Originally Posted by
furgitter
Before you see any deer, practice every scenario you know to ensure that the tree stand is solid, and will not creek. Your bow will not bump anything, etc. If it does..... Yer busted!
Wear your harness, and do this. If your stand creaks when you lean on one side, or the other, reposition. You can find this out 30 seconds after reaching your hunting height, and fix it, or you can find out when a critter comes in. I assure you...you want to find out earlier.
Also, range some trees, or other landmarks around so you know how far away a deer may be without having to range the deer. "Oh...he's standing next to that tree that is 27 yards away...he must be 27 yards away."