Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 08:33:06 PM
I like the SITKA forest camo pattern, but unfortunatly that stuff doesn't fit the need I have. It's all designed to be sat in not hunted in. I don't want to walk 100 yards from the truck and sit my ass in a tree for 12 hours.
What is some super stealthy camo for conifer forest?
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 08:37:14 PM
Post by: ellensburgpo on April 08, 2013, 08:38:46 PM
Post by: JLS on April 08, 2013, 08:38:53 PM
Okay, I'm confused. You don't want to sit on yer a$$, but you don't want mountain top stuff :dunno:
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 08:45:13 PM
I do a lot of poking over the ridge, work my way down, then back over the next ridge type stuff
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 08:48:08 PM
Post by: Sliverslinger on April 08, 2013, 08:50:18 PM
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 08:50:29 PM
What about the new Kuiu Verde pattern?
Okay, I'm confused. You don't want to sit on yer a$$, but you don't want mountain top stuff :dunno:
the verde is about perfect
Is the stuff quiet in the brush? I'd like fleece or wool quiet if possible
Post by: jrebel on April 08, 2013, 08:55:18 PM
Post by: hughjorgan on April 08, 2013, 09:09:38 PM
http://www.firstlite.com/ (http://www.firstlite.com/)
Post by: h2ofowlr on April 08, 2013, 09:17:28 PM
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on April 08, 2013, 09:24:01 PM
I don't think one would want to wear desert camo in the woods or vice versa.
But I wear all different types of forest types in the woods ie missed matched shirts pants, and have put the sneak on lots of critters.
He'll I even treed a bear once I snuck up on, that was the last time he got blamed for being a :tree1: he was yummy! :yike:
I think sent control and movement will give you away long before non-matching camo will! :twocents:
Post by: bowhunterty on April 08, 2013, 09:26:34 PM
Post by: jrebel on April 08, 2013, 09:27:29 PM
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 09:40:17 PM
Do you really think the pattern has to match perfectly?
I don't think one would want to wear desert camo in the woods or vice versa.
But I wear all different types of forest types in the woods ie missed matched shirts pants, and have put the sneak on lots of critters.
He'll I even treed a bear once I snuck up on, that was the last time he got blamed for being a :tree1: he was yummy! :yike:
I think sent control and movement will give you away long before non-matching camo will! :twocents:
Not too worried about it matching perfectly. I realize most camo patterns sell to the hunter not the hunted.
I've treed a few bears too, sent two cubs up in the trees with momma chomping her teeth shaking the bushes. Almost stepped on a bear too, didn't get a shot because all I could get in the sights was a big black azz :chuckle:
My buddy ruined that for me, or saved my butt not sure which. He actually hollard up at me "hey see anything" and this bear exploded out from a wallow less than 10 feet away under my feet - had my buddy not said anything I would have been a lot closer.
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 09:41:34 PM
I do the same thing as you. I spent a ton of hours researching every camo option out there from both fo Sitka's offerings, Kuiu's Vias and Verde, and all the other ones. I was determined that money would be no object and I would get exactly what I wanted to hunt in for the next 3-5 years. I almost went with Kuiu's Verde but in the end I actually arrive at ASAT camo and bought the whole First Lite line. To me on the surface I think it is pretty ugly, but I'm not trying to impress or look cool to other people, I want to hide from Elk. I came to the conclusion that ASAT was the best possible option out there for me and how I hunt. Spend some time researching it and you might come to the same conclusion.
I like the ASAT stuff, but I wish the white areas were darker - and maybe green.
Post by: bowhunterty on April 08, 2013, 09:44:22 PM
Post by: hughjorgan on April 08, 2013, 09:48:44 PM
I do the same thing as you. I spent a ton of hours researching every camo option out there from both fo Sitka's offerings, Kuiu's Vias and Verde, and all the other ones. I was determined that money would be no object and I would get exactly what I wanted to hunt in for the next 3-5 years. I almost went with Kuiu's Verde but in the end I actually arrive at ASAT camo and bought the whole First Lite line. To me on the surface I think it is pretty ugly, but I'm not trying to impress or look cool to other people, I want to hide from Elk. I came to the conclusion that ASAT was the best possible option out there for me and how I hunt. Spend some time researching it and you might come to the same conclusion.
I like the ASAT stuff, but I wish the white areas were darker - and maybe green.
ASAT works great. There is no white in that pattern, just tan, black and brown. Are you thinking of predator camo that has white in it.
