Safer, and legaler, but how necessary in some circumstances?
Thanks, and alright already! Seen and noted – your emphatic insistence that I wear more blaze orange on the TV show. For the record, the first season had virtually none. This second season, more. And believe me, the stuff we shot this fall will reek with the color despite my director Tad Newberry’s tantrums.
Why I wear more now: Trying to be a good example. It’s required in some states, some times and I need to “stay legal.” I DO sometimes worry about my safety – and my dog’s, especially in a crowd.
Why I didn’t: Wreaks havoc with high definition cameras. I plumb forgot. Clashes with my Gucci loafers.
Which begs these questions:
1. When you’re hunting alone, or with a small group of trusted friends, and are really, really careful and have confidence in your fellow hunters … is blaze orange really necessary?
2. How much is enough? Some states require a minimum number of square inches. Oregon just made a cap and “upper garment,” I believe, required for kids under age 18.
What say you?
PS: if you’re really, really concerned about safety – your dog’s or your own – get a couple Blaze Buddy Bandannas here, and benefit the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association, too.
Scott Linden Outdoors 
Even if you hunt with the same group of people every time you go afield, I think everybody should be wearing at a minimum of a blaze hat. If you spend enough time afield, eventually you will see an unsafe shot, or a close call. To me, blaze is the last line to grab someone’s attention before the bad shot is taken. It stands out from the terrain.
And when you bump up that bird you didn’t know was there, the blaze orange allows you to verify the location of your dog and hunting companions and ensure your safe shot.
I just wish there was more options in blaze for a classic upland look, while maintaining visibility.
All good points, Petey. Been there and done that. You’d think I would learn.
Maybe that “classic upland look” will be my next invention, now that the Real Bird Bumper is on the market!