Ready for the Total Archery Challenge? Your Complete Prep Guide

After eight years as a vendor at TAC events nationwide, we've seen it all. We've watched thousands of archers conquer incredible mountain shots and learned what separates a great experience from a frustrating one. This TAC preparation guide will help you prepare for an incredible 3D archery and outdoor adventure weekend.

What Makes Total Archery Challenge So Special?

TAC has transformed 3D archery into an unforgettable outdoor adventure. These events are held at beautiful ski resorts and other rugged terrain venues across the country, offering:

• More than 100 3D targets across multiple courses
• Shots from 20-yarders to 100+ yard targets
• Shooting scenarios including extreme elevation changes both uphill and downhill
• Shooting across undulating terrain and ravines
• Dense vegetation and other natural obstacles that force you to think strategically
• A festival atmosphere with vendor village, food, and evening social events

The Ultimate Hunting Prep Experience

One of the most significant benefits of TAC is the opportunity to test your hunting setup well before seasons open. This is your chance to identify weaknesses in your gear configuration, find out what works and what doesn't, and make adjustments well before you're in a high-stakes hunting situation.

Treat TAC as the ultimate testing ground for your hunting setup. We often see shooters using school backpacks instead of hunting packs on the course. While that's fine for casual archers, savvy hunters bring their complete field setup, the same pack, accessories, and gear configuration they'll use during hunting season. This allows you to test everything under realistic conditions in the industry's best hunting simulation. Don't miss this valuable opportunity to identify and fix problems before opening day.

TAC reveals critical issues that can ruin your hunt: loose sights, uncomfortable gear setups, inadequate stabilization, and noisy equipment. Many archers discover inferior materials and components that can't withstand backcountry conditions. Some realize their shooting skills need improvement at challenging angles and distances. Perhaps most importantly, many hunters discover that their own physical conditioning is the weakest link in their setup, prompting them to improve their fitness before hunting season begins.

Think of TAC as your pre-season gear proving ground. The rugged terrain, varied shot angles, and full day of shooting will put your equipment and your body through their paces and help you identify improvements needed before hunting season.

2025 TAC Event Schedule

No Registration? Come Anyway!

Nock Times often sell out quickly, but that doesn't mean you should skip the event. Even without a shooting registration, you can:

• Visit the vendor village to check out the latest gear.
• Attend evening social events and after-parties.
• Network with fellow archers and pros
• Purchase TAC merchandise to remember the event.
• Support your friends who are shooting (note that you'll need to purchase a non-shooter pass that covers insurance and lift/shuttle access to accompany them on the courses)
• Get yourself ready for next year by seeing the courses firsthand.

Many people make TAC an annual tradition even in years when they weren't one of the lucky ones with nock times!

Course Options

TAC typically offers several course options that vary by venue. Each location features different layouts and challenges to test your skills. While course names and themes might change from event to event, you can generally expect the following:

• Longer distance courses with challenging shots (60+ yards)
• Mid-range courses featuring realistic hunting scenarios
• Traditional options for recurve and longbow shooters
• Extreme courses that push even the most skilled archers
• Beginner-friendly options for youth and new shooters
• Novelty shots with special prizes, including the famous 111-yard truck challenge

Remember, TAC is not a competitive event in the traditional sense. There's no official scoring or rankings. It's designed as the ultimate hunt preparation experience where you can test your skills, fitness, and gear in realistic scenarios. Of course, if you and your friends want to keep score or make it a friendly competition, that's entirely up to you. TAC can be whatever you want - it's your experience to enjoy.

