I'm a fisherman trying to get into hunting. I've been watching many of your videos lately and I really appreciate your channel. There's is so much to learn. You=No corporate bs. Thank you.
I carry a shovel, Pulaski, chain saw(everything that goes with it), torq wrench, spare lug nuts, tire repair kit, a little ryobi air compressor, sockets, wrenches, vice grips, all the kinds of pliers, every kind of screwdriver, toe strap, a little 2 ton jack, 2 different tire irons, coolent, oil, w-d 40, power streering fluid, transmission fluid, bungee cords, tie downs, all the kinds of tape, breaker bar, chocker cable, 5 feet of chain, tire chains, come along, flashlight, zip ties, super glue, mallet(I’ve had flat tires that wouldn’t come off the hub) hammer, a couple pair of leather gloves, a little gas can, starting fluid, a couple of lighters, jumper cables, jumper box, spare serpentine belt and a gallon of water. That seems like a lot but it all fits in my tool box on my little ford ranger.. I also keep a little tool box in the cab. Just need some of those sweet seat covers!! I’ve had people call me for help and I’ve had everything that they’ve needed. My husband says I go a little overboard but I hunt in western Montana. You just never know!
A trick my late grandpa taught me.... If you find your truck buried in deep sloppy mud or deep ruts and not an anchor for your winch- short pieces of 2x4,2x6, or even 4x4 lumber cut roughly 30" long or so...and use nylon cycle ratchet straps to your wheels, makes excellent "paddles" to help get you to solid ground. True, you can only move the truck's wheels in the amount of rotation allowed from inner fender to inner fender - so going will be slow but they do work wonders. There are examples on RUclips of it.
After I got out of the military, I’ve always kept a few mre’s, blanket, first aid kid and tourniquet in my truck while hunting in Arizona and Wyoming. Somehow my friends like to forget to bring lunch! So they’ve come in handy and they’re great for emergencies.
Living in the high sierras has taught me to carry a towel to dry off, a beanie for warmth, and snow googles for when doing anything outside my truck in blowing snow. Keeps me from squinting. Enjoy your videos. Subscribed.
I carry all that and more. Hunt Northern Maine logging roads in and out . Also Northwest Ontario, I've been 60 miles back on logging roads with no one else. Chains all 4 tires , have a 10,000 lb winch Quick connect front and rear receivers for winch a must. 3 five gallon fuel cans , fill them beginning of season they are not used unless its emergency. , 2 shovels, axe, maul, sledgehammer, 5' pry bar , tire repair kit, compressor, 3 ton floor jack , tow chains , straps , wire rope choker , have a tub with propane stove , canned food , soups , extra water . , also carry a sleeping bag and pillow in a tub . Still a lot I didn't mention. I can stay in my truck for a week or 2 if stuck very comfortable until I'm found
I also carry a spool of light wire wrapped around a handful of 8p nails. Too many uses to list here. I also carry a couple of emergency flares. Living in the coastal PNW a flare will get a fire going in any conditions. Love your clips. Keep them up.
I always carry a tool kit. With metric and standard wrenches and sockets and few sizes that are common in multiples because we all set down wrenches and leave them. And extra fluids
All great items. A couple of things I've found handy when far away from civilization: spare serpentine belt, an extra thermostat, and a spare jug of anti-freeze. Cheers!
Two items I can add to your already stellar video is paracord and a tarp. I've used my tarp for some of the most off the wall situations from pulling it out on Halloween night for my brother to use in a haunted house, to making a random shelter for the ol' lady and I to spend a night in the woods.
I keep a Trauma kit / first aid kit in my truck. I also keep a small saw and a full size axe. And of course a tool kit. Here where I live the wind is always blowing so safety glasses is a must.
I love the Cooper AT3’s too. Just need to keep them rotated & balanced every 5,000 miles. I’ve put ~50,000 miles on the 3 sets I’ve had. Road noise as Randy said is minimal and they do great in sand, mud, snow, etc...
A friend of mine built in drawers for the bed of his truck. When it's locked, and tailgate up, the guns are completely safe for long trips and stay out of the way of those in back seat, which is especially good when kids occupy those seats. On top of the drawers is a solid floor, with plenty of volume remaining inside topper.
my setup is very similar only on a dodge personal preference drive what you like it's nice to hear someone say the truck is a tool not all about looking pretty
Yep Yep, I got pretty much the same except only one spare and no snow chains we don't have your rocks or snow, plus machete, dutch oven, neck pillow, fleece blanket, always have the blue 5 gallon water that just tips over and you have your running water spout, skinning knives and sharpeners, 12volt to ac converter led light bulb and clamp light. butane stove. Pretty much if I get stuck in the woods I could live out my truck for a while. I am a big fan of ARE also, I have the tounoe(sp) cover.
I frequently pull trailers. I make sure to keep extra fuses and light bulbs in my trucks. I also keep a 2x12 wood block to use under my hi lift Jack in mud.
I have lots of 1- gallon zip locks with various items. Various batteries, backup tp and individual wetwipes, few head lamps scattered, couple stoves, lighters and fire starters, fuel canisters, cheap orange vest, zip-ties, aspirin/pills. Also a rescue strap and inverter. Extra sleeping bag, Carhart bibs, scoop shovel and fire extinguisher.
I always carry a chainsaw and axe in my tool box. Chainsaw to cut blowdown/firewood and axe to split firewood and cut your saw out of the tree that inevitably will bind your bar up.
I'm a forester, and I had to learn that one through experience. Ugh. Thanks for the great hunting videos also. Helps me get through the last bit of winter until turkey season!
Ditto on the chainsaw and logging family. I also always have fusees, if along the side of the road at night, and to use to start a fire, especially if it's wet or snowy.
Don't need the axe to get the saw out of the tree. Carry a spare bar and chain like you always should. Take off the side cover, remove powerhead from stuck bar, mount spare bar and chain and you can unstuck your original bar.
I carry a couple of flashlights/headlamps as well, so I also have extra batteries for them. A small tarp is something I always end up using. I tend to want to have everything in my vehicles, so I have to limit what I leave in the truck.
Randy, I love your shows. I just realized on my Georgia hunt just last week, that it's good to have 4 extra long double looped tow straps in case someone can't get too close to your truck and getting stuck in the same muck. Plus I had a 12 ft.tandem axle trailer with a Polaris 4wheeler and gear on the trailer.
My truck gear is similar to yours, with the addition of a couple tool kits. Sockets/ratchets/hammer in one ammo can, wrenches/pliers/screwdrivers in another, and a tire repair can containing a viair compressor, spare valve stems, plugs, and vice grips for pulling whatever is in the tire, out. I also keep a fire bucket in the truck when I head into the bush. I live and hunt in a rainforest, so firestarting can be a challenge. I have a 5 gallon drywall mud pail with an old litre oil bottle of gas/diesel mix, a phone book (most compact supply of paper tinder going!), and a bunch of pre-split cedar kindling, and a hatchet.
Others have mentioned most things, but... test the air compressor before you need it. If it plugs into the cigarette lighter it might fry the fusible link directly behind the lighter socket which means taking the dash apart to replace it, which was a pita, and you still have the flat to deal with. After frying the fusible link on both power points in my truck, I cut the plug off and wired on alligator style clamps to go directly to the battery. Also I bought the First Responder version on the high jack, the difference is the base. It swivels and has sides/ edges that grip 4x4's or dig into the ground. WAY more stable and secure, worth it in my book. hi-lift.com/first-responder-jack/ I also carry battery powered emergency warring lights instead of traditional road flares.The burn time of the road flares was only 12-15 mins. the battery ones are cheap (costco, etc..) and last long enough, both in use and in storage with decent AAA batteries. Keep up the good work, I've enjoyed learning a few things from your videos.
