Outfitter Tips: Storing Your Hunting Gear for the Winter

Another Wyoming hunting season has passed, and we want to thank all of our hunters for a fantastic year of elk, mule deer, and antelope hunting! As we finish organizing gear and closing up camps for the winter, we thought we’d share some helpful tips to ensure your hunting equipment stays in top condition and is ready to go next season.

Don’t put your gear away without giving it a little attention—mud, dust, and moisture can cause corrosion, wear, or damage during the off-season. With a few simple steps, you can keep your gear performing its best for years to come.

Start With a Deep Clean

Begin by making sure all of your gear is as clean as possible:

• Optics: Clean binocular and rangefinder lenses with a lens cloth. Use a damp paper towel to wipe outer surfaces. A can of compressed air can help blow sand and dust from focus rings or moving parts.

• Accessories: Wipe down game calls, shooting sticks, game carriers, and other items with a damp cloth. Allow them to dry completely before storing.

• Weapons: Clean your rifle thoroughly, including the stock and barrel. For bows, wax the string and inspect all moving parts and attachments.

Proper Care for Clothing and Outerwear

Your hunting clothes need more than just a quick wash:

• Use a Gore-Tex-safe detergent for rain gear and technical fabrics.

• Reapply a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish after washing. DWR helps precipitation bead off your gear instead of soaking in.

• DWR sprays and washes are available at most sporting goods stores—make sure to choose the right formula for your gear (hard-shell vs. soft-shell).

• Once clean and treated, store clothing in a dry, breathable container—not a sealed plastic bin.

Boot Care: Don’t Skip It!

Your boots take a beating throughout the season—and they’re expensive to replace. Taking time now can save you money later:

• Brush off dirt and mud.

• Use a boot cleaner or conditioner specific to your boot material (leather, synthetic, or combo).

• For leather boots, treat with oil or wax to prevent drying and cracking.

• Let boots dry naturally (not next to a heater) and store them loosely laced in a dry space.

Do a Post-Season Inventory

Before you pack everything away:

• Inspect for broken zippers, missing pieces, or worn-out gear.

• Make a list of items to repair or replace so you’re not scrambling right before next season.

Looking Ahead

Proper storage and maintenance now ensures your gear is ready to go when the next hunt rolls around. A little effort in the off-season will make a big difference when you're back out in the field next fall.

If you have questions about hunting with SNS Outfitters & Guides, or you’re ready to start planning your next adventure, we’re here to help!

? Call us at 307-266-4229
? Visit: www.huntwyo.com
? Request a Free Brochure