How difficult should a climber be?
 

How difficult should setting up a climber be? How long does it usually take you? What kind systems are out there in terms of the cable or whatever that wraps around the tree?

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I use an Ol'man climber. Absolutely not difficult. The cable goes around the tree and into the tube on the other side with a loop, pin clamp goes through, very easy, very easy to climb with it, very easy to carry, pack etc...

The Gorilla is the same stand, you would never have had the trouble you had with your story. I also hear good things about Summit but it sounded like you were talking about their cable system?

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have 2.

The first one I have no name brand name. I love it but it's for rifle only as it 's like a roll cage. It's held together by 4 pins. Takes me less than one minute to assemble and get up the tree quietly.16 pounds.tubular steel
I'm too heavy for it now. I wouldn't put a man in it over 250 pounds. Very comfortable.You face the tree when set up. Limited shooting angles.

My next one is a Summit Bullet backpacker. I've used it now for 3 years. From the time it comes off my back till I get up the tree ..probably about
10 minutes if I hurry.24pounds ..very comfortable. cables ...my archery stand.can shoot 360 degrees.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

Same here, API Grandslam bowhunter. Set up takes less than 3 min., easy to climb. Lightweight to carry, easy to pack, stable, based on your story, it's everything that your climber you used is not.:D

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

Climbers, although it takes practice like anything else, can be used quickly and efficiently. I own one am able to get up the tree in I would guess 1-2 minutes max. I am however 18 and can move pretty easily. Getting it set up takes probably 3-4 minutes, so in all, taking it off your back until your up in the tree I would say about 5 minutes. I have mastered mine and am able to do it nearly silently now and very fast. I would suggest practicing before taking it out in the field. Find the secrets of making it quite and quick.

Mine has a cable lock system and I love it. You cannot beat the portablity of a climber. I hunt here in our timber and nearly 120 miles away as well so it's nice being able to have the mobility in one stand instead of having to put up 5 climber and pay for all of them, and risk them being stolen. With a climber you can move to where the deer are in a matter of minutes.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

DK,

One word: SUMMIT! Trust me, okay? Trust me... Look at the Summit types of treestands. They are absolutely awesome! :D

www.summitstands.com

I have the Summit Viper X4 (from 2 years ago) and it is the most lightest, quietest, and most rugged, climber I have ever owned.

The cable system on Summit stands is an ingenious design and is real quiet to hook up. Plus, there is nothing poking you, banging into you while walking into the woods. The two pieces mesh together perfectly with absolutly ZERO noise! The other thing about Summit stands is that they are comfortable. I mean, so comfortable, I have actually dozed off a few times than I'd care to admit! ;)

Butch A.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I've used a Summit Viper for the last 4 years or so and I find it VERY hard to believe you guys are getting that thing off your back, around the tree (top and bottom) with trial and error to find the correctcable length, get your bow tied on, get your harnesssecured and tied to the tree, and then climb (with a harness ) 15 feet in a couple of minutes and do it quietly.Come on now! How about in the dark?
I would estimate a solid 20 minutes for myself. Those cables aren'tthat easy or quiet to use, you've got to make every move with those cables delibrately or your going to be banging away.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

LOL! Welcome to never neverland.

I can't do it without a system, or better said do it right. Mine is put together with 5 bungee's. I grab it with one hand and place it against the tree with the seat facing me, undo the bungee's. Then pull out the belt to the seat, through it around the tree, lift it in place and feed in the belt. Seat is done. The base is done the same except for a feature only my stand comes with. It's ready to climb after I attach the remaining gear.

After practising it several timesit can be done in the dark. With out the systemit is frustrating and I have been very heated up before sitting down. Really is worth the discipline. Any stand can be used, some are just better suited for the job.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have two climbers, an API grand slam and a Summit Cobra XLS. I bought the Summit this year because I thought I could attach it to the tree faster than the API. I thought this would shorten set up time. I found that it is six in one hand and a half dozen in the other. It takes me about 20-30 minutes with both.

I dont like the API when it comes to attaching it to the tree. Its hard for me to align the pins through the plastic coated chains in the dark. I thought the cable system with the summit would be easier and it is. But the problem I encountered with the summit was with climbing. Once the API is on the tree I can shoot up the tree in no time. The summit however takes twice as long to climb. The cable on the bottom part of the stand bends too easy. It puts unecessary drag on the stand making it twice as hard to lift.

I find the seat too large. The seat is very comfortable once in position but is very uncomfortable while climbing. It pushes into my chest and abdomine forcing me away from the tree. This would not normally be a big deal but the stand only offers about two inches of grip since it has the open front.