A hidden magnetic spare key box under the truck with a working spare key might save the day at some point. Fumbling through gear and pockets in the field, especially in a hectic situation can cause your keys to go missing. Put the key or fob in a plastic bag to protect it from the elements while under the truck.
one thing I take with me on a long trip or up in the mountain is a cordless impact and a socket set with a extra battery. if you have a inverter you can take the charger and charge batteries, this is a great option to work smart not harder.
great stuff randy. A couple suggested add ons: First is the new battery packs for jump starting. You can do away with the jumper cables, and the battery pack serves as spare power for charging items as well as provide AC or DC power, and has a small LED flash light as well. The one I carry is the Noco Genius Boost, and I have two sizes. The smallest one stays with the ATV (it has smaller clamps for getting into the tight battery compartments. The second one stays with the truck. I came back from a hunt one day, got back to the trailhead to find my trucks battery was completely dead! Nobody passing by to get a jump start from. With the battery pack, I now have spare power if needed to get my truck started!! Second item is a compressor to go with the tire plug kit...LOL. A first aid kit always stays in the truck. Oh...and a replacement serpentine belt just in case, along with the necessary tool kit
Both good comments that others have brought up. I have been offered battery packs from many companies. Just didn't know if they were a gimmick or if they actually worked. Feedback on this video tells me I should take the offer from one of those companies and add to my rig. I had a spare serpentine belt in one of my previous rigs, but when I traded it, I failed to grab the spare. Good reminder to go get one and have it there.
I carry a large first aid kit half is for ouches cuts scrapes. The other half is my oh shit kit, it’s one big bad inside the kit that’s for stuff like car wrecks, massive wounds, gunshot wounds. Then I carry tools to do small repairs on equipment to get me back as well as about two days worth of freeze dried food just incase I can’t get out of the boonies and need to hike out.
I am now running a Nissan Xterra since my Toyota Tundra got squished by a tree earlier during elk season. I've had to become more creative on space management. But I still carry a First Aid Kit, flashlight and headlamp, a machete(Woodsman's Pal type) instead of an ax, a hatchet, folding shovel, snow shovel, and at least 2 gallons of water during any road trip. I also carry a fire extinguisher, tools, a USAF survival knife, Battery charger/compressor, and a can of bear spray. The dog has her own water bottle, leashes, a bed for the back seat, and a blaze orange vest that has LED lights for night. I have a come along, tow strap, bungee cords, gorilla tape, electricians tape, etc. and all of the "usual" tools. Winter time I have a set of snowshoes and I always have trekking poles. Probably will get a set of chains but they are spendy!
A small air compressor is a life saver. A somewhat larger one with a tank is even better. I had one mounted under the hood of my Jeep, great for airing up after running a trail. I also keep fluids for everything my vehicle takes as well as starting fluid to re-seat a tire bead.
I have a 2500 Watt inverter in my truck with a receptacle wired on the back bumper and in the bed. I haul a 9 cuft freezer either in the bed or on a homemade hitch hauler. I can power the freezer while the truck is running. No longer have to worry about finding ice.
Cobra Jumpack (jump start your truck without needing another vehicle) $100 or so. You might also consider an O-Light flashlight with a magnetic base. High lumens if needed, but the ability to mount under the hood can be helpful for a hands-free lighting need. Another thing to consider would be some kind of compact blanket. I recently picked up the Kelty "Bestie" Blanket. It stores in a small stuff-sack and is very warm for only $23. Beats running the truck all night if you find yourself sleeping in the cab sometime.
I was never a big accessory guy. But a buddy had a sick lightbar on his front bumper. My headlights suck and I've since got a lightbar and it's been awesome! Great for trails at night, illuminating a wide area, or lonely long country roads with too many deer. Also window tint! Regulates internal vehicle temp better of parked car and keeps curious people from seeing your expensive stuff
A winch system that is versatile and has worked many years for me involves having the winch mounted to a winch carrier. I use the Warn system. All of my hunting rigs have a 2" receiver installed front and back of the vehicle. I usually carry the winch inside my pickup, if there’s room, to keep it out of salt, sand, and water. If space is limited, I just put it on the front using a locking hitch pin. I can move the winch to the front or back of my vehicle as needed, or to any friend’s rig that has a 2" receiver. It requires carrying a short and long attachment cable.
Zip straps, the bigger the better, and the more the merrier. They can be life savers. I had my front bumper cowling half torn off getting out of a bad spot. Zip. Fixed. Rollout awning on camping trailer failed, would not latch properly back to the trailer when retracted. Zip zip zip (but 36" zip ties!). And fuses of all size and stripe for your own vehicle and I carry extras for friends and possibly out of luck strangers.
Always keep a roll of rescue tape in the truck. It's a silicone tape that if you bust a radiator hose or other line of sorts, you just wrap it real tight and make multiple passes over itself and it will completely seal and withstand iirc about 500psi. Makes the difference between the truck sitting on a mountain road 40 miles from anywhere because of a busted hose or being able to drive it to a shop.
Dual battery system. I have two Odyssey batteries that utilize a Blue Sea Systems management switch to keep both batteries charged on my Tacoma. One battery is devoted to running any type of electrical accessories (all managed by a SwitchPro solid state switch bank), and the other just runs the OEM side of the truck. Basically I can jump myself if need be and I have plenty of juice to run any other gizmos attached to the truck (air compressors, power inverters, etc.).
