A good turkey vest should easily carry all your favorite turkey calls in an organized and easy-to-access fashion, have a large game bag for packing decoys, and feature a soft, comfortable seat that allows you to remain motionless as long as necessary while that big longbeard covers those last 100 yards into shotgun range.
Oh, and most importantly, it should be affordable!
In this article we look at what we believe to be seven of the best turkey hunting vests available in 2023 for under $150. Ones that fulfill all the above requirements and more. While there are countless options on the market, these seven stand out above the rest, whether you’re a veteran turkey hunter or just heading into your first season.
Our Top Turkey Vest Picks
- TideWe Turkey Vest with Kickstand
- TideWe Turkey Vest with Seat
- Knight & Hale Run N Gun 200 Turkey Vest
- Nomad Pursuit Convertible Vest
- ALPS Outdoorz Super Elite 4.0 Vest
- Primos Rocker Turkey Vest
- Cabela’s Tactical Tatr Turkey Vest
My pick for best overall turkey hunting vest is the TideWe Turkey Vest with Kickstand. I picked the TideWe for its combination of quality construction, abundant and well thought-out storage, as well as the comfort of the large padded seat and kickstand. Best of all, it has a great price point.
While I wouldn’t go as far to say this is the best turkey vest on the market, I do feel it’s the best available for the money. In fact, this will be my personal go-to turkey vest this spring.
Our Top Pick
TideWe Turkey Vest with Kickstand
While TideWe may not be a brand you’re familiar with, I’ve reviewed a few of their hunting products over the last six months, and have been extremely impressed with the quality for the price point.
Their turkey vest with kickstand is no exception.
As a bit of a packrat, the TideWe offers plenty of capacity with its multi-compartment design. There are numerous pockets for friction calls, mouth calls, a box call, strikers, shotgun shells and about anything else you’d want to pack into the woods with you.
Additionally, it has a large game bag for carrying multiple decoys or a big, mature gobbler after a successful hunt.
The comfortable and ergonomic design features a removable and adjustable kickstand frame and a 3-inch cushioned seat, making it easy to sit anywhere you may stumble on a fired up bird.
Another selling point for the TideWe is the ability to customize the fit to any body type, size or age with its adjustable system.
The vest is made of high-performance, quiet fabric for durability, with reinforced buckles, webbing, and wear-resistant rubber on the bottom of the cushion. It comes in your choice of TrueTimber HTC Green or TrueTimber Strata camouflage.
PROS
- Plenty of well organized storage pockets
- Large game pouch for decoys or dead birds
- Kickstand system for sitting anywhere you need
- Large, comfortable 3-inch cushioned seat with magnetic holders
CONS
- Heavier than most options covered here
- Kickstand reduces useable space in game bag
At the time of this writing, you can save 15% off TideWe turkey hunting vests by using promo code HC15. If that doesn’t work, there will likely be other promo codes listed on their website.
If you’d like to see all the features of the TideWe Turkey Vest with Kickstand, here’s a recent video review I posted on our YouTube channel.
Runner Up
TideWe Turkey Vest with Seat
If you don’t need the kickstand, you can save yourself around $50 with this second TideWe option, the TideWe Turkey Vest with Seat Cushion. It has all the same great features of the previous vest minus the kickstand.
This is a great option for those looking for a lighter, more mobile option if you have plenty of trees around to prop up against when you strike up a nearby gobbler.
PROS
- Plenty of well organized storage pockets
- Large game pouch for decoys or dead birds
- Large, comfortable 3-inch cushioned seat
CONS
- Heavier than most options covered here
At the time of this writing, you can save 15% off TideWe turkey hunting vests by using promo code HC15. If that doesn’t work, there will likely be other promo codes listed on their website.
Best Minimalist Vest
Knight & Hale Run-N-Gun 200
I’ve always had a soft spot for Knight & Hale products. Maybe it’s because many of my first deer and turkey calls were Knight & Hale. Or it could be that Harold Knight and David Hale are just two good ol’ Kentucky boys who set up shop just miles from where I went to college.
Like many of the original hunting gear manufacturers, Knight & Hale was eventually bought out by a larger conglomerate, but they still continue to produce quality deer and turkey hunting products.