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on April 08, 2013, 09:52:02 PM
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 09:53:55 PM
I do the same thing as you. I spent a ton of hours researching every camo option out there from both fo Sitka's offerings, Kuiu's Vias and Verde, and all the other ones. I was determined that money would be no object and I would get exactly what I wanted to hunt in for the next 3-5 years. I almost went with Kuiu's Verde but in the end I actually arrive at ASAT camo and bought the whole First Lite line. To me on the surface I think it is pretty ugly, but I'm not trying to impress or look cool to other people, I want to hide from Elk. I came to the conclusion that ASAT was the best possible option out there for me and how I hunt. Spend some time researching it and you might come to the same conclusion.
I like the ASAT stuff, but I wish the white areas were darker - and maybe green.
ASAT works great. There is no white in that pattern, just tan, black and brown. Are you thinking of predator camo that has white in it.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstlite.com%2Fsites%2Ffirstlite%2Fimages%2Fuser%2Ffeatures%2Fcamo_patterns%2F354wide_Llano_ASAT_2.png&hash=e452798fe7e2965f1f4c46ce662d559aa89199c4)
I was just wishing it had more green in there, but I'm sure that would work fine.
Post by: hughjorgan on April 08, 2013, 09:58:23 PM
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on April 08, 2013, 10:02:37 PM
Do you really think the pattern has to match perfectly?yeah thats it :dunno: :chuckle: Heck ...I usually take a shower with Ivory soap before I head out hunting ...never have much trouble sneaking up on anything ...maybe an orange jacket and a red hat will help too !! :yike: :tup:
I don't think one would want to wear desert camo in the woods or vice versa.
But I wear all different types of forest types in the woods ie missed matched shirts pants, and have put the sneak on lots of critters.
He'll I even treed a bear once I snuck up on, that was the last time he got blamed for being a :tree1: he was yummy! :yike:
I think sent control and movement will give you away long before non-matching camo will! :twocents:
Post by: JLS on April 08, 2013, 10:05:54 PM
What about the new Kuiu Verde pattern?
Okay, I'm confused. You don't want to sit on yer a$$, but you don't want mountain top stuff :dunno:
the verde is about perfect
Is the stuff quiet in the brush? I'd like fleece or wool quiet if possible
If you want fleece, look at the Predator Camo and check out Day One.
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 10:06:26 PM
K9's have some limited color vision.
turkeys have pretty good color vision
Post by: huntnnw on April 08, 2013, 10:19:49 PM
Post by: yajsab on April 08, 2013, 10:24:58 PM
Can't go wrong with some of the popular names mentioned.
Post by: KFhunter on April 08, 2013, 11:20:09 PM
The wool will be really nice under my winter and rain gear I already have.
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on April 09, 2013, 05:08:15 AM
Post by: Sliverslinger on April 09, 2013, 07:11:46 AM
I do the same thing as you. I spent a ton of hours researching every camo option out there from both fo Sitka's offerings, Kuiu's Vias and Verde, and all the other ones. I was determined that money would be no object and I would get exactly what I wanted to hunt in for the next 3-5 years. I almost went with Kuiu's Verde but in the end I actually arrive at ASAT camo and bought the whole First Lite line. To me on the surface I think it is pretty ugly, but I'm not trying to impress or look cool to other people, I want to hide from Elk. I came to the conclusion that ASAT was the best possible option out there for me and how I hunt. Spend some time researching it and you might come to the same conclusion.
I like the ASAT stuff, but I wish the white areas were darker - and maybe green.
I can't think of one predator or one prey mammal that has green as a component of it's natural camouflage. Some insects and lizards do, but they are trying to hide from bird who see in color and often very sharply. Ungulates do see some color spectrums, but not true green. Think of what colors grouse and deer have that allows them to hide and blend in so well, blacks, browns, and tans or light colors.
Post by: yajsab on April 09, 2013, 09:31:39 AM
http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&N=0&fsch=true&Ntk=AllProducts&Ntt=russell&x=0&y=0&WTz_l=Header%3BSearch-All+Products (http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&N=0&fsch=true&Ntk=AllProducts&Ntt=russell&x=0&y=0&WTz_l=Header%3BSearch-All+Products)
Post by: KFhunter on April 09, 2013, 05:31:32 PM
I do the same thing as you. I spent a ton of hours researching every camo option out there from both fo Sitka's offerings, Kuiu's Vias and Verde, and all the other ones. I was determined that money would be no object and I would get exactly what I wanted to hunt in for the next 3-5 years. I almost went with Kuiu's Verde but in the end I actually arrive at ASAT camo and bought the whole First Lite line. To me on the surface I think it is pretty ugly, but I'm not trying to impress or look cool to other people, I want to hide from Elk. I came to the conclusion that ASAT was the best possible option out there for me and how I hunt. Spend some time researching it and you might come to the same conclusion.
