I do most of my shopping for hunting gear online, especially for expensive items like optics. Almost all of the big chain stores like Bass Pro and Cabela's have websites where you can purchase equipment, often with free shipping if you pick the item up at one of their stores.

There are many other companies that do the majority (or all) of their business online like MidwayUSA, Cheaper Than Dirt, and Optics Planet. Even if you do not end up buying the item online, it is a good idea to at least browse these websites to get an idea of what price a particular item is going for before going shopping for it in person. This will aid you in determining if you've discovered a good deal.

Another great advantage of shopping online is that there are many websites like Coupons.com and Retail Me Not that provide coupons that offer discounts and/or free shipping for many online companies. Optics Planet and MidwayUSA in particular are great for almost always having some sort of online coupon available, and I never make a purchase from either one without checking for a coupon first.

Finally, there are great deals to be found at members-only online marketplaces such as Promotive and Dvor. Additionally, Leupold has an outstanding program offering significant discounts for active-duty military and law enforcement officers. Obviously, not everyone is eligible for all of these deals, but with such significant discounts available (up to 70 percent off in some cases), it is certainly worth it to check them out.

Shop out of season

The best advice I can give you is to not be in a hurry and wait until hunting season is over to shop. At this point, all of the big stores will be significantly discounting all of last year's gear, trying to clear out space for the spring and summer gear.

When everyone else is buying bass fishing gear and swimsuits, you should be buying winter hunting clothing and deer stands on the cheap. There may be slightly fewer options as far as specific styles and colors go, but this is a great way to get gear for a significant discount if you’re not too picky.

Buy used

There is nothing wrong with buying lightly used equipment. eBay and Craigslist are two great resources for finding used equipment. Gun Broker is an online auction site where you can purchase new and used guns, ammunition and other firearms accessories. Cabela's also has a department where they buy and sell used firearms.

Keep in mind, though, that you should always follow local regulations when it comes to firearms.