I built sveral hang on stands this year and used an auger bit to drill about five inches into the tree every 16 inches up to them. I carry 10x1/2 inch bolts in an old day bag and climb with them. When I climb down the bolts come with me. Although this is not an option on public land it still makes it a little harder for the sob's to pilfer my stands. Sorry about your situation, and this happened on private property no less.