Essential Gear for Your TAC Adventure

Based on our experience at TAC events since 2017, here's our must-have gear list:

Bow Setup

• Your bow and extra arrows (trust us, bring more than you think you'll need)
• JAKT GEAR My Sling-A-Ling Magnetic Bow Sling: This makes a massive difference at TAC. So many shooters stop by our booth after their first day complaining about arm fatigue. The magnetic system lets you carry your bow comfortably between shots while keeping it secure and ready.
• Release aid plus a backup
• Bow sight (adjustable slider sights like the new PRÜF Mover Bow Sight by Dialed Archery work great for varying distances)
• Basic tools for field repairs (don't forget duct tape, super glue, and hex wrenches in sizes for your bow)
• Extra nocks, fletchings, and D-loop material (JAKT GEAR Pre-Cut GloMax D-Loops are perfect for keeping in your backpack for emergency repairs)
• Arrow puller

Optics and Rangefinders

• Rangefinder with fresh/extra batteries
• JAKT GEAR Ready Ranger: Keeps your rangefinder handy but secure while hiking, then locks out of the way during your shot
• Binoculars for identifying targets, scoring rings, and potential obstacles
• Bino harness to keep optics secure and protected
• Lens cleaning cloth

Note: Some optics vendors have demo products available to test on the courses - a great chance to try the newest technology before you buy!

Pack and Organization

• Hunting/day pack
• JAKT GEAR Pack Rats: These clips are a must-have for TAC. They secure your bow sling to your backpack strap so it won't slide off while hiking the steep terrain.
• Water hydration system (2+ liters minimum, even more at altitude)
• JAKT GEAR Tactical Gear Clips: Keep gear organized and accessible
• JAKT GEAR Phone Tether: We've seen countless phones dropped on TAC courses over the years, with many damaged on rocky terrain or lost in thick underbrush. At TAC, your phone is essential for documenting your experience, connecting with other participants, checking mapping apps, and creating shared content. More importantly, this is the perfect opportunity to practice using your phone tether system exactly as you would during hunting season when your phone becomes critical for navigation, weather forecasts, and emergency communication. Getting comfortable with your tether setup now at TAC will ensure you're ready when it really counts in the field.

Personal Comfort Items

• Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
• Quality hiking socks (Alterra are worth the money!)
• Layered clothing (mornings can be cold even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically over a day)
• Compact rain gear or poncho (we've seen everything from wind to rain, to lightning, thunderstorms, sleet, snow, and even softball-sized hail)
• Hat with brim
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp or flashlight (for early nock times in the spring)
• Sunscreen 
• Anti-chafe stick (seriously, you'll thank us)
• Wet wipes (Klean Freaks is a great choice)
• Jack Links jerky, trail mix, energy bars, electrolyte performance drinks (check out MTN OPS, Blk Flg)
• Small first aid kit (don't forget lip balm)
• Insect Repellant (for some venues, you may want a head net)

Top 10 Pro Tips

1. Get in shape before the event. Even modest preparation helps. TAC courses involve serious hiking on rugged terrain.
2. Stop by the Jakt Gear booth early for free installation. Lines get long right before courses start.
3. Pack Rats are essential. These simple clips keep your bow sling secure to your pack, strap on steep terrain and free your hands.
4. Drink more water than usual. The mountain elevation and physical effort dehydrate you quickly.
5. Take your time shooting. There's no rush, and the unusual angles and obstacles require careful consideration.
6. Get your gear ready the night before. Nothing worse than scrambling in the morning.
7. Dress in layers. Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically throughout the day.
8. Talk to other shooters. You'll pick up great tips and make new friends.
9. Use TAC to test out all the gear you'll use for hunting season. Make adjustments before it really counts.
10. Have fun! This is your event; enjoy it in your own way.

TAC Success Story

"I shot my first TAC at Boyne Mountain last year and by the end of day one, my arm was completely worn out from carrying my bow up and down the mountain. I couldn't hold steady and missed shots I normally make easily. That afternoon I stopped by the JAKT GEAR booth and picked up a My Sling-A-Ling and a set of Pack Rats. The next day was completely different! My arm stayed fresh, I could hike hands-free, and my shooting improved dramatically. If you're new to TAC, the Jakt Gear booth should be your first stop!"

-        Mark T., Michigan

Visit Us at the JAKT GEAR Booth

Look for our bright neon green booth at Vendor Village! We offer:

• Free on-site installation of all JAKT GEAR products- stop by early; lines get long right before courses open.
• Expert advice on tackling the courses
• Special event-only deals such as our TAC PACK
• Product demos
• A place to share stories and connect with other archers

Remember to grab some TAC merch while you're there. The event shirts, hats, and other gear make great souvenirs of your adventure.