If you’re a turkey hunter who wants to stay as light and mobile as possible, then the Knight & Hale RNG-200 may be the perfect vest.
Weighing only 1.5 pounds, you’ll hardly know it’s there, and the cinching system keeps the removable cushioned seat snug against your butt. The RNG-200’s 10-point adjustment system offers a comfortable and secure fit that eliminates bulkiness and shifting gear.
With a built-in 198 cubic inch backpack that’s bladder compatible, four zippered pouches, five additional pockets, and a MOLLE system for add-ons, this vest can accommodate all your turkey hunting accessories. Plus, it includes a decoy sling and Turkey Harvest sling, and is available in Mossy Oak Obsession or Realtree Edge.
PROS
- Lightweight for increased mobility
- Comfortable seat
- Comes with decoy and turkey harvest slings
CONS
- Limited storage space for those who carry lots of calls and gear
- Some complaints of friction calls not staying in designated pockets
Best Hybrid Vest
Nomad Pursuit Convertible Vest
The Nomad Pursuit Convertible turkey vest is an innovative vest designed for hunters who are passionate about turkey hunting and want optimum gear organization, comfort, and mobility.
The vest is convertible and can be worn as a traditional vest or converted to a fanny pack. The external pockets of various depths and widths provide quick access to gear, including box calls, mouth calls, Thermacell, water bottles, and shotgun shells.
The vest also includes a double-padded, high-density foam seat with a magnetic closure, making it comfortable for extended sits, and a storable game bag for convenience. The vest is also machine washable for easy care.
While the Nomad turkey vest is right at the $150 mark, if you buy direct from the company, they’ll knock 15% off your first order when you sign up for email and text notifications. You can always opt out after getting your vest.
PROS
- Can be used as a vest or fanny pack
- Comfortable design and fit
- Ample storage space
- Magnetic seat pad
CONS
- This vest is at the top of the $150 budget
- The vest may feel bulky or heavy when worn as a full vest
Best Fitting
ALPS Outdoorz Super Elite 4.0 Vest
The ALPS OutdoorZ Super Elite 4.0 turkey vest was designed with spaciousness and convenience in mind. This vest boasts 22 pockets of various sizes, including a large game bag, two water bottle pockets, and two slate call pockets. With all of these pockets, you can keep all of your hunting essentials close at hand.
This turkey vest also features a comfortable fit, even during extended wear. Padded shoulder and waist belts offer support and comfort, while a vented back and adjustable straps allow for a customized fit.
The Super Elite 4.0 is made of durable ripstop fabric that can withstand even the toughest hunting conditions. It also features a blaze orange safety flag to ensure your visibility to other hunters.
Innovative features are also incorporated into the design of this vest. A removable seat cushion provides added comfort when sitting for long periods of time. Additionally, a removable diaphragm call pocket and a locator call pocket make it easy to find your calls when you need them.
Overall, the ALPS OutdoorZ Super Elite 4.0 turkey vest is a versatile and reliable option for any serious turkey hunter. With its spacious design, comfortable fit, and innovative features, this vest is sure to become an essential part of your hunting gear collection.
PROS
- True vest design for maximum comfort and good fit
- Plenty of storage space
- Serves double duty as a small game vest by removing the seat
CONS
- Difficult to snap the seat back in place while wearing the vest
- Striker pocket is located inside the vest where it’s more difficult to access
- No shotgun shell loops
Primos Rocker Turkey Vest
I’m not sure you could cover any “best turkey hunting” gear without having a Primos product included. The Primos brand is synonymous with serious hunting gear for blue-collar hunters, and the Primos Rocker turkey vest is a great example of this.
With its flip-down lounge seat, the Rocker allows you to set up on a bird anywhere without needing a tree for back support. The vest features molded pockets for pot and box calls to keep them safe and within reach. A waterproof pocket lets you use your phone without taking it out, and a hydration bladder pocket keeps you cool and refreshed. Stay organized with extra pockets for gear, calls, and stakes.
All these great features packed into a lightweight vest at a great price. And the Primos vest is one of the only vests on our list that is offered in various sizes to accommodate any turkey hunter.
