Chapter 6: Use of Elevated Stands & Other Techniques
Portable Tree Stands
Most tree stands are commercially manufactured portable models that are designed
to be attached to a tree near a game trail or game sign. The primary advantage
of portable tree stands is that they can be positioned on a tree with a minimum
of noise and in a short amount of time. Commercial stands manufactured (or certified or tested) to TMA™ standards are best because they have passed rigorous, standardized testing. Homemade stands should not be used.
 Treestand Overview Video
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Portable stands come in three basic types:
- Non-climbing, fixed-position stands that chain or strap onto the tree
- Self-climbing tree stands
- Ladder stands
Other types of elevated stands include:
- Free-standing, open platforms
- Tower stands
Tree Stand Height and Location
A tree stand is usually placed 8 to 16 feet above the ground. Many considerations
dictate stand location, including terrain, tree cover, background cover and
the game being hunted.
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Non-Climbing, Fixed-Position Stands
These simple platforms provide about four square feet of space. They
must be hauled into place and secured to the tree with belts or chains. Fixed-position
stands require separate climbing aids such as segmented ladders or screw-in
steps (where they can be used legally). Determine your climbing route
before attaching climbing equipment to a tree.
Screw-in steps are illegal on public lands in many states. On private
land, always obtain permission prior to installing screw-in steps. The
primary safety concern with screw-in steps is spacing—steps should
be no more than 16 inches apart. Better options include portable ladders
or climbing “sticks” that are available commercially.
 Climbing Aids
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Self-Climbing Stands
Self-climbing platforms allow a hunter to “walk” the stand up a tree using two separate climbing devices for the hands and feet. This stand should be used only on trees with straight, uniform trunks. This type of stand is not suited for trees with shaggy bark, such as some pines or hickories, or for trees with branches between the ground and the desired elevation. Self-climbing tree stands should never be used on trees covered with ice or snow. Using this type of stand requires athletic coordination and strength. For safety, both sections of the self-climbing stand always must be attached to one another.
 Climbing-Style Treestand Video
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Ladder Stands
Ladder stands usually provide a platform 10 to 15 feet above the ground.
The stands are leaned against a tree and chained or strapped into place.
They can be used with a wider range of trees than other portable tree stands
and provide easier, safer access thanks to their built-in ladder. Because
of their size and weight, ladder stands are usually set up before the
first day of hunting. Three people are needed to erect a ladder stand
safely.
 Ladder-Style Treestand Video
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Free-Standing, Open Platform Stands: Tripods and Quadripods
A variety of free-standing, elevated stands may be used in brushland
habitats or treeless areas. These platforms are supported by guy wires
and a minimum of three sturdy legs, which often double as ladders. Most
of these stands resemble one or two chairs atop stilts.
Tower Stands
Tower stands are elevated blinds with fixed, enclosed, box-like platforms and support legs.
They should be used by bowhunters only if the windows are large enough for
bow clearance and shooting. |
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