For hunters who value efficiency, comfort, and preparedness, a side by side (SxS) vehicle can be a game-changer. These versatile off-road vehicles provide the perfect blend of mobility and storage capacity, allowing hunters to reach remote locations, transport gear, and handle game with ease. However, the real value of a side by side comes when it’s outfitted with the right accessories. Side by side hunting accessories enhance not only the functionality of your vehicle but also the entire hunting experience.
Whether you’re using your SxS to navigate rugged terrain, transport game, or carry vital gear, these accessories can elevate your hunt by making your vehicle more versatile, organized, and equipped for the unpredictable conditions of the wilderness. In this article, we will explore some of the most valuable side by side hunting accessories, discussing their uses and why they are indispensable for hunters.
Why Side by Side Accessories are Essential for Hunters
Hunting requires preparation, patience, and the right tools. A side by side can help reduce the physical burden of carrying gear and navigating rough terrain, but without the proper accessories, you might find yourself missing crucial elements of organization, safety, or convenience. Side by side hunting accessories help ensure that your vehicle is ready for all aspects of the hunt—from storing weapons securely to hauling game back to camp.
These accessories can significantly enhance your hunting experience by increasing the capacity of your vehicle and optimizing it for specific hunting tasks. Whether you’re hunting deer in dense forests, waterfowl in wetlands, or small game in open fields, having the right accessories on your SxS can make your trip more efficient and enjoyable.
Key Side by Side Hunting Accessories Every Hunter Should Consider
Here are some essential side by side hunting accessories that can transform your SxS into the ultimate hunting companion.
1. Gun Racks and Bow Holders
One of the most important accessories for hunters using side by side vehicles is a gun rack or bow holder. Transporting firearms and bows safely is essential, especially when navigating rough, uneven terrain. Gun racks and holders provide a secure way to store your weapons, ensuring they stay protected from bumps, drops, and exposure to the elements.
These accessories are designed to hold firearms and bows securely in place, preventing them from shifting or falling while you’re driving. Many gun racks can be mounted inside the cabin or on the rear of the vehicle, allowing for quick and easy access when you need it. Ensuring your weapons are stowed properly can prevent accidents and keep your gear in optimal condition for the hunt.
2. Storage Boxes and Gear Organizers
Hunting often involves carrying a variety of equipment, from ammunition and tools to food, water, and safety gear. Storage boxes and gear organizers for your side by side help keep everything in order. UTV storage solutions are typically weather-resistant, ensuring your gear stays dry and protected from rain, snow, and mud.
Storage boxes can be mounted to the rear of the SxS or placed in the bed, offering ample space for your essential items. Gear organizers are ideal for holding smaller, frequently used items like binoculars, calls, and hunting licenses, so you don’t have to rummage through a cluttered pile of gear to find what you need. With the right storage solutions, you can bring everything you need without worrying about space or organization.
3. Winches for Game Retrieval and Vehicle Recovery
A winch is one of the most valuable accessories for any off-road vehicle, especially in hunting scenarios where you may find yourself navigating tough terrain. Whether you’re trying to free your vehicle from a mud hole or hauling a heavy deer out of the woods, a winch can save you time, effort, and frustration.
Winches allow you to pull heavy loads with ease, which is especially useful when you need to retrieve large game that would otherwise be difficult to transport. A winch can also be a lifesaver if your side by side gets stuck in mud, snow, or over rocky ground. With a durable, high-capacity winch, you can navigate the wilderness with confidence, knowing you have a tool to get yourself out of sticky situations.
4. Hunting Blind Chairs and Comfortable Seating
For hunters who plan to spend extended periods in one spot, waiting for game to approach, comfort is key. Hunting blind chairs or upgraded seating for your side by side can make long waits much more bearable. Many hunting blind chairs are portable and can be easily stowed in your SxS, allowing you to bring a comfortable seat into the field or use it at your hunting site.
Additionally, upgrading your vehicle’s seats with more comfortable, cushioned options can make the ride out to the hunting grounds smoother, particularly when covering rough terrain. Comfortable seating ensures that you stay alert and focused, rather than distracted by discomfort.
5. Game Loaders and Racks
Once you’ve successfully harvested game, transporting it back to camp or home can be a challenge, especially if you’ve taken a large animal like a deer or hog. Game loaders and racks simplify the process by giving you a secure and easy way to load and transport your harvest.
Game loaders often feature mechanical assist systems, allowing you to lift heavy game without straining your back. Racks, on the other hand, provide extra storage capacity on the rear or roof of your SxS, making it easier to transport large game while keeping the interior of your vehicle clean and free for other gear.
6. Lighting Systems for Early Morning and Evening Hunts
Visibility is essential when hunting in low-light conditions, whether you’re navigating a trail at dawn or heading back to camp at dusk. Upgraded lighting systems for your side by side can make a huge difference in your ability to see and be seen during early morning or evening hunts.
LED light bars, spotlights, and floodlights are common additions that provide bright, long-lasting illumination, making it easier to navigate trails, spot game, or work around your vehicle in the dark. Many hunters also install low-profile lights that preserve night vision, ensuring that your lights won’t scare off game or disturb other hunters in the area.
7. Windshields and Roofs for Weather Protection
One of the most overlooked side by side hunting accessories is a windshield or roof. These simple additions can dramatically improve your comfort by protecting you from wind, rain, and cold temperatures while driving through the wilderness. A roof provides shade and shelter, while a windshield keeps debris, bugs, and cold wind out of the cabin.
In colder climates or wet environments, having a roof and windshield can make the ride to your hunting location far more pleasant, allowing you to stay dry, warm, and focused on the hunt rather than the elements. Many windshields are designed with ventilation options, so you can adjust airflow as needed, making them versatile for various weather conditions.
Conclusion
For hunters who use side by side vehicles, the right side by side hunting accessories are essential for enhancing both the performance of the vehicle and the success of the hunt. From gun racks and storage solutions to winches and lighting systems, these accessories not only improve convenience but also ensure safety and preparedness in the field.
By outfitting your side by side with purpose-built accessories, you can better organize your gear, transport game, and navigate challenging terrain with confidence. Whether you’re hunting in thick woods, open fields, or wetlands, the right accessories will help you get the most out of your side by side, turning it into a powerful tool that supports every aspect of your hunting adventure.