The Primos Rocker is offered in Realtree Xtra Green and Mossy Oak Obsession. At the time of this writing (February 2023), the Realtree models were discounted to under $100.
PROS
- Filp down seat allows you to set up anywhere
- Lots of storage
- A unique waterproof cell phone pocket
CONS
- Seat pad is thin and not as comfortable as some of the other options
Cabela’s Tactical Tat’r Pro Turkey Vest
The Cabela’s Tactical Tat’r Pro Turkey Vest for Men is a part of the Couch Potato Series of comfortable hunting vests. It features Speed Seat technology, padded adjustable shoulder harnesses, and a sternum strap for custom comfort.
The back panel and seat have a couch-cushion comfort system. This vest includes specialized pockets for diaphragm, box, and slate calls, an integrated expanding game bag, and a removable blaze-orange flag. Additionally, it comes with a free decoy bag.
PROS
- Very comfortable
- Lots of storage
- Includes sealable game bag for harvested birds
CONS
- Fit is very large
- No shell loops to hold your shotgun shells
Who This is For
If you’re looking for a high-quality turkey hunting vest that won’t break the bank, this article is for you. We’ve scoured the market to find the best turkey hunting vests for the money with a price tag under $150, making them accessible to hunters on a budget.
This article is particularly useful for new turkey hunters who are just getting started with the sport and may not yet have invested in top-of-the-line gear. It’s also a great resource for experienced hunters who are looking for a reliable backup vest, or who want to try out a new brand or style without making a major financial commitment.
Even if you already have a favorite turkey hunting vest, this article is still worth a read. You might be surprised to discover new features or brands that you weren’t previously aware of. Additionally, you might find that one of the vests on our list serves a specific purpose that your current vest does not, such as having extra pockets or a more comfortable fit.
Whether you’re an experienced hunter or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best turkey hunting vests under $150. With a variety of brands and styles to choose from, you’re sure to find a vest that fits your needs and your budget.
Features to Consider
Comfort
Comfort is an essential feature in any hunting gear, and a turkey vest is no exception. As a turkey hunter, you spend long hours in the field, often in awkward positions waiting for the perfect shot. An uncomfortable vest can not only ruin your hunting experience but also affect your performance by causing fatigue, distraction, and even pain.
A comfortable turkey vest should provide proper back support to help you sit or lean against trees for extended periods. The vest’s weight distribution should also be well-balanced to avoid putting undue strain on your shoulders and neck. The material of the vest should be soft, lightweight, and breathable to keep you cool and dry, even during long hunts.
Overall, comfort is a critical feature in a turkey vest that can make or break your hunting experience. A well-designed, comfortable vest can help you stay focused, relaxed, and alert, improving your chances of a successful hunt. It’s important to invest in a high-quality turkey vest that not only meets your hunting needs but also keeps you comfortable and supported throughout the day.
Storage
Storage space and organization are also important features in a turkey hunting vest because they help hunters keep their gear organized and easily accessible. Turkey hunting often involves lots of equipment, such as decoys, a variety of calls, binoculars, ammunition, and more.
A well-organized vest ensures that all your hunting essentials are within reach, minimizing distractions and saving valuable time.
A turkey hunting vest with well-designed pockets and compartments ensures that the gear is secure and protected. It is especially crucial for delicate items like calls and decoys, which can get damaged if they are not stored correctly. The right pockets and compartments also protect your gear from moisture and other elements, extending their lifespan and saving you money in the long run.
Durability
A well-constructed and durable turkey hunting vest is crucial for hunters because it can withstand the harsh conditions and rigors of the hunt. Turkey hunting involves navigating through thick brush and rugged terrain, and a poorly made vest can quickly become damaged or even fall apart, compromising its effectiveness and putting the hunter at risk.
Moreover, a durable turkey hunting vest can provide hunters with years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment. A high-quality vest is made with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear, including abrasion, punctures, and moisture. It should also have reinforced seams and zippers that can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements.
Design and Functionality
A well-designed turkey hunting vest should be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, allowing hunters to move easily and stay cool and dry during long hunts. The vest should also have adjustable straps and a customizable fit, allowing hunters to adjust the vest to their body size and shape, ensuring comfort and support throughout the hunt.
