Field Dressing Essentials

If you plan to succeed, you’re a step ahead of the other hunters any day. Part of a successful hunter’s plan should include the basics of field dressing, as well as a hunt kit that includes the tools you’ll need in the event of success.First, pack a good hunting knife. Whether you choose a fixed or folding blade is up to you, but experts agree you should pick a knife you’re comfortable using and bring along a stone to sharpen it. You’ll need this to make incisions in the animal for field dressing – it will come in handy for skinning as well. The second thing you’ll need is a lightweight saw. There are plenty of options here, including the folding variety, but the key again is finding a tool you’re comfortable with and can wield with confidence in the field. The saw will be used to remove antlers and split the brisket. Finally, consider bringing along a lightweight hatchet or axe – some experts recommend a pair of hatchets. A good hatchet is useful if you’re going after bigger game as quartering an elk is no easy task, so you may as well be tooled up for the job.