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The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Technical Shooting Gear
You did the research, found the perfect fit, and made the investment in high-performance On-Target Sportswear. Whether it’s a detailed technical vest or a rugged performance jacket, your gear is built to take abuse from the elements, the environment, and the relentless recoil of shotgun shooting.
However, “tough” does not mean “indestructible.” Proper care is essential to extend the lifespan of your gear, maintain its wicking and breathable properties, and ensure it continues to support you station after station, season after season.
Here is the ultimate guide to washing, drying, and storing your technical shooting apparel.
Step 1: Pre-Wash Preparation
The single most common mistake shooters make is simply tossing their gear in the hamper at the end of the day.
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Empty ALL Pockets: Seriously, check every pocket. Forgotten live shells can damage your washer, and even a single loose hull can rip technical mesh fabrics during the agitation cycle. Don’t forget the internal chest pockets.
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Remove Removable Pads: If your vest includes removable recoil pads (like a gel insert), remove it. Washing these inserts can breakdown the gel, reducing its effectiveness and potentially making a mess of your washing machine.
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Zip Up and Snap: Secure all zippers and close all snaps or Velcro tabs. Open zippers are jagged metal and plastic teeth that will snag, fray, and pull at delicate mesh or synthetic fibers. Velcro will accumulate lint from other garments and lose its “stick.”
Step 2: The Wash Cycle Commands
When it comes to technical apparel, “simple” is the rule.
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The #1 Rule: NO Fabric Softeners. Fabric softeners work by depositing a waxy coating onto the fibers. This coating clogs the microscopic pores that give your technical fabrics their breathability and wicking power. Over time, fabric softeners can ruin the performance of the fabric, making it feel hot and clingy.
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Use Cold Water: Most On-Target gear is made of synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon, and elastane). Hot water breaks down these elastic fibers (the “stretch” that provides your freedom of motion), which leads to sagging and premature fading. Stick to the cold or “delicate” cycle.
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Choose the Right Detergent: A mild, liquid detergent is best. If possible, use a specialty detergent designed specifically for high-performance athletic wear, which excels at breaking down body oils without harsh chemicals that can degrade advanced fabrics.
Step 3: Special Handling for Special Materials
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Leather and Suede: If your vest features real leather or suede on the mounting patch, this area needs special attention. Never, ever put real leather into the dryer. When washing, minimize agitation. If possible, consider spot-cleaning the body of the vest and keeping the leather section dry.
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If it gets soaked by rain: Do not let it sit in a crumpled heap. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not twist or wring) and lay the garment flat on a clean towel in a cool, ventilated area. Avoid placing it directly next to a radiator, fireplace, or other heater, as the direct heat can cause leather to crack and synthetic materials to warp.
Step 4: Storing for Longevity
When the range day is over and the gear is clean, proper storage is vital.
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Never Crumple: Avoid stuffing your vest into the bottom of your range bag. The internal components of the shoulder pad are delicate and can be deformed by crushing, which permanently ruins your gun mount consistency.
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Hang It Up: The best place for your technical gear is on a hanger. This keeps the shape intact, allows the fabrics to breathe, and ensures it’s ready to go for the next shoot.
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Ventilation is Key: Avoid storing gear that is damp (even slightly damp with sweat) in a sealed environment like a gear bag. This is a recipe for mildew, funky odors, and the breakdown of fabrics. Ensure it is stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space.
The Summary
A small amount of proactive care goes a long way. By following this guide, your On-Target gear will continue to perform as intended, preserving the technical edge you need on the line for years to come.