I like the ASAT stuff, but I wish the white areas were darker - and maybe green.
I can't think of one predator or one prey mammal that has green as a component of it's natural camouflage. Some insects and lizards do, but they are trying to hide from bird who see in color and often very sharply. Ungulates do see some color spectrums, but not true green. Think of what colors grouse and deer have that allows them to hide and blend in so well, blacks, browns, and tans or light colors.
birds yup - turkey see color
and from some stuff I've read bears see color about as well as we do - good thing they short sighted
Post by: BigGoonTuna on April 12, 2013, 06:46:57 AM
Post by: mwhunter on May 08, 2013, 10:31:12 AM
Post by: whack em on May 08, 2013, 11:06:28 AM
A good base layer of merino wool is a must for me. I will never again wear a synthetic base layer. I recommend looking at their elephant skins or going with Kuiu or First Lite merino wool base layers.
Just my :twocents:
Post by: Johnb317 on May 08, 2013, 11:52:04 AM
Was wearing a kuiu top and army camo bdu's .
I'm looking to get different pants as the ripstop cotton is a little noisy, and cotton isn't the best for backwoods.
As was said previously.... most camo is for the hunter not the hunted. Old wool plaid coat may still be the trick.
Post by: MtnMuley on May 08, 2013, 12:37:51 PM
I like the SITKA forest camo pattern, but unfortunatly that stuff doesn't fit the need I have. It's all designed to be sat in not hunted in.
Really? Far from the truth there, reguardless which other high end brand you choose.
Post by: BULLBLASTER on May 08, 2013, 01:33:52 PM
Post by: pianoman9701 on May 08, 2013, 01:48:01 PM
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,123076.0/topicseen.html (http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,123076.0/topicseen.html)
Post by: pianoman9701 on May 08, 2013, 01:49:56 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on May 08, 2013, 02:02:05 PM
I have used this as a guide when buying hunting camo as well. The lighter the pattern, the better. I guess what I am trying to say is that I would probably stick with the Sitka Open Country stuff until something better comes out. Don't worry about the fact that is really a "sage" color and that you are hunting in darker environments. At least you won't look like a BMO (black moving object) at 200 yards.
Just my :twocents:
Post by: Boss .300 winmag on May 20, 2013, 05:19:57 AM
You can take this for what it's worth (and remember, advice is free...and you get what you pay for... :chuckle: ). After 21 years in the military, about half of it as an infantryman, ranger, paratrooper the one thing that I have noticed about camo patterns is that from a distance, they generally look too dark. Take for instance the BDU camo patterns of the late 80s and 90s. It is the same color as most vegetation (brown, greens, etc...), so you would think that it would blend in. In 2005 we began to field the ACU digital pattern and most of us thought, "this stuff is the wrong color", "I look like I'm half downloaded" and "It doesn't even look like vegetation". As we started using the stuff though we began to notice how hard it was to pick people out at a distance, even if they were in an environment that they didn't strictly "match". What we figured was that because the pattern is lighter, it is harder to pick up visually.
I have used this as a guide when buying hunting camo as well. The lighter the pattern, the better. I guess what I am trying to say is that I would probably stick with the Sitka Open Country stuff until something better comes out. Don't worry about the fact that is really a "sage" color and that you are hunting in darker environments. At least you won't look like a BMO (black moving object) at 200 yards.
Just my :twocents:
Perfect most of my camo is old and all color faded out! :tup:
Makes perfectly good sense.
Post by: sven on May 20, 2013, 06:04:50 AM
Have a look at Kryptek. I'm impressed with it so far, fits well, wears well, and I like the features each garment has. Their highlander pattern had me a little skeptic at first, but after seeing how well it blended in a variety of seetings last fall, I'm sold. I also like the mothwing pattern, which seems to do ok just about anywhere.:yeah: :yeah: :yeah: :yeah:
A good base layer of merino wool is a must for me. I will never again wear a synthetic base layer. I recommend looking at their elephant skins or going with Kuiu or First Lite merino wool base layers.