Great video! Always pays to be prepared, roadside assistance won't be coming if the truck dies out in the woods. Regarding things to add: My Number #1 is to have a schedule and emergency protocols to be left with a couple of close friends or loved ones, this also includes checking in every few days with your contacts to update them on changes or problems. Basically, if you miss a checkpoint people will know where to start looking. This is absolutely important for multi-day expeditions outside your local area. A friend's father got lost in Montana for 8 days, no one was looking for him the first 4 and even after searching began, no one knew where to start. He finally found his way out of the woods, in Idaho about 100 miles from where he started! Tell people where you will be, when you will be back, and at what point someone should call for search and rescue. Don't become a person on the 411 list! First Aid Kit is my #2. You want to have enough supplies to take care of everything up to a non-lethal gunshot wound (ie, plug the hole and stop the bleeding until you can get to a hospital). Don't just by one of those dinky kits at Cabela's, those are for hikers. Make a full list of supplies (including medications you need to take) and put them in a dedicated container along with a list of supplies. Update this kit before every hunting season and keep it stocked. My #3 is to learn your vehicle. You should know how your vehicle handles, what it's limits are, and the recommended maintenance schedule. You should also have a log or journal of maintenance procedures kept in the glove compartment and updated every time something is cleaned, fixed, or replaced. Most people who buy a car or a truck know next to nothing about their vehicle. It's actually kinda sad to think that some people will drop $30k on a vehicle (or more) and then proceed to ignore even the most basic of maintenance (like oil changes). If the manual says change oil every 3k miles then follow that schedule. Some (like my teenage self) equate 3k with 10k. Knowing your vehicle also helps you sniff out a crooked mechanic or dealership. And besides all that, knowing what goes wrong with your rig out in the woods is imperative if you plan to fix any issues. Those are the three big ones EVERYONE should have/do if you are on a multiday expedition. Besides that, there are other things people should think about having: >>>Electrical fuses. They blow all the time and bypassing them is risky in modern vehicles (solid state electrics). Have 2 of every amperage you would need (5-50 amps). >>>Spare fluids. The video mentions water, but it's just as important to have oil, transmission fluid, coolant (or a dedicated supply of water to the radiator), and spare gasoline in a jerry can. You'll want these if a hose gets punctured, engine overheats, tranny starts to leak, oil gasket starts to leak or you take a wrong turn an burn up 20% of your gas tank. >>>Tire sealant. In addition to two spare tires, I'd recommend some type of tire sealant. A couple bottles of these effectively give you two more chances to get out of the woods assuming the puncture isn't too big. These pretty much ruin the inside of the tire, but in an emergency it's a savior. >>>Complete tool kit to change tires and make minor repairs. Think about the basic tools you'd need to keep a truck running in the woods and bring those tools with. Aside from the tire wrench and jack, they all should be able to fit into a small/medium sized toolbox. >>>Maps, Compass, Emergency/Weather radio. People rely far too much on GPS and continuous internet service. In the woods these items don't work very well. You need to know how to navigate without any electrical aids and a weather radio can give you fair warning about developing storms. >>>Flares. Bring both the flare-gun type and the roadside type. If you blow a tire on the interstate at night, having a road flare with is a great safety measure. If you do get stuck, lost or stranded, flare guns are the #1 way to flag down search and rescue. In the woods a helicopter likely won't even spot your rig let alone your flailing arms so bring something with that can draw attention. >>>Hand/foot warmers. If you get stuck in snow during the winter, a few packs of these can keep blood moving in your hands and feet, enabling you to continue making repairs or walk out if you have to. >>>Flashlight(s). Always have a couple flashlights and a spare set of batteries handy. You get stuck or break down in the dark you'll need to be able to see. Modern LED flashlights are light, and last for a long time. >>>Spare key hidden on truck. Make a couple of spare keys and put them in magnetic slide boxes, then attach those boxes somewhere that's accessible. If you get locked out or lose your keys while hunting you'll be happy to at least be able to get inside the truck. I'd also hid a spare key fob somewhere on the inside of the truck as well, maybe duct taped to the underside of the back seat or something. None of these things take much time or money, and certainly won't eat up a bunch of space in a large vehicle like a truck or SUV. I also reject the notion that these things are overkill for an expedition in the wilderness, quite to the contrary these things are practical and important when an accident or stroke of bad luck threatens to ruin your trip. The name of the game is to get out into the wilderness, bag the game you came for, and make it back in one piece. In theory, that's easy. But throw in bad weather, a broken leg, a broken vehicle, getting lost, attacked by an animal, or accidentally shot and you'll be needing most of the equipment above. Your rig is your life line and should be treated as such.
Appreciate all your videos randy! I have had a titan since 2012 great truck has taken me down many roads most would be nervous to take a side by side. I carry a peak battery charger, ease of mind if you or your hunting buddy leave the key turned over charging phones, gps, etc. works great and can get more then one jump before recharge is needed, find them at menards for $60 range. Second I always carry a small tool set with some metric and standard. Third I have a hide a key, which you probably do also but don't show for obvious reasons.
I have a couple of Ziploc storage boxes. They have latches and are gasketed..... keeping dust out. Good for keeping spare clothing, jackets, or items you don't want to get dusty.
Small trauma kit. Not only could you save someone’s life in a car accident, someone could save yours by you having it. Especially going out into the woods so much so far away from help. I also keep a pair of leather man raptors handy and a Fox ALSR folder under my dashboard. May seem like overkill but I saw a guy get hit off his bike by a car once, thank God he didn’t need anything major from us but I was thankful to have it just in case.
Someone else already mentioned it but a fire extinguisher is a good idea. Also a rear differential locker is very handy. Tacomas with the TRD package come stock with them. I've used mine a few times hunting and it has saved me from digging snow and putting on chains.
I won't own a truck that does not have a locking rear diff, which is why a Tundra is off my list of trucks. I've used my so many times. I don't understand why Toyota puts a locker on the stock Tacoma and the 4Runner, but not the Tundra. I talked to some engineers about how the Tundra Locking Slip Differential works, and concluded I want power in those instances, not a computer locking and releasing. Maybe that will change with future releases, but to your point, if a truck needs and after-market read diff locker, I'm looking elsewhere.
hey bud. colorado Hunter here. I always carry electric spry and degreaser on me in the truck. a good wrench kit and adapter screw bit kit. if you end up clogging some sensors or a bolt came loose in the engine or under carriage, I'm able to get it fixed on the spot.
Randy, look into adding a 12v air compressor. Something like the Puma pd1006 is a great piece of kit to add; that along with a quality plug kit could easily replace your second spare tire. As well as giving you the ability to take a little air out of the tires which will help with punctures, traction and with the ride on those endless washboarded roads.
I always have several ways to start fire a sleeping bag and blankets. A cheap tarp can keep you dry while fixing things and knee pads for those middle of the night repairs
I carry an ax and a silky saw, along with my shovel because I’ve had to saw a tree that had fallen across the road and blocked it during a storm. When I pulled up there were three other cars already blocked. It wasn’t a huge tree but big enough to block the road. Guess who looked like the hero when I pulled up and went to work with my saw? Within 5 minutes I had the tree cut enough so that me and another guy were able to clear it out of the road enough for us to pass. A good idea to have. It’s one of those better to have and not need items.
Randy, get yourself a portable car jump starter battery. They're pretty small and can jumpstart your car multiple times on a full charge. Saved me so many times because I travel solo.
Oldranger-Randy I'm New to Elk hunting...So your videos have been like a first class community college curriculum. Thanks for you service to others. Old Army Ranger saying "It's better to have and not need it than Need it and Not have it." 2nd truth "The first report is always wrong...separate facts from assumptions, before making a decision."
Already been mentioned, but i always carry an axe, specifically a medium sized, 26-inch Husky Forest Axe. Between that an a come-a-long or two straps, i can usually get around debris that may have gotten in the roadway. Glad to hear about the ARE topper, Randy. I just put one (my first) on my Ram to camp out of for next weeks Nebraska Whitetail Rifle opener. Great Vid! Reminded me i need to pack my jumper cables and tow strap
I hunt the rainforests of SW WA and after changing a flat in the pouring down rain once, I never leave home without a sheet of plastic or a small tarp to lay on/kneel on to change a flat!
Really enjoying your videos. My brother and I are planning our first public land elk hunk and learning a lot. As for my truck, I keep a flash light and knife in both doors. A map of the area, my garmin (which i mount straight ahead of me like a HUD), and binoculars on the dash. Duct tape, bailing wire, and lava soap under a seat. A small high output air compressor under the other seat. A first aid kit, fire starting options, and water under the back seat. Of course a tow strap, a come along, a shovel, and an axe in back. Because of witnessing a couple pretty nasty wrecks recently, I've added a benchmark webbing cutter to both front seat belts so they are where you need they when you need them. To be honest thats the tip of the iceberg, as my friends call my truck the "mary poppins" truck. Keep the great videos coming and you are always welcome at our fire anytime.
I've noticed. For me most of the hunting I've grown up doing in Texas hasn't required my to carry much of a pack or be far from the truck. Getting a good pack is on the to do list in the next couple weeks.
only one thing missing i see ; a good 12volt air compressor . i have similar i carry regularly because i cut home firewood . other than than , GREAT list. might recommend a Black Jack tire repair kit , but at least you do have one . your tire recommendation excellent . went thru that problem 10 years ago ; everyday off road , punctured a tire with brush stems .
