Gear you liked/disliked 2023

[Dope on a Rope]

How restrictive we talking with this carnivore diet? or is it just kicking out greens?

Aw damn you’re calling me out. I mainly wanted to tie in the part about the landowners wife into the discussion.

Truth: I don’t do the carnivore diet. I just eat meats fruits and greens and avoid all processed sugar, no bread/pasta/etc, minimal grains. Which I did because I don’t like those things, truly. But meat/animal fats and proteins makes up the vast majority of my diet. Some days it’s darn near 100%. I think everyone’s body is different based on genetics and based on activity level.
I’ll admit since cutting out gluten 100% my energy level has dropped, but my gut and mind are strong.

 

[GCTerpfan]

avoid all processed sugar, no bread/pasta/etc, minimal grains.

This is the key. Keto, carnivore, etc. they all work because they force people to do this. Just doing this and getting adequate protein (which most people don’t) will make you feel better, look better and live longer.

 

[sconnieVLP]

I have another two months to go in the season, but after hunting pretty hard since September my initial list is below.

Liked:
- Cruzr Mini Seeker: The angled front of the platform is simple but makes a big difference when I’m leaning.
- Dryad Killdeer: The Killdeer is potentially the most significant upgrade in equipment I’ve experienced. Cuts down on screwing around with adding/removing layers bigly and allows for self-recovery if you take a fall from the stand.
- FL Origin Hoody: I have found this to be plenty warm for me through the bulk of VA’s season. The integrated face mask and kangaroo pocket is money. Hard face fleece seems to be pretty durable so far.
- Kuiu Encounter Pant: Favorite mid to late season pant so far with the light fleece lining. Leg pocket layout and lack of rear pockets are great for both the saddle and a stand.

Disliked:
- FL Obsidian Merino pant: I generally am a merino fan so decided to give these a try. I shouldn’t have. Pretty lacking in the durability department (blew the crotch out climbing) and if you get wet you’re in for a bad time.
- FL Sanctuary Muff: It’s quiet, but doesn’t seem to retain heat well. The waist strap also slips a lot and I was constantly adjusting it. Ditched it in favor of the Marsupial Gear, it’s not as quiet (need to figure that out) but is MUCH warmer.

Awaiting a Verdict:
- Trophyline Platow: Only have used it once so far (bought it during their BF sale), but so far seems to be just about right for the amount of gear/layers I bring with me here in VA. It’s definitely faster/quieter to get platform/stand and sticks off than my Popup, but the Popup will likely stay in the rotation for later in the season or back home in WI when I need to carry more layers in.

 

[Sbrammer]

Love love love

1.) Waldrop Pac Seat
2.) Eberlestock Bandit
3.) Kuiu quick draw gun holder

Will try/start late season

1.) 2tc

 

[BowhunterXC]

Like:
Cruzr XC tree saddle.
Trophy Ridge Mission platform.
Summit Viper.
Mad Rock Safeguard.
The Booger - gear retriever.
Muddy Pro Climbing Sticks (originals 32" long).
Muddy deer cart.
Trophy Ridge knee pads.

Dislike:
Summit Open Shot.
2TC, One-Stick and any rope climbing methods.
Simmons Sharks.
Mechanical Broadheads.
Ex-Wives.

 

[Irishman]

Like:
Sevr Broadheads: shot 2 deer both complete pass throughs and hitting shoulders. Only damage was a little ding in the blade the Ferrell and tip look brand new
Stans Onnex clicker thumb release: love having clipped to my d-loop and having to just grab and pull. Leaves my hands free to put in my pockets or mess with stuff and not have a release in the way.
Arctic Booat covers: Let’s me where non-insulated boots and sit for hours without getting cold feet.

 

[bigmike23]

I have another two months to go in the season, but after hunting pretty hard since September my initial list is below.

Liked:
- Cruzr Mini Seeker: The angled front of the platform is simple but makes a big difference when I’m leaning.
- Dryad Killdeer: The Killdeer is potentially the most significant upgrade in equipment I’ve experienced. Cuts down on screwing around with adding/removing layers bigly and allows for self-recovery if you take a fall from the stand.
- FL Origin Hoody: I have found this to be plenty warm for me through the bulk of VA’s season. The integrated face mask and kangaroo pocket is money. Hard face fleece seems to be pretty durable so far.
- Kuiu Encounter Pant: Favorite mid to late season pant so far with the light fleece lining. Leg pocket layout and lack of rear pockets are great for both the saddle and a stand.

