A207X2
Well-known member
I just turned 65 last month. When I was much younger (teens, early 20's) I used to hunt waterfowl, upland birds, and went on a couple of deer hunts. Went in the USAF, got married and in general life got in the way so I haven't gone hunting (other than occasional upland birds) since then. I've always had the intention of going back to deer hunting, so I purchased a 30-06 rifle for when that time would come, but just too many assignments, moves, kids, school, etc. to be able to do it.
I now have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to go on an elk hunt next year in western Colorado. I'm set as far as a rifle goes, but in terms of field gear the world is a completely new one to me. So my objective here is to learn what people are using (packs, binoculars, spotting scopes, clothing, basic equipment, etc.). I've been an avid camper, and wife and I are now full-timing in our RV (2020 Riverstone 39FK). I went through USAF Survival School (seems like it was 100 years ago) so have a basic knowledge of living in the outdoors. I've started on a workout routine as I'm not physically prepared for the altitude, but also I'll be getting my shoulder repaired (torn bicep tendon, rotator cuff, and labrum) in December. This will be my only chance to get to do this, so I'm prioritizing my next 12 months to that end. I am not going to miss this opportunity.
We spend our time between SW Florida and N. Georgia (currently in Blairsville, GA on Lake Nottely).
- Jim
I now have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to go on an elk hunt next year in western Colorado. I'm set as far as a rifle goes, but in terms of field gear the world is a completely new one to me. So my objective here is to learn what people are using (packs, binoculars, spotting scopes, clothing, basic equipment, etc.). I've been an avid camper, and wife and I are now full-timing in our RV (2020 Riverstone 39FK). I went through USAF Survival School (seems like it was 100 years ago) so have a basic knowledge of living in the outdoors. I've started on a workout routine as I'm not physically prepared for the altitude, but also I'll be getting my shoulder repaired (torn bicep tendon, rotator cuff, and labrum) in December. This will be my only chance to get to do this, so I'm prioritizing my next 12 months to that end. I am not going to miss this opportunity.
We spend our time between SW Florida and N. Georgia (currently in Blairsville, GA on Lake Nottely).
- Jim
I'm almost 65 myself and went on my first elk hunt ten years ago. I assumed it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity but fell in love with the mountains, meadows and dark timber....so this fall will be my sixth time elk hunting. Going with experienced friends will help your learning curve - especially once an elk is down. Enjoy the preparation, savor the experience, and consider yourself blessed to have the opportunity.
