Quick Comparison Table
How to Choose the Best Bow Hunting Tree Stand on the Market?
Tree stands have become popular for all forms of hunting, but they were initially designed for bow hunting due to the necessity for excellent visibility and proximity to animals.
There are many different kinds for sale, but all types help hunters to see better while reducing noise on the ground and the ability for animals to pick up human scent as well.
Whichever type of deer bow hunting tree stand or standard tree stand you choose, you are sure to find it’s beneficial, but some might be more so than others.
Within this buying guide, we review the several different tree stand options to help you choose the best bow hunting tree stand for the money. It also helps to pay attention to the advantages and disadvantages in comparison to the cost to get the best deal.
Activity Type
Whether you’re hunting as one person, or you’re looking for a 2 person, 3 person, or 4 person tower or ladder tree stand, it’s essential that you choose the right tree stand for your hunting activity. There are four types of tree stands – all suitable for different activity types.
Climbing stands – These consist of a footrest and seat, and the hunter attaches himself to the stand at the bottom of the tree, before using the stand to climb up the tree to an elevated and concealed position.
Fixed stands – Fixed stands, stand platforms, lock-on, and hang-on tree stands are also popular. They are easy to set up and require a ladder, steps or climbing sticks to secure the stand to the tree.If you’re nailing steps to a tree for easy access, ensure you have permission to do so.
Ladder stands – Ladder stands are attached to trees with a platform at the top. They can accommodate between one and three people, and most are around 12 to 15 feet tall. They are also easy to add camo to for extra concealment.
Tower/tripod stands – While not attached to a tree, a tower or tripod stand is equally as popular as those listed above. They are particularly beneficial when there are no suitable, sturdy trees in the area, or when a hunter wishes to have multiple tree stands.
Safety
With the introduction of tree stands comes the added risk of danger and injury. While hunting on the ground is dangerous enough, it’s more so now that the risk of falling is added to the mix.
You can slip and fall down the ladder, you can drop off the stand itself, or you can find yourself on the ground with broken bones as a result of a poorly constructed or damaged stand giving way.
Because hunting when using a tree stand is dangerous, even when it’s a hang-on treestand or a lock-on treestand, we’ve outlined some basic safety tips below.
Much of these can also be found in your manufacturer’s manual, depending on the brand or model you choose to purchase.
Features
Features vary for each type of tree stand, depending on the brand, model, and manufacturer. The beauty of choosing to buy online means you can browse several different tree stand options for professionals and amateurs, making your decision based on the features you can’t live without.
Climbing stand features:
Fixed stand features:
Ladder stand features:
Tower/tripod stand features:
Efficiency
The efficiency of your bow hunting tree stand comes down to what you’re hunting and how you’re choosing to hunt. A ladder tree stand is beneficial for those who go back to the same spot to hunt every time as it can be difficult to transport.
If you’re a hunter on the move, such a stand will take up valuable hunting time with transport. A tower/tripod stand can often cause the same problem.
A fixed, lock-on, hold-on or climbing stand, however, enables you to change your hunting location with ease. Many fold down for easy transportation and are easy to use.
However, the climbing stand does require you to be physically fit, and often takes some time to set up if you choose to use a harness for safety.
Maintenance
Your tree stand is the only thing keeping you from falling 10-plus feet to the ground below. With this in mind, it’s crucial always to be maintaining your tree stand. Whether it’s a permanent structure that you’ve purchased or made or a portable option, it will still need regular upkeep.
We recommend reading your manufacturer’s guide, but we’ve included tips below:
Budget
While money can help determine which tree stand you’ll buy for bow hunting, it’s essential that it’s the last thing that comes into consideration. Quality counts for a lot, as does convenience and being fit for purpose.
Once you’ve established the kind of tree stand that will suit you the best, you can then look at narrowing it down to one that costs less. We’ve provided some approximate costs for when you choose to buy tree stands on Amazon.com.
4 Types of Bow Hunting Tree Stand
Below we’ve covered the various advantages and disadvantages of owning the most popular tree stands. While all are beneficial in different bow hunting applications, it’s up to you to decide which one is going to be more so.
Ladder Tree Stand
A ladder tree stand has a seat and a platform as well as a ladder to enable you to climb up onto the stand. They’re stationary and can be suitable for one or two people.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Application
Ladder tree stands are used by a range of hunters who need to be elevated to make the shot. They are often a preferred option by bow hunters due to their space and convenience for climbing up and down.
