I’m fortunate enough to have chased turkeys all across the country and, over time, I’ve dialed in a system that keeps me comfortable through the entirety of a cross-country turkey trek. The gear outlined below adapts to all the environments and weather patterns you’ll encounter.

Baselayers

Every good gear system needs a dependable foundation, and for me, it starts with the Core Merino 120 series. The 120 Series is light enough for active hunts as the day heats up while offering reliable warmth for brisk mornings. The Merino 120 series includes three styles of tops: a short-sleeve crew, a long-sleeve crew, and a hoodie. I lean towards the hoodie because it includes an integrated facemask for extra concealment and a center zipper that lets me get some extra airflow if needed.

The 2x4’s

If you’re searching for all-encompassing staples, I’ve got two words for you: Equinox Guard. Tough yet breathable with built-in bug protection and a tightly-knit fabric that makes bites a non-factor, the Equinox Guard Hoodie and Pant are consistently in my lineup.

Temperature & Terrain

When the mercury drops or I have brutal terrain slotted for the hunt ahead, I opt for the Jetstream Jacket and Timberline Pant. The Jetstream subdues wind and takes on rugged terrain with ease, and the Timberline has waterproof panels and enough toughness for countless seasons of abuse.

Added Warmth

It's easy to get cold when hunts go stationary—that's when I pull out the Kelvin Aerolite Jacket. It’s super packable and the synthetic insulation retains warmth even when dew or some light rain adds moisture to the mix.

Rain Gear

Precipitation and spring turkey seasons go hand-in-hand, so I like to keep rain gear close at hand. Rather than rely on the accuracy of the weatherman, I always keep the Dew Point Jacket and Pant in my kit. They’re easily packable and provide GORE-TEX waterproof protection in a durable package.

Every one of my hunts, regardless of locale, centers around the Equinox Turkey Vest. I love the slim and lightweight design and—since I own a turkey call company—am a huge fan of the call-specific storage. Each pocket is perfectly positioned, operates quietly, keeps calls secure, and makes sure that the call surfaces remain in good working order. Here is a breakdown of my vest’s usual lineup:

• Outside Pockets:

  • Pot Calls: typically a Crystal Mistress and a Slate

  • Box call: Ebony/Walnut checkered short box

  • Strikers: Dymondwood striker (plus several extras) and a waterproof striker

  • Binoculars: compact, 8-power binoculars

  • Mouth Calls: a TKO, Natural Born Killer, and She Devil

• Inside Pocket:

  • Call Maintenance: box call chalk, conditioning stone, and steel wool

  • Accessories: Equinox gloves, snips, range finder, and extra shotgun shells

• Back Pockets:

  • Small pocket: tags, zip ties, gear ties, knife, sharpie, and turkey tote

  • Large pocket: Dew Point gear, snacks, and a bottle of water

• Strapped to the Side:

  • Additional Calls: long box and aluminum or ceramic pot in holsters clipped to the outside