I use big spent whey protein powder tubs to store chains, straps, hitches, etc in. In addition to enhanced organization, I don't have a topper and the tubs keep the chains and straps from getting wet or iced into the bed of the truck.
My Nissan Titan here in Teton County dumps out about the same. I add a full size double bitted axe to clear trees in places like the Grey's River country- we've had a lot of beetle kill here. One of those emergency batteries with an air compressor. Trailer light adapter is VERY handy. My only bellyache is the automatic transmission. And you have a hard time finding a manual these days.
I always carry different length bungee cords, they are easy to use to tie things down. I also carry a machete, a small axe and a emergency flashlight that flashes red in case of emergencies.
A roll of safety wire is great for roadside repairs and unlike duct tape and zip ties it can be used in high heat areas i.e. You damage your exhaust on a rough trail
Being a bit of a blade junkie, I keep a cheap fixed blade in my center console. It's been through a roadkill doe and black bear in the off season, just the other day it sorted through a cottontail on the side of the road. Obviously it has a ton more uses as well. I'm also a fan of the not having to meddle with my pack while I'm on the road, so I like your idea of having an extra headlamp, snack bars and TP in the truck.
I always have a very well stocked first aid kit that stays in my truck at all times. a small folding hand saw and a hatchet. and some medium gauge wire ( bailing wire ) just in case.
the small power packs work great just have to check the charge every couple months but are alot more useful than jumper cables when back country because the cables don't do you any good if there isn't some one to give you a jump thanks for the videos love the channel.
I have the same winch and now run a dual battery set up. I have two optima odyssey batteries that are only and inch or so larger than a regular battery so they fit in the same bay. I run a dual batter current control system from Painless Performance.
I learned this hunting season on an unmarked two track in New Mexico an extra battery is worth the money. I have seen some guys make mounts for a spare battery under the bed of the pickup.
I always have a tool bag with general hand tools and I carry a 10lb liquid CO2 bottle with regulator so I can fill tires wherever and run air tools from it.
I carry an ax under my seat along with a pencil flare kit. also have a jumper pack that has in air compressor in it since I'm not always near other people
Max trax or an off brand version are the quickest way to get myself or someone else unstuck. I also always bring two shovels because when you are with your buddy it takes half the time to dig the truck back out.
I always keep the Hayes [or Chiltons] repair book for my truck in my truck tool bag. I've had to reference it a few times when out & away from a signal. Great stuff Randy, Thanks.
I carry a battery operated impact driver to make those side of the road tire changes a little quicker. There is nothing worse then dealing with that at night in 2 to 3 feet of snow. I am one that doesn't like to hang on the side of the road to long especially at night for too long.
Traffic triangles for when you pull off the side of a road or highway for a tire repair or something along those lines allows other drivers to know something is ahead
Check out the national luna dual battery system. It helps during long pulls with the winch and you can just start your own rig from in the cab if you leave light or the key on.
combination power suppy/ commpressor . Ive been able to fill up a couple other folks tires so they can limp to the tire place. Saves you some time form getting durty...
you need a remote magnetic spot light! WAY more useful than a light bar. i was towing some other trucks out during a winter storm and it is nice to be able to put the light anywhere on the truck (hood,roof,cab door, trailer...whatever) light bars look cool but these project as much light and are useful in all directions. i dont use a camper top.. the spot light helps see all my gear in the back at night too
I ALWAYS carry a few pieces of firewood and like 2x6 or 2x8 lumber. They can be just a few feet long each they don’t have to be full pieces. They can be a great help when you get stuck in mud and need to put something under the tires to help it get traction. Also if you get stuck on your undercarriage you can use those to build up a ramp to get you back up and out of the gully. Many uses. I once helped a deputy sheriff who had driven into a driveway which was about 10 inches higher than the ground on one side. His back left tire slipped off the driveway and was just hanging there he was sitting on his axle. I put the wood under his tire like a ramp and he was able to just back up and pull back onto the driveway. Plus If you really need firewood you already have some
Blanket, Lifestraw, small air compressor and an extra pair of clean boot socks! othwise I got just about everything else you named in my truck. Guess that's what I get for growing up out west. :)
Helpful video. Thanks. You are very prepared, but I am surprised you did not also have a roadside emergency kit, and flares or some signaling device to warn other drivers in case you had (or stopped at) an accident or roadside breakdown.
I guy can go bonkers outfitting his rig. Before you know it, you've bogged yourself down with 4000lbs of gear before you've even started your load out. Something that I've been taking with me (and actually never used) for quite a while is a shake light. No batteries required. They don't put out much light but they're far better than having no light at all when you're really in a pinch. Also...great choice in tire. The Cooper AT3 has severed me well over the years. They stand up to the sand and gravel of off road travel without sacrificing ride quality or excessive noise on the pavement. I pretty consistently get 40k or more per set and I spend a LOT of time on sand/gravel roads.
“...Flat over a cigarette butt...” So true / classic comment ! In fact, all can relate that Manufactures in general go cheap in terms of tires and considering the cost if vehicles there should be more option at time of purchase or some type of credit when many pull stock tires just days after purchase.
Always great stuff Randy. If you're like me and don't have a toolbox in your bed, a ratcheting cargo bar helps a bunch with those loose items you've got there.
Good idea. I'll look at that. We are normally stacked to the top with coolers, cases for cameras, and other gear, so there is little room for things to move around.
I got front and rear hitch with a portable 10,000# warn wench really nice if u get front end under the mud or up against something just throw it in the rear hitch.
I agree on the Cooper AT3's. On the other hand, my Frontier came with Kelly Safari all terrains. Will NEVER own a pair of those again. Suck in the wet and snow. Replaced them with the Cooper's. "Buy a truck to use it". A man after my own heart. :)
I'm a fisherman trying to get into hunting. I've been watching many of your videos lately and I really appreciate your channel. There's is so much to learn. You=No corporate bs. Thank you.
I carry a shovel, Pulaski, chain saw(everything that goes with it), torq wrench, spare lug nuts, tire repair kit, a little ryobi air compressor, sockets, wrenches, vice grips, all the kinds of pliers, every kind of screwdriver, toe strap, a little 2 ton jack, 2 different tire irons, coolent, oil, w-d 40, power streering fluid, transmission fluid, bungee cords, tie downs, all the kinds of tape, breaker bar, chocker cable, 5 feet of chain, tire chains, come along, flashlight, zip ties, super glue, mallet(I’ve had flat tires that wouldn’t come off the hub) hammer, a couple pair of leather gloves, a little gas can, starting fluid, a couple of lighters, jumper cables, jumper box, spare serpentine belt and a gallon of water. That seems like a lot but it all fits in my tool box on my little ford ranger.. I also keep a little tool box in the cab. Just need some of those sweet seat covers!! I’ve had people call me for help and I’ve had everything that they’ve needed. My husband says I go a little overboard but I hunt in western Montana. You just never know!
A trick my late grandpa taught me.... If you find your truck buried in deep sloppy mud or deep ruts and not an anchor for your winch- short pieces of 2x4,2x6, or even 4x4 lumber cut roughly 30" long or so...and use nylon cycle ratchet straps to your wheels, makes excellent "paddles" to help get you to solid ground. True, you can only move the truck's wheels in the amount of rotation allowed from inner fender to inner fender - so going will be slow but they do work wonders. There are examples on RUclips of it.
