How do you store hunting gear?

Hunting is a popular outdoor activity that allows people to connect with nature and put food on the table. However, properly caring for hunting gear is crucial to keep it in good working order. Proper storage can protect hunting equipment from damage and extend its lifespan. This article will provide tips on how to best store different types of hunting gear.

Storing Firearms

Firearms require special care to keep them safe and functioning properly. Here are some tips for storing rifles, shotguns, and handguns:

• Use a gun safe – Safes protect guns from unauthorized access, damage, and humidity fluctuations. Get one with a digital keypad or biometric scanner for quick access.
• Store ammo separately – Keeping ammo in a different location minimizes the risk of accidental discharge.
• Use desiccant packs – These absorb moisture to prevent corrosion. Replace them periodically.
• Clean firearms before storage – Remove dirt, residue, and fingerprints to prevent rust.
• Oil surfaces – Wipe down metal parts with gun oil to prevent rusting.
• Store in a cool, dry place – Heat and humidity can damage guns. Avoid attics, garages and basements.
• Use a gun sock – Slip firearms into a breathable cotton sock to prevent scratches.

Archery Gear

Archery equipment also needs special care for optimal performance. Follow these tips when storing bows and arrows:

• Unstring bows – Removing the bowstring prevents warping of the limbs over time.
• Wax bowstrings – Rubbing wax into the fibers protects them from moisture.
• Store bows vertically – Hang them or place them in a rack to avoid twisting the limbs.
• Don’t hang bows for long periods – Gravity can cause the limbs to warp over time.
• Clean arrows – Use a flexible arrow cleaning rod to remove dirt and debris.
• Check fletching – Repair any damaged or missing fletching.
• Lubricate sights and rests – Use lubricant to prevent corrosion.

Hunting Clothes and Boots

Follow these tips to keep hunting clothes and boots in good condition:

• Air out and dry after each use – This prevents mold and bacterial growth.
• Treat with UV protectant – Spray down clothes with UV protection to avoid fading.
• Patch any rips or tears – Fix damage right away to prevent expansion.
• Wash in scent-free detergent – Use unscented soap to avoid leaving residual odors.
• Store off the ground – Keep clothes and boots on shelves to prevent moisture damage.
• Stuff boots with newspaper – Absorbs moisture and helps boots retain shape.
• Use cedar blocks – Place blocks in storage bags and closets to repel insects.
• Check drawers for pests – Inspect periodically for signs of bugs which can damage natural fabrics.

Hunting Knives

Hunting knives perform best with proper maintenance. Here are some storage tips:

• Clean after each use – Gently wash blades with mild soap and rinse well.
• Dry thoroughly – Completely dry knives with a soft cloth to prevent corrosion.
• Oil blades – Apply a thin coat of knife oil to prevent rust.
• Use knife sheaths – Sheaths protect blade edges and prevent accidents.
• Store horizontally – Lay knives flat instead of standing up to avoid damage to blade tips.
• Avoid humidity – Prevent corrosion by storing knives in a dry location.
• Inspect periodically – Check for signs of rust and re-oil as needed.

Hunting Optics

Binoculars, scopes, and rangefinders require especial care. Use these tips when storing hunting optics:

• Use protective cases – Store optics in padded, humidity-resistant cases.
• Remove batteries – Take out batteries before storage to prevent corrosion.
• Avoid direct sunlight – Exposure can damage lenses and coatings.
• Store horizontally – Lay optics flat instead of upright to avoid stress on components.
• Place caps on lenses – Protect lenses from scratches, dust and fingerprints.
• Clean lenses properly – Use lens tissue and cleaning fluid to prevent scratching.
• Dehumidify storage spaces – Use desiccants or dehumidifiers to prevent fogging.

Treestands and Blinds

Follow these tips to properly store treestands and ground blinds when not hunting:

• Disassemble when possible – Take apart separate pieces for compact stacking.
• Clean debris – Remove dirt, leaves, bird droppings, and other debris.
• Lubricate parts – Apply lubricant to pins, hinges, pulleys and platforms.
• Check safety harnesses – Inspect for wear and damage. Replace worn straps.
• Brush on protectant – Coat frames with UV and rust inhibiting sprays.
• Air out – Open windows and doors to dry out any moisture.
• Fold and roll blinds – Neatly fold or roll blinds instead of stuffing them.
• Check for critters – Inspect for insects, rodents or snakes before storing away.

Natural Hunting Scents

Maximize the shelf life of hunting lures and attractant scents with these tips:

• Read labels – Follow manufacturers specific storage instructions.
• Store in cool place – Heat can break down and evaporate scents.
• Seal containers – Replace lids tightly to prevent drying out.
• Limit air exposure – Only open containers when applying scents.
• Use oldest first – Practice first in, first out when using multiple bottles.
• Watch for clouding – Cloudy or clumpy formulas may be expired.
• Label bottles – Mark dates opened for freshness tracking.

