Best Ghillie Suits (& DIY) For Hunting, Combat Or Survival

By "Just In Case" Jack | Updated: 05/16/2023

Today I’ve got something really important to share…

A Complete Guide On Finding, Using & Making A Ghillie Suit

Because when sniping or stalking strategic targets, you need to be invisible.

If the enemy spots you, it’s game over.

  • You can spend hours carefully tracking an animal
  • Waiting for the right moment to take them down
  • But as soon as your prey spots you, your hunt is over

And THE best way to blend in is with a military-style ghillie suit…

TOPICS IN THIS GUIDE…    ↓(click to jump)
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sniper in ghillie suit

Best Ghillie Suits On The Market Today

We’ll look at both expensive and cheaper suits, giving you a wide variety to choose from:

1.
Arcturus Ghost Suit: Woodland Camo

The Ghost Suit from Arcturus might be the best ghillie suit for sale today.

Why? Because it's built to last with double stitching that locks in the tread to reduce shedding.

Every suit includes an adjustable waistband and ankle straps to fit most body types.

And the hood is also adjustable and can be zippered to your jacket.

The coverage on this suit is very dense, and underneath is a 7-color blend of 3-D camo for good variation.

At the same time, it’s a lightweight, breathable suit with a double mesh shell.

It's perfect for hunters, military snipers, and hard-core paintball enthusiasts.

Plus, it comes in a wide variety of sizes. So if you are looking for a kid's ghillie suit as well as your own, Arcturus has you covered.

The Arcturus is a superior suit, indeed.

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↓ A Detailed Look At The Arcturus Ghost Ghillie Suit

2.
MOPHOTO 5 in 1 Ghillie Suit, 3D Camouflage Hunting

The MOPHOTO is another excellent option for blending into your environment.

It's made of 98% polyester and 2% spandex with durable threading.

This combination of materials means it's water repellant, fire retardant, rot, and mildew proof.

The jacket has durable button closures, and the material is very breathable.

That means less sweating when you are stalking your prey.

The elastic waist and drawstrings allow for a comfortable fit and easy maneuverability.

It is perfect for all your outdoor adventures, including:

  • wildlife photography
  • paintball and airsoft
  • hunting and shooting
  • bird watching

This 5-1 suit has a jacket, hood, pants, gun wrap, and sack to carry everything easily.

Sizes range from youth up to adults.

Heck, it can even make a unique Halloween costume in a pinch!

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↓ MOPHOTO 5 In 1 Ghillie Suit Review

3.
Red Rock Outdoor Gear Suit

Red Rock sets the standard with their outdoor gear 5-piece suit.

It's designed for superior comfort, and you can quickly wear it over clothing.

And it has stitched openings for direct access to your pockets underneath.

The dense materials are made out of lightweight, breathable polyester and spandex.

This suit includes a jacket, hood, pants, gun wrap, and stuff sack.

It also has a convenient carry strap like most other ghillie suits.

With this suit, you’ll have complete camouflage for hunting or bird watching.

The camo threads are double-stitched to secure the suit.

So you won't shed, and the pants even have snap closures, so you don't have to take off your boots when putting them on.

It's fantastic and well worth the money.

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↓ Red Rock Outdoor Gear – Ghillie Review

4.
Pinty Ghillie Suit 3D 4-Piece with Bag

Pinty makes a nice tactical ghillie for hunting and war games.

It's made of high-density, lightweight, multi-layered thread and weighs only 4.4 lbs.

And you won't have to worry about bugs and insects.

Why? Because they have an elastic waist and buttons on the hem of the pants, they fit snug.

They also have double-stitched drawstrings to make them very adjustable.

The whole kit has a jacket, mask, pants, gun cover, and a stuff pack to stow it away.

The hood has excellent ventilation with button closures for easy opening.

It also has 3-D camo colors with vivid green to match your surroundings.

So be sure to put this one on your list when shopping around.

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5.
VIVO Ghillie Suit Youth L/XL Woodland Camo

Vivo sits around the middle of the pack.

Its lightweight polyester construction is ideal for hunting and military gaming.

It also uses 3-D concealment camouflage that works well in rough environments.

Your kit comes with the standard jacket, mask, pants, and gun cover, all fitting in a backpack for easy transportation.

It weighs in at 4 lbs. and is very breathable, so you won't get too hot wearing it.

The hood has mesh openings for your eyes and nose.

And it has full coverage for your head and shoulders with an adjustable chin and forehead strap.

You can quickly put it on and remove it with tear-away buttons on the pant legs.

This design is also convenient when it's time to hand wash it and put it on the line to dry.

With its comfort and durable build, what's not to like?

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6.
EAmber Gilly Hunting Suit

The EAmber ghillie suit is an ideal suit for heavily forested areas.

Its surface is laced with emulation leaves to blend into woodland hunting environments.