Final Thoughts

Total Archery Challenge offers some of the best archery experiences anywhere. Beyond the beautiful scenery and challenging shots, TAC provides unparalleled opportunities to meet and interact with industry experts, pro staff, and social media influencers you follow. The vendor village becomes a hub of knowledge exchange where you can gain insights directly from the people who design, test, and promote the gear you use.

After attending hundreds of archery events, expos, and trade shows throughout the years, we can confidently say that TAC events are the most coordinated and smoothly run in the business. The difference becomes clear when you compare the TAC team's attention to detail, course design, and overall organization to other events. This level of professionalism ensures you can focus entirely on the experience rather than logistics.

You'll be ready to make the most of TAC with good preparation and the right gear. We've supported archers at these events for eight seasons and love seeing people conquer these courses.

As TAC says: "Life... It's better with a bow." We couldn't agree more. See you on the mountain!

Been to a TAC event? Share your tips in the comments! Questions about gear for your upcoming adventure? Email us at customerservice@jaktgear.com.

Understanding Turkey Vision: Why They Spot You First

Wild turkeys possess some of the most remarkable vision in the woods. According to research from the National Wild Turkey Federation, these birds have eyesight approximately 5 times better than humans, with color vision and an impressive 270-degree field of view. This visual advantage means that even the slightest movement can send them running before you've had a chance to react.

Dr. Michael Chamberlain, wild turkey researcher at the University of Georgia, explains, "A turkey's visual acuity is their primary defense mechanism, which is why they've evolved such exceptional eyesight over thousands of years."

After gathering insights from experienced hunters at the 2025 National Wild Turkey Federation Expo in Nashville, we've compiled the five most critical strategies to avoid getting spotted this turkey season.

1. Minimize Movement at All Costs

Movement is the number one reason turkey hunts fail. These sharp-eyed birds can detect even the smallest motion from over 100 yards away.

Expert Tip: Keep your hands close to your body and practice moving with extreme slowness—think of moving like you're in slow motion. 

According to turkey hunting expert Eddie Salter, "If you can see a turkey, it can most definitely see you. The difference is whether your movement catches its attention."

2. Gear Up for Zero Fumbling

Every piece of equipment should be immediately accessible without looking or making excessive movements. This preparation is where purpose-built gear makes all the difference.

The Ready Ranger magnetic retention system allows hunters to range distances quickly and then secure their rangefinder silently with a magnetic system that eliminates fumbling at critical moments.

If you're hunting outside of a ground blind, always range key landmarks and potential shooting lanes before you start calling. Once that tom appears, any movement to grab your rangefinder will be instantly detected by their exceptional vision, likely sending them running before you can get a shot off.

Pro Setup: Arrange your calls, rangefinder, and weapon in a deliberate pattern that requires minimal movement to access. Practice this setup at home before heading to the field.

3. Dress for Complete Concealment

Breaking up your silhouette completely is non-negotiable for turkey hunting success. Research confirms that turkeys can distinguish between different colors and patterns.

Proper turkey hunting attire includes:

• Full camouflage pattern matched to your hunting environment
• Face mask to break up the human face outline
• Gloves to conceal hand movements
• Hat with a brim to shadow your face

Critical Note: Avoid any shiny surfaces on your gear or face (watches, glasses, etc.) as these can catch sunlight and create flashes visible to turkeys.

4. Perfect Your Setup Position

Your hunting position can make or break your chances of success. To break up your outline and provide back protection, position yourself against a tree wider than your shoulders. A ground blind is an excellent way of concealing movement when hunting with youth.

Establish clear shooting lanes before you begin calling, and have everything prepared before making your first call. According to themeateater.com, the ideal setup includes:

• A wide tree for back support and outline-breaking
• 180-degree visibility of potential approach routes
• Natural barriers that guide turkeys toward your shooting lanes
• Minimal vegetation between you and where you expect the turkey to appear

5. Master the Patience Game 

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of turkey hunting is developing the mental fortitude to remain motionless for extended periods. Chris Kirby, president of Quaker Boy Calls, wrote for Mossy Oak, "If you want to see all the blood go out of a turkey hunter’s face, watch what happens when he's going to a gobbler, but the gobbler sees him and the turkey runs off before the hunter can get a shot". 

