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Best Treestands for Bow Hunting
Waiting in the stalks won’t always bring luck. Are you tired of this which wasn’t fruitful for you for a long time? Then it’s time to apply some new strategies. The animals can recognize your smell from far away; that’s why you need to learn how to use good camouflaging in the jungle. Or you can simply sit on your treestand and wait for your prey to come under you. With the best treestands for bow hunting, you’ll get an excellent vantage point from where you can see all that goes on around you. As a result, every shot will hit the target perfectly and kill them with less pain.
In fact, it’s also a suitable item for wildlife photographers who want to get a perfect click. Whether you’re a passionate photographer or a serious hunter, a treestand will be the most valuable thing for you. But how to get the best climbing treestands from the market?
Well, that’s a good question. Look, there are numerous options in the present market, and for picking an accurate product from the variety, you’ve to ensure some key features for your own safety. Honestly, it’s a time-consuming task. Don’t worry; we’ve completed the job on behalf of you. Below we’ve listed the ten best treestands for bow hunting so that you can make your selection with ease.
Reviews of the Best Treestands for Bow Hunting
1. Summit Treestands 81120 Viper SD Climbing Treestand
We always cherish some special expectations on the first product. With this in mind, we’ve placed Summit’s Viper SD at the top of our list. Summit has already created a buzz in the treestands market with high-quality products that deliver unparalleled usability. And that’s it is one of the reliable brands for many hunters. Among there several high-end products, the Viper SD is the most popular treestand in the present market.
The entire frame of this treestand is made from high-quality aluminum material that combines with SummitLokt technology. Each of the joints is locked appropriately and welded properly. As a result, you’ll get the maximum strength with absolute rigidity. You’ll stay completely safe and secure on this stand.
Treestand usually makes some annoying sound during every operation. It’s obviously the most annoying thing as it can scare your prey away. In order to reduce that metal to the metal sound, Summit features DeadMetal technology. It fills the critical parts with custom-engineered expandable foam pads and provides you with noise-less operation every time.
This treestand is integrated with Summit’s special QuickDraw cable retention system, which secures the attachment innovatively. According to Summit, it’s the quietest and fastest cable attachment system that has never been equipped with treestand before. Honestly, this where Summit has changed the game. A combination of the sturdiest frame and with the fastest cable retention system has pleased many users. By the way, its suspended foam-padded seat will keep you comfortable too.
Pros
- Durable aluminum construction
- Can take up to 300lbs of weight
- Suspended foam padded seat
- Features fastest and quietest cable connection
- Integrated with SummiLokt and DeadMetal technology
- Enables you with quiet operation
Cons
- Mossy Oak color is common.
2. Lone Wolf Assault II Hang On Tree Stand
Lone wolf treestands are also a preferable item to many hunters, and their Assault II Hang On Tree Stand is one of the lightest and leanest models in its class. This means you’ll get the required amount of portability to carry it to your suitable place. Not just that, but you’ll also have the benefits of durability, versatility, and the easy-to-assemble mechanism that will certainly make you fall in love with this tree stand.
The first thing that will attract you is its 11 pounds of weight. Yes, you heard that right, only 11 pounds. So, you’ll get the utmost convenience while carrying it with your backpack. You’re hunting gears will definitely weigh more and packing a bulky treestand with them will consume most of your energy. That’s why a lightweight treestand will be the ideal one. This is where Lone Wolf Assault II Hang On Tree Stand has stood out. Simply, hook it up with your backpack and try out different vintage points effortlessly.
Despite being lightweight, the treestand will provide you with 26” *19.5” platform. This means you’ll get ample space stretch your leg whenever you become tired of sitting. Okay, let’s see what has made it this much lighter in weight.
This treestand is constructed with durable aluminum material. Aluminum is as strong as steel or iron but obviously lighter than them. And that’s what makes this product lighter in weight. This aluminum frame can take up to 350 pounds of weight. So, you’ll remain completely safe on this treestand. Honestly, a lightweight product with this much weight lifting capacity is unseen in the market.
