Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

I've hunted rifle out of a ground blind for many years but last year was my first year for bow. My cousin set me up in a hanging tree stand - I guess that's what it was, and he placed metal screw in steps in the trunk of the tree itself for access. Now I'm not afraid of heights as long as I feel secure, but climbing up that thing (especially in the dark before sunrise) and then trying to get into the seat was a little nerve racking for me. Then while I was up I never did feel that comfortable - like it was too small and the platform felt too small as well, I was worried about how I would actually take a shot at a deer if I had to. After the first day I hunted out of a ground blind.

I was looking at a stand for myself - I like the ladder stands since they seem a little bigger. I also like the ones that have some sort of a surround around the seat - even a little bar out front that I think would be to rest your rifle on if that's what you were using, but for me I guess it would be a little security, but do those get in the way if you're bow hunting? I'd also like a seat with a back to it.

Whatdo you all recommend? How much of a pain is it setting those ladders stands up? How big a platform / seat do you recommend? I;ve seen some that seem like a real nice size- not quite a 2 person, but close. Are those too big and difficult to erect?

Thanks for any recommendations.

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

look at the loggy bayou transformer climber or API or summit climbers they all make great stands with large platforms and very comfortable seats

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

I like hang on stands.....with a 20 ft climbing stick......you can buy this set up for about150$....or if you can weld you can build a setup for$60-$75

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

Gorilla Big Man treestand is what I use. Local sporting goods store is selling them for $49 or 2/$90. They have a huge platform which will help you feel more comfortable. You may even host a dance up there if you like..har har. One tip you might try if possible, find a tree that has branches projecting out along side of you, it may help you feel more secure while you're up there. I know it does for me.I hate a naked tree!

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

a 30 dollar stand and 30 dollar climbing sticks at dicks sporting goods down the rd

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

Gorilla Big Horn Ram Hang On Stand!! that what i would get if i was u!! but im gonna get my dad to weld me one like it, cheaper, as for a ladder... use a aluminum or wooden latter!!

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

I bought a 2 man ladder stand at Menards a few weeks ago and I just put it up tonite. I have never been a fan of ladder stands, but this one is quite nice. It has a fold up shooting rail, so you can archery or rifle hunt from it, 2 ppl fit nicely, its 12 foot tall, and it was only $88.

I build all of my hang on stands, I open up Cabela's and look at all the new designs, then go out to my shop an copy the one I like the most. I've never figured out how much it costs to build a stand but I bet its not more than 20-30 dollars.

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

Why not a climber? They are generally larger in overall size than most hang-ons and many of them have the bar in front to not only aid you in climbing the tree but also provide a bit more of a feeling of security when you are up there.

....Summit Viper should fit the bill nicely.

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

Rammer - Are those 2-person stands fairly easy to set up? Probably a little heavy I bet.

RE: Can you recommend a tree stand for bow hunting?
 

Never even considered a climber - not familiar with them. How do those work?