At 57 years old, I went whitetail hunting for the first time this year. Although I didn't get to harvest one, I did learn some lessons. I did see two does - one sprinting out of the woods and another standing broadside forty yards away. I was digging in my backpack with my slug gun behind me when I saw that one which taught me an obvious lesson.

I used a ground blind made of camo burlap and wooden dowls which flapped in the wind at times. I tried to keep scent-free. Based on my success, I've decided that next season I'll use a ladder tree stand. My question is which brands and/or models would you guys recommend as far as safety, noise, comfort and ease of setting up. I'm 6 foot and 255# and will be using a slug gun. I'm hunting a private farm with cornfields, hardwoods and a big stream running through the middle. I plan on not moving the stand until the season is over. Thanks, in advance, for your replys.