10 Tips for Early Season Whitetail Success

Holiday Hunting-Friendly Deals From NSSF Patron Members

The holiday season is here and if you've been thinking about upgrading your hunting gear, gifting new equipment to someone you're mentoring or getting ready for the new year's adventures, now is a great time to take advantage of December savings from NSSF Patron Member companies.

These rebates, seasonal discounts and gear promotions are official. They offer great opportunities for hunters to save on quality equipment.

Note: Promotions can change quickly. Always double-check dates, exclusions and rebate instructions on the manufacturer's site before purchasing.

 

Not sure what to get the hunter in your life for the holidays? Check out our Gift Guide with great suggestions.

1791 Gunleather - Holiday Holster Savings

20% Off Select Holsters

1791 Gunleather is spreading holiday cheer with 20% off a wide array of leather and Kydex holsters, belts and hunting accessories on their official offers page. The discount is automatically applied in cart for all products listed in their Offers section.

If you're looking to carry a sidearm on your next hunt or need a sturdy gun belt, now's a great time to grab one from 1791's sale selection.

(Bonus tip: Joining 1791's email club nets new subscribers an extra 10% off first orders, for even more savings.)

Explore 1791 Gunleather Holster Savings

Beretta USA - Early Christmas Deals & 50% Off Apparel

25% Off Sitewide + Free Shipping (Through 12/12)

Beretta's online store kicked off an "Early Christmas Deals" event, offering 25% off plus free shipping on orders - a great chance to pick up that new hunting shotgun or some Beretta gear at a quarter off. This promotion runs until December 12, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET, so act fast to take advantage. (Exclusions apply, but many firearms, apparel and accessories are included - perfect for last-minute gifts that will arrive by Christmas.)

Markdowns Up to 50%

Even after the 12/12 cutoff, Beretta's website features a robust Sale section with markdowns up to 50% off on select clothing, gun cases, shooting accessories and more. Hunters can score deals on high-quality jackets, vests and bags - for example, upland hunting jackets and field gear are significantly discounted in the sale outlet. Don't forget to check Beretta's "Clothing on Sale" and "Gear on Sale" pages for these half-price finds.

Shop Beretta's Holiday Deals Shop Beretta's Markdowns

Brownells - Winter Clearance & Year-End Deals

Clearance Sale - Up to 65% Off

Brownells is running a massive Winter Clearance event to close out 2025. You can "save big" on a wide range of products - in fact, items are marked up to 65% off in the clearance section. This includes hunting gear staples like ammunition (with select calibers marked down), optics and mounts, firearm parts, reloading supplies and more.

If you're gearing up for next hunting season or just stocking the safe, Brownells' year-end sale is a great opportunity.

Shop Brownells HoliDeals

Browning - Firearm Rebates + Big Safe Cashback

Holiday Firearm Rebate (Dec 2-31)

Browning is rewarding hunters who invest in new guns this month. Their Holiday 2025 Rebate gives $100 cash back on each new Browning shotgun or centerfire rifle and $50 back on each new rimfire rifle or handgun, purchased between December 2 and December 31, 2025. This rebate is offered via prepaid card or check after online submission - just buy an eligible Browning firearm (think X-Bolt rifles, Citori shotguns, Buck Mark pistols, etc.), then submit your rebate claim by the deadline (mid-Jan 2026) to get a nice chunk of cash returned.

Up to $400 Back on Browning Gun Safes

Browning Safes is running a "Holiday Savings" Safe Rebate for any safe purchased Nov 1 - Dec 31, 2025. The rebate is tiered by safe price, ranging from $50 back on smaller safes (priced $699+) up to a generous $400 back on high-end safes ($5,000+ purchase). In other words, "the bigger your safe, the bigger your rebate."

See Browning's Holiday Firearm Rebate See Browning's Gun Safe Rebate

Colt's Manufacturing - Up to $100 Back on Revolvers & Rifles

Colt is running a holiday rebate program offering $50-$100 back on qualifying firearms. Hunters and outdoorsmen looking for a reliable sidearm or a new bolt-action rifle will find strong value in this program.