Disliked:
- FL Obsidian Merino pant: I generally am a merino fan so decided to give these a try. I shouldn’t have. Pretty lacking in the durability department (blew the crotch out climbing) and if you get wet you’re in for a bad time.
- FL Sanctuary Muff: It’s quiet, but doesn’t seem to retain heat well. The waist strap also slips a lot and I was constantly adjusting it. Ditched it in favor of the Marsupial Gear, it’s not as quiet (need to figure that out) but is MUCH warmer.

Awaiting a Verdict:
- Trophyline Platow: Only have used it once so far (bought it during their BF sale), but so far seems to be just about right for the amount of gear/layers I bring with me here in VA. It’s definitely faster/quieter to get platform/stand and sticks off than my Popup, but the Popup will likely stay in the rotation for later in the season or back home in WI when I need to carry more layers in.

I completely agree on the sanctuary muff. The sitka and Kuiu version is so much warmer than that turd. But to it's credit it's also half the price

 

[woodsdog2]

Likes (In no particular order):
1. Gen3 Tethrd One Sticks With upgraded RDA ropes. OG ropes blow!! Super light and super tough I have had no problems with these sticks whatsoever. I stress though, upgrade the ropes!
2. Ape Canyon Pioneer Saddle from Rock N’ Arbor. Butler PA company. I literally got the saddle, girth hitched and then Daisy chained my LB to the left LB loop, girth hitched three amsteel loops for my sticks and platform, added an old latitude pouch to the right side and hunted the very next day with it ever since. The double buckle belt and leg loops system works great and the strap stays are heavy duty and keep everything from flopping around so you don’t have to cut your excess straps off! Great saddle guys!!
3. Pursuit platform with stealth stripped EWO OCB cam buckle strap. Super light and quiet,quick to set up, has two different integrated angles, I always find myself going back to it for each hunt. Plus is so light you don’t feel it on your saddle as you climb.
4. Kifaru Shape Charge with Shape Charge pocket. I’ve not packed meet with it and it’s not meant too but with the waist belt and two Marsupial gear stretch pouches, this thing carries everything else like it’s hardly noticeable. It is somewhat loud at first but seems to be getting quieter as it’s used more and more.
5. Alps’ new quiet Bino chest rig with matching Ember handwarmer muff. This set us warm and best of all….. super stealthy quiet! It has the gate hook attachments and it also fits my MG blaze Bino pouch perfectly.
6. Sitka traverse Hoody. I traded for it and I’m glad I did. The integrated face mask in the hood is clutch as I’m always looking for my others! Even though the face mask is thin, it was surprisingly very warm.
7. DayOne camo clothes. Comfortable, well built and quiet with a nice lining and plenty of pockets! I was able to stay quite warm during very windy conditions on 30 degree days with base layers, the Sitka hoody and the Day One one stuff as my final later.

 

[Boomah21]

Two years for me in March. Only gets better.

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

Down roughly 40-45lbs depending on the week. Carnivore is seriously life changing, besides the weight, intense sleep waking completely rested, zero cravings, improved eye sight/fatigue

Only bad thing is I had to buy all new clothes haha

 

[herd90]

Down roughly 40-45lbs depending on the week. Carnivore is seriously life changing, besides the weight, intense sleep waking completely rested, zero cravings, improved eye sight/fatigue

Only bad thing is I had to buy all new clothes haha

Absolutely. 30lbs here. Off blood pressure and elevated heart rate med's. From 34 to 30 waist, sleep less with more energy. Age 57.

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

 

[cibor]

