Hunting is a thrilling and challenging activity that requires the right gear to be successful. One of the essential pieces of equipment for any hunter is a tree stand. Tree stands provide an elevated position that improves visibility and reduces the hunter’s scent, making it easier to spot and take down game animals. In this article, we will be discussing the best tree stands for hunting and what to consider when purchasing one.
When choosing a tree stand, the most critical factor to consider is safety. The stand should be sturdy, stable, and secure to prevent accidents and injuries. It should also be comfortable and easy to use, with features like padded seats and armrests. Another important consideration is the weight capacity of the stand, which should be able to support the weight of both the hunter and their equipment.
After safety and comfort, the next factor to consider is the type of tree stand. There are three main types: climbing stands, ladder stands, and hang-on stands. Climbing stands are portable and easy to move, making them ideal for hunters who like to change locations frequently. Ladder stands are more permanent and provide a stable platform, while hang-on stands are lightweight and versatile, allowing hunters to set them up in a variety of locations.
We spent hours researching and testing various tree stands to identify the ones that provide the best combination of safety, comfort, and versatility. In the following sections, we will discuss our top picks for the best tree stands for hunting, highlighting their features and benefits.
Products Reviewed:
- Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber Portable Aluminum Big Game Hunting Tree Stand
- Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand Mossy Oak
- Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand
- Guide Gear 18’ Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand for Hunting
- Ol’Man TREESTANDS Assassin 18’ Dual Ladder Stand
- Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand
- Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II
- Rivers Edge® Lockdown™ 21′ Wide
- Guide Gear Deluxe Hang-On Tree Stand Chair for Hunting Cushion Seat Hunt Gear Equipment Accessories, Camo
- Millennium Treestands Monster Hang-on Treestand
Best Tree Stands for Hunting
We understand that finding the perfect tree stand can be a daunting task for any hunter. With so many different options available on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for your specific needs. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best tree stands for hunting to help make your decision easier. Our team has carefully researched and tested each product to ensure that we are providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best tree stands for hunting.
Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber Portable Aluminum Big Game Hunting Tree Stand
If you’re looking for a lightweight and portable tree stand for hunting, the Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber is a solid option.
Pros
- The Fold Flat technology makes it easy to transport and set up, making it ideal for mobile hunters.
- The heavy-duty aluminum construction provides durability while remaining lightweight.
- The Hammock net seat is comfortable and versatile, with silent slides for standing shots.
Cons
- The Tree Digger teeth may not provide enough stability on some trees.
- The Auto-Latch micro-size cable may not be long enough for larger trees.
- The awkward design of the stand may make it difficult to use quietly.
We recently had the chance to use the Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber on a hunting trip and were impressed with its portability and comfort. The Fold Flat technology allowed us to quickly collapse the stand down to an ultra-thin size for transport, making it easy to take with us on the go.
The heavy-duty aluminum construction provided peace of mind that the stand could handle our weight and was built to last. The Hammock net seat was also a standout feature, providing a comfortable and quiet seat for extended periods of time. The silent slides for standing shots were a nice touch, making it easier to take aim without spooking any nearby game.
However, we did notice some issues with stability on certain tree types, particularly those with smoother bark. The Tree Digger teeth didn’t seem to provide enough grip, which made us feel a bit uneasy at times. Additionally, the Auto-Latch micro-size cable was a bit short for larger trees, which limited our options for placement.
Finally, the design of the stand itself was a bit awkward, which made it difficult to use quietly. The cables were not long enough for medium to large trees, and when we used it on smaller trees, the arms were bent in too tightly. Overall, the Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber is a solid option for those in need of a portable and comfortable tree stand, but it may not be the best choice for all hunting situations.
Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand Mossy Oak
If you’re a hunter looking for a comfortable and lightweight tree stand, then the Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand Mossy Oak is a great option.
Pros
- The suspended foam-padded seat with cushioned backrest and padded armrests allows for comfortable sitting for hours.
- The strong and lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to transport and climb.
- It comes with a 5-year limited warranty from Summit.
Cons
- The shoulder straps could be more comfortable.
- It’s not the most stealthy tree stand on the market.
- The cable wrap can be noisy.
We recently used the Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand Mossy Oak during a hunting trip and were impressed with its comfort and ease of use. The suspended foam-padded seat with cushioned backrest and padded armrests made sitting in the stand for hours a breeze. The aluminum construction also made it easy to transport and climb.
However, we did notice that the shoulder straps could be more comfortable, especially during long sits. Additionally, the cable wrap can be noisy, which could alert nearby game. While it’s not the most stealthy tree stand on the market, it’s still a solid option for hunters looking for a comfortable and lightweight option.
Overall, we would recommend the Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand Mossy Oak for hunters looking for a comfortable and easy-to-use tree stand.
Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand
If you are looking for a lightweight and comfortable tree stand, the Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand is a great option.
Pros
- The pivoting sit & climb bar provides easy climbing.
- The 2-panel contoured foam seat pad provides all-day comfort.
- The full-size 30″ x 19.5″ platform with distinctive 3-D camo platform design is spacious.
Cons
- The small platform may not be suitable for larger hunters.
- The included backpack straps are not very comfortable.
- The stand can be noisy when climbing.
We recently used this tree stand during a hunting trip and found it to be comfortable and easy to use. The pivoting sit & climb bar made it easy to climb trees, and the 2-panel contoured foam seat pad provided all-day comfort. The full-size platform was spacious and allowed us to move around without feeling cramped.
However, the small platform may not be suitable for larger hunters, and the included backpack straps were not very comfortable. Additionally, the stand can be noisy when climbing, which may alert nearby game.
Overall, the Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand is a great option for hunters looking for a lightweight and comfortable tree stand.
Guide Gear 18’ Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand for Hunting
If you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable tree stand for deer hunting, the Guide Gear 18’ Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand is worth considering.
Pros
- The oversized seat and platform provide ample space for big hunters.
- The padded seat and armrests keep you comfortable throughout the day.
- The durable steel construction and full-body safety harness ensure your safety while hunting.
Cons
- Assembly instructions can be difficult to follow.
- The ladder sections can be heavy and cumbersome to move.
- The stand may be too large for hunters who prefer a more compact design.
We recently tried out the Guide Gear 18’ Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand for a weekend hunting trip. The stand features an oversized seat and platform, which provided plenty of space for us to move around and store our gear. The padded seat and armrests kept us comfortable throughout the day, even during extended hunting sessions.
The steel construction of the stand felt sturdy and durable, and the full-body safety harness provided peace of mind while hunting. However, we did find the assembly instructions to be a bit confusing and difficult to follow, which made setup more time-consuming than we anticipated.
While the stand is designed to be portable, we did find the ladder sections to be heavy and cumbersome to move. Additionally, the large size of the stand may not be ideal for hunters who prefer a more compact design.
Overall, the Guide Gear 18’ Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand is a solid choice for hunters who prioritize comfort and space while hunting. However, if you prefer a more lightweight and compact design, this stand may not be the best fit for you.
Ol’Man TREESTANDS Assassin 18’ Dual Ladder Stand
If you’re looking for a comfortable and sturdy tree stand for hunting, Ol’Man TREESTANDS Assassin 18’ Dual Ladder Stand is a great option.
Pros
- The Millennium style comfortmax seat with lumbar support that folds in both directions is very comfortable for all-day sits.
- The anti-flex bridge support system provides rock-solid stability and eliminates the need for a tree brace.
- The full platform with footrest provides ample space for two people.
Cons
- The ladder support system is not very sturdy and may require additional support.
- The assembly process can be tedious and time-consuming.
- The nuts and bolts are not labeled and can be confusing to match up during assembly.
We recently used the Ol’Man TREESTANDS Assassin 18’ Dual Ladder Stand for a hunting trip and were impressed with its comfort and stability. The Millennium style comfortmax seat with lumbar support that folds in both directions provided excellent support for our backs during all-day sits. The anti-flex bridge support system kept the stand stable and eliminated the need for a tree brace, which was a nice touch.
The full platform with footrest provided ample space for two people, making it a great option for hunting with a partner. However, the ladder support system was not very sturdy and required additional support to prevent sagging. The assembly process was also tedious and time-consuming, with nuts and bolts not labeled and confusing to match up.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and sturdy tree stand for hunting with a partner, the Ol’Man TREESTANDS Assassin 18’ Dual Ladder Stand is a great option. Just be prepared for a potentially tedious assembly process and the need for additional ladder support.
Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand
If you are looking for a sturdy, lightweight, and comfortable tree stand for hunting, the Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand is a great option.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry with included backpack straps
- Comfortable seat with back and side straps
- Large platform with space for standing shots
Cons
- The shooting rail is an optional accessory and not included
- The seat height is not adjustable
- The price point may be higher than other tree stands on the market
We recently used the Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand for a hunting trip and were impressed with its ease of use and durability. The lightweight design and backpack straps made it easy to carry to our desired location, and the large platform provided ample space for standing shots.
The ComfortMAX seat with back and side straps was incredibly comfortable, even during long sits. However, it is worth noting that the seat height is not adjustable, so it may not be the best option for taller hunters.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand for its comfort, stability, and versatility for both bow and gun hunters.
Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II Treestand
If you’re looking for a lightweight, roomy, and quiet treestand that’s easy to use, then the Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II Treestand is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The self-leveling seat and platform make it easy to adjust to any tree.
- The E-Z Hang Hook accessory allows you to preset multiple stand locations for quick, easy hanging.