Just my :twocents:
Post by: EvoOutdoors on May 22, 2013, 09:46:02 AM
I'll recommend First Lite as well, getting to be a real fan of wool. No more synthetics against my skin.
One of my personal favs. It is antimicrobial, and moisture wicking. The stuff fits amazingly well, and this year has a new "shooter's cut" which moves the sleeves forward slightly to make the shooting position more comfortable without any bunching. All this and it is QUIET! We just received our first shipment of the year. ASAT and most of the Kanab pants will be available end of June/July. You can check it out on our site at http://shop.evooutdoors.com/Shop-First-Lite_c44.htm (http://shop.evooutdoors.com/Shop-First-Lite_c44.htm) or if you are near Olympic Peninsula we have a showroom at Peninsula Pro Shop located at 70 NE KATCHEMAK LN - BELFAIR, WA 98528
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Dave
Post by: alecvg on June 03, 2013, 07:19:20 AM
Post by: krism83 on June 03, 2013, 09:33:09 AM
Post by: CasseyM. on June 25, 2013, 10:07:43 AM
Post by: gonehuntin68 on July 11, 2013, 12:21:33 PM
Post by: 6.8mmARHunter on July 11, 2013, 01:39:02 PM
Post by: Old Man Yager on July 23, 2013, 06:23:32 PM
:yeah: I wear my open contry camo in the forest all the time. My hunting partner has a hard time finding me when I am still and in the shadows. I personally could care less if my camo matches the terrain as long as it works.:yeah: I got a pair in Outfitters camo, like you said, I don't think it matters too much, being quiet and trying not to stink are more important that the pattern, I think.
Post by: coastalyeti on August 14, 2013, 12:03:28 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on August 14, 2013, 09:17:33 AM
This thread is worthless without pictures.
You are absolutely correct. Shame on me.
Here you go.
See what I mean.... :dunno:
Post by: WoodlandShooter on December 13, 2013, 09:39:46 AM
For Western Washington, the seasonal changes make it dificult to pick a camo pattern for everything...
This is what I have found to work...
Early Spring to mid summer, Pencott Greenzone or CADPAT (if you can find it)
Mid summer to Early fall, ATACs FG
Late Fall/Winter (with no snow) Woodland MARPAT
With Snow, well, any sort of overwhite would work...just make sure you give it a little dirt.
Seems none of the Sitka stuff is Pacific Northwest specific for the ground huner...
However, the European Optifade Pattern would be a better fit for the gound hunter (and is eerily similar to the US4CES pattern Hyperstealth submitted to the Army for the camo pattern selection.
Post by: Broken Arrow on December 13, 2013, 09:55:06 AM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on December 13, 2013, 09:56:42 AM
Post by: WoodlandShooter on December 13, 2013, 10:18:47 AM
Camo for hunting purposes...well, it's not needed.
IMHO Camo gives the everyday Hunter that "Walter Mitty" Feeling :chuckle:
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 13, 2013, 10:39:28 AM
good point
Camo for hunting purposes...well, it's not needed.
IMHO Camo gives the everyday Hunter that "Walter Mitty" Feeling :chuckle:
Just remember--camo is made to impress other humans. Animals don't see colors like we do. Most camo patterns are worse than none at all to an animal's eyes! :twocents:
Post by: snowpack on December 13, 2013, 11:06:56 AM
Post by: ghosthunter on December 13, 2013, 11:19:29 AM
Post by: Broken Arrow on December 13, 2013, 11:38:30 AM
Just for the record...I prefer multicam...lol.
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 13, 2013, 11:42:49 AM
I wear camo but do not give it a lot of thought except for ducks. Big game will walk right up to you if you stay still most the time.
Birds see color. Animal's eyes are geared towards motion. Deer and Coyotes have a bit of infrared vision, too, for nocturnal vision. That's why clothing wash detergent for hunting clothes has UV Blockers in it now.
Post by: Spikorbust on December 13, 2013, 11:54:09 AM
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 13, 2013, 12:01:38 PM
As a rifle hunter I've have never felt the need to wear camo but I do feel that some of them have some great qualities for hunting. I recently purchased some Kuiu pants and shirt just for the reason they fit the bill for what I'm doing. Some of these companies are making great products to suit the needs of the hunter and not just a camo fashion statement. So there is some good in finding a company that makes a product that will help your hunting enjoyment whether it be fit, function, or looks.
