These hot new products will increase the dial on your fun meter this season.
Every year, hundreds of new products are introduced to the hunting public. Louisiana Sportsman reviewed some of the top new gear available for deer and waterfowl hunters.
In no particular order, the following nine products have been found to offer new and innovative features that will make your hunting efforts more successful and enjoyable.
Blue Star Blood-Finding Agent
Straight from the pages of CSI, this blood-finding spray will help hunters track and retrieve wounded big game like forensic detectives. While nothing will substitute for good blood trailing skills, Blue Star Blood Finding Agent can help make the difference between going home disappointed and locating lost game.
This special spray formula chemically causes even the smallest trace of blood to glow a luminescent blue color in the dark.
Almost every deer hunter has felt that sickening feeling when an otherwise good blood trail suddenly dries up or when you’re sure you’ve made a hit, but just can’t locate any sign of blood.
That’s where Blue Star shines — literally. A light mist from a small spray bottle will cause the blood to brightly glow and easily get you back on track to locating downed game. The hunter simply sprays the ground and bushes to follow the glowing blood traces to locate his game.
Originally designed for crime-scene forensics, this formula is the No. 1 choice of law-enforcement agencies. The product has now been specially formulated and packaged to meet the needs of big-game hunter. Blue Star comes in convenient tablet form, and is sealed in small foil pouches to provide long-lasting shelf life.
The product takes up virtually no space, and can always be at the ready when the need arises.
The special spray is made by mixing the fast-dissolving tablets in a small amount of water. Almost any kind of water will work, and can be taken from a river, pond, rain or even a puddle. One note to coastal hunters: Salt water should not be used to dissolve the tablets.
There is no need to carry any bulky pre-mixed formula. Once mixed, the formula will last for about a day. One bottle of spray will help track even the slightest of blood trails for 100 yards or more.
Blue Star solves two of the main problems in tracking downed game — darkness and rain. Blood does not show up well in most flashlights, especially if it has been rained upon. However, Blue Star will even light up traces of blood that have been washed off by rain.
A hunter kit with an 8-ounce spray bottle and two packages of Blue Star tablets retails for $17.99. For more information, go to www.bluestar-hunting.com
Pro Trophy Skinners Replaceable-Blade Hunting Knives
All big-game hunters know that the real work begins once the animal is down. Dressing and skinning is always more work than fun. Nothing makes that job easier than a surgically sharp knife.
Unfortunately, most hunters are not good knife sharpeners. The result is often a tedious and time-consuming job of skinning game with an expensive instrument that works no better than a glorified butter knife.
Havalon’s Pro Trophy Skinners solve that problem by offering a compact hunting knife with easily replaceable surgical stainless-steel blades. Finally, there’s a small, lightweight knife that ensures a razor-sharp edge for each and every use.
Two models, the original stainless-handle Piranta and the new Piranta-Z with a durable black Zytel handle, both offer the hunter the ability to skin big-game faster than with any other knife.
For many years, professional guides, hunters and taxidermist have relied on Havel’s surgical blades for skinning all species of big-game. Now, the small but mighty Piranta and Piranta-Z offer convenient and feature-packed knives allowing hunters to carry the sharpest knives possible.
Some of the many features on both models are an easy grip with ambidextrous thumb studs, an open back for easy cleaning and a pocket clip. A rugged nylon belt holster is also available that features a wide belt loop, snap closure and two inside pockets to hold both the knife and several extra blades.
The stainless Piranta sells for a special sales price of $39.99 and the Zytel Piranta-Z is on sale for $29.95. Replacement blades are also available. For more information, go to www.havalon.com
Game Reaper One-Piece Scope Mount
Many hunters pay as much for their scopes as they do for their rifles. However, little thought is put into the selection of a scope mount. The most accurate rifle and scope combination in the world can be seriously compromised by a loose or misaligned scope.
Game Reaper scope mounts are fully machined from top-grade billet aluminum, and offer a one-piece base that is precision designed to fit your specific firearm. These quality scope mounts are made in the same manner as the finest fishing reels. Solid blocks of aluminum are custom machined to provide a seamless, one-piece base that offers a rock-solid platform to ensure pinpoint accuracy from your rifle/scope combination.
Game Reaper’s one-piece base design features no moving parts between the firearm and the scope. The socket head cap screws have four times the amount of threads than other mounts, and bolt easily to all four mounting holes of your firearm.
Game Reaper guarantees that your scope will be held firmly in place.
Traditional steel scope mounts can expand and contract up to two and a half times more in temperature variations than aluminum. Game Reaper aluminum scope mounts are fully anodized in either black or silver finish, and will not rust. These scope mounts also align perfectly with your gun’s receiver to offer a more pleasing look.
Game Reaper scope mounts can easily be installed in less than five minutes, and are backed by a full quality guarantee. If your Game Reaper does not fit better and perform flawlessly, it will be replaced free of charge. Game Reaper scope mounts are available to custom fit a wide range of popular rifles. Many more models are currently being added.
