Whether you’re heading into the backcountry or settling into a whitetail stand, the right gear can help you make the most of your hunt. Here’s a look at seven new hunting gear picks for fall 2026, including a riflescope, rangefinder, pack system, boots, scent-control apparel, hearing protection and a folding hunting knife.
Optics
Leupold VX-4HD
The Leupold VX-4HD 3-12x50 pairs a clean Duplex reticle with a locking elevation dial that lets hunters range, dial and aim without clutter. The two-turn CDS-ZL2 elevation dial is super simple, allowing the user to range the target, determine the elevation correction, dial and hold directly on the aiming point. The VX-4HD series features a 4:1 zoom ratio, with four 3-12x models available. Leupold also offers three 4-16x models for hunters who want additional magnification. All are built on 30mm tubes. MSRP: $999.99.
For a complete rundown and testing of the Leupold VX-4HD 3-12x50, check out our fullreview.
check price at bass pro shopsSHOP NOW AT MIDWAY USAcheck price at sportsman's warehouseLeupold RX-5000 TBR/W
This modern rangefinder was built to deliver fast, precise ranges every time. It has now been updated to utilize HORNADY 4DOF and Precision Cut Archery to give shooters and archers the most accurate ballistic solutions available. What sets it apart even further is its integration with the Leupold Control app, which allows the user to remotely drop pins onto digital maps like onX Hunt. Like other Leupold rangefinders, the RX-5000 has been tested under the harshest conditions hunters are likely to face. MSRP: $799.99.
check price at bass pro shopsSHOP NOW AT MIDWAY USAcheck price at sportsman's warehouseGear & Apparel
KUIU ICON 6 Pack System
The all-new ICON 6 Pack System is the sixth generation of the pack platform that helped define ultralight backpack hunting. Built around a patent-pending 3D Carbon Fiber Frame and an entirely redesigned suspension system, the ICON 6 delivers significantly improved load-carrying comfort, greater durability and a simpler, more intuitive user experience. At the heart of the system is a new patent-pending 3D corrugated carbon frame featuring Flex-Forward Geometry and premium Toray thermoplastic carbon fiber. It’s available in four sizes—3500, 4500, 6000 and 8200 cubic inches. MSRP: Starts at $599.
We put this pack through its paces. Check out the complete review here:KUIU ICON 6 3500 Pack Review: Tested Over 8 Miles With 35- to 80-Pound Loads
LaCrosse Alphaburly Aero Boots
The Alphaburly Aero is a new evolution of the trusted Alphaburly line. Known for its premium, hand-laid rubber construction over a naturally insulating neoprene core, the Alphaburly family now advances into the next generation with AeroForm technology. AeroForm utilizes ETPU beads in the midsole to absorb shock, return energy, and maintain structure while significantly reducing density. The result is maximum cushioning, resilient flexibility and sneaker-level comfort in a responsive, feather-light platform. MSRP: Starts at $210.
SHOP NOW AT MIDWAY USAcheck price AT bass pro shopsSHOP NOW AT sportsman's warehouseScentLok Forefront Pro Jacket & Pant
Scent control is just as important as ever, and ScentLok’s new Forefront Pro Jacket and Pant are made for serious hunters. The jacket has been re-engineered with a game-changing advancement—WindBrake windproof technology. And Carbon Alloy technology adsorbs odor, helping keep scent away from your quarry. Designed to complement the jacket, the Forefront Pro Pant delivers the windproof protection, warmth and mobility serious whitetail hunters need when conditions begin to shift. MSRP: $199.99 (jacket), $199.99 (pants).
SoundGear Shield x Realtree
Shield x Realtree delivers dynamic digital hearing protection anytime you need it. This device lets you easily hear the environment around you, and is so comfortable, you won't feel like you're wearing hearing protection—until the moment it's needed. That's when SoundGear Shield x Realtree delivers up to 26 dB of noise reduction and instantly limits output to safe listening levels for your specific noise environment. It ships with two sizes of earbuds and a carry case. MSRP: $399.
Bear & Son Carbon Steel 2-Blade Folding Hunter
For hunters who crave the best bang for their bucks, or are of the two-is-better-than-one mindset, we recommend Bear & Son’s Carbon Steel 2-Blade Folding Hunter. Featuring blades of 1095 carbon steel and genuine India stag bone grips, the knife, which weighs in at only 8.9 ounces, has a slip-joint locking mechanism. Blade length is 4.375 inches, closed length is 5.25 inches and opened it measures 9.25 inches. MSRP: $119.99.