Food and Gear

Non-perishable hunting food and other gear also requires proper storage:

• Check expiration dates – Use up older products first.
• Reseal packages – Close bags tightly after opening to keep food fresh and deter pests.
• Look for signs of spoilage – Check for mold, clumping, or rancid odors.
• Keep cool and dry – Store out of heat, sun, and moisture to avoid spoilage.
• Clean containers – Wash Tupperware, water bottles, and thermoses after use to prevent odors.
• Inspect regularly – Periodically check items and organize storage areas.
• Limit rodent access – Seal foods in plastic bins or use rodent-proof containers.

Off-Season Storage

Use these tips when storing gear for long periods between hunting seasons:

• Inspect condition – Check equipment for damage or wear before storage.
• Perform maintenance – Clean, oil, lubricate, and wax items first.
• Use off-gassing bags – Place items in activated charcoal bags to absorb odors.
• Tag items – Label bins and shelves with contents and dates.
• Use desiccants – Throw in moisture absorbers to prevent mildew and rust.
• Seal storage containers – Tightly lid plastic bins, ammo cans and trunks.
• Clean storage spaces – Vacuum, dust and disinfect shelves, closets and garages first.
• Mothball fabrics – Use cedar blocks or sachets to deter insects from eating natural fibers.

Storage Solutions by Item Type

Here are some ideal storage solutions based on the type of hunting gear:

Item Type	Recommended Storage Solutions
Firearms	Hard gun cases, gun safes, gun cabinets, gun socks
Bows	Bow cases, wall-mounted racks, peg boards
Arrows	Hard arrow cases, PVC arrow tubes
Hunting clothes	Cedar chests, cedar planks, garment bags, shelving units
Boots	Boot dryers, shelving units, shoe racks
Knives	Knife blocks, drawer inserts, sheaths
Optics	Padded optic cases, cabinets with foam cutouts
Blinds and stands	Racks, wall mounts, shelving units, storage trunks
Scents	Sealed bins or buckets, drawer organizers
Food	Sealed plastic containers, dry storage bins, shelving

Ideal Storage Conditions

To best preserve hunting gear, aim for these conditions in storage areas:

• Cool temperature between 55-75°F
• Consistent humidity around 35-45%
• Good air circulation and ventilation
• Low light or darkness for light-sensitive items
• Clean and dust-free space
• Locked and secure to prevent unauthorized handling
• Well-organized layout for easy access
• Kept free of pests and insects

Signs of Improper Storage

Watch for these signs that hunting gear is being stored improperly:

• Rust, mold, mildew or pitting on metal
• Warping, cracking or peeling of composites and polymers
• Odors from bacterial growth
• Evidence of insects or pests like chew marks or droppings
• Dirt, dust or debris buildup
• Corroded contacts on optics and electronics
• Dry rot, brittleness or stiffness of fabrics and leathers
• Faded colors from light exposure
• Dulling, clouding or scratches on lenses

If you notice any of these signs, evaluate your storage practices and make adjustments to better protect your hunting investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best temperature and humidity levels for storing hunting gear?

The ideal temperature range is 55-75°F with a relative humidity of 35-45%. These levels help prevent moisture condensation while avoiding extremes that accelerate deterioration.

2. How can I keep pests out of my hunting gear storage?

Use tightly sealed plastic containers, shelves with doors, and cedar wood to deter pests. Inspect gear periodically for signs of insects or rodents. Set traps or use pest control measures as needed.

3. Should I leave batteries in my hunting electronics during storage?

No, it’s best to remove all batteries from scopes, rangefinders, and other electronics during long-term storage to prevent corrosion from leaking batteries.

4. What precautions should I take when storing firearms?

Always store guns unloaded and locked in a secure gun safe. Use a dehumidifier, keep them lightly oiled, and store ammo separately. Never leave firearms unattended around children.

5. How can I prevent my hunting clothes from getting musty in storage?

Air out hunting clothes fully before storage. Use cedar blocks, frequent laundering, and scent-free detergents. Check periodically for mold or mildew growth and treat as needed.

Conclusion

Proper storage is critical to keeping hunting gear in optimal condition and ready for many seasons of use. By following the tips in this article, you can avoid damage from humidity, pests, corrosion, and other threats. Take time to carefully clean, maintain, and organize equipment before storage. Invest in quality storage solutions like gun safes, climate-controlled cabinets, and sealable bins tailored to your specific gear. With mindful storage habits, you can preserve your valuable hunting investment for years to come. Make it a habit to inspect stored gear periodically and remedy any developing issues promptly. Taking good care of your hunting equipment will maximize performance, reliability and longevity.