Hunters stock up on supplies one week before opening day



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- With the gun-deer hunting season just one week away, avid hunters are stocking up on supplies. Cabela's is carrying the latest hunting technology.

As far as gear goes, experts say this year's wares provide more warmth and lighter weight.

"We're going to have heated vests and heated gloves, heated backwarmers, basically anything heated, heated socks -- going to keep any guy warm during the hunt," said Max Bradt of Cabela's.

On the gun side, new models pack some safety gains.

"The rifles are a little bit lighter weight. Most of them come with detachable magazines so they're safer. You don't have to do the loading and unloading through the top of the gun," said Kirk Langhoff of Cabela's.

The Wisconsin DNR is reminding hunters that, this year, rifles can be used throughout the state.

"Check locally to see if there is an ordinance that restricts the use of rifles and that will be the only thing that will prevent it," said DNR Wildlife Biologist Marty Johnson.

Additionally, chronic wasting disease has shown two positives in Waukesha County, which has been added to the no baiting and no feeding area.

"Baiting can bring deer, congregate them unnaturally, and if there are sick deer out there it raises the possibility of passing the disease on to healthy animals," said Johnson.

Experts say hunters should check the DNR's website before heading out and take note of other changes for this year's hunt.