After I got out of the military, I’ve always kept a few mre’s, blanket, first aid kid and tourniquet in my truck while hunting in Arizona and Wyoming. Somehow my friends like to forget to bring lunch! So they’ve come in handy and they’re great for emergencies.
Living in the high sierras has taught me to carry a towel to dry off, a beanie for warmth, and snow googles for when doing anything outside my truck in blowing snow. Keeps me from squinting.
Enjoy your videos. Subscribed.
small air compressor is a must
agreed, was going to put that myself.
Yep!!! And a can of fix a flat if you wind up at an angle where it's not safe to use any jack.
Either one on a battery-powered drill or the type that plugs into the lighter
Built in under the hood i got one in my wrangler u wont believe how many times i used it for various reasons
I'd combine it with a tire reamer and flat fix kit as well, know how to change a stem too.
I carry all that and more. Hunt Northern Maine logging roads in and out . Also Northwest Ontario, I've been 60 miles back on logging roads with no one else. Chains all 4 tires , have a 10,000 lb winch Quick connect front and rear receivers for winch a must. 3 five gallon fuel cans , fill them beginning of season they are not used unless its emergency. , 2 shovels, axe, maul, sledgehammer, 5' pry bar , tire repair kit, compressor, 3 ton floor jack , tow chains , straps , wire rope choker , have a tub with propane stove , canned food , soups , extra water . , also carry a sleeping bag and pillow in a tub . Still a lot I didn't mention. I can stay in my truck for a week or 2 if stuck very comfortable until I'm found
Spot on sir. one thing I always take is a fully charged jump pack. Cold weather does bad things to batteries after a few days even if they are new.
I also carry a spool of light wire wrapped around a handful of 8p nails. Too many uses to list here. I also carry a couple of emergency flares. Living in the coastal PNW a flare will get a fire going in any conditions. Love your clips. Keep them up.
I always carry a tool kit. With metric and standard wrenches and sockets and few sizes that are common in multiples because we all set down wrenches and leave them. And extra fluids
All great items. A couple of things I've found handy when far away from civilization: spare serpentine belt, an extra thermostat, and a spare jug of anti-freeze. Cheers!
Two items I can add to your already stellar video is paracord and a tarp. I've used my tarp for some of the most off the wall situations from pulling it out on Halloween night for my brother to use in a haunted house, to making a random shelter for the ol' lady and I to spend a night in the woods.
I keep a Trauma kit / first aid kit in my truck. I also keep a small saw and a full size axe. And of course a tool kit. Here where I live the wind is always blowing so safety glasses is a must.
Randy, thanks for not only supporting "made-in-USA" products, but also Montana companies! Cheers!
I love the Cooper AT3’s too. Just need to keep them rotated & balanced every 5,000 miles. I’ve put ~50,000 miles on the 3 sets I’ve had. Road noise as Randy said is minimal and they do great in sand, mud, snow, etc...
A friend of mine built in drawers for the bed of his truck. When it's locked, and tailgate up, the guns are completely safe for long trips and stay out of the way of those in back seat, which is especially good when kids occupy those seats. On top of the drawers is a solid floor, with plenty of volume remaining inside topper.
my setup is very similar only on a dodge personal preference drive what you like it's nice to hear someone say the truck is a tool not all about looking pretty
Yep Yep, I got pretty much the same except only one spare and no snow chains we don't have your rocks or snow, plus machete, dutch oven, neck pillow, fleece blanket, always have the blue 5 gallon water that just tips over and you have your running water spout, skinning knives and sharpeners, 12volt to ac converter led light bulb and clamp light. butane stove. Pretty much if I get stuck in the woods I could live out my truck for a while. I am a big fan of ARE also, I have the tounoe(sp) cover.
an auxiliary fuel tank with an electronic valve switch. no stopping at gas stations just hit the switch and keep on rolling
I frequently pull trailers. I make sure to keep extra fuses and light bulbs in my trucks. I also keep a 2x12 wood block to use under my hi lift Jack in mud.
I have lots of 1- gallon zip locks with various items. Various batteries, backup tp and individual wetwipes, few head lamps scattered, couple stoves, lighters and fire starters, fuel canisters, cheap orange vest, zip-ties, aspirin/pills. Also a rescue strap and inverter. Extra sleeping bag, Carhart bibs, scoop shovel and fire extinguisher.
Hmm. Fire extinguisher. Never thought of that. Many of those items I have in my pack, which is always in my truck.
I also keep extra blankets in the backseat. If you get stuck in snow and can't get out, you can sleep in the truck and not freeze to death.
A really good first aid kits is a must!
I always carry a chainsaw and axe in my tool box. Chainsaw to cut blowdown/firewood and axe to split firewood and cut your saw out of the tree that inevitably will bind your bar up.
Coming from a logging family, that comment rings so true. Laughing.
I'm a forester, and I had to learn that one through experience. Ugh. Thanks for the great hunting videos also. Helps me get through the last bit of winter until turkey season!
Ditto on the chainsaw and logging family. I also always have fusees, if along the side of the road at night, and to use to start a fire, especially if it's wet or snowy.
Amen to that brother
Don't need the axe to get the saw out of the tree. Carry a spare bar and chain like you always should. Take off the side cover, remove powerhead from stuck bar, mount spare bar and chain and you can unstuck your original bar.
I carry a couple of flashlights/headlamps as well, so I also have extra batteries for them. A small tarp is something I always end up using. I tend to want to have everything in my vehicles, so I have to limit what I leave in the truck.
Randy, I love your shows. I just realized on my Georgia hunt just last week, that it's good to have 4 extra long double looped tow straps in case someone can't get too close to your truck and getting stuck in the same muck. Plus I had a 12 ft.tandem axle trailer with a Polaris 4wheeler and gear on the trailer.
My truck gear is similar to yours, with the addition of a couple tool kits. Sockets/ratchets/hammer in one ammo can, wrenches/pliers/screwdrivers in another, and a tire repair can containing a viair compressor, spare valve stems, plugs, and vice grips for pulling whatever is in the tire, out. I also keep a fire bucket in the truck when I head into the bush. I live and hunt in a rainforest, so firestarting can be a challenge. I have a 5 gallon drywall mud pail with an old litre oil bottle of gas/diesel mix, a phone book (most compact supply of paper tinder going!), and a bunch of pre-split cedar kindling, and a hatchet.
Others have mentioned most things, but... test the air compressor before you need it.
If it plugs into the cigarette lighter it might fry the fusible link directly behind the lighter socket which means taking the dash apart to replace it, which was a pita, and you still have the flat to deal with. After frying the fusible link on both power points in my truck, I cut the plug off and wired on alligator style clamps to go directly to the battery.
Also I bought the First Responder version on the high jack, the difference is the base.
It swivels and has sides/ edges that grip 4x4's or dig into the ground. WAY more stable and secure, worth it in my book. hi-lift.com/first-responder-jack/
I also carry battery powered emergency warring lights instead of traditional road flares.The burn time of the road flares was only 12-15 mins. the battery ones are cheap (costco, etc..) and last long enough, both in use and in storage with decent AAA batteries.
Keep up the good work, I've enjoyed learning a few things from your videos.
A hidden magnetic spare key box under the truck with a working spare key might save the day at some point. Fumbling through gear and pockets in the field, especially in a hectic situation can cause your keys to go missing. Put the key or fob in a plastic bag to protect it from the elements while under the truck.
one thing I take with me on a long trip or up in the mountain is a cordless impact and a socket set with a extra battery. if you have a inverter you can take the charger and charge batteries, this is a great option to work smart not harder.
