Looking to use a tree stand this year for deer hunting, but not sure which one is right for you? Check out our overview of the major types of hunting tree stands.
Climbing Tree Stands
Just as they sound, you use climbing tree stands to “climb” your way up the tree until you reach the desired height and position. These stands can be strapped to your back for carrying to a hunting location which makes them more easily portable than a ladder stand. These stands do not require screw in attachments so they allow for quick setup and minimal intrusion into the tree.
Climbing tree stands work well for hunters who like to be able to move their stand around to follow deer movement and feeding patterns from time to time, but enjoy a substantial seat and foot platform. If you are looking for the ability to do quick moves more stealthily, then a Hang-On Stand may be right for you.
When it comes to climbing stands, look for features such as sound deadening technology, padded seats with backrest, easy climb stirrups, and integrated safety harness systems. Take a look at some great climbing stand options.
Hang-On Tree Stands
These stands offer maximum flexibility to climb a range of trees in a variety of locations. They are generally streamlined for easy distance carrying. Rather than built in climbing, you use a climbing stick system that you attach to the tree to scale to hang your platform. With experience, many hunters find that they can secure themselves in the desired location with a hang-on stand quickly and quietly.
Do be aware that because these stands are designed for maximum portability, they do not offer all the bells and whistles that some other types of tree stands do. Some people find that climbing and ladder stands offer more comfort for long days of hunting.
When it comes to Hang-On Tree Stands, brands such as Muddy, OL’MAN, and Summit offer great value for your money.
Ladder Stands
These easy-to-climb tree stands are designed to be set up and left on site longer term. They are best located on a site, such as your private land, without much traffic from other hunters and preferably in a spot where you don’t carry it a long distance for set up. These stands are not quick put up and take down, but do offer you added stability and increased measures of safety when assembled and secured properly.
Look for deer hunting ladder stands that are made of weather resistant materials and include comfortable seating and an ample foot platform. Brands such Millennium and Sniper offer expert craftmanship.
Would you like one on one help in selecting the right treestand to meet your needs? Let one of the experts here at Simmons Sporting Goods, with years of hunts under their belt, guide you. Simply give us a call at 1-800-726-9930 or send us a note via our contact form.