I like the summit when it comes to attaching it to the tree. I like the API better when it comes to climbing. They are both even once I am at hunting height.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have an api shooting star or something like that. easy as heck to get up the tree. I wouldn't have said that the first 5-6 times I used it though. the first time I used it was a complete nightmare, I fell part way down the tree and never felt safe the whole time I hunted. Now going up and down the tree just seems natural. once you get used to it it's easy as can be.

Mine has a lot of exposed aluminum (loud, clankyalumininum), I wrapped much of it in camo duct tape. took a lot of the noise out of setting it up.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I also have a summit viper (love it)and after I got used to my "system," if i'm not up the tree in 10 minutes from the time I arrive, then I'm waaaaay behind. The only time it takes longer iswhen the weather is really hot and I have to get dressed at my tree. I do it the same every time, and a red LED headlight is a must. I leave my bowstring attached to my stand, roll it up and tie it off. I put my harness on under my clothes before I walk in. I climb with my pack on. After a while you will geta feel judging the tree diameterfor what length your cable needs to be. It goes much quicker if you move smoothly and don't get ina hurry.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

i got a summit viper as well. im with dwd..if it takes me longer than 10 minutes i did something wrong. do it in the dark all the time. light enough...easy to pack and carry. easy to setup and use. comfy..feel secure..im satisfied!!

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I'm a Summit man as well.Bullet Backpacker Model

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

i only have 1 problem with my summit...sometimes the bottom bites into the tree and it is very difficult to get down. One time a friend had to actually climb up and loosen the stand for me.. I recently tried by friend gorilla sit down stand up climber and i have to say i was impressed with this stand more than the summit

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I lile to go out and pick a tree ahea dof time and put the stand on it and have the cable length figured out prior to taking it hunting. If I do that I can get up the tree in less than 30 minutes. I always give myself plenty of time. But I love my climber!!

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I use the Summit Goliath and I am 350 pounds. The stand is awesome, completelysilent when climbing and taking the cables out is not noisy either. THere certainly are ways to make noise with them, but witha little caution, they are quiet. This is the first climber I have ever used, and I am very happy with it. As fas as time getting set up, it kinda depends on the person. I just put the side bags on and that has sped me up a little because everything I need is right in there, so no more backpack to mess with. Speed of climb is completely variable with the person doing the climbing. I am a fairly fast climber, mostly because I'm tall, so I can take a big swipe with each move. I use the climber as a genuine sit + climb, meaning the top section only goes as high as my butt. Another guy I know Can get about 4 feet per swipe because he is like an orangutan when he climbs, hanging from the top section then pulling his body up through the top and then bringing his legs all the way up, so his ascent is really fast. With 4/5 swipes he can be ready to hunt. I would recommend doing a little practice pre-season, or at least before you try and do it in the dark. SUmmit I would say are the best made, if for no other reason than they are welded so there are no parts to rattle. Also, for the people that say they dig in too far, with all the weight I put on it, I haven't had mine get stuck yet. Also, wouldn't rather have digging in be the problem, as opposed to not gripping?

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

Any summit users who have a problem with them digging in can grind the teeth down some. I used a belt sander and it did make a difference, quieter too. If yours is already completly silent disreguard the advise. LOL:D

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I use a Gorilla. I am 30 and weigh 210. I can get set up with cable lengths, everything attached and up the tree, safety strapped, pull up bow and be ready to hunt in about 7 minutes. Shortcuts I take-

- Wear an LED head lamp when it is dark
- Put on your harness at home and wear it to the woods. It is much easier and quieter to put it on in the light at home. Once you get up the tree all you have to do is attach the tree loop and hook on.
- Have one of the cable sides in the center hole position so I only have toadjust one side to fit the tree (works for all medium size trees)
- I attach the foot portion first so I have something to rest the seat portion on while attaching the cables.
-Have your bow hoist (I have one of the self recovering ones) attached permenantly so all you have to do is attach your bow and climb.
-To make sure the stand is quiet make sure it is tight and not sagging. Sometimes this means it is a little too tight at the bottom and tilting up a little. I have adjusted my cables to tighten them whileup the tree too, just don't tell my wife or my mom LOL!!

