Bows:
Nelson Story Archery Hunts requires a bow with a draw weight between 55#-80# to help insure that we are getting the necessary arrow penetration. Compound bows by far have the best penetration when it comes to elk hunting. We do welcome traditional archery equipment. However, the hunter must demonstrated that they are capable of shooting to at least 30 yards in camp the day before their hunt.

Sights, Rests, & Releases:
A site must be durable and functional. We recommend a multi-pin system with pins marking yardage of 20, 30, 40, 50 & 60 yards. The sight that we highly recommend is the FlashPoint from Montana Black Gold Bow Sights. Sight covers are also recommended if you are a rough hiker & often stumble or fall while hiking. These covers provide protection but can cause missed opportunities as they add an additional removal step before shooting. Replacement peep sight and strip loop are also items that are recommended to be carried in your pack.

If you get nervous in shooting situations we recommend using a whisker biscuit rest as they provide the most arrow support. However, we have found that these rest can effect arrow flight at distances of 40+ yards. If you have a steady hand we recommend using a fall away rest. These rest produce little to no interference with arrow flight and have proven to be the most effective when in the field. Ripcord and Trophy Taker both make quality rest that come highly recommended.

If you shot with a release, we ask that you carry a back up release while hunting. We have had several situations where these releases have failed and opportunities where missed.

Arrows & Broad Heads:
We recommend shooting carbon arrows with vanes. Some brands that are highly recommended are, Gold Tip, Easton, Beaman & Carbon Express. We have found these to be the most durable solution when hunting elk. What type of helical you place on your arrows in entirely up to you. However, the field is never a place to try out new systems, so please practice with your equipment before booking your hunt.

Broad Heads should be 100 or 125 grains in weight. What type of broad head is at the discretion of the hunter. We have had success with both fixed and mechanical blades. There has been much debate over the effectiveness of fixed vs mechanical blades, in our opinion it boils down to the quality of shot that is made. If a poor shot is made using either type of head the results is almost always the same. If the shot is placed correctly then the type of broad head is not as important. Again we can’t stress enough the importance of practice and knowing the ins and outs of your equipment. A few recommended broad heads are:

Fixed:
• NAP - Thunder Head
• MUZZY - MX 4
• G5

Mechanical:
• Rocket
• Rage
• Grim Reaper

Quivers
We require that all hunters carry at least 3 arrows with them at all times with additional arrows back at camp. Side/hip quivers are not recommended. A locking quiver on the side of your bow is the best as it will allow easy access to your arrows at all times, while keeping them safely contained.

Optics
A good range finder is optimal when hunting elk. When the opportunity comes to take a shot on a bull we recommend ranging a few stationary objects before hand (trees and rocks). This allows for the hunter to take the first possible shot and not need to take an additional range finder reading that may spook the elk. Elk hunting is unpredictable and a hunter may have to move to make the correct shot. Being able to transition from range finder to release to shot is vital. Practicing these tactics at your shooting range will help you in the field.

10 x 42 lightweight binoculars are plenty sufficient. The addition of a binocular harness system can also be a great addition and act like a second set of hands when a bull is coming into range.

Back Packs, Hydration & Medical Kits
A good day back with a built in hydration system is a necessity when archery hunting. There are a ton of packs on the market so choose one with proper weight disruption and is functional.

The weather is unpredictable, you will find the temperatures to range from the high 70’s to the low teens. Keeping hydrated in any weather is key. Even during cold days proper hydration can help to prevent cramping /fatigue and the need to return to camp. Changes in elevation can have dramatic effects on someone coming from sea level. It typically takes 1-2 days for these people to become acclimated to the altitude.

The guides all carry a comprehensive medical kits with them at all times. This helps aid in your safety while hunting with them. We do STRONGLY recommend that each hunter carry a small medical kit with them at all times. Adventure Medical Kits carries a full line of kits tailored specifically for hunters. These kits are light weight and don’t take up much room in your pack.

Clothing and Boots
Each person has different needs when it comes to clothing. We recommend dressing in layers as this provide the greatest flexibility when dealing with the unpredictable weather. A warm base layer, a layer of breathable camouflage, and then a light camouflage jacket will be sufficient for most days. Additional clothing would include a 4-6 pairs of socks, warm heavy jacket, warm hat, gloves, and items to be worn while in camp. We do not recommend wearing your hunting clothes for a prolonged time while in camp as it absorbs additional odors. You will have the opportunity to dry your cloths each night.

Two or three sets of boots/shoes are required. One set of boots that will be used for daily hiking. These boots should be made of leather and 8+ inches high to provide support when hiking on steep hill sides. As these will be your primary boots they should be warm enough for colder morning hunts. An additional set of 600+ insulate boots are recommended if the weather should turn cold. This set of boots is not required. Lastly, a set of boots or shoes to be worn around camp. This set is up to the discretion of the hunter but should be able to be worn outside if needed.

Sleeping
A 0 degree sleeping bag will be needed along with any type of pillow that you would like. Additional sleeping pads are recommended, basically what ever you feel you need to sleep comfortably. Nelson Story will try to accommodate your needs please specify any additional request before arrival.

Calls and Addtional Equipment
Typically the guides will handle the bugling. Bugling is primarily used to locate bulls and then additional hunting tactics will be used to get into bow range. These tactics are but are not limited to, spot & stock, cow calling, breaking tree branches, tree stands, or wallows. We do recommend hunters bring a easy to use cow call, as you will often need to stop a bull to make a shot. We like the Hoochie Mama from Primos, as it is almost fail safe. Mouth calls are also great as they free up your hands.

Additional equipment that we have found useful:
(Please note these are only recommendations)
Pocket Knife
Head Lamp or Flash Light
GPS
Smoke in a bottle
Binocular shammy (for cleaning lenses)
Gators
Extra broad heads
Extra arrows
Bow string wax
Magazines to read in camp
Swim shorts (Chico Hot Springs in only 3.5 miles away)