The most successful turkey hunters aren't necessarily the ones with the most realistic calls—they're the ones who can remain perfectly still the longest. As legendary turkey hunter Ray Eye notes, "Patience isn't just a virtue in turkey hunting; it's a requirement."

Conclusion: Putting It All Together 

Combining these five strategies creates a comprehensive approach to avoiding detection during your turkey hunts. Remember that turkeys have explicitly evolved to detect threats through visual observation, making your ability to minimize movement and maximize concealment the most critical factor for success.

This turkey season, focus on these fundamentals, prepare your gear for silent accessibility, and commit to the patience needed for consistent success. For equipment that supports these strategies, check out the Ready Ranger system that helps solve the #1 problem in turkey hunting: unnecessary movement.

Additional Resources:

• National Wild Turkey Federation - Turkey Facts
• 2025 Spring Turkey Hunting Guide
• University of Minnesota Extension - Turkey Hunting Basics

Gear up for the ultimate archery experience at the Total Archery Challenge and Jakt Gear!

With over 100 3D archery targets and multiple courses designed for different skill levels, this event promises excitement and challenges for everyone. Here's what you can expect at this thrilling event:

Read more

"The Dawn of Jakt Gear: Revolutionizing the Hunting Experience"

In the heart of every hunter lies a passion for innovation and efficiency. JAKT GEAR, a pioneer in the hunting gear industry, embodies this spirit. Founded by hunters, for hunters, JAKT GEAR has revolutionized the way outdoor enthusiasts gear up for all types of hunting terrains. Their flagship products include the My Sling-A-Ling magnetic bow sling, the UTG Ready Ranger magnetic rangefinder, the versatile Tree Toolbelt from the Ultimate Tree Gear Collection, and the Pack Rats - Backpack Strap Clips for hands-free gear movement. Additionally, the Quiver Caddy™, was also named Best New Accessory at the 2024 Archery Trade Association Show, offers an innovative solution for quiver management during hunts. Each product is designed with the hunter's needs in mind, combining durability, practicality, and functionality to ensure that every hunting expedition is more successful and less burdensome. With JAKT GEAR, hunters are not just equipped; they are empowered.

Founding Story of Jakt Gear

Behind every great innovation is a story of challenge, passion, and resolution. For Jakt Gear, that story begins with Jeff Ellis, a passionate hunter and outdoor enthusiast whose personal experiences in the wild sparked the adventure of this pioneering company. Frustrated by the inadequacies of traditional hunting gear, especially when it came to carrying his bow over long distances, Jeff envisioned a solution that would not only alleviate his own struggles but also transform the hunting experience for others. This vision led to the creation of the My Sling-A-Ling bow sling, the first step towards Jakt Gear's mission to revolutionize hunting gear.

Overcoming Initial Challenges

The path from a visionary idea to a tangible product is seldom smooth, and Jakt Gear's journey was no exception. Developing a prototype that was both functional and practical for hunters presented the first major hurdle. The intricate balance between durability, practicality, and user comfort required countless hours of design, testing, and refinement. Jeff and his team were committed to perfection, unwilling to settle for anything less than the best.

The search for the right materials and manufacturing processes was equally daunting. Jakt Gear needed partners who could not only understand their vision but also deliver products that met their rigorous standards of quality. Through perseverance and a commitment to their mission, Jakt Gear established relationships with suppliers and manufacturers who were up to the task. This network of partnerships became the backbone of their production process, enabling them to produce gear that hunters could rely on in the most demanding conditions.

Milestones and Recognition

Despite the challenges, Jakt Gear's dedication to innovation and quality quickly bore fruit. The launch of the My Sling-A-Ling bow sling was met with enthusiasm from the hunting community, validating Jeff's belief that there was a better way to carry hunting gear. The positive feedback from hunters who experienced firsthand the difference Jakt Gear's products made in their expeditions was a significant milestone, marking the company's successful entry into the market.