Likes (In no particular order):
1. Gen3 Tethrd One Sticks With upgraded RDA ropes. OG ropes blow!! Super light and super tough I have had no problems with these sticks whatsoever. I stress though, upgrade the ropes!
2. Ape Canyon Pioneer Saddle from Rock N’ Arbor. Butler PA company. I literally got the saddle, girth hitched and then Daisy chained my LB to the left LB loop, girth hitched three amsteel loops for my sticks and platform, added an old latitude pouch to the right side and hunted the very next day with it ever since. The double buckle belt and leg loops system works great and the strap stays are heavy duty and keep everything from flopping around so you don’t have to cut your excess straps off! Great saddle guys!!
3. Pursuit platform with stealth stripped EWO OCB cam buckle strap. Super light and quiet,quick to set up, has two different integrated angles, I always find myself going back to it for each hunt. Plus is so light you don’t feel it on your saddle as you climb.
4. Kifaru Shape Charge with Shape Charge pocket. I’ve not packed meet with it and it’s not meant too but with the waist belt and two Marsupial gear stretch pouches, this thing carries everything else like it’s hardly noticeable. It is somewhat loud at first but seems to be getting quieter as it’s used more and more.
5. Alps’ new quiet Bino chest rig with matching Ember handwarmer muff. This set us warm and best of all….. super stealthy quiet! It has the gate hook attachments and it also fits my MG blaze Bino pouch perfectly.
6. Sitka traverse Hoody. I traded for it and I’m glad I did. The integrated face mask in the hood is clutch as I’m always looking for my others! Even though the face mask is thin, it was surprisingly very warm.
7. DayOne camo clothes. Comfortable, well built and quiet with a nice lining and plenty of pockets! I was able to stay quite warm during very windy conditions on 30 degree days with base layers, the Sitka hoody and the Day One one stuff as my final later.

Tethrd stick ropes no good? I've not seen it his mentioned until now (no sarcasm intended).

What are RDA ropes?

I was just thinking of getting one sticks. This is good information to have if the ropes are pewpy.

 

[Redoak47*]

Likes (In no particular order):
1. Gen3 Tethrd One Sticks With upgraded RDA ropes. OG ropes blow!! Super light and super tough I have had no problems with these sticks whatsoever. I stress though, upgrade the ropes!
2. Ape Canyon Pioneer Saddle from Rock N’ Arbor. Butler PA company. I literally got the saddle, girth hitched and then Daisy chained my LB to the left LB loop, girth hitched three amsteel loops for my sticks and platform, added an old latitude pouch to the right side and hunted the very next day with it ever since. The double buckle belt and leg loops system works great and the strap stays are heavy duty and keep everything from flopping around so you don’t have to cut your excess straps off! Great saddle guys!!
3. Pursuit platform with stealth stripped EWO OCB cam buckle strap. Super light and quiet,quick to set up, has two different integrated angles, I always find myself going back to it for each hunt. Plus is so light you don’t feel it on your saddle as you climb.
4. Kifaru Shape Charge with Shape Charge pocket. I’ve not packed meet with it and it’s not meant too but with the waist belt and two Marsupial gear stretch pouches, this thing carries everything else like it’s hardly noticeable. It is somewhat loud at first but seems to be getting quieter as it’s used more and more.
5. Alps’ new quiet Bino chest rig with matching Ember handwarmer muff. This set us warm and best of all….. super stealthy quiet! It has the gate hook attachments and it also fits my MG blaze Bino pouch perfectly.
6. Sitka traverse Hoody. I traded for it and I’m glad I did. The integrated face mask in the hood is clutch as I’m always looking for my others! Even though the face mask is thin, it was surprisingly very warm.
7. DayOne camo clothes. Comfortable, well built and quiet with a nice lining and plenty of pockets! I was able to stay quite warm during very windy conditions on 30 degree days with base layers, the Sitka hoody and the Day One one stuff as my final later.

I got some Amsteel and made my own ropes with a small weight in the end, for my Tethrd one sticks.

 

[woodsdog2]

Pl

Tethrd stick ropes no good? I've not seen it his mentioned until now (no sarcasm intended).

What are RDA ropes?

I was just thinking of getting one sticks. This is good information to have if the ropes are pewpy.

They fall apart quickly. Real Deal Amsteel sells Tethrd One Stick and Skeletor specific amsteel ropes. I got the larger diameter 7/64” ones and they work awesome.

Search: 1 result found for "Tethrd one stick ropes"

Custom made amsteel rope products and splicing. 1 Stick gear. Climbing Gear and Rope.

rdaoutdoors.com

I guess they are 1/8” not 7/64’s

 

[Camelcluch]

Ooohhh, I really dislike sucking at hunting whitetail.

 

[Dope on a Rope]

Ooohhh, I really dislike sucking at hunting whitetail.

Feeling this, esp this season

 

[Lowg08]

Well I’ll start with a 50/50 like /dislike. The proximity set. It has a great lay out for pockets, really quiet and packs down nice. Warm with the right layers and no wind. The Meg and pitbzips are nice. On the flip. The wind comes right through and you will freeze to death. The dwr treatment doesn’t work long.

