Get ready for the hunting season
With hunting season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to pull your gear out of storage and make sure everything is ready before stepping foot into the field.
If you use a ShotKam to capture your hunts, or are considering adding one to your hunting gear, a quick pre-season check can make all the difference. Here's a simple checklist to help make sure your camera is ready to record every opportunity this season.
Charge Your ShotKam
If your ShotKam has been sitting in the safe or gear bag over the off-season, the first job is to make sure it's fully charged.
Using the supplied USB to USB-C cable, connect your ShotKam to a wall outlet or suitable USB power source. While charging, the red LED will flash. Once the battery reaches full charge, the red LED will remain solid. Even if the battery is completely depleted, it should only take a few hours to reach a full charge.
A fully charged ShotKam means one less thing to worry about when you're heading out before first light.
Battery Care During the Off-Season
Looking after the battery throughout the year helps maximise its lifespan and ensures your ShotKam is ready whenever you need it.
For best results:
- Store your ShotKam in temperatures between 32°F and 95°F (0°C and 35°C).
- Recharge the battery every 2 to 3 months, even if the camera isn't being used.
- Avoid storing the camera with a completely flat battery for extended periods.
These simple habits help maintain battery health and ensure reliable performance season after season.
Inspect the Camera
Once the battery is charged, take a few minutes to give your ShotKam a thorough inspection.
Start by cleaning the lens with the soft microfiber cloth provided. Dust, fingerprints or dried water spots can reduce image quality, so a clean lens is essential for capturing crisp footage.
Next, check the rest of the unit:
- Ensure the mounting screws tighten securely.
- Inspect the rear cap and sealing washer for signs of wear or damage.
- Check that the charging port is clean and free from dirt or debris.
- Confirm that the button operates smoothly.
If you notice any worn components, ShotKam includes a selection of spare parts with the camera, making it easy to replace small items before the season begins.
Make Sure You Have the Correct Mount
Different firearms require different mounting solutions, so it's worth confirming you have the correct mount for every gun you intend to use this season.
Whether you're switching between shotguns, or rifles, having the appropriate mount ready before your trip saves time and ensures your ShotKam remains securely attached throughout the hunt.
ShotKam offers a variety of mounting options to suit different barrel diameters and calibres. If you're mounting your ShotKam to a rifle, be sure to consult the Rifle Mounting Guide to select the correct option for your setup.
Review Your Camera Settings
Before heading into the field, connect your ShotKam to the ShotKam mobile app and review your settings.
It's easy to forget that the last hunt may have required different recording settings than your upcoming trip. Taking a few minutes to review them beforehand can help you capture exactly the footage you're after.
Things to check include:
- Recording mode
- Gun type
- Video resolution and frame rate
- Sleep mode and recording sensitivity
- Date and time setting
For a full breakdown of the ShotKam App and settings check out our ShotKam App Settings Guide.
Calibrate Your Reticle
When you're planning to use your ShotKam, don't forget to calibrate the reticle before your first hunt.
Calibration aligns the ShotKam's reticle to your point of aim, helping you accurately review your shooting after the hunt. If you've changed guns, mounts or even removed and reinstalled the ShotKam, it's worth taking a few moments to recalibrate.
Doing this before opening day gives you confidence that both your gun and your ShotKam are perfectly set up.
Start the Season Prepared
The excitement of a new hunting season often means we're eager to get straight into the field, but spending just a little time preparing your equipment can save missed opportunities later.
A fully charged battery, clean lens, secure mount and correctly configured settings ensure your ShotKam is ready to capture every memorable moment, from successful stalks and challenging shots to the stories you'll enjoy reliving long after the season ends.
A little preparation now means one less thing to think about when it's finally time to hunt.
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