Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I am thinking of forgetting a treestands altogether. For awhile I wanted a summit climber which I believe would have been a good choice. Then I thought " hey maybe I will get two hang ons for the price of one climber without the hassle of moving it" then I am like man I dont want to go and buy junky treestands and risk safety. So I am now at the point after doing some research to skip the treestands and get a ground blind. Why? I will tell you. First, the land I am hunting consists of nearly all ridges and hills. This created a problem with scent control because of swirling winds. Sec. I cannot sit still very long and I think a ground blind would help in the fact that I could get away witha little more movement. I know I couldnt just forget about movement It would just give me some slack. Next reason. I wont have alot of time to scout during preseason and the ground blind would alow easy manuverability incase I needed to rearange.And the next is that I could sit during the rain or wind for longer periods of time without having to spend a fortune on windproof clothing. And last but not least it would cost me less. Not a ton like maybe 100 bucks but to someone still in High school that is alot. Now to the last part. Do you have any suggestions on which blind to get?or suggestions or opinions as to why I should not use one. Any of this info would be great. My price range is like $200 or less. So thanks again for any info.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Sorry,
Never hunted in a blind. I'm religiously a treeclimber. The Summit is so comfortable I've stayed all day a few times. You can move..just move reeeel sloow. [8D]There are many folks though who have never used one and have fared quite well. I hunt mostly on public property and need all the edges I can get.;)

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

i agree with chuck never ground blind always used tree stands and loved it go with the summit

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Im a tree stand only hunter. At least you wont have to buy camo now

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

If I only had $200I would buy a nice hangon and a set of climbing sticks. Your shot opportunities quadruple when in the air, plus I wouldn't waste my $$ on any ground blind unless it is a Double Bull and they are $400. The successful bowhunter for the most part gets in the air.HCH

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

When I hunt on the ground, I just use natural cover. I like being open and mobile from a ground situation. The wily whitetail seems to move around to much to quickly to effectivly shoot them thru those small openings unless you are in open terrain? I seem to loose some of my natural sense's in blinds too. I don't hear game approaching as well, nor to I see them approaching as well as without a blind. I mainly hunt in Wisconsin, my home state. Most of the mature bucks tend to be in very thick cover.
I almost always hunt out of a treestand, Only from the ground if the set up dictates that I need to hunt that way. Basicly, you should be capable of killing them in any leagle manner neccassry to get the job done. Versitility is a key ingrediant in being successfull

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

the best thing for you to do would be to make a blind....
cut some holes in some camo burlap then fill w/ fresh foliage.. ..Typically evergreen foliage lasts longer once cut.. You can staple the burlap to little tomato stakes or whatever you want to use, this will allow you to customize the blind to your hunting area.... I use this technique when constructing my duck blinds it also works for turkey hunting. 2ndly it doesn't matter if you are up in a tree or down on the ground if you are nothunting a crossing route.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I can understand that being a young hunter with a small budget, I remember when I was in your shoes.
But for $69.00 you can get a safe tree stand and if you check some of the classified forums on this site, you'll see that some people are selling their stuff at a good price ( it pays to shop around ) and don't forget about yard sales in your nighborhood.
If you insist on a ground blind, BLOODBRO has some good advice as to using camo burlap and natural limbs & brush.
However I must agree with everybody when they say that you'll have more shooting oppertunty when your up in a tree.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Considered it myself, ground blinds. Use them for turkeys, but just dont have access to lots of land, and wouldnt put one up in public and climbers can be a pain, so really considering it!

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I agree with Bloodbro. Some of my most satisfying and successful hunts were by using the cover provided around me. Personally I wouldn't spend money on a ground blind to hunt deer. If you are sure you want to spend the money, acquiring a treestand and then hunting in trees AND on the ground will provide you with more options.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Here's a bunch. I wouldn't say any of them is going to be all that good in the rain, most tents aren't. I don't think I would set a price just yet. If it was me I would decide on what it required, find as much info on what's available and then think price. If most of what's out there is the same then there's no reason to spend more on one over another, but if many just didn't cut it and there were a few that did, I would spend what was needed. Bow hunting is just like that, some things can be simple and the simpler the better and some things cannot. Concealment is one of those things it's best to do your homework on. What good is it to spend so much time and effort only to scare the game your after away. Seems a huge waste to me. Here's what I would look for if I was in the market. Remember, the amount of time you put into scouting and hunting will be worth it. A properly place anything is best be it stand or blind. Good hunting!

