Hundreds of new products hit the market every year. Most are from reputable manufacturers who think there is a need for a new idea or innovation. With so many to choose from, where do you even begin when trying to separate what's "hot" from what's "not"? In my case, it's always from the perspective of a Bowhunter. Is this something I can see myself using in the field? Something that will help make me more successful? Along those lines, here are my top three choices for the "must have" products.

First, take a look at the new compound bows; they're faster, flatter shooting, lighter, shorter, quieter, and have less recoil. In short, these aren't your Daddy's bows. I'm not going to specify a manufacturer - there are too many out there that are quality products. I'll just say that if you are shooting a compound bow that more than 5 years old, you will shoot better by trading up to one of the newer models. They are truly that good.

Second, lighted nocks on your arrows. If you upgrade to one of the newer bows, you'll quickly discover they shoot so fast it's actually hard to see your arrow. Lighted nocks give you the ability to quickly discover errant arrow flight in practice. More importantly, they allow you to clearly track your shots taken in that 30 minutes after sunrise or before sunset. If you make a hit, you can walk straight to your arrow for that all critical examination. Personally I like the ones that activate by centrifugal force - like Firenocks. If you bow can send an arrow downrange at 125 fps or faster, they light up and stay lit until you deactivate. All my hunting arrows have them.

My third and last choice would be a good ground blind. I picked my first one up about four years ago - a Double Bull that gave plenty of room for my 6'3" frame. Although they are most known for turkey hunting, I've now taken several deer from them. I've described them to other hunters as equivalent to tree stands 30 years ago - before deer learned to look up. I hunt Belvoir, where deer know what a Bowunter is, and I've taken several deer from mine. They do take some learning to use effectively, but they add a whole new dimension to being up close and personal to game. Just one word of caution - there are lots out there, ranging from great products to pieces of junk, so do your homework. If possible, talk to other hunters who own one and get their opinion.

Good Hunting!