Eligible models include:

• $50 rebate on Cobra and King Cobra revolvers
• $100 rebate on the iconic Python or Anaconda
• $100 rebate on the Colt CBX Tac Hunter or CBX Precision bolt-action rifles

Purchase any qualifying firearm through December 31, 2025 and submit proof online.

View Colt's Holiday Rebate Information

FN America - "Season of Savings"

FN America has launched its Season of Savings holiday rebate program with $100-$125 cash-back savings on select FN pistols. While primarily a defensive-use lineup, many hunters appreciate a dependable sidearm for backcountry safety, camping or wilderness carry.

Eligible models include popular FN 509 variants and other flagship pistols. Rebate claims can be submitted via FN's official rebate portal.

Check FN's Season of Savings Offers

Hornady - Up to 30% Off Security, Reloading Accessories & Apparel

Hornady is offering a reloaders redemption through its online store. Select what suits your reloading style, premium bullets or top‑tier brass cases, FREE with qualifying purchase!

Whether you're adding reloading components or picking up quality tech for the field, Hornady's year-end sale is a strong value for hunters and reloaders alike.

Explore Hornady Reloading Redemption

Magpul - Holiday Sale and Free Gift

Magpul's 2025 Holiday Sale features significant discounts across a wide range of hunting-friendly gear, including apparel, belts, rifle accessories, magazines, gloves and more. Many items are marked down and select purchases include a free Magpul gift automatically added at checkout.

These are some of the best prices Magpul offers all year, making December a great time to pick up field gear or stocking stuffers.

Shop Magpul Holiday Deals

Primary Arms - Site-Wide Christmas Sale

Primary Arms is running a huge Christmas Sale across its website. Throughout December, virtually all major categories are on sale - with banners touting "ALL Optics on Sale," "ALL Triggers on Sale (up to 30% off)," "ALL Lights & Lasers on Sale," and so on.

It's an across-the-board discount extravaganza: whether you're looking for a new riflescope for hunting, an upgraded trigger for your rifle, a weapon light for predator hunts or AR-15 parts for your next build, Primary Arms likely has it discounted in this event.

Shop Magpul Holiday Deals

Savage Arms - 2025 Rebates on Renegauge Shotguns & Hunting Rifles

Savage is closing out the year with a strong set of rifle rebates that benefit hunters of all experience levels. Some of the most popular December offers include:

• $100 rebate on any Model 110 or Impulse rifle
• $75 rebate on Axis and Axis II rifles

These rifles are widely used for whitetail, mule deer, predator hunting and youth programs-making these rebates especially valuable during December.

View all Savage promotions

SIG SAUER - Holiday Sale + Ammo Bonus

SIG Sauer's store is making the season bright with a wide selection of products on sale and a special ammo promotion. On the SIG "Sale" page, you'll find over 150 items marked down, ranging from electro-optics to parts and apparel.

To sweeten the pot, SIG Sauer is running a freebie promotion on ammunition. Now through Dec 31, any online ammo order over $200 will ship with a free SIG ammo bag.

Explore SIG SAUER Holiday Offers

Silencer Central - Early Deals

Silencer Central is offering to pay customers tax stamp and we'll handle the paperwork and shipping too. For a limited time, they are covering your Federal Tax Stamp on 100+ eligible suppressors from top brands, making it easier than ever to buy a suppressor.*

See Silencer Central's BOGO Offer

Silencer Shop - Holiday Suppressor Deals

For hunters in states where suppressors are legal, Silencer Shop is advertising an active Holiday suppressor sale on it site.

• Save $200 with Free Tax Stamps

Pick from its popular silencers and save while inventory lasts.

(Always check your state and local laws regarding suppressor ownership and hunting use.)

Browse Silencer Shop Suppressor Deals

Smith & Wesson - 2025 Long Gun Holiday Rebate

Smith & Wesson's Long Gun Holiday Rebate is active through December, offering:

• $50 back on select M&P15-22 rifles
• $75 back on M&P FPC and S&W Response carbines
• $100 back on select M&P15 and M&P10 rifles

Additionally, S&W's "Opti-mize the Holidays" promotion offers a free Vortex red-dot optic with the purchase of qualifying carbines-an incredible value for hunters wanting a ready-to-go setup.