1. Camo to match the environment, doesn't have to be in colors, more shades of light.
2. Quiet, all of it from the fabric to the pole. Carrying it in, setting it up, and being in it.
3. Scent control fabric would be good along with how easy is it to get scent free.
4. Room and view. Would hate to be in one that was like trying to play pool where the table is in to small of a room, and would also hate blind spots.
5. Weather resistant.
6. Quick and easyto set up and take down. I would be in the dark most of the time.
7. Price. A good blind should last a long time. Figure that into the equation of how expensive it is.

http://www.keystonecountrystore.com/Blinds.html

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Thanks for the advice. I appreciate it. I am still considering so keep up the advice.

Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Here are my two cents on the subject and something to consider. From all the information and experience I have gathered a blind will work if the deer are given a chance to get "used" to it. Therefore the idea of putting it out for a morning or evening hunt doesn't fare nearly as well as letting it up for weeks or months at a time. And, if you are like me, and hunt some public land, this is definetly not an option. I have had my summit climber for a few years now and love it.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

You are worried about scent control, but think a ground blind gives you an edge? Up a tree with proper setup you can get away with more movement than you may think and your scent often times sails right over a deer in close.A climber, or stick & hang on system is EXTREMELY flexible for picking stand locations. If you shop around you can find a very safe stand for a moderate price. Just because something is more expensive doesn't mean it's safer.Hunting off the ground can be successful and exciting, but my advice is to be readily willing to get up a tree.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Ok so now I am thinking so hard my brains are oozing out my nose. I am now thinking climber again, I know this is my decision but any input certainly helps. I just have a few questions regarding climbers. One: do they make alot of noise? Two: how much time does it take to get up and down? and three, do you suggest leaving one in the woods or do I have to lug in and out every day? Also how do deer respond to one day there is no stand in the treeand the next day there is one? or do you leave out like any other stand to let the deer get used to it? Thanks for pricking my mind. I want to make the best decision I can make so any more info would also be nice.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I don't own a tree stand yet but eventually will. I would rather hunt from the ground and use natural cover and terain and then buy the stand I want and not settle for a lesser stand. Safety is a big deal with me since I have a family. I'm saving for a summit viper or something similiar. If you want to hunt from the ground you can use natural terrain and then just save for a good tree stand. I hunt tall rocks and points that give an advantage like a stand but that's only because I don't have one yet. Remember don't get discouraged if you don't have the ideal set up for the fall. Use what you have and have fun and save for what you really want.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

If money is an issue...make a stand that leans against the tree.
When I lived on our home small farm I built about 5 different stands.None cost over 20.00. I'd take aboutthree 2 x 4s , a hand saw , and hammer and nails. That was it. And I killed deer out of them. They would take less than 1 hour to build.

If it's public probety it can only be a ladder stand. They may cost about 60,00 if you build it to last. I have one out on public property right now.
I used 10 foot 2x 4s . lag screws , 3 coats of paint. I woul dof used pressure treated but too far to carry. It is very heavy and that's why it still there chained to a tree.[8D]

As far as safety...
#1 is the fixed stands + Hammer and nail type}Fixed structure
#2.Good ladder stands. { Secure stands}
#3.Climbers.
#4, Hang ons
I read this once in a Florida Game Magazine.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I've had good luck with cheap hang on stands,always wear a harness! They seem safe to me. Never had one slip etc. For the climbers you need a very straight tree. Not many where i hunt. I own five hang ons and set em up a month in advance (private land) leave em up all season.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

