This tree has an unusual formation that made it easy to use for a tree stand. It is where i shot my first deer from.

[IMG][url="http://www.hunt101.com/?p=244079&c=500&z=1"] [/url][/IMG]

The trunk is completely hollow inside all the way to the ground. That trunk is massive! I would sit up there with my legs dangling in the hole. Then i was struck with the idea that if i fell in, i'd go to the bottom and not be able to get out.

Next year i may cover the hole and put up some camo. The shots present on the lower side. from the upper side, you're almost level with the hill and skylined.

Plinker

Oh, need to clarify, i bow hunted from there couple times, but i didn't shoot the deer till rifle season.

Plinker

Plinker

Be careful with steps "nailed" on to a tree with thick bark. The lack of penetration and rot can make them dangerous in a fairly short period of time.
My wife lost a cousin and a guy where I used to work did some REAL damage to face and head with nailed stands.

Looks like a great spot, partially close the hole so you won't fall in and put up some camo cloth and it looks lie a real winner!

You're right, TC, the bark on that tree was over an inch thick and the steps were 1 1/2 thick. I was trying to use 3 1/2 inch screws and they just didn't hold so i used 5" spikes. They're in there good, and pressure treated wood.

Sorry to hear about your wife's cousin. That'd be a bad way to go.

Plinker