I think Strategy is more important: Don't skyline yourself, use brush to break up your outline, etc. I like fleece because it is soft and doesn't shine. :twocents:
Post by: WoodlandShooter on December 13, 2013, 12:57:20 PM
Post by: CAMPMEAT on December 13, 2013, 01:25:57 PM
Post by: KFhunter on December 13, 2013, 01:30:32 PM
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 13, 2013, 01:33:04 PM
Mfgrs need to get on the stick and make some nice 3-4xl camo. Their are a lot of guys that aren't the little small - 2xl types. :chuckle:
I don't suppose you'd consider shrinking to 2xl? :chuckle: :hello:
Post by: KFhunter on December 13, 2013, 01:52:06 PM
Post by: CAMPMEAT on December 13, 2013, 04:38:41 PM
Mfgrs need to get on the stick and make some nice 3-4xl camo. Their are a lot of guys that aren't the little small - 2xl types. :chuckle:
I don't suppose you'd consider shrinking to 2xl? :chuckle: :hello
I've actually went from a very large 4xl to a small 3xl since you saw me in Moses Lake at the Predator Hunters meeting 3 years ago.
Oh no. Then I'd look like KFhunter, can't have that................nope, no way.
I use all black. That's probably the best " camo " out there. :tup:
Post by: RadSav on December 13, 2013, 05:50:09 PM
I like the SITKA forest camo pattern, but unfortunatly that stuff doesn't fit the need I have. It's all designed to be sat in not hunted in.
Really? Far from the truth there, reguardless which other high end brand you choose.
Yeah, I was quite taken by that myself. Not sure what products the OP was thinking of. Maybe if you are talking their winter wear :dunno:
I chose Sitka for the sole purpose of humping it up mountains and off the other side. And I continue using Sitka for the simple reason it is, for my build, the very best at doing just that. I hate their camo patterns, but the performance under extreme active hunting makes up for having the worst camo patterns available. Although the forest pattern doesn't completely suck on the west side and it is a rather good snow pattern. 30 elk at 35 yards last Sunday had no idea I was kneeling right there in the middle of the snowy clearcut. Dang coyote figured it out though :bash:
I've given a lot of time wearing Kuiu, Uncomfortable Armour and Kryptek. For my build not a one of those came close to giving me the comfort and performance I demand in hard mountain hunting wear as did Sitka. Now if we could just get them to stop making everything with high collars and hoodies and add a decent camo pattern...
Post by: KFhunter on December 13, 2013, 11:05:15 PM
I like the SITKA forest camo pattern, but unfortunatly that stuff doesn't fit the need I have. It's all designed to be sat in not hunted in.
Really? Far from the truth there, reguardless which other high end brand you choose.
Yeah, I was quite taken by that myself. Not sure what products the OP was thinking of. Maybe if you are talking their winter wear :dunno:
I chose Sitka for the sole purpose of humping it up mountains and off the other side. And I continue using Sitka for the simple reason it is, for my build, the very best at doing just that. I hate their camo patterns, but the performance under extreme active hunting makes up for having the worst camo patterns available. Although the forest pattern doesn't completely suck on the west side and it is a rather good snow pattern. 30 elk at 35 yards last Sunday had no idea I was kneeling right there in the middle of the snowy clearcut. Dang coyote figured it out though :bash:
I've given a lot of time wearing Kuiu, Uncomfortable Armour and Kryptek. For my build not a one of those came close to giving me the comfort and performance I demand in hard mountain hunting wear as did Sitka. Now if we could just get them to stop making everything with high collars and hoodies and add a decent camo pattern...
Well basically it all boils down to I didn't know what I was talking about.
I had read somewhere while doing my research that the forest camo patterns was all made for mostly tree stand hunting. One reviewer (or several it's been a while) had stated they don't last long if you're hiking many mile in the forest pattern and you needed the open country stuff.
I wanted the durability of the open country in a forest pattern. Make since?
Post by: littlemac on December 13, 2013, 11:22:11 PM
After that whenever we hunted he wore jeans and a jacket (never camo) sometimes Filson wool if cold enough. Funny, he did better without the camo than he ever did with it.
Personally, I think it's hard to find quality hunting stuff that isn't camo anymore. Seems the manufacturers are all about the camo now.