Maintenance
As they are mostly made of metal, they need to be checked for rust and breaks in the welds. Any breaks need to be mended or welded back together. It’s also helpful to use rust protection spray to reduce the risk of its integrity being compromised.
Cost
Ladder tree stands cost between $75 and $417. You can also get the best deal when you choose to buy online.
Hang-On/Lock-On Tree Stand
Hang-on or lock-on stands connect to trees with cables at any height you like. Usually, ladders are secured to the tree to provide access to the stands.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Application
For lone hunters, or for those who don’t require a permanent enclosure, a hang-on or lock-on tree stand is a must. They are suitable for individuals in any hunting environment – as long as there are trees available to lock onto.
Maintenance
Maintenance for a hang-on or lock-on tree stand must be undertaken regularly. It involves checking the integrity of the straps, ensuring the harness is in good condition, and replacing any worn or broken parts immediately.
Cost
If you’re in the market for a new lock-on or hang-on tree stand, you can expect to pay between $33 and $331 for a top-rated tree stand when you buy online.
Self-Climbing Tree Stand
Self-climbing tree stands are beneficial for hunters who prefer to hunt alone. You can travel with them on your back with ease, all the while being able to pull yourself up a tree without the need for a cumbersome ladder or permanent structure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Application
Self-climbing tree stands are suitable for use in all situations, by all hunters. If you need to be elevated and having a waterproof cover doesn’t matter to you, you’re sure to find such a tree stand suitable for your needs.
Maintenance
If you’re going to have a self-climbing tree stand, it’s a good idea to maintain it. You’re using your own body to make your way up the tree, and one wrong move can see you injured at the bottom.
Check for any weaknesses in the frame, as well as in the straps. If you’re wearing a harness, ensure it’s a professional harness and not one made from a rope.
Cost
Any top-rated self-climbing tree stand will have a price tag of between $98 and $186.
Tripod Tree Stand
If trees are not an option for securing your tree stand to, a tripod tree stand comes to the rescue. They can fit into any hunting environment, all the while offering the same benefits as a standard tree stand. The only differences are that they stand on three legs which fold in, and they look similar to a camera tripod.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Application
Any hunter can use tripod tree stands, but they are particularly useful for hunters who don’t have many trees to use for tree stand installation.
Maintenance
The most critical part of tripod tree stand maintenance is ensuring the platform or seat, as well as the legs, are well-built and sturdy. If any part fails, your safety is at risk.
Check for weaknesses in any joins, and never be afraid to replace parts if they don’t look like they will hold up for much longer.
Cost
When you’re looking online for tripod tree stands, you can expect to pay between $160 and $420.
5 Top Rated Ladder Tree Stand Reviews
1Ameristep
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QCan you leave ladder sections out so that it can be made shorter? ARealtree Yes.
QIs it made of aluminum or steel? ASteel.
Overview
Even though many customers say this two-person ladder stand is more suitable for just one person, it doesn’t detract from how popular it is. It’s easy to set up with the help of a friend and can handle quite a substantial amount of weight.
The seat is padded, and it even comes with two harnesses. It’s not going to win awards for comfort, but regarding value for money, it’s not a bad option.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Ameristep ladder tree stand reviews.
2
Guide Gear
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow tall is it? A15 feet tall.
QHow wide is the ladder? A12 inches wide.
Overview
For casual use, this Guide Gear ladder tree stand will fulfill your needs just nicely. However, if you plan on using it for many hunting seasons to come, there’s doubt about whether this stand could handle the elements.
It’s made out of weak steel and rusts with very little moisture. The parts are also not very durable. There’s no doubt that it’s going to tick all the boxes for an occasional hunting trip, but in comparison to other stands for sale, it doesn’t stack up.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Guide Gear ladder tree stand reviews.
3
Muddy
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the seat? A20 x 15 inches.
QHow big is the platform? A19 x 26 inches.
Overview
This ladder stand from Muddy Ladder has been designed with your comfort as a hunter in mind. It can be tiring to stay in the outdoors all day, but Muddy Ladder has you covered.
The seat is spacious, has a comfortable backrest, and even offers armrest for convenience. You can enjoy the 20 x 15 inches of space on offer, all while remaining secure with the addition of the seat harness.