Small toolbox? Thinking that would be something handy. I keep one in my suv, my wife's car, and both of my son's vehicles.
I also keep a piece of old carpet in my truck to lay on, to work on anything under my truck. It also save my knees when I'm changing a tire.
A backup pair of boots is always good to have
great stuff randy. A couple suggested add ons: First is the new battery packs for jump starting. You can do away with the jumper cables, and the battery pack serves as spare power for charging items as well as provide AC or DC power, and has a small LED flash light as well. The one I carry is the Noco Genius Boost, and I have two sizes. The smallest one stays with the ATV (it has smaller clamps for getting into the tight battery compartments. The second one stays with the truck. I came back from a hunt one day, got back to the trailhead to find my trucks battery was completely dead! Nobody passing by to get a jump start from. With the battery pack, I now have spare power if needed to get my truck started!! Second item is a compressor to go with the tire plug kit...LOL. A first aid kit always stays in the truck. Oh...and a replacement serpentine belt just in case, along with the necessary tool kit
Both good comments that others have brought up. I have been offered battery packs from many companies. Just didn't know if they were a gimmick or if they actually worked. Feedback on this video tells me I should take the offer from one of those companies and add to my rig.
I had a spare serpentine belt in one of my previous rigs, but when I traded it, I failed to grab the spare. Good reminder to go get one and have it there.
I carry a large first aid kit half is for ouches cuts scrapes. The other half is my oh shit kit, it’s one big bad inside the kit that’s for stuff like car wrecks, massive wounds, gunshot wounds. Then I carry tools to do small repairs on equipment to get me back as well as about two days worth of freeze dried food just incase I can’t get out of the boonies and need to hike out.
I am now running a Nissan Xterra since my Toyota Tundra got squished by a tree earlier during elk season. I've had to become more creative on space management. But I still carry a First Aid Kit, flashlight and headlamp, a machete(Woodsman's Pal type) instead of an ax, a hatchet, folding shovel, snow shovel, and at least 2 gallons of water during any road trip. I also carry a fire extinguisher, tools, a USAF survival knife, Battery charger/compressor, and a can of bear spray. The dog has her own water bottle, leashes, a bed for the back seat, and a blaze orange vest that has LED lights for night. I have a come along, tow strap, bungee cords, gorilla tape, electricians tape, etc. and all of the "usual" tools. Winter time I have a set of snowshoes and I always have trekking poles. Probably will get a set of chains but they are spendy!
A small air compressor is a life saver. A somewhat larger one with a tank is even better. I had one mounted under the hood of my Jeep, great for airing up after running a trail. I also keep fluids for everything my vehicle takes as well as starting fluid to re-seat a tire bead.
I have a 2500 Watt inverter in my truck with a receptacle wired on the back bumper and in the bed. I haul a 9 cuft freezer either in the bed or on a homemade hitch hauler. I can power the freezer while the truck is running. No longer have to worry about finding ice.
Cobra Jumpack (jump start your truck without needing another vehicle) $100 or so. You might also consider an O-Light flashlight with a magnetic base. High lumens if needed, but the ability to mount under the hood can be helpful for a hands-free lighting need. Another thing to consider would be some kind of compact blanket. I recently picked up the Kelty "Bestie" Blanket. It stores in a small stuff-sack and is very warm for only $23. Beats running the truck all night if you find yourself sleeping in the cab sometime.
I was never a big accessory guy. But a buddy had a sick lightbar on his front bumper. My headlights suck and I've since got a lightbar and it's been awesome! Great for trails at night, illuminating a wide area, or lonely long country roads with too many deer. Also window tint! Regulates internal vehicle temp better of parked car and keeps curious people from seeing your expensive stuff
I always keep a 12V air compressor in the vehicle as well as the tire plug kit. Saved me more than once.
Thank you Randy! I run the Decked system and love it. I can carry everything and lock my guns up as well. Stay well sir!!
A winch system that is versatile and has worked many years for me involves having the winch mounted to a winch carrier. I use the Warn system. All of my hunting rigs have a 2" receiver installed front and back of the vehicle. I usually carry the winch inside my pickup, if there’s room, to keep it out of salt, sand, and water. If space is limited, I just put it on the front using a locking hitch pin. I can move the winch to the front or back of my vehicle as needed, or to any friend’s rig that has a 2" receiver. It requires carrying a short and long attachment cable.
I have the set up. Just need to carry it with me. Seems we get too cramped with production gear and sometimes it gets left behind.
Zip straps, the bigger the better, and the more the merrier. They can be life savers. I had my front bumper cowling half torn off getting out of a bad spot. Zip. Fixed. Rollout awning on camping trailer failed, would not latch properly back to the trailer when retracted. Zip zip zip (but 36" zip ties!). And fuses of all size and stripe for your own vehicle and I carry extras for friends and possibly out of luck strangers.
Always keep a roll of rescue tape in the truck. It's a silicone tape that if you bust a radiator hose or other line of sorts, you just wrap it real tight and make multiple passes over itself and it will completely seal and withstand iirc about 500psi. Makes the difference between the truck sitting on a mountain road 40 miles from anywhere because of a busted hose or being able to drive it to a shop.
Dual battery system. I have two Odyssey batteries that utilize a Blue Sea Systems management switch to keep both batteries charged on my Tacoma. One battery is devoted to running any type of electrical accessories (all managed by a SwitchPro solid state switch bank), and the other just runs the OEM side of the truck. Basically I can jump myself if need be and I have plenty of juice to run any other gizmos attached to the truck (air compressors, power inverters, etc.).
Great video! Always pays to be prepared, roadside assistance won't be coming if the truck dies out in the woods. Regarding things to add:
My Number #1 is to have a schedule and emergency protocols to be left with a couple of close friends or loved ones, this also includes checking in every few days with your contacts to update them on changes or problems. Basically, if you miss a checkpoint people will know where to start looking. This is absolutely important for multi-day expeditions outside your local area. A friend's father got lost in Montana for 8 days, no one was looking for him the first 4 and even after searching began, no one knew where to start. He finally found his way out of the woods, in Idaho about 100 miles from where he started! Tell people where you will be, when you will be back, and at what point someone should call for search and rescue. Don't become a person on the 411 list!
First Aid Kit is my #2. You want to have enough supplies to take care of everything up to a non-lethal gunshot wound (ie, plug the hole and stop the bleeding until you can get to a hospital). Don't just by one of those dinky kits at Cabela's, those are for hikers. Make a full list of supplies (including medications you need to take) and put them in a dedicated container along with a list of supplies. Update this kit before every hunting season and keep it stocked.
My #3 is to learn your vehicle. You should know how your vehicle handles, what it's limits are, and the recommended maintenance schedule. You should also have a log or journal of maintenance procedures kept in the glove compartment and updated every time something is cleaned, fixed, or replaced. Most people who buy a car or a truck know next to nothing about their vehicle. It's actually kinda sad to think that some people will drop $30k on a vehicle (or more) and then proceed to ignore even the most basic of maintenance (like oil changes). If the manual says change oil every 3k miles then follow that schedule. Some (like my teenage self) equate 3k with 10k. Knowing your vehicle also helps you sniff out a crooked mechanic or dealership. And besides all that, knowing what goes wrong with your rig out in the woods is imperative if you plan to fix any issues.
Those are the three big ones EVERYONE should have/do if you are on a multiday expedition. Besides that, there are other things people should think about having:
>>>Electrical fuses. They blow all the time and bypassing them is risky in modern vehicles (solid state electrics). Have 2 of every amperage you would need (5-50 amps).