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

BDC, great review of both the summit and api. I recently bought the API grandslam after over a year of debate between it and the summit.I chose the api because of the handles on the front of the seat. I do wish api would change the pin system though.

takes me about ten-fifteen minutes to get completely setup

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I been using the Vipers since they came out in 96 (?) I think. I wouldnt trade them for anything. I bought a Goliath for this year just for the extra room (210 pounds here) and I have to say Im in love. This is my 4th new Summit and I think its the best yet IMO. As far as time needed to set up and climb it doesnt take but a few minutes from back to hunting. I been doing it long enough to do it with my eyes closed. The rapid climbers and new cable locks are a dream. Call me a very happy customer...again..lol.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have an Ol Man Vision and an API magnum supreme and love both of them. I use the Ol' Man for bowhunting due to the open front when the top is turned down as a footrest. Practice will make you more efficient at setting up. I put my safety harness on before heading into the woods so all I have to do is set up and climb. I try to find the same size tree to climb so I only have to adjust one side of the cable. I have a gun/bow rack attached to the top portion of the API so no string needed. It only takes about 10 minutes to setup and climb, including hanging the EZ hanger when I get situated. I've seen guys do it even faster in a Viper.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have an API I've been using for about 12 or 15 years. A long time anyway. I don't think it's hard at all. It's quiet as all get out climbing the tree. I like the wrap around feel. I've changed the seat to a more comfy type from a Buckshot climber I have. The API is rock solid going up and down and once you lash it in when you're in place it makes NO noise. I change the chain coverings about once a year.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

This is why I love these forums. DH and I are looking at buying a climber and was looking at the Summit. The one we were looking at was only 14 pounds, but the store sold the last one. I want something light and easy to use, so I can pack in and out by myself with no problem. I'msmall so dont want something too heavy, but quick. I did use a climber last week with the cable and pin set up. Didnt have a problem getting up, but getting down the bottom was hard to let down. Several times I had to pick it up with my hands to loosen it. We have been hunting more public ground and dont want our stands stolen, and we always seem to have to move stands more than we would like. Thanks for all the info!!

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have a Lone Wolf Hand Climber (I don't use the normal hand climbing method; I sit on the seat and pull up the platform with the nylon straps that hold the seat to the platform). It takes me about 15-20 minutes to climb into position.

It is critical that I estimate correctly the amount of "up" angle I need on the platform on the bottom of the tree so that it will be level when I reach my desired height. Several times I have been far enough off that it was necessary to climb back down and re-adjust.

The climbing process involves the following:

1. Unpack the stand. The folding portion of the platform must be "unfolded" to the climbing position. Secure the plaform onto the tree with proper "up" angle. Secure the seat to the tree. Attach the two nylon straps to hold the seat and platform together.

2. Attach the pull-up string from my bow to the seat.

3. Climb onto the platform, attach my tree rope, and attach my harness to the tree rope. My harness is already on: it is sewn into my Primos vest.

4. Begin to climb: sit on the seat and pull up the platform. Stand on the platform, move the tree rope up, and raise the seat. Repeat.

5. Pull up my bow.

The type of tree makes a big difference with the Lone Wolf "belts" rather than the more rigid Summit cables: a rough bark tree like a cherry can be a pain with noise and snagging the belts.

Also, it is often necessary to readjust the seat as I ascend and the tree diameter becomes smaller. This adds time to the process.

Still, 15 to 20 minutes is not a problem as long as I can climb quietly and safely. Once I am in position, the rest of the preparation (detach and hang quiver, arrow ready, put on release and arm guard, face mask, etc.) takes another 5 minutes or so. However, this can be done with very little movement or noise, so it is also not a problem.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I have used a Summit cobra XL, whick i dont believe they make anymore. It has been the best tree stand that I have seen. It weighs only 17lbs, and is really quiet and durable. I have used this stand for 5 years and the cables are just now starting to wear out. As far as set up time, it takes me 5 minutes or less. It is serioulsy an easy setup, and if it is taking you 20 minutes to setup you are doing something wrong. I would check Summits line out.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

15 minutes is totally doable. if i hurried i could go from stand on my back to 20' up in less than five minutes. i guarantee it! probably another 8-10 to get everything situated when up in the tree.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

summit openshot 14pounds 7 or 8 min. on the tree and 25ft. high.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

i have a summit x4. hunters view hawk and an ol man.
ol man gets the nod all around,just got it this year and love it.
the other two are good but just not ol man good.
summits are noisierclimbing and setting up,the cables shrink wrap wears off fast.and i need to get rid of the stirrups i hate those things .going back to straps i climb quieter and have better control but good comfy stands .
the hunters view is heavy but comfy and quiet .
they all take aboutfifteen minutes toget up the tree and ready to hunt.

RE: How difficult should a climber be?
 

I use a Summit Python. It's easy to carry, easy to climb and I'm set upwithin 5 minutes from the time I take the stand off my back til I start climbing. I feel secure when in the tree as well, no wobbling on noise. I recomend a Summit