Post by: KFhunter on December 13, 2013, 11:52:55 PM
(https://basspro.scene7.com/is/image/BassPro/1895483_12081705415273?defaultImage=noimage_avail&&resmode=sharp2&op_usm=1.5,.8,1.5&id=bAzau2&wid=299&hei=385&fmt=jpg)
the jury is still out but so far so good. wool does gather a lot of snow but I been wearing the Columbia wool as a middle layer in the snow with game hide over top
Post by: jasnt on December 14, 2013, 12:03:24 AM
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 14, 2013, 12:43:09 AM
I've actually went from a very large 4xl to a small 3xl since you saw me in Moses Lake at the Predator Hunters meeting 3 years ago.
I use all black. That's probably the best " camo " out there. :tup:
I remember that meeting. Kept wishing we would have another one. No matter how much you lose, you're one of those people who will always be a big guy.
According to what I've read about coyote vision, black is on of the colors that they CAN see. That's why a lot of the tan boots also have tan soles. What looks like a brown rabbit in a green field to us, looks like a black rabbit in a white field to a coyote.
Post by: RadSav on December 14, 2013, 01:26:09 AM
Well basically it all boils down to I didn't know what I was talking about.
I had read somewhere while doing my research that the forest camo patterns was all made for mostly tree stand hunting. One reviewer (or several it's been a while) had stated they don't last long if you're hiking many mile in the forest pattern and you needed the open country stuff.
I wanted the durability of the open country in a forest pattern. Make since?
To some degree "Yes" that makes sense. The OF Forest pattern was made for treestand camouflage. But in evergreen timbered areas I find it still outperforms open country for concealment. Very good in broken snow and evergreens! The durable Mountain pants and the Timberline pants are not available in OF Forest so in that regard the offerings in OF Forest are not as durable. While the Ascent pants don't hold up well to briars I have yet to wear out a pair in nearly five years. Granted I don't hunt as much and as hard as I used to. And, if briars and rain are in the forecast I spend a good amount of my time in Cabela's Gore-Tex bird pants (as in my last two avatars). But my old pair of Mothwing Ascent pants are probably my most cherished piece of early season hunting wear I have. And the newer pants are even better from a fit and function comparison.* I just wish I could still get them in Mothwing. It is so much better and versatile than OF.
*One thing to note is that the 2013 OF Forest lineup changed the pant options and they no longer offer the Ascent in OF Forest. Now offering only the ESW pant for warmer weather. Basically the Ascent with a bunch of unwanted or needed pockets and draw strings similar to the old Ascent pants. Stupid dang shame IMO. But, there are still plenty of the OF Forest Ascent pants out their if you look for them.
For eastside guys hunting a lot of rocks and sage the OF Open Country is a very good option. I had three deer this early season walk within feet of me. So close I tried to reach out and slap one on the arse. And I was standing in the middle of a trail not even trying to hide. I also had a group of 11 young bucks feed past me while I laid in wheat stubble. All of them at one time or another were less than five yards away. It wasn't until the rising sun hit my glasses they took notice and bugged out. But, I have never seen deer on the westside bust me from such distance as I have when wearing the OF Open Country in evergreens. I mean does were coming unglued at over 100 yards away. I can wear blue jeans and a white t-shirt and get closer than I could with the Open Country in evergreens. Two days wearing it on the westside and I will never ever do it again.
One place where the OF Forest really fails is in raingear. The fabric and Gore-Tex grades found in the Open Country are far superior to what you find in the OF Forest Downpour. And the Downpour is not what I would call a "lightweight" rainwear option either. Then again, if your build will allow it (fit for fitness freaks and human mountain goats) the KUIU Chugach rain gear is impossible to beat. Unfortunately I fit into neither of those fitness categories' so that means Uncomfortable Armour or Browning stuff on the wetside and OF Open Country on the eastside or in the alpine.
The only OF Forest garment I really do not like is the Fanatic. Which is odd because I designed the exact same thing back in the eighties with Duke Savora. But the difference was we didn't make it with that ridiculously high collar that has to be zipped all the way up or it gets in the way. I despise collars for bowhunting unless weather is extremely bad. And then I want the option to zip down the collar as I wish. No can do on the Fanantic. I like the Status quite a bit, but the first thing I did was get out a pair of scissors and cut that stupid hoodie off...WAY better now!!! For a system designed for layering they have way too many hoodies and high collars. That's really my only gripe about Sitka beyond the limited camo patterns.
