Sheep Hunting Gear

While hunting sheep in Alaska, one must adapt to a wide range of temperatures and conditions. It is important to have the proper gear.

Backpack

For sheep hunts a frame pack with a volume of at least 4500 cubic inches is recommended. Backpacks should be equipped with a waist belt, sternum strap, internal or external frame and capable of carrying 50 pounds for extended periods. Heavy items should be packed near the middle of the pack as close to the spine as possible. Frequent adjustments to backpack while hiking helps to find the "sweet spot" and reduces strain and fatigue. Packs with internal rifle sleeves do not work well. Rifles should be carried on the outside of the pack where they are assessable, not protruding high above or below the pack.

Recommended packs include Cabela's Alaskan II frame pack (best value), Kifaru, Kuiu, Mystery Ranch. We do not recommend Eberlestock or Badlands packs.

Clothing -When considering clothing remember it is important to dress in layers.

Base Layer

Base or "next to skin" layer should be lightweight, close fitting and wicking. Merino wool is ideal but can be costly. Many synthetic fabrics are moisture wicking and retain insulating value when wet, making them suitable for next to skin layers. Polyester based synthetic fabrics may develop odors much quicker than wool or blended materials. Popular Brands include Smart Wool, WoolPower,Filson, Columbia.

Insulating Layer

Thermal Underwear (Tops and Bottoms) - Long johns made of synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene or polyolefin are best. They are warm, lightweight and fast drying.

Shell layer

There are countless options for outer shell layers from wool and canvas to the new synthetics with hi-tech camouflage patterns. Considerations include comfort, mobility, breath-ability, noisiness, weight and color. Choice colors include mid-tone grays, tans, browns, and camo. Excessively dark or bright colors such as black, white, orange and red should be avoided.

Rain Gear

Lightweight is best for sheep hunts. Frogg Toggs, Healey Hanson, Grundens, Kuiu

Rifle

Popular rifle calibers for sheep hunting include .270, 7mm, 30-06, .308 and 300’s. Lightweight rifles are ideal for mountain hunts. Bring at least two boxes of ammo. Bring a good neoprene style scope cover and shooting sticks if preferred. Handguns are not needed on our hunts.

Optics

8X or 10X lightweight quality binoculars

Your sheep hunting guide will have a Spotting Scope and Range-finder

Footwear
Hunting Boots

Boots should be comfortable, waterproof and supportive. They should be broken in prior to your sheep hunt. Taller boots are beneficial for crossing small streams and provide added ankle support. Premium insoles such as Superfeets can increase comfort and reduce fatigue. Recommended boots include Meindl, Scarpa

Boot Reviews (leave this site):

Schnees Sheep Hunter by Lowa review.

Socks

Quality mid-weight wool or synthetic socks ( 6 or 4 pairs)

Overshoes / Waders

Neos over-boots or Wiggy Waders for creek crossings

Sleeping

Sleeping Bag

Synthetic, Lightweight, Compressible, comfortable down to 20deg F.

Sleeping Pad

Therma-rest, Mountain Hardware, Big Agnes

Bivy Sack

Outdoor Research, Mountain Hardware, Gore-tex

Backpacking Tent or Tarp w/ Parachute Cord

Some hunters prefer to bring a light backpacking tent. Other's don't mind sleeping under a tarp like your guide.

Misc Items

Trekking Pole
Pocket Knife
Headlamp w/ extra batteries
Water Bottle
Hat
Gloves (one warm pair, and one lightweight pair for climbing in rocks.)
Boot care / Foot care
Hygiene / Toiletries
Sunscreen
Camera w/ spare battery
Medications
Parachute Cord

Sheep Hunting Equipment List revised 01/2015