Another crowning achievement came when the a few producst from the Ultimate Tree Gear Collection was named Best New Accessory at the 2024 Archery Trade Association Show. This recognition was more than an award; it was a testament to Jakt Gear's impact on the hunting industry and a signal of the company's potential to lead and innovate. Alongside these milestones, Jakt Gear continued to expand its product line, each new offering reinforcing its reputation for quality and ingenuity.

Vision, Mission, and Community Impact

At the heart of Jakt Gear's success is a vision that extends beyond the creation of hunting gear. Jeff envisioned a company that not only solved practical problems for hunters but also built a community around shared values of innovation, quality, and respect for nature. Jakt Gear's mission to employ and celebrate veterans, utilizing their unique talents and experiences, underscores their commitment to community and service.

The company's efforts to give back, whether through community engagement or contributions to conservation and outdoor recreation causes, demonstrate a deep understanding of their impact beyond the products they sell. Jakt Gear is not just about enhancing the hunting experience; it's about fostering a culture that values dedication, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Jakt Gear's journey from an idea sparked in the backcountry to a pioneering force in the hunting gear industry is a story of innovation, perseverance, and community. Jeff's vision to provide simple solutions to complex problems has not only transformed how hunters approach their gear but has also built a brand that stands for quality, reliability, and respect for nature and people.

As Jakt Gear continues to innovate and expand its product line, its impact on the hunting industry and the communities it serves is undeniable. For hunters looking for gear that matches their passion for the outdoors, Jakt Gear offers not just products but a promise of enhancement, efficiency, and excellence.

Jakt Gear's story is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, dedication, and community come together. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions can lead to the most profound changes, both in the wilderness and beyond.

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Stay connected with the latest from JAKT GEAR! Follow us on our social media platforms for exclusive updates, events and shows, behind-the-scenes content, and more hunting tips and tricks. Join our community of passionate hunters and outdoor enthusiasts today, and use the hashtag #JAKTGear to share your experiences with us!

• Follow us on Instagram
• Like us on Facebook
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel
• Connect on LinkedIn 

Don't miss out on the adventure – follow JAKT GEAR now!

jakt
noun
/jɑkt/
- a hunt
- pursuit

JAKT GEAR is a company dedicated to providing innovative and high-quality hunting gear and accessories for outdoor enthusiasts. Founded by hunters with a passion for the backcountry, JAKT GEAR is driven by the desire to create practical, durable, and functional products that enhance the hunting experience. Their product line is designed to address common challenges faced by hunters and to improve efficiency and convenience during hunts.

Key products offered by JAKT GEAR include:

1. My Sling-A-Ling Magnetic Bow Sling: A revolutionary bow sling that allows for quick access to your bow while ensuring it's securely attached. It features a magnetic system to lock the sling out of the way during shots.

2. Ready Ranger Magnetic Rangefinder and Phone Retention System: A retention system designed to keep essential gear like rangefinders and phones secure and easily accessible during hunts.

3. Tree Toolbelt: Part of the Ultimate Tree Gear Collection, this belt attaches to a tree to keep hunting gear organized and within reach. It's made from military-grade webbing and is designed for versatility and durability.

4. Pack Rats - Backpack Strap Clips: These clips attach to the nylon webbing in a backpack strap, allowing for hands-free movement while carrying gear.

5. Quiver Caddy™: An accessory that holds your quiver during the hunt, working with all removable quivers. It can be combined with the UTG Tree Toolbelt for the ultimate gear organization system.

JAKT GEAR's products are designed by hunters, for hunters, ensuring they meet the highest standards for performance and reliability. The company is committed to providing simple solutions to complex problems and creating a culture that celebrates veterans and gives back to the community.

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Stay connected with the latest from JAKT GEAR! Follow us on our social media platforms for exclusive updates, events and shows, behind-the-scenes content, and more hunting tips and tricks. Join our community of passionate hunters and outdoor enthusiasts today, and use the hashtag #JAKTGear to share your experiences with us!

• Follow us on Instagram
• Like us on Facebook
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel
• Connect on LinkedIn 

Don't miss out on the adventure – follow JAKT GEAR now!