5 Best Action Cameras for Hunting

In this guide, I will cover a range of action cameras that have traits and characteristics that make them particularly useful for hunting.

I’ve spent a lot of my life capturing and recording with numerous devices. Using that knowledge, I researched and analyzed different action cameras to figure out which ones will help you when you’re out on a hunt.

While every below choice does a great job, the iON Camocam goes above and beyond the call of duty due to its numerous features and usability.

The iOn Camocam is a simple action camera with a slew of hunting-specific features. It has good anti-shake, a strong waterproof body, and a camouflage design. The resolution is incredible and it can shoot for extended periods of time.

As great as the Camocam is, there are quite a few other models that work towards that end. The following sections will break down some of the best models by analyzing their traits and covering what makes them unique.

Top Action Cameras for Hunting

Below is a list of my recommendations, along with detailed review for each camera.

1. iON Camocam

• Best for: Overall
• Key Features: Camouflage around the outside helps it blend in. Captures 1080p HD video at 30fps. Waterproof to depths of 32 feet and offers 2.5 hours of continuous shooting. 
• Capture Resolution: 1080p
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Frame Rate: 30fps

The Camocam from iON kicks off our list because it’s an extremely well-rounded action camera that’s perfectly designed for hunting. This device is wrapped in Realtree Xtra Texture camouflage that enables it to blend in with the environment. 

It’s also extremely durable, which is a must-have for when you’re out on the trails or in tumultuous weather, and completely waterproof even if submerged. 

On top of that, it has great specs. It records in 1080p HD at 30fps and offers 2.5 hours of continuous shooting. There’s full Wi-Fi functionality too.

If there are cons with this device it’s that it comes with no zoom. That does limit how far away you’ll be able to use it. It also lacks a touchscreen. Even so, the features that do exist are so versatile and easy to use that you won’t miss anything.

2. Lidcam LC-WF

• Best for: Phone Compatibility
• Key Features: Wide angle lens. Wi-Fi connectivity with full phone capability through the app. Excellent resolution in all situations and environments.
• Capture Resolution: 1080p
• Weight: 0.5 pounds
• Lens Type: Wide angle 

If you want a solid, well-rounded hunting action camera the Lidcam LC-WF will be right up your alley. It weighs under 4 ounces, so you can easily take it out into the wilderness, and has good shots thanks to a wide-angle lens and image sensor. The 1080p resolution looks great as well.

What really helps this model stand out is how well it integrates with your phone. Not only does it come with Wi-Fi connectivity, but you can also use the excellent and simple-to-use smartphone app to preview shots, capture photos, and record from your device. 

The only real problem with this one is the three-hour battery, which isn’t going to last a whole hunt.

3. Garmin Virb

• Best for: Toughness
• Key Features: Ultra HD video with sharp 4k/30fps footage. Able to capture in slow motion. There’s also a built-in GPS on top of an LCD color touchscreen. Voice control.
• Capture Resolution: 4k
• Weight: 3.2 ounces
• Frame Rate: 30fps/4k, 120fps, 1080p

When you’re out hunting, you need a camera that can handle the trials and tribulations you might encounter in nature. The Virb from Garmin does that and more. 

In terms of construction, this camera is quite tough thanks to the resilient shell and premium materials. It’s also completely waterproof to the point where you won’t have to worry about dropping it in a puddle or taking it into a storm.

This model is easy to mount and the LCD color touchscreen looks fantastic. As strong as the shell is, the camera also provides you with quality recordings. It records HD video and comes with slow motion capabilities. 

Also worth noting is the built-in GPS for when you go off the grid as well as the voice control if you need your hands for other purposes.

The only issues with this model are the rather weak image stabilization and relatively low battery life. This action camera will give you great results, but be sure to have backup batteries when you take it out to ensure you don’t miss key footage.

4. GoPro Hero Session

• Best for: Usability
• Key Features: Strong construction that can withstand tough conditions. Simple, easy to use interface. Compact shell. Comes with strong audio and stellar image quality.
• Capture Resolution: 1080p
• Weight: 4.48 ounces
• Frame Rate: 50fps

When it comes to action cameras, GoPro is king. The company makes some of the best models on the market, and the Hero 5 Session is perfect for hunting. 

That’s because the device gives you an excellent blend of strength, specs, and usability. This has a simple design that anyone can quickly get the hang of and it charges up quickly.

Another big bonus of this model is the portability. When hunting you never know how long you’re going to be out, which makes taking around something you can slip into a pocket much more appealing. The simple interface also means you won’t get caught up getting it to work.

This isn’t the most advanced action camera around, and you’re going to get your own SD card, but it definitely gets the job done. Just know you’re going to have to pay a bit extra for such a product.

5. Tactacam 5.0

• Best for: Versatility
• Key Features: Able to be mounted on different devices. 8x zoom. The battery is fully rechargeable through a USB cable.
• Capture Resolution: 4k
• Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Frame Rate: 4k/30fps, 1080p/120fps

The Tactacam 5.0 is a hunting action camera that simply gives you options. 

This device is incredibly versatile when you’re out hunting because it can be quickly mounted onto a bow or gun depending on what you use. On top of that, it’s easy to use. All you need to do is touch it with one finger to get it going.

There’s decent durability here and the companion app offers good functionality for those who like to share or look back on their videos and pictures. 

The mounts are stable, and the built-in image stabilization adds an extra layer to keep all shots focused. It’s also good in low light and is fully water-resistant. 

A few of the modes are lacking, and the zoom leaves something to be desired, but this model does a nice job if you hunt with different items.

How to Choose an Action Camera for Hunting

Here are a few factors you should take into consideration when choosing the action camera that fits your hunting needs.

Durability

Hunting takes place in nature. If you’re bringing an action camera with you, it needs to be tough. When possible, look for models with shock or waterproof construction. Both will ensure your device will make it through bad weather and any accidents. 

If there’s a model you want without such upgrades, see if it has waterproof housing or protective cases. Both go a long way.

Easy and Versatile Mounting

When buying an action camera for hunting, make sure it doesn’t take too much to mount. Lightweight models are incredibly important towards that end, as are versatile builds that provide you with plenty of options. 

There are many hunting tools. It’s always best when you get a camera that can quickly mount onto all of them. Tree or helmet options should have similar functionality too.

Noise

Though it’s easy to overlook when focusing on specs, you need to pay attention to how much noise a camera might make. 

No matter how great or reliable a certain option might be, it isn’t useful if it alerts animals way before you set up your shot. 

Handless or one-touch operations tend to be quiet. Look for cameras that operate with vibrations over sound as well.

My Verdict

Every action camera in this guide is great for the hunt, but the iON Camocam gets the nod for the best overall model. 

It’s not only easy to use and mount, but it offers hours of continuous shooting in stunning clarity so you never miss anything. The tough construction and waterproof shell are simply icing on the cake.