Originally Posted by
bronko22000
When you use or replace straps on your tree stands DO NOT use polypropylene straps (cheapo cargo straps). According to a paper published by
North Carolina State University, polypropylene can only manage
six days before losing up to 70% of its strength as a result of UV rays. Polyester fares much better. The article reveals that following 12 months of UV exposure, over 67% of a component’s strength is restored. When ordering replacement straps always get ones that are UV protected.
VAPA your club is begging for a liability lawsuit. Wooden stands are just too dangerous. Even treated lumber exposed to the elements will rot especially around the screws/bolts.
not to mention that if not using correct fasteners approved for treated wood, the wood will EAT metal and hardware not made for treated wood! and eve the chemicals in treated wood are pretty harsh
also keep in mind NOT all treated wood is made of the same quality, many of it is NOT made for ground contact which can accelerate rotting or deterioration of it when used in tree stands!
and as for straps, its Not just UV exposure that's the issue
its the fact tree's are growing and can add hundreds of LBS of stress to the straps and there components
all the more so when there not rated for the weight that leverage can apply when being used on loc on stands and the likes
this is why most ALL OEM straps that come with stands, come with info on how long they should ONLY be left on a tree at a time and some are only for a few days at a time?
also food for thought on those that use climbing stands, there hardware is also time sensitive, meaning its designed to be replaced every so often from AGE lone, NOT just wear and tear from using things!