I think I paid about $160 for the trailcam I have. I'd skimp in this area in a minute.

Of some mentioned.....I never knew I had poor flashlights until I held a good one. Ask Brknarrow if we'd have found his doe with his light. I have (probably) $600-$700 tied up in a toolbox......with nothing in it but spotlights, flashlights, radios and tracking gear. It's an insurance policy......and I've used it.

Most things....I figure you get what you pay for. I'd likely "skimp" if I was taking a chance something might get stolen.