Game Reaper one-piece scope mounts retail for $54.95-$69.95 depending on gun model. For more information, go to www.dednutz.com.
ScenTote Scent Eliminating Storage
Most whitetail hunting experts agree that human scent elimination is the No. 1 factor in a successful hunt. Scent-elimination clothing is one of the fastest-growing segments of hunting gear. A hunter’s clothing is subject to picking up all sorts of human-related scents from natural body odors to cooking smells from the hunting camp.
Scent elimination storage of clothes and gear is the most important step in practicing complete scent control. ScenTote scent-eliminating storage is a hard plastic, air-tight storage tote allowing hunters to store and transfer all of their hunting clothes and accessories in a completely scent-free, convenient storage container.
The secret to the ScenTote is the patented activated Carbon-Web absorber that allows the activated carbon to be suspended in the air-tight unit, providing constant absorption and elimination of all odors. The ScenTote is perfect for storing and transferring all carbon and non-carbon hunting clothes. The carbon unit is in the lid of the tote, and constantly rains down carbon particles throughout the tote.
These tough, air- and weather-tight totes are lockable, and are great for transport in the back of an open truck. When closed, the ScenTote will support 250 pounds. ScenTotes are stackable, and measure approximately 27x14x15 inches. ScenTotes are great for year-round storage, and your hunting clothes will be scent-free and ready to wear come opening day.
The Carbon-Web absorber can easily be regenerated by tossing it in a hot clothes dryer for 30 minutes. It can be put in the dryer by itself or along with your hunting clothes. Since the carbon is constantly being released, the manufacturer recommends replacing the Carbon-Web absorber every other season.
ScenTote also sells an Activated Carbon-Web Absorber Kit, which can be used to convert any existing tote into a scent-free storage unit. The simple installation kit includes the carbon pad and stretch cords to place the unit in the lid of the tote.
ScenTotes retail for $59.95. For more information, go to www.scentote.com.
Acorn Rage Deer feed attractant
Hunters know that real acorns are one of the best foods for attracting deer. Deer will flock to any area where acorns are dropping.
Wildgame Innovation’s Acorn Rage now allows hunters to have the attraction and nutrition of acorns in any area they hunt.
The product starts with the collection of real acorns, which are then crushed and mixed with special oil-enriched roasted soybean meal. The secret process actually preserves and stabilizes the fresh oils and tastes found in real ripening acorns as they hit the ground.
Acorn Rage will attract deer from far away, and keep them coming back for the real acorn taste. When others in your area are simply feeding corn or rice bran, Acorn Rage will give you the edge that constantly keeps the deer coming to your area. There is no other attractant like Acorn Rage, and it works all season long.
Acorn Rage is not a flavoring or scent; it has real acorn taste that drives deer into a “rage.” The concentrated formula requires no mixing, and is available in ready-to-use bags. The 5.5-pound bags retail for $14.99, and the 16-pound bags retail for $29.99.
For more information, go to www.wildgameinnovations.com
Sky-Rise Two-Person Ladder Stand
The Big Game Sky-Rise ladder tree stand allows two hunters to safely hunt at an exhilarating 20 feet. The all-steel construction of this sturdy ladder-type tree stand will easily accommodate two hunters for a total weight capacity of up to 500 pounds.
Featuring a 40-inch-wide individually cushioned bench style seat, the Sky-Rise also has a padded, adjustable shooting rail and four sturdy double-rail ladder sections. The extra height offers maximum viewing while also keeping the hunters’ scent and noise well above the forest floor.
The stand will install on any tree with a minimum 9-inch diameter. Installation requires two people, and the stand comes with ratchet straps, stabilizer straps and an adjustable stabilizer bar.
The Sky-Rise is safe and comfortable. This stand allows the sharing of the hunting experience, and is great for hunting with a child or spouse. The stand weighs 125 pounds, and comes with two TMA-certified 4-point full body safety harnesses. An optional full camo blind enclosure is also available for added concealment.
The Sky-Rise sells for $229.99. For more information, go to www.biggametreestands.com.
Black Cloud FS Steel 12-Gauge Waterfowl Shells
Waterfowl hunters are required to use non-toxic shot due to concerns over the nature of lead. However, most duck hunters have never been satisfied with the killing performance of steel versus lead shot. Expensive alternatives such as bismuth and other alloys do not provide a viable solution for hunters looking for relatively inexpensive and effective shot shells for everyday waterfowl hunting.
Federal ammunition has introduced its new Black Cloud steel shot shells just in time for the 2007 waterfowl seasons. This revolutionary new 12-gauge ammo features the new Flightstopper steel pellet that devastates waterfowl on impact. The Flightstopper pellet has a small cutting edge around its center, and is staged in the shell with standard steel shot to provide the ultimate pattern and energy on the target.
The unique shape of the Flightstopper pellet offers dropping power never before seen with traditional round steel pellets.
The shells are loaded with 40 percent Flightstopper pellets and 60 percent premium steel pellets.
