Protect and Maintain Optics on a Backcountry Hunt
How many times have you stumbled or dropped a pair of optics on a hunt? The most surefooted hunters take the occasional tumble, and the general nature of backcountry hunts is hard on optics. Packs come in contact with horses, rocks, brush and more. Every hunter should take a few basic steps to maintain and protect their high-value optics in the field.
Keep it Clean in the Field
Inevitably, your optics lenses will gather dirt, dust, moisture and debris in the field. You can run through a deep cleaning at home, but basic field care requires the minimalist approach. A microfiber cloth is the primary means of wiping down lenses for a quick clean on the mountain and it’s a good idea to have more than available when the weather is wet, like it often is in northern British Columbia.
At camp, keep a small bottle of lens spray and a lens pen to blow off moisture and dust. This will ensure you begin each day with crystal clear optics!
Rifle Scope Protection
The most exposed and sensitive optic you carry is the rifle scope. It’s something you don’t pack away and that means it has constant exposure and elevated risk. Leaving a scope unprotected can lead to scratches, scuffs, ice formation and in the worst-case scenarios, damage that throws off your zero.
Padded scope covers are an absolute must-have for cold weather and hard hunts. They make it possible to always have your rifle at the ready while also protecting the scope against contact and the elements. Your lens will be frost and fog free and the peace of mind is well worth the minor cost of a padded cover.
Keep in mind, these covers aren’t a replacement for lens caps. Keep your caps on in conjunction with the cover. The double layer of protection is highly effective.
Spotting Scope Protection
Spotting scopes also deserve special consideration as they are long and easy to smash in your pack. Like the rifle scope, a padded cover system is a good idea on every hunt. Cases with the full-length zippers are convenient and quick to open. They offer much needed protection on high impact hunts without adding too much weight in your pack.
If you don’t want the inconvenience of a zippered case or weight is a real concern, look at a case that is always on the scope. You can cut a thick sock to fit or use one of the several neoprene options. They offer insulation in cold weather conditions while also acting as an impact buffer against the scope.
Binos + Rangefinder
Binoculars and rangefinders are in constant use. They have the most exposure to the elements and keeping them dry is very important. Luckily, the market for chest holsters is robust with a ton of great designs. For hunts in grizzly country, some chest harness designs have add-on attachments for bear spray or a pistol. Everything is accessible and ready for use in this manner.
Using the lens caps is still advisable to prevent frost, fog and debris from obscuring your field of vision. Keep a cleaning cloth in the pouch and you will always have a fresh lens to look through.
