Around here, we largely use climbing tree stands. I would be interested in hearing anyone suggestions for improvements of those stands.

I largely use Summit stands, specifically the models that face the trees. I have done the following:

1- I replaced the rail pads with pipe insulation. I wrap the insulation with either camo tape or camp gauze wrap. I have no more twisting of the pads and I always have a pad on my back.

2- I put the camo gauze tape on some of the exposed metal surfaces to help reduce the possibility of accidental noise.

3- I tie 2 or 3 metal S hooks to the right hand side of the stand. Things can be hung from those hooks.

4- I take 2 socks and fill them with plastic pellets. These socks are the put into a Crown Royal bag. This weighs next to nothing. This is hung near the tree. I can use this as a rest or to help adjust the elevation when I shoot. At times, it effectively helps me have something similar to a bench rest. It is amazingly helpful.

I am always looking to improve. If anyone has any other ideas, I would appreciate hearing them.

One obvious improvement would be to take the Crown Royal up with you once the bag is used for silence...

Larry:

I'd never hunt from a tree, just too damned clumsy, I'd fall out of one.

For holding those pads, or anything else for that matter on forever. Use clear 35-50 year DAP caulking, they'll be there in fine shape long after you're in the big box forever.

Wish you well,
George

Great ideas Larry!

One thing I always struggle with are the foot / boot hooks.. I always have a tough time either getting the toes of my boots under them and keeping them there while climbing...

I had a very significant omission. I bought a cushion at Gander Mountain. It was ridiculously expensive ($80 I think). I wish I had it here and could get the details off of it. As I recall is is made by Hunters Specialties. It is FAR superior to anything else. Definitely worth the money.

I have another idea that I am going to try for those times when I have the possibility of a longer shot off the the side. My idea is as follows:

I have an old small green canvas back pack. I have filed it with Styrofoam packing material. It will weight next to nothing. My guess is 1-2 pounds max.

I am going to fasten it to the side rail by the straps. This will give me 3 different possible height positions (back, side, bottom) to use as a start. Of course, I think these can be adjusted somewhat .

I have yet to try this. It may not work. I am going to give it a try next weekend. If it doesn't work, I am out a total of $4.

I would like to find a good way to hang a water bottle off the rail. I have used string around the neck of the bottle which works well for the most part. From time to time, the bottle does fall.

I have yet to figure out a better way or find a solution to purchase.

check out:
http://www.thirdhandarchery.com/home.asp
for some pretty neat treestand accessories.

i filled my summit climbers with expanding foam insulation to help quiet any clanking on the main tubes. be careful though as you can get the cables stuck in there and they are a sombitch to get out once that shit dries. shoving a bunch of packing peanuts or something in the ends and compressing them with a stick may be a better solution.

you could try spraying some surfaces with the plasti-dip rubber coating stuff to help with noise as well.

i have only used summit vipers, where i face away from the tree when sitting, i really like summits' foot extender thing, makes the stand more comfy to be able to stick your feet out a bit.

I don't get tree stands - I would never use a climbing tree stand.

Just a perfect mix for stuff to go wrong. Kind of riding a motorcycle.

Larry you are a brave man.

Mike

Mike, I have used them since the 80's and never had a problem. One has to be careful and not do stupid things, like put them on a tree that is too small. I am very comfortable in them and I am terrified of heights.

quote:

Originally posted by Beretta682E:
I don't get tree stands - I would never use a climbing tree stand.

Just a perfect mix for stuff to go wrong. Kind of riding a motorcycle.
Mike

In many instances, it is the only way to get a halfway decent shot at an animal. I hunt public land where its not legal to cut in shooting lanes. Climbers allow me to get above the brush. I can see more game and get off a more ethical shot, just by getting up 15ft in the air.

For the first few years of hunting out of a tree, I built a wooden structure and THIS was unsafe for sure. That's been 50 years ago and way before tree stand hunting was popular in my western State.

We still can't use climbers where we hunt because of the branches etc but use stands we do.

I find them relaxing and productive although I hate hanging them with a passion.

Great tips Larry. I can incorporate a couple of the above ideas and make a better set.

Zeke