There is a lot of good camo out there these days. KUIU for the fit and trim is a great option. Kryptek is another great product even though the arms on the ones I tried were too baggy for my taste when shooting the bow. I've seen some pictures that lead me to believe I might have got a bum jacket :dunno: Cabela's MicroTex is extremely good as well. Can be hit and miss as far as stitching and sizing goes, but when it fits it's as tough and quiet as good camo gets. I was thrilled with it until I tried on my first pair of Sitka Ascent pants and found out what real performance wear should perform like. Sitka is no longer the only premier gear on the block. For some things the new kids on the block have done it better. And for the Westside they definitely have done camo patterns better. But if you are looking for me in the woods tomorrow I'll be the guy in Sitka Gear. Surely complaining about high collars and no Mothwing or Mossy Oak, but fat and happy with my threads nonetheless.
Post by: KFhunter on December 14, 2013, 09:49:37 AM
My quest for that perfect high end camo has only really begun. I didn't see the value of high dollar best money can buy gear until I started snowmobiling in ski pants/jackets (major suck)
Hunting the N/E corner of the state I really liked the OF forest - but I was worried chasing Elk up and down the mountains crashing through brush it wouldn't hold up.
Sounds like I need the OC for early season Elk but then they'd bust me if I stood next to a 15 foot tall fir tree or in the dark timber next to a wallow huh
What would you suggest for lightweight heat shedding gear for humping up and down the mountain in September?
I also like to hunt WT archery - but for that I'll likely be in a tree stand so not such a big deal there. OF forest is PERFECT for that.
OF forest is also no brainer in the conifers with a light dusting of snow for predators :tup:
So as you can see OF forest is the best all around pattern for me, so perhaps I just need to get something dedicated to early season Elk and wear OF forest the rest of the time.
Post by: RadSav on December 14, 2013, 06:16:15 PM
I also would not worry too much about the Ascent pant or the ESW pant if you want matching camo and like the OF Forest. They are plenty durable unless you are hunting briars. I wear silk weight long johns under any of my pants during early seasons as ticks and mosquitoes do not like Lycra or Silver thread. I also like the way the silk type surface allows frictionless movement when kneeling quickly or stepping over logs. They are super thin yet do seem to add a level of comfort when getting poked or scraped while scraping for ground. If you watch for sales you can get two pair of Ascent or ESW pants for the price of one pair of Timberline, Mountain or 90%.
If durability is #1 in deciding factor and performance fit / 4 way stretch 2, 3 or further down the list I might seriously look at making regular trips to Cabela's and try on their Microtex. There is no more durable, colorfast pant that is fleece/wool like silent. I have a jacket I wore for 20 years that has gone through three zippers in that time and it still looks like I've only wore it a few times. It's stupid durable stuff and insanely quiet! I say make regular trips as you may need to try on a couple dozen to find just the right fit. Not sure who makes these for Cabela's but sizing is usually all over the board. Fantastic stuff when you get the right fit! And you can buy three or more pair for the price of Sitka's Timberline pant. Really too bad they discontinued the Microtex Lite!
Post by: Sitka_Blacktail on December 14, 2013, 06:31:50 PM
Post by: RadSav on December 14, 2013, 07:14:03 PM
My life does not depend on whether I spot a deer or not. Yet I find deer almost everywhere I go. And if a deer is moving even slowly he's pretty much seen immediately. In contrast to that a deer's life does depend on whether he or she spots an approaching predator.
Maybe if I sat in a tree all day or only drove around in my truck I wouldn't worry about it much. But, most of my hunting is either spot & stalk or still hunting. And I really prefer my bow shots to be less than 50 yards. I'm going to take every advantage I can get. And when you are up close and in bow range good camo is quite an advantage when I still need to draw my bow and possible shift my position slightly.
I'd rather pay a few extra bucks and get some good camo that may or may not be needed in a certain situation than get the raised tail and clean arse hole sign from the trophy of a lifetime that caught a slight movement from a solid human profile.
