HUNTER'S CHECK LIST

This is not an article on how to do things; sighting in a firearm or bow, sharpening a knife, selecting a compass, etc. (there are plenty of other sites that cover those items in more detail). It is the intent here to provide a checklist of things that should be done prior to going afield for our favorite game animal.

If you are like me there are a few things that need to be checked out before that first day. Most of us cleaned our equipment and then put them away at the end of the previous season. Now is the time to get that equipment out and check it over.

I am going to present a check list first with some notes at the end for your usage. This article can be copied and pasted into a processor (such as Microsoft Words) by placing the cursor at the beginning then scrolling to the end. Then use the shift key place the cursor at the end, this will highlight all the information that you want to copy. Next using the Ctrl C function will copy that information to the clip board and then you can paste the information into a blank document. Then either print the document or save it for later usage.

This list is not intended to be complete. You can and should modify it as necessary to meet your particular situation.

FIREARMS:

1. Lightly clean the weapon and lightly re-lubricate as needed.

2. Check your supply of ammunition — if over 5 years old — consider replacing.

3. Clean your scope lenses.

4. Check that all screws are tight.

5. Insure that detachable magazines fit and seat tightly.

6. Take to a firing range and check action as well as the accuracy.

ARCHERY:

1. Check Bow for the following:

a. Frayed bow string.

b. Frayed cables (compound bows).

c. Check the draw weight (all bows).

d. For compound bows, lightly apply oil to the cams.

e. Check all fittings for tightness.

f. Take to an archery range and insure accuracy.

g. Insure that your bow mounted quiver fits tightly, fire the bow with a fully loaded quiver.

2. Check your arrows:

a. Insure that your broad-heads are sharp and for the ones with removable blades that they are securely mounted.

b. Insure that the broad-head is securely tightened to the arrow shaft.

c. Insure that the arrow shafts are straight.

d. Check the fletching. Insure that it is secured to the shaft and not frayed or nicked.

e. Insure that the arrow nocks are secure to the shaft.

3. Bow Releases

a. Clean and lubricate as needed.

b. Check the release for smoothness of operation.

4. Other items:

a. Check arm guards for frayed or damaged straps.

b. Insure that your finger glove fits and is smooth.

CLOTHING:

Review your clothing for the following:

1. Fit, holes or other conditions that make them no longer serviceable.

2. Check your boots for excessive wear and tear. Also, look at the treads to make sure that they are not excessively worn.

3. Make sure that your gloves are still functional.

OPTIONAL ITEMS:

The following is a list of items that you may want to take into the field with you. If so, they also need to be checked for serviceability as to whether they need cleaning or replacement.

1. Knives — Check for sharpness.

2. Axes — Check for nicks and gouges and insure sharpness.

3. Hones — Check for excessive wear and clean if required.

4. Compass — Check to make sure that it functions (yes compasses can go bad).

5. Emergency Kit — This should contain simple items such as, water proof kitchen style matches stored in a water proof container with a striker surface, a signaling device (mirror, whistle), pieces of a candle (with an exposed wick) for starting a fire), a string type of saw blade, band-aids and antiseptic pads or anything else you may deem necessary. This kit should be small and compact enough to easily fit in a jacket pocket.

6. Flashlight — Insure that the batteries are new and possibly carry an extra set of batteries and extra bulb with you.

7. Binoculars — Clean the lenses and check for damage.

8. Tree Stands — Check to make sure that all attachment points and devices are in good shape. Also check that all parts fit together tightly.

9. Decoys — Insure that they are in good serviceable shape. If used on water, they still float and remain upright.

10. Waders — Check for holes and water-tightness.

11. Boats — Follow all good practices for safe boating in cold weather.

12. Game Bags — Insure that they are clean and ready for use.

13. Cleaning Gloves — Should be considered when field dressing any animal to help prevent against disease. If they have holes — REPLACE. If you cut yourself during the process seek immediate medical attention.

14. Insect Repellant — May be a good idea in areas where biting insects are prevalent.

15. Snake Bite Kit — May be a good idea where poisonous snakes exist and especially where help is hours away.

16. Two-Way Communication — Those small walkie-talkies are a good idea when there are two or more hunters. They will provide communication to help in emergencies or if someone becomes lost. Make sure that they are of the multiple band type, this may help if you cannot contact anyone in your party and there are others around with walkie-talkie units. Oh yes — MAKE SURE THAT THE BATTERIES ARE FULLY CHARGED PRIOR TO GOING.

Remember that the success and enjoyment of any outdoor activity depends on your equipment being in good shape and having it with you. There is nothing worse than getting to your location and finding that you forgot to bring something or that the equipment is in-operative. It is your responsibility to ensure that this does not happen.

GOOD HUNTING AND RETURN SAFELY

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