Don't any of you guys carry pistols? Thats one comfortable feeling, I like to lightly run my fingers over the back end of the slide of my 9mm while on my side, very comforting. As far as the injury from falling from the tree stand story, lets not let that experience go in vain. Every year we hear stories of hikers and hunters getting lost and hurt in the woods and having a bad day or two or even dying. Just a month or so ago a kid here in Southern California got lost in the desert and they found him dead just a few hours later not far from camp. Getting lost starts by being a just couple hundred yards out of touchfrom your buddy or camp and then continueing, that 1/4 mile or so is well within GMRS/FRS radio range. At 30 bucks a pair and only6-8 ounces with batteries, I don't see why everyone that is active in the outdoors does'nt have one.

Always make the contact with your itinerary AND leave a written note AND do not deviate. Plan your hunt, hunt your plan.

For the Pack

Have more water than you think you need, at least a 2 liter bottle
small snacks ie.. peanuts, trail mix, couple of protein bars
Some thin warm clothes/ polypropolene or thermal underwear tops plus jacket
A space blanket
A whistle
GMRS/FRS Radio/ extra set of batteries/ let your contact know your home channel
Small flashlight
A waterproof tarp
Small first aid kit
A good knife
A small roll of nylon string, sounds crazy but has many uses in a jam
A couple of hefty style trash bags, you'd be amazed at how many uses you can find for those

I'm sure you guys will add to the list, and all this stuff really does'nt take up that much room and if you think it's overkill and you're justgoing out for the day where you know the country like the back of your hand, re-read the above falling from the tree stand post. The above pack could keep you warm and alive for a few days until help arives.

Metro