It also works well in dark situations, allowing you to stalk and observe your prey.

It's perfect for hunting, wildfowling, bird watching, and wildlife photography.

The suit is polyester, so you know it's lightweight and breathable.

That's a good thing when you are out in the bush waiting for hours to spot animals.

The cuffs on the pants and jacket are elastic, preventing bugs and insects from crawling inside the suit.

This suit is only 0.95 lbs, so it is comfortable and comes in both button and zipper designs.

Wear this on your next hunting, surveillance, or airsoft outing for fast and effective camouflage.

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7.
North Mountain Gear Woodland Camo

This Northland Mountain Gear is a solid option for sportsmen and military gamers.

It's a high-quality suit that won't break the bank.

The jacket has a full front zipper and a large zippered pocket for stowing supplies.

This helps make it versatile during longer hunts.

The pants are easy on and on with knee-high zippers, so you don't have to take off your boots.

The waistband is elastic with drawstrings, and you get deep zippered pockets.

That's why these pockets are great for storing small hunting accessories.

Also, this suit has more leaves attached than any other suit on the market.

There are over 1000 3-D laser-cut leaves to immerse yourself in foliage completely.

That's why you're virtually invisible in trees or on dense ground cover.

You also get a camouflage carry bag as well.

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↓ North Mountain Gear 3D Leaf Suit Review

8.
Ghillie Suit, 3D Camouflage Hunting Apparel

DoCred's suit offers you excellent camouflage in many scenarios.

It's designed for hunting, gameplay, wildlife photography, and kids' play.

It perfectly blends into the shrubbery, trees, and grass.

This setup makes you stealthy in most outdoor environments.

It has the standard 98%/2% poly/spandex blend you're used to seeing and is available in sizes from kids to large adults.

The suit is water-repellant and mildew and rot-proof while still being lightweight.

You get the jacket, pants, gun wrap, hood, and stuff sack in this package.

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9.
Zicac Outdoor Camo 3D Leafy Camo Suit

This outdoor camo ghillie comes with a jacket and pants.

That's pretty basic, but really, what more do you need?

It has a 3-D leafy camo design made from polyester.

So you know there is comfort here while being well camouflaged.

This style doesn't catch onto branches and twigs: it stays clean and dirt-free.

It’s well suited for thick brush and allows you to move freely and quickly with this setup.

The jacket has an attached hood with flex cuffs, drawstrings, and zippers.

This design helps to keep it secure while still being light and breathable.

The trousers have an adjustable belt and elastic ankle wrap as well.

It's an affordable option for hunting and animal viewing.

So consider the Zicac for your next camouflage needs.

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Sniper in the grass looking through the scope

What Exactly Is A Ghillie Anyway?

It’s a camouflaged outfit that blends in with your surroundings.

It helps to conceal your whole body, including your pants, upper body, and head.

Because when hiding in plain sight, you’ve got to cover EVERYTHING.

In Scottish Gaelic, Ghillie is a term for a “boy” that acts as an outdoor servant.

They were key in assisting on hunting and fishing trips.

These “Ghillies” would also protect the Lord’s game from poachers by hiding in tall grass.

Scottish folklore also has a fairy named Ghillie Du.

This mythical figure was a kind-hearted mountain spirit clothed in leaves and moss.

But as best we can tell, Scottish gamekeepers invented these suits as portable hunting blinds.

Then during the Second Boer War (around 1900), the British Army’s Lovat Scouts used camouflage suits in military operations.

And in 1916, they were named the first sniper unit in the British Army.

Since then, they’ve been used repeatedly in covert operations.

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Hiding In Plain Sight In A Ghillie Suit

Who Should Own A One & Why?

Having a sniper-grade ghillie suit may sound incredible, but do you REALLY need one?

Ultimately, the answer comes down to your job and your hobbies.

If you are a homebody who avoids the great outdoors, these camo suits are not for you.

So who should own one?

Avid Hunters

An avid hunter fully understands the importance of hiding in plain sight.

To increase your chance of finding and shooting game, being invisible helps.

Military/Sniper

A sharpshooter or marksman can hit a target from an insane distance.

But a sniper must also train in fieldcraft.

They must be able to traverse many unique terrains to secure advantageous attack and observation positions.

So to a sniper, a ghillie suit required attire.

That’s precisely what these suits do and why it’s necessary for their mission.

Active duty military personnel still use them today in modern warfare.

Birding

A bird enthusiast’s goal is to observe and photograph different species of birds UP CLOSE.

Ideally, you want to get so close you can hear these birds sneeze.

Some serious bird watchers use one (and lots of patience) to get THAT close.

And to remain unnoticed for long periods.

A birder also uses equipment like scopes and binoculars, but seeing and hearing them close up is much more exciting.

