Originally Posted by
kevin1
I watched a video of a guy and his kid hunting from Tree Saddles, the kid was swaying the whole time. Unless you have your feet braced on a large limb or the trunk how do you hold steady enough to shoot? It also seems overpriced considering that it's little more than a cheaply constructed Petzl rig. Reminds me of the crappy fall arrest harnesses they package with tree stands these days.
They are easy to use and steady for a shot once you have practice with them. I personally put both knees against the tree and I am rock solid. Once you learn how to transfer your weight you will have no problems holding steady.
There is a lot more to it then a simple stap. They have metal connectors weight rated for 500lbs, they have extra straps that are included (a lineman's belt, and a safety strap(the main one used to tie into the tree)), a pouch that comes with the saddle, and the saddle itself.
While I will agree they are spendy, they are very much worth the money that is charged. I have the leather saddle and the leather is a very soft, and durable leather.
They are definitely not for everyone but for those that buy enjoy them, they are a very good hunting tool. For places where you can't use a perminant stand, or public land where you have to walk long distances they are worth their weight in gold. Yes a climber can do it to but they are heavy and just as costly. You can get into trees with the saddle that you wouldn't even dream of doing with a climber.