Hunters have been using tree stands for a long time. Tree stands give hunters an elevated position to detect game animals and prepare for a safe kill in advance. When hunters shoot from a downgrade angle, there are more chances of clean kill even from a long range. Moreover, tree stands donāt let bushes and other obstacles block the view from 8 to 16 feet height above the ground.
Setting up a tree stand is something that requires a lot of time and patience, especially when you are new to it. These days modern portable tree stands are making a huge difference by being more advanced and user-friendly. However, you still need to follow certain instructions considering the type of tree stand you use. In this guide, we are going to explain how to set up a tree stand without wasting your extra time and energy. If you read this complete guide, you will be able to put up a tree stand by yourself.
Related Post:- Best Climbing Tree Stand
Related Post:- Best One Man Ladder Tree Stand
Before moving forward, let us know 3 major types of tree stands, hang on, climbing, and ladder. We will discuss them in detail one by one:
Hang-on treestands have become very popular in the past few years. It usually costs between $100 to $200. You can hang them and leave them to hunt for an entire season. These are best for an area where a lot of deer movements happen. The best thing about the hang-on tree stand is, that you can place it on any tree ranging from small to large diameter. However, you need a tree that is fairly straight with fewer limbs, otherwise, concealment wonāt be very effective.Ā
This is the most compact form of a tree stand that eliminates the need to carry sticks and ladders. Bowhunters love the climbing tree stand, as it is packable, lightweight, and easy to set up. You can lock the seat of the climber tree stand in the tree and lift your legs to raise the platform while climbing. However, it is limited to specific trees that have a completely straight posture.Ā
The ladder tree stands are safer and easier the climb design of tree stands. These are more stable and spacious to carry other accessories along to the platform. Moreover, ladder tree stands are less prone to a fall as they have a broad platform and safe ladders to climb. However, these are pretty much heavy for transportation and setting up, so you may need an extra helping hand to set this up.
Lock-on or hang-on tree stands are available in the market in bulk both online and in sporting goods stores. Select the one that fits your budget and requirements. Once it arrives, and you take it to the hunting field, follow the steps below:
This type of stand can fit a variety of tree diameters from small to large. However, we will recommend you find a tree at least 8 inches in diameter. A tree with a few limbs will also work fine with this tree stand.
You get 3 to 4 climbing sticks along with a hang-on tree stand. So make sure you buy a hang-on tree stand with climbing sticks. If they are not included, you have to buy them separately, which will cost more.
Carry the tree stand on your shoulders along with the last climbing stick to save some time. It is recommended to set up the stand platform right around the last step of your climbing stick.
Now you are all set to hunt. Sit on the tree stand along with your rifle, bow or your preferred gun. Make sure you are quiet so the game doesn’t run away.
You donāt get a bundle of accessories along with this tree stand. These are lightweight and super easy to carry on the shoulders. After reaching an optimum hunting location with your climbing tree stand, follow the given simple steps:
You need at least a 9-inch diameter tree without shagbarks so that tree straps donāt get caught to spoil your time. The tree must be completely smooth and straight in shape.Ā
Donāt forget to carry your gun or bow along. It is a bit difficult to climb up and down multiple times using a climbing tree stand so make sure you carry everything you need on that height.
When you are climbing down from this type of tree stand, sit on the platform and locate the seating part downwards first. Then hold the supporting bars and take the platform down. It is recommended to not make a hurry while climbing up or down to avoid any mishap.
The carrying ladder tree stand is a bit bulky due to ladders and other equipment. You may need 2 or 3 people to set up the 2 man ladder tree stand safely. For one man ladder stand, you still need an extra hand. Also, set it up at a place where you are confident about not getting robbed when you leave it.
The ladder tree stand can fit a tree 9 inches in diameter or more. A small band wonāt affect the stability. However, we will suggest finding a straight tree so everything feels aligned.
It delivers with all parts that look disassembled. Add the seat part to the platform, and then attach optional shooting rails using locking pins and bolts. You can also follow the instructions given in the user manual of your ladder tree stand.Ā
You can hunt using a gun or bow on a ladder or tree stand. It allows you to climb up and down several times because of ladders. Use the shooting rail if you hunt with a rifle or shotgun.Ā Ā
Above we guided you about how to set up all three types of tree stands. We hope all of your confusion is clear about the tree stand setup process and you are ready to bang. We suggest you always wear a safety harness while you are on a tree stand because a small mistake can cost you a lifetime. If you still have any questions, ask us in the comment section, and we will be happy to answer your query. Donāt forget to share your experience of setting up a tree stand with us.