i use the same cables as hankfan, bought from lowes, haven't lost a stand in three years.

I lock mine (with a padlock) and remove all bottom tree steps that can be reached from the ground. I find this works really well. However, one S.O.B. cut down the tree!!! I figured out who it was and got my stand back. Damn gun hunter who poaches.....cut it down 2 weeks before gun season - while he was out hunting! I may look into that cable though.

I used the Kryptonite Cable and a big Masterlock.

They actually cut the lock and stole the cable. I know this because they left the locks under the trees. (all 5)

I also had the Kryptonite cable with the lock built in. Once again, they cut right where the lock met the cable.

Next year I am buying a motorcycle lock from Kryptonite. You can't cut them and if someone is somehow able to get it off. Kryptonite insures you up to $1000 for theft. If you lose your key, it is kept on registry with them so you have to have them send you a new one.

It costs about $60 but it's the only way I am going to leave another one of my stands in the woods. Stands aren't cheap.

It's sad this question has to be asked.

I too lock all my stands after a couple were stolen.

it's a shame we have to even discuss this, but unfortunately the thieves have infiltrated the woods and hunting community. A couple of years ago, I had one of my stands (which was locked) shot 2 times with a 12ga in an attempt to bring it down. The strap actually imbedded in the tree. Thank goodness I went back in during the daylight. It taught me one thing; never assume your stand is safe on your return, always inspect it before getting in!!!

Flipout: as far as stands go, I bought 2 hunters view bobcats at Walmart for $40(for both). They're fixed stands with chains and served their purpose very well this past season......I did lock them to discourage theft; but the loss wouldn't have been that great.

Well I went to Home Depot today and got a Kryptonite 1/2 in. 5 ft. cable with built in lock. They had a 6ft. 5/8 but it was $30. Then I went to Walmart and got a Brinks 5/8 in. 6ft cable with built in lock. Hopefully they'll both do the job. Thanks for everyones help!

Titleist_03- the 1/2 inch is a good cable but can be cut with bolt cutters. But the Brinks 5/8 inch cable will make sure your treestands stay put. I have 8
hang-on stands that I leave on public land and since I started using the 5/8 inch cables I haven't even had anyone try to steal one of my stands. I know I hated paying $20 a piece for the steel cables but when I want to go hunt my stand it is good to know that it will be there when I arrive.

An eigth of an inch in those cables makes that big of a difference?