Pre-Season Gear Checklist

Opening day ruined by a gear failure spoils the whole year. Run through this list two weeks before the season opens so there is time to fix what is missing.

1. The gun: cleaning and function

Hold the barrel to the light and inspect the bore; clean any rust or leading. Cycle the action empty, test the safety. On semi-autos, strip the gas system, clean and oil lightly — excess oil collects dust. Tighten the stock screws. A gun fired with last season's dirt jams on the first morning.

2. Shells: age and storage

Check shells left from last season. Shells stored damp swell and will not chamber, or misfire. Set aside anything doubtful. Decide the gauge and shot size you need in advance; shelves empty in the first week.

3. Boots

Check the soles: a worn sole slips on wet rock. Test waterproofing with a garden hose. If you are buying new boots, buy them at least two weeks before the season and break them in with short walks; nobody walks 15 km in new boots on day one.

4. Clothing layers

Cold mornings, hot noons: three layers are essential. A wicking base layer, an insulating mid layer, a wind- and waterproof shell. Check the jacket's zips and pockets. An orange hat or vest saves lives through visibility.

5. Vest and cartridge belt

Loose belt loops drop shells. A torn game pocket cannot carry game. Pull at the seams by hand.

6. Headlamp and batteries

Turn on the headlamp, replace or charge the batteries. Spare batteries always in a pocket. Red-light mode protects your night vision before dawn.

7. Knife and small tools

Sharpen the knife, check the sheath. Small pliers, cord and plasters belong in the bag.

8. Flask and water

Check the flask seal; a leaking flask soaks the bag. Carry at least 1.5 litres of water on hot days.

9. Dog gear

If you hunt with a dog: collar, bell or GPS, water bowl and spare food go on the list. Toughen the dog's pads with short walks before the season.

10. Documents and communication

Check your required documents and ID in your wallet. Take a fully charged phone; download an offline map for areas without signal. Tell someone where you are going.

Season bag summary

• Clean gun, spare chokes, cleaning kit
• Shells in the right size and load, a spare box
• Tested boots, three clothing layers, orange visibility
• Headlamp + spare batteries, knife, pliers, first aid
• Flask, water, snacks
• Documents, charged phone, offline map

If anything is missing, drop by the store; the week before the season is when stock is fullest.