5 Affordable Kitchen Products for Hunters Filling Freezers

Hunting to eat goes back to the earliest days of humanity. And with so much modernity in our kitchens these days, these items go a long way to help keep your game fresh, vibrant, and delicious.

I became a hunter more out of food curiosity than anything else. Since I got into the pursuit 5 years ago, I’ve found that there are certain things that go a long way in helping me make the most of the meat I put in the freezer. I personally process everything by hand, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

These are the products I turn to when I’m both putting meat into the freezer and pulling it out.

Aobosi Electric Meat Grinder: $117

For a long time, I borrowed grinders from friends, and it worked. But, it’s gotten to the point where I had to dig in and get my own. I didn’t want to drop a ton of money on an industrial grinder, so this perfectly sized option fit the bill.

It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and gets the small-batch jobs done nicely. Whether I’m making burger or sausages, I have options for different grinds and sausage sizing. Not bad for under $150.

My one caveat is this: This is probably not the grinder for the all-day elk grind. Cabela’s Carnivore 1hp Meat Grinder will likely fit the bill for that, but it’ll cost you $500. But given that having a butcher do it for you will easily cost $400, this investment looks pretty reasonable.

And who doesn’t want a one-horsepower kitchen appliance?

Instant Pot Pressure Cooker: $80

I’ve had my Instant Pot for a few years now, and this thing is the gift that keeps on giving. For tough cuts, I batter the ever-living bejeezus out of them on high pressure, and they come out decadent and perfect.

Osso buco is a favorite wild game dish, and pressure cooking cut-down shanks makes me kiss the end of my fingertips like the old Italian chef I am on the inside. Stews and soups are super-easy to make. The saute option makes most dishes a one-pot wonder. And, in the heat of the summer, I can avoid the oven with impunity.

If you don’t know, now you know.

Deik Knife Set: $40 (20% Off)

At heart, I wish I had a collection of legitimately gorgeous, hand-forged knives. But my checkbook reminds me that I’m a pragmatist.

I bought this same knife set a few years back, and it continues to deliver. Between boning out meat and general kitchen needs, it covers the gamut. The knives are easy to resharpen, and they work like a dream. I even bought them for my mom, and she approved.

They’re comfortable to use, and I like the modern look of the set. It’s sleek and easy. Add it to your list.

Lodge Cast Iron 12″ Skillet: $26

This. Dang. Skillet. What would I do without it? Its even heat delivers, especially when dealing with lean meat. There’s not a ton of forgiveness in a lot of wild game, and trusting your skillet allows you to cook with confidence.

And beyond the skillet, Lodge has an impressive lineup of amazing gear. Its enameled dutch ovens are just as beautiful as Le Creuset at a fraction of the price. The brand makes grills and griddles and fun little kitschy items of all sorts. And I want it all.

Pyrex Bakeware Set With Lids: $42

My Pyrex does everything from helping with grinding big batches of meat to cooking brownies to holding leftover venison stew. This 28-piece collection is a steal at $42, and its versatility speaks for itself.

I stopped buying plastic Tupperware eons ago due to personal environmental concerns, and I lean on the durability and flexibility of these pieces for everything in the kitchen.