Terry Koehler is well-known in the golf equipment world as “the Wedge Guy,” because he has been developing breakthrough technologies in that category for 30 years. So what drove a noted golf club designer to create a company called Dove Gear and turn his attention to developing a “better mouse trap” in the dove hunting world?
In a word, “passion,” the same thing that makes his golf wedges so noteworthy.
“I don’t remember life before golf, dove hunting or fishing,” Koehler explained. “The opening day of dove season was something my dad and I never missed.”
To this day, Koehler organizes opening weekend outings for his group of dove-hunting friends, and his Dove Gear business operates out of the same Rockport building as Edison Golf, his custom wedge company.
“Like most avid dove hunters, I’ve never been quite satisfied with what was available,” Koehler said. “I find the common belt-type rigs to be awkward, uncomfortable and impractical, and most vests are obviously not designed specifically for what serious dove hunters need in the field. Most are hot, and don’t have room for what you need. So, in 2017, I decided to design one myself.”
It is hard to argue that what Koehler created isn’t “the ultimate bird vest,” as he’s thought of nearly everything. It’s a skeletal strap vest, with a mesh back to make it as cool as possible in the September sun. Both shell pockets have a flap that can be secured inside the pocket when shooting so they are not in the way but can also be secured over the pocket to keep shells from spilling out when in transit.
Behind those shell pockets are clever spring-closure security pockets for your phone, glasses, keys, or anything else you do not want to chance losing. The washable game bag will easily hold a limit of fat whitewings, and behind that is a zipper pouch for your empties (let’s always leave the fields as we found them.)
Each vest comes with a water bottle holder that can accommodate up to a 32-ounce bottle for you and your dog, and an extra holder can be put on the opposite side. Both will be out of the way of your gun handling.
Maybe the most innovative thing about the Ultimate Bird Vest is its unique six-way size adjustability. Koehler shows how the vest can quickly be adjusted to fit a small 10-year-old or up to a 4XL adult.
Finally, one of the more interesting options Dove Gear offers is custom embroidery of corporate logos or names and initials. That makes The Ultimate Bird Vest the ideal item to set your hunts apart and make an impression on your guests.
If you are serious about your dove hunting and equipment, you should check out The Ultimate Bird Vest by Dove Gear. While the company is seeking retailers to make its product widely available, you can order online with free shipping and get yours before opening day.
Visit www.DoveGear.com
Dealer inquiries to Support@DoveGear.com
