Top 10 Must-Have Hunting Accessories for Elk
Gear up for elk season with these essential tools every hunter needs.
Elk hunting is no walk in the park—or the woods, for that matter. From spotting a bull at a distance to packing out hundreds of pounds of meat, every step of the hunt demands the right tools. Without the right gear, you might find yourself squinting at distant shadows, fumbling with your pack, or worse—losing your hard-earned prize to poor preparation. Let’s break down the top 10 accessories that will make your elk hunt smoother, more successful, and a lot less frustrating.
Binoculars
Because guessing whether that blob on the ridge is an elk or a bush is not a winning strategy.
Overview
Binoculars are a hunter’s best friend when it comes to spotting elk from a distance. Elk hunting often involves glassing large, open landscapes where your naked eye just won’t cut it. A good pair of binoculars lets you identify elk from miles away, saving you time and energy while helping you plan your approach. Look for binoculars with a magnification of 8x to 10x and a wide field of view for optimal performance.
Benefits
- Spot elk from long distances
- Reduce eye strain with quality optics
- Plan your approach more effectively
Notable Brands
- Vortex Optics
- Leupold
- Nikon
Shop for high-quality binoculars to elevate your elk hunting game.
Rangefinder
Because guessing distances is a great way to miss your shot—and your elk.
Overview
A rangefinder is a compact device that measures the exact distance between you and your target. This is especially critical for elk hunting, where accurate shooting often requires knowing whether your target is 200 or 400 yards away. Modern rangefinders even account for elevation changes, which is a game-changer in mountainous terrain. Compact and easy to use, a rangefinder ensures you take ethical, precise shots every time.
Benefits
- Accurate distance measurement
- Improved shot placement
- Compact and lightweight for easy carry
Notable Brands
- Bushnell
- Leica
- Sig Sauer
Rifle Scope
Because hitting an elk at 300 yards with iron sights is a skill most of us don’t have.
Overview
A rifle scope is essential for long-range accuracy when hunting elk. With their keen senses and preference for open terrain, elk are often spotted at significant distances. A quality rifle scope not only magnifies your target but also provides clarity and precision for ethical shots. Look for scopes with adjustable magnification and weather-resistant features to handle the unpredictable conditions of elk country.
Benefits
- Enhanced long-range accuracy
- Improved visibility in low light
- Weather-resistant for rugged conditions
Notable Brands
- Leupold
- Vortex Optics
- NightForce
Elk Calls
Because sometimes you need to sweet-talk a bull into walking right into your sights.
Overview
Elk calls are specialized tools that mimic the sounds of elk to attract them. From cow calls to bugles, these devices can lure a bull into range or calm a herd. Mastering elk calls takes practice, but the payoff is worth it when you can communicate with your quarry. Choose calls based on your hunting style—diaphragm calls for versatility or bugle tubes for long-range effectiveness.
Benefits
- Attract elk into shooting range
- Mimic natural elk sounds
- Increase your chances of success
Notable Brands
- Primos
- Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls
- Phelps Game Calls
Hunting Backpack
Because carrying all your gear in your hands is not a good look—or practical.
Overview
A hunting backpack is your mobile base camp, designed to carry everything you need for a successful elk hunt. Look for a pack with ample storage, hydration compatibility, and a comfortable fit. Many hunting backpacks also feature load-hauling capabilities, allowing you to pack out meat after a successful hunt. Durability and weather resistance are key features to consider when choosing a backpack for the rugged conditions of elk country.
Benefits
- Carry all your gear comfortably
- Organized storage for quick access
- Meat-hauling capabilities for post-hunt success
Notable Brands
- Mystery Ranch
- Eberlestock
- KUIU
Game Bags
Because wrapping your hard-earned elk meat in a tarp is just wrong.
Overview
Game bags are essential for preserving your meat after a successful hunt. These lightweight, breathable bags protect your meat from dirt, insects, and spoilage while allowing it to cool properly. Designed for durability and ease of use, game bags are a must-have for any elk hunter planning to pack out their harvest. Look for reusable, washable options to get the most bang for your buck.
Benefits
- Protect meat from dirt and insects
- Allow proper cooling to prevent spoilage
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Notable Brands
- Caribou Gear
- Koola Buck
- Allen
Find the best game bags to preserve your hard-earned harvest.
Knife
Because breaking down an elk with your bare hands is not an option.
Overview
A high-quality hunting knife is indispensable for field dressing and processing your elk. Look for a knife with a sharp, durable blade and an ergonomic handle for extended use. Many hunters prefer replaceable blade systems for convenience, while others swear by traditional fixed-blade designs. Either way, a good knife will make the often-grueling task of processing an elk much more manageable.
Benefits
- Efficient field dressing and processing
- Durable and long-lasting
- Ergonomic designs for comfort
Notable Brands
- Havalon
- Benchmade
- Buck Knives
GPS Device
Because getting lost in elk country is not part of the adventure.
Overview
A GPS device is a lifesaver in the vast, rugged terrain where elk roam. Unlike your smartphone, a dedicated GPS device is built for the backcountry, offering reliable navigation even in areas with no cell service. Many models also include topographic maps, waypoint marking, and weather updates, making them invaluable for planning and executing your hunt.
Benefits
- Reliable navigation in remote areas
- Mark waypoints for easy tracking
- Access to topographic maps and weather updates
Notable Brands
- Garmin
- OnX Hunt
- Magellan
Find the best GPS devices to navigate elk country with confidence.
Camouflage Clothing
Because elk have better vision than you think—and they don’t wear neon.
Overview
Camouflage clothing is essential for blending into the environment and avoiding detection by elk. Choose patterns that match the terrain you’ll be hunting in, whether it’s dense forest, open plains, or rocky mountains. Modern camo clothing is also designed for comfort and performance, offering features like moisture-wicking, scent control, and insulation to keep you comfortable in varying weather conditions.
Benefits
- Blend into the environment
- Reduce the chance of detection
- Stay comfortable in diverse weather conditions
Notable Brands
- Sitka Gear
- First Lite
- KUIU
Shop for high-performance camouflage clothing tailored for elk hunting.
Shooting Sticks
Because balancing your rifle on a tree branch is not as stable as it sounds.
Overview
Shooting sticks provide a stable platform for taking accurate shots, especially in uneven terrain. These lightweight, adjustable tools are easy to carry and set up, making them ideal for elk hunting. Whether you prefer monopods, bipods, or tripods, shooting sticks can significantly improve your accuracy and confidence when the moment of truth arrives.
Benefits
- Enhanced shooting stability
- Quick and easy setup
- Lightweight and portable
Notable Brands
- Bog Pod
- Primos
- Vanguard
Explore the best shooting sticks to improve your accuracy in the field.