Despite the obvious such as a gun and ammo, what items do you feel every deer hunter should own?

The value of a range finder hit home with me this past weekend when I put up a tripod in a new spot that I know other hunters will be using. It's at the edge of a small pasture where the shots are likely to be long, which is why my range finder became so valuable. I was able to determine the maximum distances of shots that a hunter could expect to make when hunting the stand, which helps them better recognize their limitations.

I was afraid the distances might be beyond the capabilities of several guys in my group, but the range finder proved the shots were very doable. Still, I want the guys to know how far away a deer would be at various points around the edges of the pasture. IMO, having the discipline to wait for a closer shot, or even passing on a shot, is one of those things that differentiates a mature sportsman from a novice. And being able to safely determine when a deer is within your safe shooting distance is a must. Of course, that distance is not the same for everyone. For me, it's roughly 100 yards.

Binoculars.

That's my answer too. If you are hunting an area you know well, and the shots won't be very far, you can get by fine without a range finder. I couldn't get by with out my binoculars.

I would have to say a good whet rock and steel.

Is that 100 yards max with a bow?

Binoculars first, range finder second just my two cents for what it's worth

Good knife

Flask.......

Most folks are better off with a modern sharpener. Even people who think they know how to use a whet stone or a steel, really don't.

I was going to say binoculars but after thinking about it, you can use your rifle scope if you had to. So Im going to say the must have is a good knife.

Bingo. Bino's are by far the 2nd most important thing to me after a loaded rifle.

Thermocell

Roll of TP! Then sharp knife, binocs & Rangefinder......

Got to get priorities in order!

Yes, and a pocket size pack of wet wipes is easier to carry and works better.

Rangefinder is invaluable to me as a bow hunter....as a whitetail rifle hunter not so much. It becomes vital again when hunting out west.

I would say one of the most important things to me is a good pack.

...don't forget the flask......

Phone w/camera....

............

A back pack. A well organized back pack that STAYS packed. Over the years you know what you need it goes in the pack. Drop in a couple bottle waters and a bag of trail mix or jerky. I could survive in the boonies 3-4 days if I had to. The pack is always ready to go it's never let me down.

Charged phone in case you get in a bad situation, get stuck, fall, injured, etc.

....a very good pair of binos

A current hunting license. You'd think it's obvious...

You don't really own a hunting license.

Well, should this ever be experienced you may no longer own your hunting gear...

You can use your hunting license in case you get lost. Just pull it out and burn it. After it completely goes up in smoke, a game warden will appear and ask to see it.

A pen to fil out the tag