The Lone Wolf hand climber model is only 15.5 pounds. Its absolutly silent. It has a molded 3D design that is almost invisable in the tree. Also has a molded bow holder. It is extremly simple to hang quietly and quickly with just popping the top off of the bottom and sliding a belt into a cam lock. I have had mine for 7 years. It is one of the origanal proto-types. Killed me alot of great bucks with that stand. I will also say that I have shot a couple good bucks with that stand on my back walking to my tree, and on occasion I have climbed non-climber trees and hung the stand like a portable. You can even put it on very crooked trees. When I used to guide most of my southern cliants would show up with Summit Vipers, they generally bought a lone Wolf hang on with sticks or a hand climber before they left after comparing the two stands. Like I said before, having a climber and a hang-on stick combo would be the ultimate set up goal for your future.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

[quote]ORIGINAL: Chuck7

If money is an issue...make a stand that leans against the tree.
When I lived on our home small farm I built about 5 different stands.None cost over 20.00. I'd take aboutthree 2 x 4s , a hand saw , and hammer and nails. That was it. And I killed deer out of them. They would take less than 1 hour to build.



Hey that is a sweet idea! Why didnt I think of that before? I mean I know someone that makes his stands so maybe he could give me a hand. I am guessing I would have to put them out soon so the smell of new lumber gets out of them before the season. What is the best way to secure it to the tree? I saw on you post about the chain but would a normal cinch strap work? Thanks for the idea, I will be thinking about it more this week.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I think some good camo { headnet, gloves} and a little forethought is good for ground hunting. Be aware of the wind direction.

Maybe consider just getting one lock on type stand instead on two. That would save a little money until you can afford the Summit.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I found these stand plans.http://www.huntingplans.com/st-stand.html I am not really impressed but thought I would bring it up. Also I have to talk to t the land owner about this but I think he would let meuse screw in steps. If I could I would be able to get a couple of hang ons or if I wind up having enough money maybe a climber.I havenot ruled out in any way a ground blind or building my own stands.but I want to explore all my options.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

Nailing 2x4's to trees scares me. It is illegal on public land in most states. And as the wind blows and trees grow, they become unstable and unsafe. If you build your own, check them frequently for safety.

Ground blinds are okay. I prefer natural ground blinds. But there are some really decent, safe cheap treestands for sale. I'd rather be up high any day. For 200bucks you could get a good hang on and some climbing sticks and be all set.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

If I were you, I'd consider setting up some natural ground blinds and trying them out before rushing out and getting a pop-up. IMO pop ups are great for turkeys, but deer seem to pick them out a little better. A natural ground blind is stationary and the deer will get used to them. - Just a thought.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

A set of stix and a hang on is your most versitile. A climber next. Deer ain't going to know or care if a stand is there one day and gone the next provided you are careful with scent. If you get a climber take it in and out with you.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

If you do make homemade stands from lumber, for safetys sake, use treated lumber and screws, NOT nails. Wooden stands should be inspected often to maintain safety. I used them too, when I was young, inexperianced, and low on cash. I had a couple incidences where boards that loosened caused me to take a tumble, one of the tumbles could of easly cost my life.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

From this I assume you'll be hunting private land. A relatively inexpensive way to go is with the home made ladder stand. I've used them for many years, and they work very well; not as easily moveable as a hang on type, but I persoanlly like the idea that I'm standing on a platform that's connected to the ground, not just the tree (but then, I'm not a youngster any more);)
I make mine from TREATED 2x4's and TREATED 5/4" x 6" deck boards.
The platform is made of the deck boards screwed to two 2x4's that connect to the front "legs" with the rungs.The platform has ashallow "V"-notch in the back to rest against the tree.
The two 2x4's can be from 10 to 16 feet long. The rungs are made from decking material ripped in half (gives a rung about 2 1/2" thick).
Diagonal braces go from theback edgeof the platformforward to the 2x4 legs.
Everything is screwed together with 3 1/2" galvanized deck screws except where the platform connects to the legs -there I use1/2" bolts.
The whole thing is attached to the tree with a chain (not real heavy)that is fastenedon one side of the deck brace by a 3/8" bolt and then connected to a turnbuckle that is fastened to the other side of the platform brace. After connecting to chain to the turnbuckle, I tighten it up real good with a small crescent wrench.
When setting it up, a length of rope from a step about head high around the tree will hold it there while you climb up to attach the chain.
No steps screwed into the trees, no nails in the trees - no landowner will object to that.
Have a buddy help you - it's a lot easier with two, although one can do it.
If I had access to private land, I'd build two. Do a lot of scouting, then choose the two best locations so you can hunt it from the one that is best depending on wind direction.