- The large, contoured foam pad gives all-day seating comfort.
Cons
- The weight limit of 350 pounds may not be enough for some hunters.
- The price is a bit steep compared to other treestands on the market.
- The seat may be uncomfortable for some hunters after prolonged use.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II Treestand and were impressed with its performance. The self-leveling seat and platform made it easy to adjust to any tree, and we appreciated the convenience of the E-Z Hang Hook accessory, which allowed us to preset multiple stand locations for quick, easy hanging.
The large, contoured foam pad was also a standout feature, giving us all-day seating comfort and allowing us to focus on the hunt instead of our discomfort. The treestand was also lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great choice for hunters who like to move around frequently.
However, we did find that the weight limit of 350 pounds may not be enough for some hunters, and the price is a bit steep compared to other treestands on the market. Additionally, some hunters may find the seat uncomfortable after prolonged use.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II Treestand for its ease of use, comfort, and convenience.
Rivers Edge® Lockdown™ 21′ Wide
If you’re looking for a tree stand that can provide you with extreme comfort and security, then Rivers Edge® Lockdown™ 21′ Wide is the right choice for you.
Pros
- The Lockdown Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology allows you to ratchet your stand securely to the tree from the ground.
- The 21’ height allows you to get up high to eliminate detection without compromising comfort.
- The Ultimate Shooting Rail can be adjusted for both height and length based on your terrain and personal preference.
Cons
- The stand may produce creaks and noises after a few months in the woods.
- The shooting rail may not fit inside the knob adjustment on both sides.
- The bottom ladder sections may rust over time.
We’ve used this tree stand for hunting and we can say that it provides excellent comfort and security. The oversized TearTuff mesh seat and extra-large platform make for all-day sits. The shooting rail and footrest can be tucked away into the designated slot on the platform, perfect for bowhunting.
The Lockdown Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology is a clever system that allows you to pull the platform straps up to the top of the stand while standing on the ground and ratchet them tight to the tree. This feature makes it more secure and easier to set up.
The Ultimate Shooting Rail can be adjusted for both height and length based on your terrain and personal preference. The shooting rail and footrest can be tucked away into the designated slot on the platform, perfect for bowhunting.
However, after a few months in the woods, the stand may produce creaks and noises. Also, some users may experience issues with the shooting rail not fitting inside the knob adjustment on both sides. Lastly, the bottom ladder sections may rust over time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a tree stand that provides excellent comfort and security, the Rivers Edge® Lockdown™ 21′ Wide is a great choice.
Guide Gear Deluxe Hang-On Tree Stand Chair for Hunting Cushion Seat Hunt Gear Equipment Accessories, Camo
If you’re looking for a comfortable and sturdy hunting tree seat, the Guide Gear Deluxe Hang-On Tree Stand Chair is a great option.
Pros
- The suspension-style seat is very comfortable and perfect for long hunts.
- The oversized foot platform, padded armrests, and folding footrest allow you to maintain comfort over a long day.
- The steel frame is durable and sturdy, and the seat can support weight up to 300-lbs.
Cons
- The assembly instructions could be clearer and more detailed.
- The seat may be a bit heavy and bulky to carry around for some hunters.
- The seat may not be suitable for extremely tall hunters.
We recently used this portable hunting chair for deer hunting and were very impressed with its comfort and sturdiness. The suspension-style seat is very comfortable, and we were able to sit for hours without any discomfort. The oversized foot platform, padded armrests, and folding footrest also helped us maintain comfort over a long day.
The steel frame is durable and sturdy, and we felt very secure while sitting in the seat. The seat can support weight up to 300-lbs, which is impressive. However, the assembly instructions could be clearer and more detailed, which made the assembly process a bit frustrating.
The seat may be a bit heavy and bulky to carry around for some hunters, but we found it to be a reasonable size. However, the seat may not be suitable for extremely tall hunters, as the seat dimensions are 17″w. x 10″d. and the platform dimensions are 24″w. x 29.5″d.
Overall, we highly recommend the Guide Gear Deluxe Hang-On Tree Stand Chair for Hunting Cushion Seat Hunt Gear Equipment Accessories, Camo to any hunter looking for a comfortable and sturdy hunting tree seat.
Millennium Treestands Monster Hang-on Treestand
If you’re looking for a comfortable and adjustable tree stand, the Millennium Treestands Monster Hang-on Treestand is the perfect choice.
Pros
- The ComfortMAX seat is adjustable and provides full backrest and side straps for added comfort.
- The large platform gives bowhunters maximum flexibility in positioning for a shot.
- The M150 Monster Tree Stand is built from durable aluminum and has a capacity of 300 pounds.
Cons
- The stand is a bit heavy to get up in the tree.
- It may take some adjustments to get the platform level.
- It’s not the most portable tree stand on the market.
