Top Gear Every Bowhunter Needs Before the Season Opens in North Carolina

When North Carolina’s archery season rolls around, having the right gear isn’t just about preference—it’s about preparation, confidence, and performance in the field. At Grafton Archery & Outdoors, we’ve been helping bowhunters get ready for season openers for over 30 years from our location in China Grove. Whether you’re chasing whitetail in the Piedmont or setting trail cams for early movement, gearing up properly makes a difference when it matters most.

This guide covers essential pre-season prep using gear we currently carry, including broadheads, release aids, scouting tools, and bow tuning services provided right here in the shop.

Start with a Proven Broadhead: G5 Megameat

Before you hit the woods, make sure your arrows are tipped with a broadhead that matches your bow setup and game target. The G5 Megameat is a mechanical broadhead we stock because of its 2-inch cutting diameter, strong steel ferrule, and proven field results. It’s built for compound bow shooters who want large wound channels and reliable blade deployment on impact.

If you’re planning to shoot the Megameat this season, make sure your bow is tuned, your arrow spine is compatible, and your draw weight delivers the energy required for effective penetration. Not sure? Our techs can help check it in-store.

Check Your Release: Trufire Edge FT

A clean release is critical for consistent accuracy. If your current release has worn straps, inconsistent trigger tension, or just doesn’t feel right, it’s worth upgrading before the season starts.

We carry the Trufire Edge FT, a forward trigger index-style release with micro-adjustability and a fold-back design for convenience. It’s a dependable option for bowhunters who want better trigger control and consistent anchor point feel—especially when shooting fixed pins or at longer ranges.

We recommend practicing with your release multiple times before season opener. Even small changes to your release aid can affect arrow flight and accuracy, especially when broadheads are involved.

Set Up Your Trail Cams Right: Reveal External Solar Panel

Early-season scouting can be the difference between a full freezer and a season of missed chances. If you're using cellular trail cams, you know how quickly batteries can run out—especially in hot or remote setups.

To keep cameras running through preseason and into October, we carry the Reveal External Solar Panel. Designed to extend the life of your Tactacam Reveal cam batteries, this solar panel is weather-resistant and easy to mount. It's a no-brainer for hunters who don’t want to risk dead batteries during peak activity windows.

Pair it with a Reveal camera (not currently listed on-site, but check in-store for compatibility) and you’ll spend less time disturbing your spots and more time analyzing patterns.

Fine-Tune Your Anchor Point: Ultraview UV Button

A consistent anchor point improves accuracy, especially when shooting at variable angles or from elevated stands. The Ultraview UV Button, available in our shop, is a thumb-button release designed with ergonomics and accuracy in mind.

It’s used by both hunters and target archers for its smooth trigger and repeatable feel. If you’ve never shot with a button-style release, now’s the time to test it before the season starts—not during your first sit.

If you’re interested in comparing the UV Button to an index release like the Edge FT, we welcome you to come into the shop and try both before buying.

Get Your Bow Tuned In-Shop

Even the best gear won't help if your bow isn't tuned. Strings stretch, cams shift, and screws come loose over time. Before opening day, bring your bow in for a full inspection and tune-up.

Our in-house technicians can help you:

• Paper tune your setup
  
  
• Chronograph your arrows
  
  
• Set your peep height and D-loop
  
  
• Check timing and cam sync
  
  
• Install and align new accessories or broadheads
  
  

We’ve seen too many hunts ruined by a single missed issue—don’t let that be your story this fall.

Come See Us Before the Rush

Whether it’s replacing a worn release, getting set up with a new broadhead, or making sure your trail cams are charged and ready, we’re here to help you hunt with confidence. Our shelves are stocked, our technicians are ready, and our team is here to answer your questions face-to-face.

Visit us at:

Grafton Archery & Outdoors
1700 N Main St, China Grove, NC 28023
Call: (704) 855-1300
Email: graftonarcheryoutdoors@gmail.com
Online: www.graftonarcheryoutdoors.com



We’re more than a store—we’re hunters, too. Let’s get you ready for the season the right way.