The most unique and groundbreaking turkey hunting vest on the market. Drew Able, like many people, still subscribes to the American dream. Several years ago, while working his day job, he decided to make a change.
"One of the guys that worked with me had just gotten married, and he called me while he was on his honeymoon," Able said. "I was like, why is he calling me while on his honeymoon? But I answered, and he was upset. He was crying, and two days after his wedding, his best man — his dad — died from a massive heart attack at the local farmers market."
It was that moment that Able started reflecting on his own life, how fragile it is, and what little time we have here.
Am I doing what I'm supposed to be doing, he wondered.
Three things stood out to him. Turkeys, turkey hunting, and turkey hunting gear. With a desire to work for himself, that meant one thing — a new venture.
"I had a natural desire to design gear," Able said. "So, my wife and I started praying about it, and you know, it just felt right."
Knowing there were a few things on the market that he'd himself want from a turkey hunting gear perspective, yet nobody offered, brainstorming began. Then, they started a company and built that gear.
Today, Grounded has a new modular vest that is co-branded with TFT. The vest is offered in several patterns and colors for those wanting different looks. It's very lightweight and highly mobile — perfect for those who cover a lot of ground on public properties and all-day treks on private land.
This turkey hunting vest is unique. Without question, it's different from other ones on the market. (Interestingly, people commonly use this revolutionary pack for deer and other big game hunting, too.)
The vest holds a couple strikers, up to 10x50 binoculars, a box call, and mouth calls. It even has a couple extra pockets for things like shells, gloves, facemasks, etc. You might even stash a Snickers bar in there for good measure when that stubborn gobbler hangs up at about 150. You know, just to keep those biscuits and gravy at bay a bit longer.
Of course, some turkey hunters want to retain a game bag, butt pad, and a host of pockets. These things can add bulk and weight, but done correctly, don't have to. So, yes, for you lot that that can't hack it without a good, firm tush cushion, and a game bag for your dead bird, that can be attached to this vest, too. Add or remove with a couple simple clicks.
"It's one of the most innovative vests I've ever seen, and we're very proud that Grounded has decided to partner with us," Lupardus said. "This will be available online and they're giving us a percentage of sales to go back to conservation projects. All TFT members get a 10% discount on this new vest."
The vest is made from very durable but soft material, so it won't make noise. Lupardus said there's no question it was designed by turkey hunters who built the vest structured to solve common challenges and problems. Significant adjustability elevates it beyond other options available to hunters.
"It's modular, so you can actually add and remove things," Lupardus said. "They put a lot of time and thought into this. It's a great vest, and I think everyone will love it."
"It's basically a modified chest back, but built specifically for turkey hunters," Able agreed. "It's well-made, well-thought-out, but I don't carry much stuff. I want something smaller and slimmer that holds closer to the body — something built more for the run-and-gun type hunter.
Perhaps most importantly, Able says the name "Grounded" comes from him being grounded in his faith in Christ.
Oftentimes, people ask about the company's handle, and he uses it as an opportunity to spread the Gospel. More times than not, these discussions of Christ are deep and meaningful. That's a door Able is always happy to walk through, and it adds even more meaning to turkey hunts with new friends.
Today, reflecting on the passing of his friend's father, the tragedy is devastating. But the solace comes in knowing something good — a faith-based brand — arose from the ashes of something so terrible. Still, it's something we all eventually face, and being right with Christ, and God, allows us to walk through life, and out of it, with our head high and heart full.
First and foremost, that's what Able wants people to know. If they like his innovative gear, that's an added bonus.
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Wild turkey populations are on the decline throughout the nation. Established in 2021, TFT is new to the landscape, but it’s driven by highly trained professionals with decades of conservation experience. To support TFT, and the complete body of wild turkey research and conservation it’s leading, become a member today. An Adult Annual Membership is $50, multi-year Team Turkey Membership is $250, and Life Membership is $2,500. Every dollar counts in the fight for wild turkey preservation.