Good Luck

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

If you do make homemade stands from lumber, for safetys sake, use treated lumber and screws, NOT nails.

I had no problem with mine using 14 penny nails. I used 2 on each end of the ladder part and they were tight as a drum.Of course I only weighed 165 pounds in those days. I was very limited on cash and on yourown property 20.00 will do the trick.Three 2x4s. Now , bercause of my weight I use 3 " deck screws when building ladder stands. These ae more expensive and I only use these for guns and not bow. The hammer and nail stands are excellent for bow as they are very stable. My Summit was a little over 300.00 Great stand but a big price as well. I bought mine when the model { Bullet Backpacker } first came out.
C7

PS When I was on leave in the military I did a quick scout , carried the three 2x4s and put up a quick platform. Next day, harvested a buck. ;)

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I have 5 lock on tree stands(love them) butfind myself using them less every year. Deer can be taken from the ground with a bow. My last three nice bucks came from on the ground natural blinds.I take advantage of stumps,logs, sticks and large trees. Simple and easy and no cost to you. The best time to set up these blinds would be in early spring. Even though I set up these blinds early I make sure I disturb the area very little and make sure I don't over do it. Once you start using natural ground blinds they will always be a part of your hunting strategy.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

"Simple and easy and no cost to you. The best time to set up these blinds would be in early spring. Even though I set up these blinds early I make sure I disturb the area very little and make sure I don't over do it. Once you start using natural ground blinds they will always be a part of your hunting strategy. "

Cheapest one yet.Even beats 20.00 .;)
.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

http://www.basspro.com/servlet/catalog.TextId?hvarTextId=62748&hvarTarget=sea rch&cmCat=SearchResults I am still thinking but I just found this stand. What do you think? I think it looks pretty versitle. I am still VERY undecided so I have a few more questions. One: do any of you use the treestand mentioned above? Two: how movable is a regular hang on with sticks? And three: When do you suggest is the best time to get your stand out? I would like to know so I know when I should have made up my mind. Thanks again for the input.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

"When do you suggest is the best time to get your stand out? I would like to know so I know when I should have made up my mind. Thanks again for the input. "Dove

All depends my friend. Ar eyou hunting..
A. Private property.....Ask the land owner...sooner the better.
B. Your own property..do it now
C. Public Property.......I lock up mine the day before the season opens.

As far as the stands. I have never used a hang on stand. I'm a big man and they look uncomfortable to me..

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I have never used that one in the link, nor any other hang on stand. BUT as I look at the pcture, it looks like the climbing step come right up in front, meaning you would have to step aside after getting to the top, lowering the fold-up seat, then swivel-step over to the stand. All the guys I've seen using climbing sticks and hanging stands put the sticks a little to one side to make it easier to transition from steps to stand.
I hunt with a friend who uses a hang-on stand and sticks. They are VERY movable. He takes his in with him every time he goes hunting, then takes them back out (public land). He straps on the sticks, climbs up and hangs the stand, hooks a rope on his bow, climbs up into the stand and is ready to hunt in less than 10 minutes.
That's the nice thing about this set-up - you are very verstile. If you have hunted in the morning, then come back in the evening and the wind's a different direction, just go set up in that other tree (that you've already scouted) and you'regood to go. I'd say this is better for younger guys than us older guys. Just MHO.
Again - if you're on a budget and have time, and are hunting private land - I'd still go with a couple of ladder stands.

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I have heard nothing but good things about double bull blinds..

Tim

RE: Thinking of scrapping the idea of treestands altogether.
 

I just got the Big Game Escape Deluxe hub style blind. I really like it and think it is well worth the $150 when you consider what else is out there for near that price. Tall and large enough to take a standing shot and shoot through windows all the way around that you can open and close silently. The camo is pretty good and its a breeze to set up and take down. My 2 cents.