As hunting season draws to a close, it’s important to properly store your hunting gear until next year. Storing your gear correctly will help extend its lifespan and ensure that it’s ready to use when the next season rolls around.
Proper storage begins with cleaning your gear. This includes jackets, shirts, pants, gloves, facemask, and even socks and undergarments. Once all of your garments are properly cleaned and dry, you can store them in a scent storage bag, usually sorted by early season and late season gear. Additionally, you can place them in a scent-free bag or plastic tote and store them where they will be free of gas odors in the garage or shed, as well as away from rodents, insects, or other persistent critters that might like to make them home in the offseason.
Cleaning and Preparing Your Hunting Gear
When the hunting season comes to an end, it’s important to properly clean and store your hunting gear to ensure it stays in good condition and is ready to use when the next season rolls around. This section provides tips on how to clean and prepare your hunting gear for the off-season.
Cleaning Hunting Clothing
Cleaning your hunting clothes is essential to not only remove dirt and debris but also to eliminate any scent that could scare off game. Start by checking the care label on your clothing to determine the best cleaning method. Most hunting clothes can be washed in cold water with scent-free detergent, but some may require hand washing or dry cleaning.
After washing, dry your clothes on low heat or air dry to prevent shrinking or damage to any electronic components. To further eliminate scent, add scent control dryer sheets or cedar chips to the dryer.
Cleaning Hunting Gear
Hunting gear such as boots, accessories, and tools should also be cleaned before storage. Use a damp cloth to wipe down any debris or dirt, and check for any damage that needs to be repaired. For boots, remove the laces and insoles and let them dry completely before storing.
To prevent mold and mildew, store gear in a dry, cool place with good ventilation. You can also add moisture-absorbing products such as silica gel packets to your storage containers.
Cleaning Firearms
Cleaning your firearms after hunting season is important to prevent rust and ensure they function properly. Start by removing any ammunition and disassembling the firearm. Use a cleaning rod and patches to clean the barrels, and use a cleaning solution and brush to clean any metal parts.
After cleaning, apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust and reassemble the firearm. Store firearms in a secure location away from humidity and extreme temperatures.
By following these tips and creating a list of inventory, you can ensure your hunting gear is properly cleaned and stored for the off-season. This will help extend the life of your gear and ensure it’s ready to use when the next hunting season arrives.
Storage Containers and Locations
When it comes to storing your hunting gear for the off-season, it’s important to choose the right storage container and location to keep your gear safe and secure. Here are some tips to help you choose the right storage container and location for your hunting gear.
Choosing the Right Storage Container
When it comes to storing your hunting gear, choosing the right storage container is important. You want to choose a container that is both secure and durable. Here are some options to consider:
- Totes: Totes are a great option for storing hunting gear. They come in a variety of sizes and are made from durable materials that can withstand the elements.
- Gun Lockers or Safes: If you have guns or ammunition that need to be stored, a gun locker or safe is a great option. They are designed to keep your guns and ammunition secure and out of reach.
Storing Hunting Gear in the Garage
If you don’t have a shed or gun locker, storing your hunting gear in the garage is a good option. However, it’s important to make sure your gear is stored in a secure location to prevent theft. Here are some tips to help you store your hunting gear in the garage:
- Use storage containers: Use totes or other storage containers to keep your hunting gear organized and prevent it from getting damaged.
- Keep gear off the ground: Store your gear on shelves or racks to keep it off the ground and prevent it from getting wet.
Storing Hunting Gear in a Shed
If you have a shed, storing your hunting gear in the shed is a good option. Here are some tips to help you store your hunting gear in a shed:
- Keep the shed secure: Make sure the shed is locked and secure to prevent theft.
- Use storage containers: Use totes or other storage containers to keep your hunting gear organized and prevent it from getting damaged.
Storing Hunting Gear in a Gun Locker or Safe
If you have guns or ammunition that need to be stored, a gun locker or safe is a great option. They are designed to keep your guns and ammunition secure and out of reach. Here are some tips to help you store your hunting gear in a gun locker or safe:
- Keep the locker or safe locked: Make sure the locker or safe is locked and secure to prevent theft.
- Store ammunition separately: Store your ammunition separately from your guns to prevent accidents.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your hunting gear is stored safely and securely during the off-season.
Protecting Your Hunting Gear from Damage
When storing your hunting gear for the off-season, it’s important to take steps to protect it from damage. Here are some tips to help keep your gear in top condition:
Dealing with Moisture and Humidity
Moisture and humidity can cause a lot of damage to hunting gear. To prevent this, make sure your storage area is dry and well-ventilated. You can also use moisture-absorbing products like Damprid or desiccant packs to help keep the air dry.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can quickly ruin hunting gear. To prevent this, make sure your gear is completely dry before storing it. Use a scent-free bag or container to store your gear, and consider adding a few cedar chips or pine needles to help repel moisture and pests.
Protecting Hunting Gear from Pests
Mice and bugs can wreak havoc on your hunting gear. To prevent this, store your gear in sealed containers or bags. You can also use mothballs or other pest repellents to help keep pests away.
Protecting Firearms from Rust and Fouling
Rust and fouling can damage your firearms. To prevent this, clean your gun thoroughly before storing it. Use a gun oil or rust inhibitor to protect the working parts, and store your gun in a dry, cool place.
Remember to check your gear periodically during the off-season to make sure it’s still in good condition. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears, and address them immediately.
By taking these steps to protect your hunting gear, you’ll be better prepared for the next hunting season.
Organizing Your Hunting Gear
When it comes to storing your hunting gear for the off-season, organization is key. By taking the time to properly organize your gear, you can ensure that it stays in good condition and is easy to find when you need it next. Here are some tips for organizing your hunting gear:
Creating an Inventory List
Before you start organizing your gear, it’s a good idea to create an inventory list. This will help you keep track of what you have and where it is stored. You can create a simple spreadsheet or use a hunting gear inventory app to make the process easier. Be sure to include details such as the item name, category, and storage location.
Organizing Hunting Gear by Category
Once you have your inventory list, it’s time to start organizing your gear. One effective way to do this is by grouping items together by category. For example, you can store all your hunting boots in one area, your hunting clothes in another, and your hunting accessories in a separate location. This will make it easier to find what you need when you’re getting ready for your next hunting trip.
Using Scent-Free Bags and Cedar Chips
When storing your hunting gear, it’s important to take steps to prevent odors from building up. One way to do this is by using scent-free bags to store your clothing and gear. These bags will help prevent odors from permeating your gear and attracting unwanted attention from animals. Additionally, you can use cedar chips to help absorb moisture and prevent mold and mildew from forming.
By following these tips for organizing your hunting gear, you can ensure that your gear stays in good condition and is easy to find when you need it. Remember to take the time to create an inventory list, group items together by category, and use scent-free bags and cedar chips to keep your gear fresh and odor-free.
Conclusion
Storing your hunting gear in the off-season is crucial if you want to keep it in good condition and ready for the next hunting season. By following the tips and tricks we’ve provided, you can ensure that your gear stays clean, dry, and free from damage while it’s in storage.
Remember to clean and dry your gear before storing it, and use scent-free bags or plastic totes to keep it free from gas odors and pests. Keep your gear accessible, so you can easily grab it for a practice run or scouting trip. And don’t forget to take inventory of your gear and replace anything that’s worn out or damaged.
By taking the time to properly store your hunting gear, you’ll be ready to hit the field when the next hunting season rolls around. Happy hunting!