In addition to the specially designed Flightstopper pellets, Black Cloud shells also contain Federal’s proprietary Flightcontrol wad that enhances shot performance and extends the range of typical steel shot. This combination provides retained downrange velocity and allows the hunter to put the maximum amount of shot on passing ducks and geese.
Federal’s Black Cloud shells are offered in 12 gauge only, and come in BBB, BB, 2 and 4 shot sizes. The 3-inch shells boast 1,450 fps muzzle velocity, and the 3.5-inch shells have 1,500 fps muzzle velocity.
Black Cloud shells come in the traditional box of 25. The 3-inch shells retail for about $20, and the 3.5-inch shells retail for about $25. For more information, go to www.federalpremium.com.
Omnova Outdoors Camo Blind Wrap
Hunters have struggled for years looking for a material to construct lightweight and durable hunting blinds that offer protection from the elements as well as concealment from game. Omnova Outdoors recently introduced its Camo Blind Wrap that meets all of those needs.
Omnova, already a leading manufacturer of exterior upholstery, has broadened its product range by taking its superior design and performance for “a walk on the wild side.” The Camo Blind Wrap product actually began when a few Omnova employees started using some of its green commercial grade vinyl materials to cover their deer hunting box blinds in Mississippi. They soon realized the superior nature of the product, and additional research and development was employed to produce a super durable camouflage material with many uses for the outdoorsman.
Omnova manufactures the vinyl material in several camouflage patterns to be used in the construction of deer, turkey and duck hunting blinds, as well as many other uses.
Camo Blind Wrap is a versatile outdoor grade vinyl that can easily be wrapped around any homemade blind frame to construct a complete do-it-yourself hunting blind. The material comes in rolls 75 inches high by 21 feet long, and is easily cut to whatever size or shape is needed.
Camo patterns available are Omnova’s own Hidden Timber and Spring Leaf camo for deer and turkey blinds and Wild Grass pattern that is perfect for waterfowl blinds. The Hidden Timber pattern features a mix of branches, sticks and leaves, and blends well with a wide variety of fall/winter deer hunting terrains.
For early season deer hunts and spring turkey hunts, the Spring Leaf pattern has more green tones to blend in with growing foliage. For duck blinds, the Wild Grass camo pattern contains grasses, brush and shadows that work well in the marsh, timber or open fields.
The Camo Blind Wrap waterproof reinforced vinyl material is weather, fade and tear resistant. In addition to excellent concealment, it offers a break from the wind as well as additional scent and noise containment. The flat finish of the print enhances concealment and reduces shine from the sun. Camo Blind Wrap is the perfect lightweight, long lasting material that hunters have been waiting for.
All camo patterns come with a free set of plans, materials list and instructions to easily build a 4x6x6-foot double hunting blind. Custom blinds can be built to your own specifications.
In addition to wrapping blinds, the material can also be used to cover boat seats, tripod stands or any other application where a durable, outdoor camouflage material is necessary.
The material is available direct from Omnova by calling 800-457-9900 and choosing the “fabrics” menu. A roll of either pattern costs $99, and includes free ground shipping.
For more information, go to www.omnova.com/products/omnovaoutdoors/omnovaoutdoors.aspx
Rifle Cam Video Camera Mount
Want to film your own hunt and preserve the memories forever? A new line of camera mounts by Rifle Electronics will allow you to attach your favorite hand-held video camera directly to your rifle, shotgun, bow or crossbow.
Now, when that trophy buck walks into range or that big tom peaks his head from behind that brushpile, you’ll be able to capture the moment on video to share forever with your family and friends. Waterfowl and upland game hunts can also be uniquely filmed from the hunter’s perspective.
Collectively called the Rifle Cam, these precision-made mounts are forged from military aluminum and stainless steel. A patented recoil system absorbs shock and recoil both backward and forward, allowing the hunter to produce quality videos that will last for generations.
Any modern mini DV video camera will attach to the mount including Sony, JVC, Canon, Samsung and some other brands. Most of these cameras feature long-range optical zooms that will bring your video up close and personal.
These quality mounts will add a whole new dimension to your hunting experience. A Rifle Cam scope attachment is also available that allows the hunter to move the Rifle Cam mount to various weapons without removing the whole mount.
Rifle Cams sell for $49.95 for the bow mount, $69.95 for the 12 gauge shotgun mount and $99.95 for the rifle mount. For more info, go to www.theriflecam.com.
Author’s Pick
As a professional taxidermist and avid deer hunter, I have skinned and caped well over a thousand deer and other animals. I have always used surgical blades for skinning all types of game. However, the value of a sharp hunting knife is underestimated by most hunters. A razor-sharp knife will make the job of skinning much quicker and easier. Also, more bad cuts are made with a dull knife than with a sharp one.
The Pro Trophy Skinner Piranta and Piranta-Z offer the hunter the ability to always have the sharpest knife possible. The convenient, surgical-sharp, replaceable blades are inexpensive and easy to change. Having extra blades in the sheath along with these knives ensures that hunters will be well prepared for any skinning job.
The Piranta and Piranta-Z are great values and useful tools that all hunters should have.