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 14, 2013, 08:16:20 PM
Mfgrs need to get on the stick and make some nice 3-4xl camo. Their are a lot of guys that aren't the little small - 2xl types. :chuckle:
Thats why they put zippers in them just zip 2 together!! :chuckle: 2x + 2x = 4X
Post by: mossback91 on December 14, 2013, 08:28:42 PM
Post by: follow maggie on December 14, 2013, 09:35:53 PM
On a side note, I have to say that as hard as it was to type this, Apple's auto correct sucks ass
Post by: CAMPMEAT on December 15, 2013, 02:24:32 PM
Mfgrs need to get on the stick and make some nice 3-4xl camo. Their are a lot of guys that aren't the little small - 2xl types. :chuckle:
Thats why they put zippers in them just zip 2 together!! :chuckle: 2x + 2x = 4X
But, but, but, what would I do with 2 extra arms ? I know, have a female companion keep me warm..... :tup:
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 15, 2013, 02:33:20 PM
Mfgrs need to get on the stick and make some nice 3-4xl camo. Their are a lot of guys that aren't the little small - 2xl types. :chuckle:
Thats why they put zippers in them just zip 2 together!! :chuckle: 2x + 2x = 4X
But, but, but, what would I do with 2 extra arms ? I know, have a female companion keep me warm..... :tup:
I think you guys are thinking about Sleeping Bags! :chuckle:
Post by: CAMPMEAT on December 15, 2013, 05:10:26 PM
Mfgrs need to get on the stick and make some nice 3-4xl camo. Their are a lot of guys that aren't the little small - 2xl types. :chuckle:
Thats why they put zippers in them just zip 2 together!! :chuckle: 2x + 2x = 4X
But, but, but, what would I do with 2 extra arms ? I know, have a female companion keep me warm..... :tup:
I think you guys are thinking about Sleeping Bags! :chuckle:
Ridgeratt is in therapy, or didn't you know that.
Post by: RadSav on December 15, 2013, 05:16:11 PM
Post by: CAMPMEAT on December 15, 2013, 05:52:40 PM
Is his therapy shown in his avatar. Looks like a very Liberal therapy ;)
I never noticed his new avatar. It's always been clowns and I can't sleep when I see them..........
Maybe he is turning liberal. I bet we'll find out when he reads these responses.
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 15, 2013, 06:12:02 PM
Post by: RadSav on December 15, 2013, 06:45:32 PM
Ok I changed my Avatar to the World's Biggest Clown I have seen!! Better? :chuckle:
That clown is even more disturbing than the one posted of Heath Ledger. I actually liked the liberal therapy avatar.
Post by: CAMPMEAT on December 15, 2013, 07:27:02 PM
Ok I changed my Avatar to the World's Biggest Clown I have seen!! Better? :chuckle:
Oh geeze. You ruined my day............ :puke:
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 15, 2013, 07:37:28 PM
HAAAA You have shaken the dark posts!!!!
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,80088.msg1888571/boardseen.html#new (http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,80088.msg1888571/boardseen.html#new)
Post by: WoodlandShooter on December 16, 2013, 08:44:24 AM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hyperstealth.com%2FGround-Forest_small.jpg&hash=a3b2f516e5a036bc52269e1c8c43cca5c5990fdb)
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 16, 2013, 09:00:46 AM
this is the european OptiFade Pattern. I picked up a jacket for my wife in it. It will be my Beta Test.
That really looks good! I'm impressed with the "Leafy Camo" stuff. Don't get the yarn ghillie suit. I've got one, and It's good, but that yarn snags on EVERYTHING!
Post by: WoodlandShooter on December 16, 2013, 09:59:15 AM
this is the european OptiFade Pattern. I picked up a jacket for my wife in it. It will be my Beta Test.
That really looks good! I'm impressed with the "Leafy Camo" stuff. Don't get the yarn ghillie suit. I've got one, and It's good, but that yarn snags on EVERYTHING!
A ghillie is not really designed to move around in...it is designed to stay stationary.
Remember, no type of camo will work if you are moving.
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 16, 2013, 10:14:18 AM
this is the european OptiFade Pattern. I picked up a jacket for my wife in it. It will be my Beta Test.
That really looks good! I'm impressed with the "Leafy Camo" stuff. Don't get the yarn ghillie suit. I've got one, and It's good, but that yarn snags on EVERYTHING!
A ghillie is not really designed to move around in...it is designed to stay stationary.
Remember, no type of camo will work if you are moving.
I realize ghillies are not made to move around in, but even though I wait until I get to the stand to put it on, it still snags on everything--the scope, scope mounts, the gun, weeds, everything! And Velcro attracts it like a magnet. Being as animal's vision is geared towards motion, nothing works for that, but the "Leafy Camo" would do the best job of breaking up your outline without the "snagging". :twocents: