Tree Stands: Types, Pros, and Cons!

different type of tree stands

When it comes to bagging a huge buck, hunting from a tree stand is amongst the most successful methods available, especially for bowhunters. However, some tree stands are more suited to specific hunting scenarios than others. Here’s everything that you need to consider when making an informed decision.

Almost all commercially manufactured tree stands are constructed of either welded aluminum or steel, depending on the model and the manufacturer. Although steel stands are stronger, aluminum stands are lightweight. This will be determined by the structure of the stand and will be noted on the package or product description. Stand weight capacities can range from 250 to 500 pounds. Remember to account for the weight of additional equipment and apparel when attempting to determine the capacity you require. Although most manufacturers provide a level of protection in their ratings, it is always better to err on the side of warning and purchase a stand that has a higher capacity than you anticipate you will require.

With the beginning of hunting season just around the horizon, it’s time to be ready to enjoy the finest hunting season possible. While you are shopping for the greatest arrows and bows, one item you should consider purchasing is a tree stand. Although it is typically employed for whitetail deer hunting, it is a necessary component of every hunting outfit. Here’s all you need to know about the many types of tree stands, as well as our recommendations for the finest ones.

 

Types of Tree Stands

Ladder Stands

Hunting from a ladder stand is a suitable choice for hunters who anticipate staying in the same location for a long amount of time.

Ladder tree stands are often sold as a bundle that includes the ladder, platform, and seat all in one. Generally speaking, ladder stands are between 12 and 20 feet in height. Because ladder stands are simpler to climb into than hanging or climbing stands, they allow the hunters to go up and down discreetly once they are in position.

Ladder stands are available in types that accommodate one or two hunters, and they are a common pick for hunters who are instructing young hunters in the sport since it allows both novice and veteran hunters to sit next to one another for the duration of the hunt.

Because ladder tree stands are often attached to the tree with a few tightening straps, the hunter does not need to harm the tree to use them. One of the things I dislike about ladder stands is that they are difficult to install in trees that are not perfectly straight or have huge branches at the base. Ladder supports are great for trees with a long, straight trunk, which means that nothing will get in the path of the ladder when it is being raised.

 

Advantages

  • When compared to most other platforms, the ladder stand is far easier to climb up and down.
  • While ladder stands may have a minor restriction on mobility, they are often regarded as the ultimate in comfort.
  • They can be utilized in a variety of settings when other forms of tree stands are ineffective, such as when dealing with smaller trees.
  • Tree stands are an excellent alternative for young hunters because of how large and comfortable they are to sit in.

Disadvantages

  • Because they are bulky, large, and weighty, they are the lowest portable of the options.
  • Deer are immediately alerted to the presence of a ladder stand, which might cause them to become nervous.

 

Hang On Tree Stand

In addition to being more difficult to put up, hang-on stands allow hunters to set up in trees with a large number of branches or unusual forms. Hang-on stands to necessitate the use of a ladder, climbing sticks, or screw-on stairs for the hunter to gain access to the stand.

When there are old trees in the area with plenty of large limbs, this is the sort of stand that is effective. The hang-on stand allows you to ascend the tree and relax into a giant tree that splits up your profile by providing a break in my silhouette. Hang-on stands are often the least expensive type of stand, weighing between 12 and 24 pounds.

Because these stands do not normally have any sort of railing around them, they are not recommended for hunters who are not comfortable with heights, as you will feel as if you are hanging out on a little seat and platform when hunting.

Advantages

  • Because they are smaller and lighter, they are considerably more convenient to move.
  • When compared to ladders, they are less complicated to set up and can be adjusted to any height.
  • They can be utilized even on trees that provide some protection.

Disadvantages

  • Because the foundation of such treestands isn’t particularly large, they provide little in the way of comfort or security.
  • While it is simple to install, it does need more work and generates more noise.

 

Climbing Tree Stands

The climbing stand is one of the most easily transportable deer stands available on the market today. These stands range in weight from 12 to 30 pounds, depending upon the nature of the material from which they are constructed, and may be readily transported to and from the forest using backpack straps to reduce fatigue. The use of climbers allows hunters to relocate to new places, modify the height of their stands, and change the direction in which their stands face fast and effortlessly.

The disadvantage of climbing stands is that the tree must be relatively straight and clear of twigs up to the altitude you wish to climb, as well as large enough to hold the climbing stand itself.

Climbing stands are suitable for hunters who hunt on terrain where it is necessary to eliminate the stand,are not in use, or who want to experiment with different hunting places. If you could only buy one sort of stand, a climber would be the one to choose from.

The notion that you have to climb up and down each time you want to get out of the tree offsets the benefit that you can make quick adjustments on the go. When selecting a climber, keep in mind the silence component that was discussed earlier.

 

Advantages

  • There is no requirement for additional equipment such as fast rails or steps to utilize these stands.
  • They aren’t overly bulky, which makes them lightweight and hence simple to move around.
  • Climbers are widely regarded as among the most convenient types of tree stands now available.
  • Beyond the convenience of installation, climbers also provide the benefit of allowing you to make last-minute alterations to your setup placement.

Disadvantages

  • These will only be used for straight trees with a few limbs, and they are not recommended for curved trees.
  • You will have to put it up again and again, as opposed to ladders and fixed position stands, which may be left out for extended periods.

 

Sling Tree Stand

This solution is the most portable, but I would imagine that it would be difficult to draw a bow back into place with this sort of support in place.

This is the only treestand that eliminates the need for all of your hang-ons and climbers, as well as the labor-intensive task of transporting and erecting them.

If you have experience with this sort of stand or are aware of any other comparable stands, please share your knowledge with us in the comments area below.

 

Final Words:

Because there are so many various varieties of treestands available on the market, it might be difficult to choose the one that is best appropriate for your needs. However, now that you are aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each kind, and also the best performers in each area, you will be able to make an informed decision!

You can also check out the tips for hunting from a tree stand

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