Functionality is also a crucial consideration when shopping for a turkey hunting vest. The vest should have ample storage space and organization, with well-designed pockets and compartments to keep all essential gear within easy reach. The vest should also have specific pockets and features for items like calls, decoys, and ammunition, allowing hunters to stay organized and prepared.
Other important functionality features of a turkey hunting vest include weather resistance, visibility, and safety. The vest should be designed to protect hunters from extreme weather conditions like rain and wind, and also have bright colors or reflective surfaces for visibility in low-light conditions. The vest should also have safety features like a blaze-orange back or other visibility-enhancing design elements, making it easier for other hunters to see the wearer in the field.
Price
Price is an important consideration for some hunters when choosing a new turkey hunting vest because it affects the accessibility and affordability of the vest. Not all hunters have the same budget, and a high-priced vest may be out of reach for some. Therefore, hunters must consider their budget and look for a vest that provides the best value for their money.
However, a lower-priced vest may not necessarily be the best option if it compromises on quality, functionality, or durability. A cheaper vest may be made from lower-quality materials or may lack the features and functionality needed for a successful turkey hunt. In the long run, this could lead to additional costs, such as repairs or replacements.
On the other hand, a higher-priced vest may offer more features, higher quality materials, and greater durability, which could make it a better long-term investment. However, hunters must consider their budget and decide if the additional cost is worth it.
Ultimately, the price of the vest should be balanced against its quality, performance, and durability. Hunters should consider their budget, the features they need, and the durability required for their hunting needs. It is important to look for a vest that offers the best balance between affordability and quality, ensuring that the hunter gets the best value for their money.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation is an important consideration when choosing a new turkey hunting vest because it can provide valuable insights into the vest’s quality, performance, and durability. A reputable brand has a history of producing high-quality hunting gear that is designed to meet the needs of hunters in the field.
A well-respected brand is more likely to have invested in research and development, ensuring that their vests are optimized for turkey hunting and provide hunters with the features and functionality they need to succeed. Brands with a good reputation are also more likely to use high-quality materials and employ rigorous quality control measures, ensuring that their vests are durable and can withstand the rigors of the hunt.
In addition to quality and performance, brand reputation can also be an indicator of customer service and support. A reputable brand is more likely to stand behind their products and provide excellent customer service, including warranty coverage and repairs or replacements if needed.
Moreover, a well-known and respected brand can provide hunters with peace of mind, knowing that they are investing in a trustworthy and reliable product. A brand with a good reputation has earned the trust of hunters and has a proven track record of providing high-quality hunting gear, making it a safer choice when shopping for a new turkey hunting vest.
Turkey Vest Care and Maintenance
Caring for your turkey hunting vest is an essential part of ensuring it lasts for many hunting seasons to come. The specific care instructions may vary depending on the material of your vest, so always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before cleaning. However, there are some general tips you can follow to keep your vest in good condition.
- First, it’s a good idea to air out your vest after each use, especially if you’ve been sweating or if the vest is wet. This can help prevent odors and mildew from developing. If your vest is particularly dirty or has stains, spot clean it with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the fabric.
- If your vest is machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can leave a residue on the fabric and reduce the effectiveness of any water-resistant coatings. Hang the vest to air dry, rather than putting it in the dryer, as high heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
- Finally, it’s a good idea to store your turkey hunting vest in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a damp area, as this can cause mold or mildew to develop. By following these care and maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your turkey hunting vest stays in top condition for many successful hunts to come.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, turkey hunting vests are an essential piece of gear for any serious turkey hunter. They provide a convenient and comfortable way to carry all of your hunting essentials, while also keeping you safe and visible in the field.
The vests featured in this article offer a range of features and benefits, all at a price point of under $150. By considering your individual needs and preferences, you can find the perfect turkey hunting vest to suit your style of hunting.
With proper care and maintenance, your vest can become a reliable and long-lasting companion for many successful hunts to come. So, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just getting started, invest in a high-quality turkey hunting vest and take your hunting to the next level.