We’ve been using the Millennium Treestands Monster Hang-on Treestand for a while now, and we can confidently say it’s one of the most comfortable tree stands we’ve ever used. The ComfortMAX seat is adjustable, providing a comfortable sitting experience even during long hunting sessions. The full backrest and side straps provide extra support and stability.
The large platform is perfect for bowhunters who need flexibility in positioning for a shot. The seat folds up out of the way, allowing plenty of room for a comfortable shot. Additionally, the M150 Monster Tree Stand can be adjusted for trees that lean up to 15 degrees, which expands your site options.
The M150 Monster Tree Stand is built from rugged aluminum and features a durable powder coat finish. It’s designed to be easy and quiet to set up, making it a great choice for hunters who want to get in and out of their stand quickly. With a capacity of 300 pounds, this tree stand is built to last.
Overall, we highly recommend the Millennium Treestands Monster Hang-on Treestand for hunters who want a comfortable and adjustable tree stand. It may be a bit heavy and not the most portable option out there, but the comfort and stability it provides make it well worth the investment.
Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD Climbing Treestand
If you’re looking for a lightweight and comfortable treestand for hunting, the Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD Climbing Treestand is a great option.
Pros
- One of Summit’s lightest treestands at 18 pounds
- Ideal for smaller-framed hunters
- Incorporates the same engineering features as the flagship Viper SD in a smaller seat frame and foot platform
Cons
- Very heavy considering it’s a mini version with only 1-2lbs lighter than the standard version
- The rope insert could be easier to upgrade
- Made in China with messy welding job at the factory
We recently used the Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD Climbing Treestand on a hunting trip and were impressed with its lightweight design and comfortable foam seat with backrest. The four-point FAS (harness) with safety strap and attached SRS strap provided added safety and security while hunting.
The aluminum 5-channel platform frame with Dead Metal, Sound Deadening (SD) Technology minimized noise and movement while in the stand. The two coated, steel climbing cables were durable and easy to use, allowing us to set up the stand quickly and quietly.
Overall, we would recommend the Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD Climbing Treestand to any hunter looking for a lightweight and comfortable treestand option.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best tree stand for hunting, there are several factors to consider. We want to make sure that we are investing our money in a product that will provide a safe and comfortable hunting experience. Here are some important features to keep in mind when purchasing a tree stand:
Weight Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a tree stand is its weight capacity. We need to make sure that the stand we choose is capable of holding our weight, as well as the weight of any gear we may be carrying. It’s important to check the weight capacity of the stand before purchasing to avoid any accidents or injuries.
Comfort
Comfort is another important factor to consider when purchasing a tree stand. We want to make sure that we are comfortable during long hours of waiting and hunting. Look for a tree stand that has a comfortable seat and backrest, as well as enough room to move around. It’s also important to consider the stand’s noise level, as we don’t want to startle any game with creaky or noisy equipment.
Portability
Portability is also a key factor to consider when purchasing a tree stand. We want a stand that is easy to transport and set up. Look for a stand that is lightweight and easy to carry, as well as one that is easy to assemble and disassemble. This will save us time and effort when setting up and taking down our equipment.
Safety Features
Finally, safety is paramount when it comes to tree stands. We want to make sure that we are investing in a product with safety features such as a safety harness and sturdy construction. Look for a stand that is made of durable materials and has a secure attachment system to the tree. It’s also important to follow all safety guidelines and instructions when using a tree stand.
In summary, when purchasing a tree stand for hunting, we need to consider its weight capacity, comfort, portability, and safety features. By keeping these factors in mind, we can choose a product that will provide a safe and comfortable hunting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tree stands better for hunting?
Tree stands can be a great advantage for hunters, as they provide a better vantage point and can help hunters remain undetected. However, whether or not tree stands are better for hunting depends on the situation. In some cases, it may be better to hunt from the ground, particularly if you are hunting in an area with dense underbrush or if you are stalking your prey. Ultimately, the decision to use a tree stand or not will depend on your personal preferences and the specific circumstances of your hunt.
What is the safest tree stand type?
The safest type of tree stand is one that is properly installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. However, some types of tree stands are generally considered to be safer than others. For example, ladder stands and box blinds are typically more stable than climbing stands or hang-on stands. Additionally, ladder stands and box blinds tend to be more secure, as they are attached to the tree with bolts or screws rather than straps or cables.
Which type of tree stand is not recommended?
While all types of tree stands can be used safely when installed and used correctly, some types of tree stands are more difficult to use safely than others. Climbing stands, for example, require a certain level of skill and experience to use safely, as they require the hunter to climb the tree while carrying the stand with them. Hang-on stands are also more challenging to use safely, as they require the hunter to climb the tree and then attach the stand to the trunk using straps or cables. For inexperienced hunters, ladder stands or box blinds may be a better option.
