Experience is the best teacher and unfortunately I learned a valuable lesson on Md. opening day Friday that will hopefully help others: do not rely on tree branches as "steps" regardless of how thick they may be. 5:30am I had climbed to the base of my stand (20') and was preparing to step onto platform when branch I was on broke causing me to fall the length of my tether. My immediate reaction was to grab for something and as I caught a firm grasp of another branch, the 'stub' of the broken branch cut into my forearm. A day in the emergency room and 26 stitches later was a costly lesson; but one that could have been far worse if only by a couple of inches.

One other thought: I know that screw in steps are frequently used; and were so in my case (alternated with branches-never again). But they can also be a danger should they impale the body.

And I'd have to say, contrary to my sign-off: Even a bad day in the woods is better than any day out--wasn't the case on this day!! Hunt safe and enjoy the season......

To the managers of this site: I was looking for a folder on this topic to post this thread but couldn't find one. Perhaps one should be created?