Depending on the diameter of the tree I use either a strap (smaller) or a section of 12mm climbing rope (bigger) clipped to the back of my harness. I simply climb, slide the tether up, climb, climb, slide the tether up, climb, etc, it probably adds 90 seconds to a 25ft climb and I'm ready (and safe) to go as soon as I stop.

I found this on Whitewater Trail's website about tethers---Real good if you hunt out of the same tree!!!

http://www.whitewatertrail.com/tip.htm?PHPSESSID=d64b0e8a056658f13a269c488d22f3db

Most of my hunting is done alone, on public land so I try to leave zero sign of my presence. Also, I always wonder if some critter or Anti might damage a rope left in a tree for days at a time.

That said, I looks like a great system especially for fixed or ladder stands. Lots of folks get hurt climbing ladders in and out of the woods every day.

Have a great season!

Jim

I put my belt on when I get all the way up the tree, just prior to locking my stand into location.

This is the same way I do it! To me the most dangerous part is the climbing of the tree and coming back down! All it takes is one time and your done, no hunting, no nothing, if your not dead your a burden on your family. Don't be that guy or girl!!!!!! Hunt smart and safe!

Forgot my rope last week, and you're not kidding about it sucking. Brilliant me grabbed a spool of fishing line hoping that would do the trick.. had to climb thattree 3 times.The last time the bow was strapped to my climber's arm rest [:@]

I'm a new user to a climber, so I need all the help I can get. The Gorilla I use came with a harness that has a lineman's part also. I hook up the lineman's harness and then hook my weapon tether to the shooting rail. After I climb up and make sure the stand is completely secure, I then unhook the lineman's harness and switch it to the strap on the back and pull up my bow or shotgun after I'm all situated. I toss the rope between tether on the back of the seat and I'm all ready.

I will note with this that the two things I've had the most trouble with are hooking the stand on the tree and getting the platform straps over my boots. Rather than have these problems delay me, I just leave the climber hooked at the bottom of the only tree I use it on. Where I hunt is behind my house and there are only three other hunters anywhere around. Two share the land parcels, and know the lines and not to cross them. The guy whose land I hunt won't move the stand because he's older and knows I watch his land and keep dog hunters off of it. The other two know that if they decide to trespass and something is missing that they may as well move into their little hunting shack because their areas will be destroyed when they leave. Anyone else in the area is a trespasser and will be prosecuted....if they make it to court.

Beezer I have a Gorilla too

BowKNut awesome link , I use an ameristep harness , with leg straps and a rope with a loop , pas the tag end of the rope thru the loop , tie to harness , and slide it up with me , easiest and lightest method Ive found thats quiet and safe

I strap in when I'm at the top of my tree. When Iclimb downhowever,I loosen it up but still keep it strapped to the tree as I descend.

Big 10-4 on keeping your bottom portion securely fastened to the top part of your climber. Big problem if you don't have your bottom half.