>>>Spare fluids. The video mentions water, but it's just as important to have oil, transmission fluid, coolant (or a dedicated supply of water to the radiator), and spare gasoline in a jerry can. You'll want these if a hose gets punctured, engine overheats, tranny starts to leak, oil gasket starts to leak or you take a wrong turn an burn up 20% of your gas tank.
>>>Tire sealant. In addition to two spare tires, I'd recommend some type of tire sealant. A couple bottles of these effectively give you two more chances to get out of the woods assuming the puncture isn't too big. These pretty much ruin the inside of the tire, but in an emergency it's a savior.
>>>Complete tool kit to change tires and make minor repairs. Think about the basic tools you'd need to keep a truck running in the woods and bring those tools with. Aside from the tire wrench and jack, they all should be able to fit into a small/medium sized toolbox.
>>>Maps, Compass, Emergency/Weather radio. People rely far too much on GPS and continuous internet service. In the woods these items don't work very well. You need to know how to navigate without any electrical aids and a weather radio can give you fair warning about developing storms.
>>>Flares. Bring both the flare-gun type and the roadside type. If you blow a tire on the interstate at night, having a road flare with is a great safety measure. If you do get stuck, lost or stranded, flare guns are the #1 way to flag down search and rescue. In the woods a helicopter likely won't even spot your rig let alone your flailing arms so bring something with that can draw attention.
>>>Hand/foot warmers. If you get stuck in snow during the winter, a few packs of these can keep blood moving in your hands and feet, enabling you to continue making repairs or walk out if you have to.
>>>Flashlight(s). Always have a couple flashlights and a spare set of batteries handy. You get stuck or break down in the dark you'll need to be able to see. Modern LED flashlights are light, and last for a long time.
>>>Spare key hidden on truck. Make a couple of spare keys and put them in magnetic slide boxes, then attach those boxes somewhere that's accessible. If you get locked out or lose your keys while hunting you'll be happy to at least be able to get inside the truck. I'd also hid a spare key fob somewhere on the inside of the truck as well, maybe duct taped to the underside of the back seat or something.
None of these things take much time or money, and certainly won't eat up a bunch of space in a large vehicle like a truck or SUV. I also reject the notion that these things are overkill for an expedition in the wilderness, quite to the contrary these things are practical and important when an accident or stroke of bad luck threatens to ruin your trip. The name of the game is to get out into the wilderness, bag the game you came for, and make it back in one piece. In theory, that's easy. But throw in bad weather, a broken leg, a broken vehicle, getting lost, attacked by an animal, or accidentally shot and you'll be needing most of the equipment above. Your rig is your life line and should be treated as such.
Appreciate all your videos randy! I have had a titan since 2012 great truck has taken me down many roads most would be nervous to take a side by side. I carry a peak battery charger, ease of mind if you or your hunting buddy leave the key turned over charging phones, gps, etc. works great and can get more then one jump before recharge is needed, find them at menards for $60 range. Second I always carry a small tool set with some metric and standard. Third I have a hide a key, which you probably do also but don't show for obvious reasons.
I have a couple of Ziploc storage boxes. They have latches and are gasketed..... keeping dust out. Good for keeping spare clothing, jackets, or items you don't want to get dusty.
Small trauma kit. Not only could you save someone’s life in a car accident, someone could save yours by you having it. Especially going out into the woods so much so far away from help. I also keep a pair of leather man raptors handy and a Fox ALSR folder under my dashboard. May seem like overkill but I saw a guy get hit off his bike by a car once, thank God he didn’t need anything major from us but I was thankful to have it just in case.
Someone else already mentioned it but a fire extinguisher is a good idea. Also a rear differential locker is very handy. Tacomas with the TRD package come stock with them. I've used mine a few times hunting and it has saved me from digging snow and putting on chains.
I won't own a truck that does not have a locking rear diff, which is why a Tundra is off my list of trucks. I've used my so many times. I don't understand why Toyota puts a locker on the stock Tacoma and the 4Runner, but not the Tundra. I talked to some engineers about how the Tundra Locking Slip Differential works, and concluded I want power in those instances, not a computer locking and releasing. Maybe that will change with future releases, but to your point, if a truck needs and after-market read diff locker, I'm looking elsewhere.
Randy Newberg, Hunter I didn't realize the Titans came with a locker. I enjoy your show by the way, thanks for all you do.
Don't forget the fire extinguisher!
hey bud. colorado Hunter here. I always carry electric spry and degreaser on me in the truck. a good wrench kit and adapter screw bit kit. if you end up clogging some sensors or a bolt came loose in the engine or under carriage, I'm able to get it fixed on the spot.
Randy, look into adding a 12v air compressor. Something like the Puma pd1006 is a great piece of kit to add; that along with a quality plug kit could easily replace your second spare tire. As well as giving you the ability to take a little air out of the tires which will help with punctures, traction and with the ride on those endless washboarded roads.
I always have several ways to start fire a sleeping bag and blankets. A cheap tarp can keep you dry while fixing things and knee pads for those middle of the night repairs
I carry an ax and a silky saw, along with my shovel because I’ve had to saw a tree that had fallen across the road and blocked it during a storm. When I pulled up there were three other cars already blocked. It wasn’t a huge tree but big enough to block the road. Guess who looked like the hero when I pulled up and went to work with my saw? Within 5 minutes I had the tree cut enough so that me and another guy were able to clear it out of the road enough for us to pass. A good idea to have. It’s one of those better to have and not need items.
I keep a Silky Big Boy in my truck. Great saws!
Randy, get yourself a portable car jump starter battery. They're pretty small and can jumpstart your car multiple times on a full charge. Saved me so many times because I travel solo.
Oldranger-Randy I'm New to Elk hunting...So your videos have been like a first class community college curriculum. Thanks for you service to others. Old Army Ranger saying "It's better to have and not need it than Need it and Not have it." 2nd truth "The first report is always wrong...separate facts from assumptions, before making a decision."
Already been mentioned, but i always carry an axe, specifically a medium sized, 26-inch Husky Forest Axe. Between that an a come-a-long or two straps, i can usually get around debris that may have gotten in the roadway. Glad to hear about the ARE topper, Randy. I just put one (my first) on my Ram to camp out of for next weeks Nebraska Whitetail Rifle opener. Great Vid! Reminded me i need to pack my jumper cables and tow strap
lol! I just thumbed up this post without realizing it was my own from 4 years ago! Still solid advice!
I hunt the rainforests of SW WA and after changing a flat in the pouring down rain once, I never leave home without a sheet of plastic or a small tarp to lay on/kneel on to change a flat!
Good idea. I've had to do that in the rain before. It sucks. I'll toss one of those in my organizer I keep under the back seat.
Really enjoying your videos. My brother and I are planning our first public land elk hunk and learning a lot.
As for my truck, I keep a flash light and knife in both doors. A map of the area, my garmin (which i mount straight ahead of me like a HUD), and binoculars on the dash. Duct tape, bailing wire, and lava soap under a seat. A small high output air compressor under the other seat. A first aid kit, fire starting options, and water under the back seat. Of course a tow strap, a come along, a shovel, and an axe in back. Because of witnessing a couple pretty nasty wrecks recently, I've added a benchmark webbing cutter to both front seat belts so they are where you need they when you need them.
To be honest thats the tip of the iceberg, as my friends call my truck the "mary poppins" truck.
Keep the great videos coming and you are always welcome at our fire anytime.
I have many of those items in my pack, which is always in my truck while driving to the trailhead.