This ladder tree stand is top-rated on the market; however, it’s best to shop around. You might find that it’s cheaper to purchase it in a physical store than it is online.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Muddy ladder tree stand reviews.
4
Sniper Deluxe
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QWhat are the seat measurements? A38 x 13 inches.
QDoes it come with a seat cushion? AYes, a 1-inch thick cushion.
Overview
This ladder stand is suitable for one adult or an adult and a small child. It’s designed to cater to two adults, but the seat space is misleading.
However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective ladder stand to fit nicely into your hunting spot, this is a good option.
It’s easy to assemble, it comes with everything you need to set it up, and it has a decent 300-pound weight capacity. It’s not the most durable option on the market, but for the price, it’s reasonably reliable.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Sniper Deluxe ladder tree stand reviews.
5
Guide Gear
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the seat? A36 x 15 inches.
QHow tall is it? A16 feet tall.
Overview
This ladder tree stand offers hunters a lot of bang for their buck. It’s very comfortable, spacious for one person, and fits in seamlessly in any hunting environment.
The only issue is the potential for rust. If you don’t keep on top of spraying it with rust kill spray or painting it, it can quickly deteriorate. This makes it not suitable for being in one spot for long periods of time.
Other than that, it’s well priced, has made a lot of hunters happy, and is easily one of the best bow hunting tree stands for the money.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Guide Gear ladder tree stand reviews.
5 Top Rated Hang-On Tree Stand Reviews
1Guide Gear
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QWhat size is the foot platform? A18 x 25.5 inches.
QDoes it come with a lineman’s rope? ANo.
Overview
If you’re travelling long distances and don’t want to carry much weight on your back, this Guide Gear hang-on stand is a good option for you.
It weighs just 18 pounds and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds. While it’s inexpensive and comes with safety harnesses, many customers have noted how ineffective the straps are.
They can move around a lot, and people have even fallen out of a tree as a result. It’s up to you to decide whether paying less is worth the risk.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Guide Gear hang-on tree stand reviews.
2
Lone Wolf Alpha 2
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QDoes it come with the offset tree bracket? AYes.
QHow many straps are used? A2.
Overview
This hang-on tree stand will please many hunters. Not only is it priced competitively on the market, but it’s comfortable, very lightweight and is even quite spacious.
It suits a range of trees, is durable, and also feels stable and safe which can’t be said for all hang-on tree stands on the market.
Sealing the deal is the 1-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that any problems will be covered. It’s easily one of the best bow hunting tree stands for the money.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Lone Wolf Alpha 2 hang-on tree stand reviews.
3
Millennium Treestands M150 Monster
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the seat? A20 x 17 inches.
QDoes it come with a lifeline rope? AYes.
Overview
There are a few minor issues with the comfort and convenience of the seat of this tree stand, but it’s still worth its weight in gold.
It’s comfortable, durable, and even comes with a 3-year warranty. Most importantly, it’s easy to set up and is lightweight for travel – the two things every hunter hopes for.
The frame is even powder-coated to reduce the risk of rust. It’s a little overpriced in comparison to other models on the market, but it’s still a preferred option by many.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Millennium Treestands M150 Monster hang-on tree stand reviews.
4
River’s Edge Products
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the platform? A37.5 x 24 inches.
QHow tall is the seat? A22 inches.
Overview
If you’re going to be hunting all day, your comfort is paramount. River’s Edge Products certainly comes to the party in this respect.
The seat is comfortable, spacious and even has padded armrests and a backrest. It’s also durable, quiet and well-priced. Don’t settle for less than the best when you can give this tree stand a go.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read River’s Edge Products hang-on tree stand reviews.
5
Hawk KICKBACK
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QDoes the seat fold up? AYes.
QCan you remove the fabric from the seat frame? AYes.
Overview
This hang-on tree stand is designed to be durable, sturdy and quiet in a hunting environment. It ticks all the boxes in this respect.
However, it is a little overpriced in comparison to similar models that are half the price. Some hunters also say the straps don’t feel very strong which is a cause for concern.
If you trust Hawk as a brand and have used their products before, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t enjoy this hang-on treestand.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Hawk KICKBACK hang-on tree stand reviews.
2 Top Rated Self-Climbing Tree Stand Reviews
1Summit 81052
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow high is the back support? A20 inches tall.
QCan you stand up in it? AYes.
