there is a folding version as well.