Pros
- The lightest treestand in the market with the weight of only 11 pounds
- Provides a wide space with the front platform
- Durable aluminum construction
- Can take up to 350 pounds
- Easy to mount
- 360-degree rotating nozzle
- Perfect hang-on stand for mobile hunters
Cons
- Backpack hoking straps aren’t included.
3. Millennium Treestands L110 Ladder
How about a ladder stand this time? This type of stand can allow you to reach your desired height with less effort and maximum convenience. Honestly, the ladder-stands are outnumbered in the present market. But among them, the L110 has made their debut as the best ladder stand. Let’s find out what it can provide.
The durability of this ladder stand is literally unmatched. It features strong steel construction that has a long-lasting powder-coated finish. This means you’ll get a reliable service for years. Its sturdiness can hold up to 350 pounds of weight and keep you safe throughout the usage. Moreover, it’s equipped with adjustable padded shooting rail and armrests for maintaining adequate stability and comfort. This is what has made this ladder stand a perfect one for bowhunters and hunters.
The front platform measures 20-inch wide and 32-inch deep, and the seat size is 20-inch wide and 17-inch deep. This seat is adequately padded to keep you comfortable all the time, but if you feel tired sitting in on position, feel free to stretch your legs. You’ll get plenty of space for doing that.
The good thing about Millennium is that they give special attention to the hunters’ safety. That’s why they have designed the ladder stand with SafeLink technology. You’ll get a 35-foot long rope with a Prusik knot and carabiner. So, your safety part will not be compromised by any means. You can also adjust the height of this ladder stand based on your need. And that’s relatively easier than others.
Pros
- Durable steel construction with powder-coated finish
- Can hold up to 300 pounds
- Adjustable padded shooting rail and armrests to maintain the stability
- Designed with SafeLink technology
- Adjustable platform
- Comfortable
- Wide platform
Cons
- Heavier than other treestands
4. Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand
Bulky treestands are hard to carry; that’s why Millennium has got some lighter models too. The M100U model is 20% lighter than the original M100 model and also the previous one. And due to its foldable design, it can be made flattened to fit comfortably into the backpacks. Thus, you’ll gain a superior amount of mobility to roam easily in the woods.
In order to get a perfect shot, it’s necessary to position yourself appropriately. And for encouraging every shot with perfectness, the treestand is featured with a large platform. With the benefit of that, you’ll get enough space for précised movement and get relieved from the tiredness.
The entire frame of M100U is made from rugged aluminum with a powder-coated finish on its surface. Actually, the aluminum construction is responsible for making the treestand this much lighter. Its durability can easily incorporate with 300 pounds of weight. So, it’s going to be a suitable item for weighted hunters.
This treestand will enable you with easy and quiet set up. Moreover, it has a full-body harness that meets the standards of TMA. You’ll also get Millennium’s trusted SafeLink technology to keep your secure throughout every operation. Its 35-foot rope is specially designed with Prusik knot and carabiner. As a result, ascending and descending will be easier on this treestand.
Pros
- Extremely lighter in weight
- Foldable treestand can be flattened to fit in backpacks
- Includes backpacking straps
- Offers maximum amount of mobility
- Rugged aluminum construction with durable powder coat finish
- Equipped with a large platform
- Can hold up to 300-pound
- Easy and quiet setup
- Features Millennium’s SafeLink technology
Cons
- The fan makes the device noisy
- Mesh seats may be a bit uncomfortable to sit.
5. Guide Gear 18′ Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand
Guide Gear is a renowned name for designing high-quality hunting gear for a long-time. They have earned several satisfactory complements from many users. Well, their Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand is a good example of their precision engineering and premium design that has maintained the brand’s name to the fullest. Frankly, there is something special about this treestand that has made it stand out amongst others.
This ladder stands especially focuses on your comfort zone. And that’s why it’s featured with flip-up seat, padded armrest and more for the comfiness of all day long. Moreover, it has a 24*25-inch large foot platform for stretching your leg with ease. With the benefit of its flip-up shooting rail and flip-up footrest, you’ll get the increased amount of stability and provide you with a perfect shot. It’s two-seat pad silencers will reduce the sound for which it won’t be the reason for scaring your prey away.