Likes:
XOP retrograde. Absolutely a game changer and surprisingly comfortable for its size. Many all
Day sits and it’s nothing to set up.

Under armour ridge ripper set with gore winstopper. Bought combat the wind through the proximity because the pros outweighed the cons. It fits great really quiet for a soft shell, warm and the pants are great fleece lined, padded knees without bulk and hip vents.

Lathrop and sons mountain hunter elite boots. Best boots I’ve ever had. No pain to my ankle with the plate, rocker sole helps with gate, no leaks and perfect balance of stiff and flex.

Dislike:
Hawk ARC umbrella. It’s heavy and awkward and to curved and blocks vision if not set up high enough but to high rain gets in.

Econo game bags from sportsman’s warehouse. They keep the dirt and leaves off but lack some
Structure to keep the meat compact and prevent from coming out the sided of the meat shelf.

 

[GeoFish]

Like
Still liking my pack seat.

On the fence.
Wolf Pack. Works great on the .75 and the pack seat. Not so much as a pack by itself.
The .75 is a little too small for me when used as a tree stand. I just may need to get more comfortable with it. I can always use it as a hybrid system.

Dislike
Sitka Fanatic bibs and coat. I do not have big arms, but the coat sleeves are tight. The bibs and coat are a pain to get on at the tree. The interior material does not slide over you under layers.

I have the mutiny, but it is made just like this. The leg straps block your zipper and taking a pee in the tree with bibs and layers is too challenging.
I may order a Tactis harness.

 

[Islandshooter]

Likes (In no particular order):
1. Gen3 Tethrd One Sticks With upgraded RDA ropes. OG ropes blow!! Super light and super tough I have had no problems with these sticks whatsoever. I stress though, upgrade the ropes!
2. Ape Canyon Pioneer Saddle from Rock N’ Arbor. Butler PA company. I literally got the saddle, girth hitched and then Daisy chained my LB to the left LB loop, girth hitched three amsteel loops for my sticks and platform, added an old latitude pouch to the right side and hunted the very next day with it ever since. The double buckle belt and leg loops system works great and the strap stays are heavy duty and keep everything from flopping around so you don’t have to cut your excess straps off! Great saddle guys!!
3. Pursuit platform with stealth stripped EWO OCB cam buckle strap. Super light and quiet,quick to set up, has two different integrated angles, I always find myself going back to it for each hunt. Plus is so light you don’t feel it on your saddle as you climb.
4. Kifaru Shape Charge with Shape Charge pocket. I’ve not packed meet with it and it’s not meant too but with the waist belt and two Marsupial gear stretch pouches, this thing carries everything else like it’s hardly noticeable. It is somewhat loud at first but seems to be getting quieter as it’s used more and more.
5. Alps’ new quiet Bino chest rig with matching Ember handwarmer muff. This set us warm and best of all….. super stealthy quiet! It has the gate hook attachments and it also fits my MG blaze Bino pouch perfectly.
6. Sitka traverse Hoody. I traded for it and I’m glad I did. The integrated face mask in the hood is clutch as I’m always looking for my others! Even though the face mask is thin, it was surprisingly very warm.
7. DayOne camo clothes. Comfortable, well built and quiet with a nice lining and plenty of pockets! I was able to stay quite warm during very windy conditions on 30 degree days with base layers, the Sitka hoody and the Day One one stuff as my final later.

What’s a shape charge pocket?

 

[Seekbigger]

Liked:
-Xwing platform, this thing checks about all the boxes for me
-8mm restec, light, packable and very strong
-Soft stitch hitch from Brocky, this hitch is my favorite tether hitch, small, compact, tends and releases under full body weight very well
-B3 exact rize hunter 3 pin slider, very well made and the slider wheel works perfectly
-Leupold red reticle range finder, I can see the red lost better than the black in low light conditions
-Fourth Arrow saddle lite camera arm, this thing is nice

Dislike:
-Sladder climbing system, it just didn’t work for me! I am much more efficient with one sticking and rope climbing, the foot loops are just too small for size 12 hunting boots and sit too close to the tree when getting toward the top.

 

[woodsdog2]

What’s a shape charge pocket?

It’s a bit smaller and has the plastic clips to attach to molle loops instead of the compression straps like the Sherman Pocket. I’ve included a side by side with the Sherman Pocket. I carry my knee pads and my three step aider in the Shape Charge pocket. Perhaps they no longer make it?