Airsoft/Paintball

Combat simulation games are a trendy sport.

Airsoft and paintball are combat simulation games where you hunt the opposing team.

But each uses slightly different equipment.

Fortunately, one thing both sports CAN use is a ghillie suit.

During a heated battle, evasion techniques are a big part of success.

So whoever’s better at blending into their surroundings usually has the upper hand.

Military Style Ghillie Suit

Best Ghillie Suit Features To Look For

When researching these suits, you’ll want to focus on the best features for your needs.

The good news is:

There are several unique styles and combinations.

But never overlook the following key features:

Comfort

First off, it must feel good while wearing it.

When you’re lying prone under a bush for hours in rough terrain, you’ll be thankful for any bit of comfort.

If your suit becomes uncomfortable while hunting, you’ll be tempted to cut your trip short.

Also, you want it to be breathable.

Because if your body temperature isn’t maintaining normal levels, you’ll sweat.

You don’t want to be drenched while hunting or bird watching.

That’s why your suit must be light enough for air circulation.

Size / Fit

First, ALWAYS try it on BEFORE you take it into the field.

If it doesn’t fit, return it immediately.

Fortunately, most pants include elastic waistbands.

And jackets are often adjustable as well.

So spend some time getting the fit right.

Even with the “adjustability,” fitting can be tricky because the sizes of the suits are deceptive.

This is because they are meant to go over other clothes.

So research different brands and setups and read other people’s comments before you buy.

You also want it to be a breeze to put on and take off and not feel clumsy while moving around.

This unique camo suit is a significant investment, so shop around until you find the best one for YOU.

Durability

Of course, you want ALL your survival gear to last, and this purchase is no different.

So invest in a suit that uses quality material.

You don’t want it breaking apart after just a few trips.

Take time researching the types of material used.

Then choose the highest quality you can afford.

In general, look for abrasive-resistant materials and double-stitching throughout the build.

Color

The main reason anyone buys a ghillie is to meld into your surroundings.

So neon green won’t cut it if you’re out bird-watching in the winter.

You can often choose from several colors and patterns.

So think about where/when you’ll use it most:

  • Light colors
  • Dark colors
  • Snow colors
  • Etc.

Choose a few colors depending on how often you hunt and what time of year you go.

Most manufacturers equip them with the ability to add flora from the surrounding area.

So starting with the proper base color is a smart move.

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How To Make A Ghillie Suit DIY Ghillie Suit

How To Make A Ghillie Suit

If you’re into DIY, making your own homemade ghillie suit is doable.

You can customize the color and texture to fit the exact environment you’ll be wearing.

And you’ll save money while getting a sense of accomplishment.

Here is a quick guide:

↓ How To Make A Ghillie Suit – Airsoft Adventures

The first thing you need is a camo or BDU uniform jacket.

This jacket provides a solid camouflage base that you can build on.

If you start with a solid color, it will take more material to cover.

So research the terrain you are going to be hunting in.

Scout out the location and take notes and pictures of the foliage.

Look at all the base colors in the landscape.

Fish Mesh Netting

Now you’ll want to buy some fishing net and cut it into strips around two squares wide.

You can sew these down sleeves on the jacket’s front and back.

But leave some space between the strips.

Use a strong thread, fishing line, or braided jute twine so it won’t easily come undone.

You should also use shoe glue for extra strength.

Remember, you’ll be crawling around with this suit.

It can easily snag on branches and bushes.

Now it’s time for burlap or jute.

Separate the strands (this will take some time) and cut them at 20 – 30″.

You can dye (or spray paint) them in whatever color you’d like.

Greens and browns work well for most forest applications.

As you are dying the burlap strips, take some out at different times to get various shades of color.

When you take some out, pull out a dozen strands at a time and fold them in half, making a loop.

Feed the loop of “leaves” under the mesh netting and tighten the ends.

Pretty easy, right?

Now keep going until you cover the entire jacket.

Fill in bare spots as necessary.

Mix the colors around so you don’t have all green and all brown in one area.

Remember, for most, shoot for 40% burlap and 60% natural vegetation from your surroundings.

Pack sewing supplies with you to add plant material.

You can repeat the same process for camo pants.

You can use a hat with a large piece of netting for head coverage.

A custom ghillie hood works well and only requires a large oval of netting with a burlap bag tied on.

Finally, give it all some wear.

Soak it in mud or drag it through the bush to get dirt on it.

It will also mask the human scent.

The point is:

You don’t want to look like you just left a military surplus store.

So rough it up so it will blend in better with the landscape.

Great job!

You’ve made a DIY ghillie suit you can be proud of – now go out there and test drive it.

Final Thoughts

A ghillie suit is one of those pieces of prepper gear that may seem odd to some folks.

But it is essential for hiding in plain sight.

In certain situations, you’d be a sitting duck without one.

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