Start a Smith & Wesson rebate submission

Taurus - Holiday Pistol and Revolver Rebates

Taurus is offering a range of Q4 holiday rebates, making this a great time to purchase an affordable sidearm or small-game revolver:

• $30 back on qualifying Taurus G-Series pistols
• $30 back on select Taurus or Rossi .38/.357 revolvers
• $25 back on Heritage Rough Rider .22LR revolvers and Rancher carbines

Small-caliber Heritage models are particularly popular for small-game hunters and new shooters.

View Taurus Rebate Offers

Trijicon - $100 Rebate on RCR Pistol Optic

Hunters who carry a sidearm in the backcountry will appreciate Trijicon's year-end rebate:

Purchase the RCR (Ruggedized Closed Reflex) optic by December 31, 2025 and receive a $100 mail-in rebate. This durable, weather-ready optic is built for harsh environments and demanding field use.

Get More Info on Trijicon RCR Rebate

Winchester - Holiday Rebates for Waterfowl & Hunting Loads

Winchester is offering several seasonal ammunition rebates, including:

• $5 per box back (up to $200) on eligible waterfowl loads
• Additional holiday rebates on select big-game and deer-hunting ammo
• Discounted rebate pricing on qualifying target rifle and pistol ammunition purchased during the holiday window

These rebates are ideal for hunters looking to stock up before late-season hunts or preseason practice in the new year.

View Winchester Holiday Ammo Rebate

Make the Most of the Holiday Season

Whether you're chasing waterfowl, prepping for late-season deer or simply stocking up for next year, now is a great time to take advantage of these limited-time discounts from trusted NSSF Patron Member brands. From premium rifles and optics to secure storage and everyday gear, these holiday promotions offer serious value for serious hunters. Just be sure to check expiration dates and rebate instructions so you don't miss out.

Find More Deals

While these offers highlight confirmed holiday promotions from NSSF Patron Member companies, they're far from the only deals available. Many additional firearms, optics and hunting-gear discounts are offered through major retailers, local gun shops and online outlets, so be sure to check your favorite stores for even more savings this season.

Need Gift Ideas?

Looking for more great gifts or gear ideas this season? Be sure to check out our Holiday Hunter's Gift Guide, packed with curated picks for every type of sportsman and woman on your list.

 

Thoughtful presents that add comfort, capability and confidence in the field

The holidays are the perfect time to surprise the hunter in your life with something they’ll actually use, whether they’re heading out on their very first hunt or already filling the freezer every fall. To help you choose the right gift, we’ve rounded up a list of practical, field-tested items that hunters of all skill levels appreciate. From safety gear to useful tools and confidence-boosting accessories, these ideas are sure to bring joy long after the wrapping paper is gone.  

1. Trail Cameras (Game Cameras)

A trail camera is a gift that keeps giving all season long. These compact scouting tools help hunters better understand wildlife movement, feeding patterns and habitat use. They’re also helpful for general property surveillance year-round.

2. Practice Targets

Animal-depicted targets or steel gong plates make training sessions more realistic and engaging before heading afield. Whether practicing archery, handgun skills or sight-ing in a rifle, targets help shooters build confidence and ensure ethical shots on game.

3. Hunting Apparel

From warm layers to weather-resistant outerwear and high-quality boots, hunters can never have too much reliable clothing. Performance apparel keeps hunters comfortable during long sits and unpredictable weather—something every seasoned hunter can appreciate.

4. Hearing Protection

Good hearing protection is essential, whether at the range or in the field. Gift options range from inexpensive foam earplugs to electronic protection with sound-amplification features that allow hunters to remain aware of their surroundings.

5. Firearm Cleaning Accessories

Proper maintenance keeps firearms reliable and safe. Cleaning kits come in all shapes and sizes—from caliber-specific brushes and patches to full multi-caliber sets for hunters with several firearms.

6. Training Resources

Books, magazines, apps and online tutorials can open the door to new skills and deeper knowledge. You can also gift a registration to a learn-to-hunt class, mentored hunt or range session.