Overview
Built to last and provide comfort at the same time, there’s every reason to consider this self-climbing tree stand.
It blends in well with most hunting environments, is durable, spacious, and even allows you to stand in it.
Even though it’s heavy, it’s exceptionally hardy, and at such a great price it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite for many hunters.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Summit 81052 self-climbing tree stand reviews.
2
Summit Treestands Cobra SD
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the platform? A20 x 28.75 inches.
QDoes it come with a gun rest? ANo
Overview
This tree stand is well made, built-to-last and is also very comfortable. New technology has been adopted to make what was typically a laborious task into one that’s manageable.
This is because of the Quickdraw cable system which takes so much physical exertion out of tree climbing.
While the support bar isn’t as comfortable as older Summit models, and the cables wear out faster, it’s still a decent self-climbing tree stand. It’s well-worth considering before your next hunting trip.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Summit Treestands Cobra SD self-climbing tree stand reviews.
5 Top Rated Tripod Tree Stand Reviews
1Ameristep
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QWhat is the distance between each leg pole? AApproximately six feet.
QIs the shooting rail height adjustable? ANo.
Overview
When your hunting location doesn’t allow for tree-based tree stands, this Ameristep tripod tree stand comes to the rescue.
It’s durable, comes with a camo skirt to blend in well, and the seat swivels to make shooting far easier. It’s also quite affordable and comes with a 1-year warranty.
While it’s heavy and isn’t easy to transport, it does provide every hunter with a comfortable hunting spot.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Ameristep tripod tree stand reviews.
2
Millennium Treestands T100
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QIs it suitable for bow hunting? AYes.
QHow big is it when it’s folded up? AApproximately 12 inches in diameter.
Overview
If durability and comfort are essential factors in your buying decision, this Millennium Treestands tripod tree stand is a good option for you.
It’s suitable for one hunter, blends in well with any environment, and is 10 feet tall for better visibility.
It’s easy to climb, easy to stow away, and provides convenience for a hunter that a standard tree stand doesn’t. Many hunters prefer this top-rated product.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Millennium Treestands T100 tripod tree stand reviews.
3
Guide Gear
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the seat? A22 x 13 x 19 inches.
QHow big is the footrest? A20 inches.
Overview
If you’re a one-man hunting party and you’re likely to move from one location to another, this Guide Gear tripod tree stand is a good option for you.
While it’s recommended that more than one person set it up, it’s lightweight enough at 66 pounds to be set up by just yourself. It’s very comfortable, the legs fold down, and there are padded areas in the seat for comfort.
The best part is, it’s so affordable that you could buy several for your favorite hunting locations. If there were a tripod stand that ticks all the boxes, this one would be it.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Guide Gear tripod tree stand reviews.
4
Sniper Sentinel
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the seat? A22 x 13 x 19 inches.
QHow big is the footrest? A20 inches.
Overview
Aside from assembly being difficult with poorly detailed instructions, this Sniper tripod tree stand is a prime example of what a good tree stand should be.
It’s durable, easy to transport and stands at 13 feet tall for better visibility. It’s suitable for all kinds of hunters and is comfortable for all-day use. It’s easy to see this is one of the best bow hunting tree stands for the money.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Sniper Sentinel tripod tree stand reviews.
5
Sniper Treestands STTP70
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
What’s Included
Specs
FAQ
QHow big is the platform? A37 x 37 inches.
QHow big is the seat? A18 x 12 x 16 inches.
Overview
With more space and a more substantial footprint than most other tripod tree stands, it’s easy to see this product stands out in a league of its own.
It’s comfortable, spacious, offers greater visibility and is easy to assemble. Its only downside is its weight.
If you were to transport this from one location to another, you couldn’t do so on foot. Other than that, it’s a well-loved product that offers hunters something different from standard.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Sniper Treestands STTP70 tripod tree stand reviews.
Where to Buy Bow Hunting Tree Stand?
Bow hunting tree stands can be purchased at any leading hunting and fishing outlet. However, at these locations, the selection is typically limited to a few brands. If you’re looking to get the best deal, or you want to see what else is available, there’s a fantastic selection online.
By visiting Amazon.com, there are options aplenty. You can compare features of each, find out what will suit you the best, then find the lowest price available. Buying online is also very convenient as once you’ve purchased it, it will be delivered directly to your door.
Leading Bow Hunting Tree Stand Brands and Manufacturers |
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