RE: Recommended gear for a first deer hunt
The rangefinder might come in handy if you're hunting with a shotgun or muzzleloader, but it's not essential. Something to consider if you end up getting weighed down by your gear.
I'd recommend a decent compass, atopo map (especially if you're hunting more than a few hundred acres), some good binoculars, and a sharp knife (3" blade ought to do it). Everything else is optional depending on your preferences. And, of course, a good gun or bow that's sighted properly, and that you know you can hit the bullseye on the first shot with.