7. Flashlights & Headlamps

A dependable headlamp or flashlight is a must-have for walking in before sunrise or navigating out after dark. Look for models with adjustable brightness settings and colored filters (like green or red) to avoid spooking game.

8. Optics (Binoculars, Monoculars & Spotting Scopes)

Few upgrades make as big a difference as quality glass. Whether spotting distant game or verifying antler characteristics, optics help hunters make better decisions afield. They also make wildlife-watching enjoyable year-round.

9. Gun Locks & Safes

The gift of safety is invaluable. Gun locks, safes and secure storage options come in every size and budget—from compact travel locks to full-size safes. Safe storage protects both families and firearms. Learn more in NSSF’s Project ChildSafe^® program here.

10. Gift Cards to Local Retailers

When in doubt, let them choose! A gift card to a local sporting goods retailer allows hunters to purchase the perfect item—and importantly, to do so legally when it comes to firearms or ammunition. Supporting local shops helps strengthen your community, too. Find retailers near you through Where to Buy.

Give the Gift of Confidence This Season

No matter which item you choose, the best hunting gifts make time afield safer, more enjoyable and more successful. Whether you’re shopping for a new hunter or a seasoned pro, these holiday ideas show you care about their passion—and help support a lifetime of outdoor adventure. If you know someone who’s hoping to get started this year, consider taking the extra step and invite them on a hunt. A little mentorship can be the best gift of all. Explore NSSF’s +ONE^® Movement to learn more about how you can help someone take their first step afield.

  Hunters are some of the most passionate conservationists and stewards of the land, deeply connected to the natural world and committed to preserving it for future generations. The holiday season is the perfect time for hunters to extend their values of stewardship and responsibility beyond the woods and fields by giving back to their communities meaningfully. Whether through time, resources or a helping hand, hunters can showcase their positive impact, embodying the spirit of generosity and the values behind initiatives like NSSF’s #GunOwnersCare. Here are a few ways to give back this holiday season.

Donate Wild Game to Those in Need

One of the most direct ways hunters can make a difference is by donating harvested game to food banks and programs that provide meals for families in need. Organizations like Hunters for the Hungry and Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry make it easy to donate processed venison and other game, ensuring that your efforts in the field help feed those who might otherwise go without. If there’s no formal donation program in your area, consider reaching out to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, local food banks or community organizations to explore ways your harvest can help others.

Support Conservation Programs

Hunters are at the forefront of conservation, with their contributions funding wildlife management, habitat restoration and public land access. This holiday, consider supporting conservation organizations that align with your values. Groups focused on preserving wild spaces, protecting wildlife or mentoring new hunters can amplify the positive impact of your giving. Beyond the field, hunters can lend their time to causes that support their communities. From helping at a local food bank to assisting with youth outdoor programs, your time and skills can make a lasting impact.

Mentor a New Hunter

Sharing your knowledge and passion for hunting is one of the most rewarding ways to give back. Consider mentoring a new hunter—especially someone who might not otherwise have access to the outdoors. Learn more about getting started mentoring through NSSF's +ONE^® resources.

Support Firearm Safety

A cornerstone of responsible firearm ownership is ensuring safety at all times and one way to give back this holiday season is by supporting Project ChildSafe^®. This initiative provides free firearm safety kits, including gun locks, and promotes secure storage to help prevent accidents and unauthorized access. By donating to or raising awareness for Project ChildSafe, hunters can play a vital role in fostering safer homes and communities while demonstrating their commitment to responsible firearm ownership. Learn more and get involved at projectchildsafe.org.

Celebrate the Spirit of #GunOwnersCare

As hunters, you’re already contributing to conservation through license fees, equipment purchases and excise taxes that fund wildlife management. Take the extra step this holiday season to show how much hunters care. Share your stories of giving back using #GunOwnersCare to inspire others in the hunting community to follow your lead. NSSF celebrates the generosity and impact of hunters across the country. Together, let’s showcase how hunters care not just for wildlife and wild places but for our neighbors and communities, too.