I've noticed. For me most of the hunting I've grown up doing in Texas hasn't required my to carry much of a pack or be far from the truck. Getting a good pack is on the to do list in the next couple weeks.
only one thing missing i see ; a good 12volt air compressor . i have similar i carry regularly because i cut home firewood . other than than , GREAT list. might recommend a Black Jack tire repair kit , but at least you do have one . your tire recommendation excellent . went thru that problem 10 years ago ; everyday off road , punctured a tire with brush stems .
I use big spent whey protein powder tubs to store chains, straps, hitches, etc in. In addition to enhanced organization, I don't have a topper and the tubs keep the chains and straps from getting wet or iced into the bed of the truck.
My Nissan Titan here in Teton County dumps out about the same. I add a full size double bitted axe to clear trees in places like the Grey's River country- we've had a lot of beetle kill here. One of those emergency batteries with an air compressor.
Trailer light adapter is VERY handy.
My only bellyache is the automatic transmission. And you have a hard time finding a manual these days.
I always carry different length bungee cords, they are easy to use to tie things down. I also carry a machete, a small axe and a emergency flashlight that flashes red in case of emergencies.
A roll of safety wire is great for roadside repairs and unlike duct tape and zip ties it can be used in high heat areas i.e. You damage your exhaust on a rough trail
Being a bit of a blade junkie, I keep a cheap fixed blade in my center console. It's been through a roadkill doe and black bear in the off season, just the other day it sorted through a cottontail on the side of the road. Obviously it has a ton more uses as well. I'm also a fan of the not having to meddle with my pack while I'm on the road, so I like your idea of having an extra headlamp, snack bars and TP in the truck.
I always have a very well stocked first aid kit that stays in my truck at all times. a small folding hand saw and a hatchet. and some medium gauge wire ( bailing wire ) just in case.
Thanks Randy, you always have helpful information, I sure enjoy your shows.
Small compressor, arb tire kit would consolidate a bunch of your stuff, d ring and tree savers for winch. And a bottle jack
the small power packs work great just have to check the charge every couple months but are alot more useful than jumper cables when back country because the cables don't do you any good if there isn't some one to give you a jump
thanks for the videos love the channel.
Bedliner... I just installed it in my titan. Looks great
I have the same winch and now run a dual battery set up. I have two optima odyssey batteries that are only and inch or so larger than a regular battery so they fit in the same bay. I run a dual batter current control system from Painless Performance.
Gotta check into that.
I always keep a couple of ratchet straps and a cable lock in the truck. I don't have a topper, and those have definitely come in handy.
I learned this hunting season on an unmarked two track in New Mexico an extra battery is worth the money. I have seen some guys make mounts for a spare battery under the bed of the pickup.
I enjoyed the video! I learned a few things and now have some ideas for things I should bring. Maybe add some jumper cables and a change of cloths?
I always have a tool bag with general hand tools and I carry a 10lb liquid CO2 bottle with regulator so I can fill tires wherever and run air tools from it.
Great tip on the seat covers, they are hard to find now. I'm going to order mine as soon as I verify my seats to the pics.
I carry an ax under my seat along with a pencil flare kit. also have a jumper pack that has in air compressor in it since I'm not always near other people
tool kit also, along with slime for the a tire
Max trax or an off brand version are the quickest way to get myself or someone else unstuck. I also always bring two shovels because when you are with your buddy it takes half the time to dig the truck back out.
One of the newer battery powered chain saws. Handy and clean to transport
I don't go anywhere without an estwing 26" camp axe under my back seat.
I always keep the Hayes [or Chiltons] repair book for my truck in my truck tool bag. I've had to reference it a few times when out & away from a signal. Great stuff Randy, Thanks.
I carry a battery operated impact driver to make those side of the road tire changes a little quicker. There is nothing worse then dealing with that at night in 2 to 3 feet of snow. I am one that doesn't like to hang on the side of the road to long especially at night for too long.
Traffic triangles for when you pull off the side of a road or highway for a tire repair or something along those lines allows other drivers to know something is ahead
Check out the national luna dual battery system. It helps during long pulls with the winch and you can just start your own rig from in the cab if you leave light or the key on.
I will do that.
combination power suppy/ commpressor . Ive been able to fill up a couple other folks tires so they can limp to the tire place. Saves you some time form getting durty...
you need a remote magnetic spot light! WAY more useful than a light bar. i was towing some other trucks out during a winter storm and it is nice to be able to put the light anywhere on the truck (hood,roof,cab door, trailer...whatever) light bars look cool but these project as much light and are useful in all directions. i dont use a camper top.. the spot light helps see all my gear in the back at night too
Fix a flat sealant/inflator, tow straps to go with the come along, saw, shovel.
I ALWAYS carry a few pieces of firewood and like 2x6 or 2x8 lumber. They can be just a few feet long each they don’t have to be full pieces. They can be a great help when you get stuck in mud and need to put something under the tires to help it get traction. Also if you get stuck on your undercarriage you can use those to build up a ramp to get you back up and out of the gully. Many uses. I once helped a deputy sheriff who had driven into a driveway which was about 10 inches higher than the ground on one side. His back left tire slipped off the driveway and was just hanging there he was sitting on his axle. I put the wood under his tire like a ramp and he was able to just back up and pull back onto the driveway.
Plus If you really need firewood you already have some
I just found your videos randomly and found them a great watch I enjoy them . been watching a couple a day, thanks for sharing your adventures .
Thanks for watching.
Blanket, Lifestraw, small air compressor and an extra pair of clean boot socks! othwise I got just about everything else you named in my truck. Guess that's what I get for growing up out west. :)
Helpful video. Thanks.
You are very prepared, but I am surprised you did not also have a roadside emergency kit, and flares or some signaling device to warn other drivers in case you had (or stopped at) an accident or roadside breakdown.
i use a truck bed organizer with drawers. its awesome
Is there a particular model of organizer you like?
I guy can go bonkers outfitting his rig. Before you know it, you've bogged yourself down with 4000lbs of gear before you've even started your load out. Something that I've been taking with me (and actually never used) for quite a while is a shake light. No batteries required. They don't put out much light but they're far better than having no light at all when you're really in a pinch. Also...great choice in tire. The Cooper AT3 has severed me well over the years. They stand up to the sand and gravel of off road travel without sacrificing ride quality or excessive noise on the pavement. I pretty consistently get 40k or more per set and I spend a LOT of time on sand/gravel roads.
Thanks!
“...Flat over a cigarette butt...”
So true / classic comment !
In fact, all can relate that Manufactures in general go cheap in terms of tires and considering the cost if vehicles there should be more option at time of purchase or some type of credit when many pull stock tires just days after purchase.
I take mine to the local tire shop and so long as the tires have no miles the shop gives me a small credit toward real tires.
Always great stuff Randy. If you're like me and don't have a toolbox in your bed, a ratcheting cargo bar helps a bunch with those loose items you've got there.
Good idea. I'll look at that. We are normally stacked to the top with coolers, cases for cameras, and other gear, so there is little room for things to move around.
I got front and rear hitch with a portable 10,000# warn wench really nice if u get front end under the mud or up against something just throw it in the rear hitch.
I agree on the Cooper AT3's. On the other hand, my Frontier came with Kelly Safari all terrains. Will NEVER own a pair of those again. Suck in the wet and snow. Replaced them with the Cooper's.
"Buy a truck to use it". A man after my own heart. :)
I am a serious abuser of trucks. Don't buy a used truck from me.