This model features rugged steel construction for which you will get unparalleled sturdiness. Its durability can take up 300 lbs of weight. Furthermore, it has two stabilizer straps, one ratchet strap, and an adjustable support bar for secure attachment with the tree. By the way, it also includes the safety harness to keep you secure on the treestand. So, you won’t get any chance to raise a question on the safety features.
Pros
- Rugged steel construction for durable use
- Comes with the large foot platform
- Flip-up seat and padded armrest
- Flip-up shooting rail with flip-up footrest for maintaining adequate stability
- Includes full-body safety harness
- Can take up to 300 lbs of weight
Cons
- Assembly takes much time
- Poor paint quality
- Relatively bulky
6. Big Dog BDL 2-man Ladder Stand
You would love to go hunting with your favorite pal. So, how about sharing some space of the treestand with them! It’ll be really great but is this possible. Actually, it’s possible with Big Dog BDl. Unlike others, this one is specially designed to take two hunters at once. That’s literally unique in this list. Its curved 53*13-foot platform will give ample space to allow both of the hunters to move easily. This means you don’t have to sit in a huddle.
In fact, you can also use this ladder tree stand for your own use too. There is always a lack of space with the treestands. For which, hunters usually have to struggle to move freely. But with this treestand, you’ll surely get enough space for your précised movement.
Okay, that’s good, but can this hold two person’s weight? Big Dog has also shown expertise in this sector. This ladder stand is constructed with strong and durable steel for which it can take up to 500 pounds of weight. Wow! That’s really outstanding. Unless you and your buddy weigh more than 250 lbs, it’ll provide you with guaranteed support.
This ladder treestand features a padded back-rest cushion and padded armrests to deliver you a long time comfiness. Even its shooting rail is adequately padded to maximize your comfiness maintain the stability with the structure. You’ll get four ratchet straps and adjustable ladder support bar for securing the attachment with the tree. It also includes two fall arrest systems to keep you secure on the tree stand.
Pros
- Two-man ladder treestand
- Max weight lifting capacity is around 500lbs
- Dual rail ladder construction
- Adequately padded for the maximum comfort
- Meets TMA standards
- Includes two fall arrest systems
- Comes with four ratchet straps and adjustable ladder support
Cons
- The shooting rail is quite low
- Shallow seat
7. Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo II Climbing Tree Stand
Most of the hunters like to avoid the pain of carrying bulky items with them. Your hunting gear will already weigh a lot, and in this case, carrying some extra load won’t be ideal, indeed. In this case, you should switch to lightweight versions like the Lone Wolf hand climber combo. It weighs only 17.5 pounds and folds down into a five-inch compact profile. So, you can easily pack into your backpack and make it fit even into the thickest areas.
Lone Wolf didn’t compromise its durability for making it lighter in weight. It comes with a 350-pound weight lifting capacity, just like the previous models. Although you’re a bit weighted, the tree stand can easily handle that.
This treestand is featured with a contoured foam seat pad, which will keep you comfortable all day long. But you can’t sit in one position, that will be really stressful, right? That’s why it’s equipped with a full-sized 30” *19.5” platform. As a result, you’ll get the required space to move precisely. After all, some movement is obviously required to get a perfect shot. With this tree stand, you’ll surely get that.
Don’t let the naked profile trick you. The treestand includes a 6-point fall arrest system for keeping you secured on its base. And with the longer traction belts, you can make it fit on every tree of 6-inch to 19-inch in diameter. It also includes an E-Z hook accessory, which is literally unseen with a compact treestand. All these features have made it stand out amongst the best treestands for bow hunting.
Pros
- Extremely lighter in weight
- Folds down to 5-inch compact profile
- Great for backpacking
- 350-pound of maximum weight lifting capacity
- Features full-sized wide platform
- Can be mounted easily with the trees of 6”-19” in diameter
Cons
- Noisy buckles
8. Summit 180 Max SD Climbing Treestand
Summit Treestands has maintained its reputation in the hunting world for years. Well, the 180 MAX SD of Summit is another high-quality product that has satisfied many hunters. It blends all the required features at a very reasonable price. That’s what has made this particular treestand special. So, if you’re looking for the best price summit treestands, then you can undoubtedly pick this one.
Are you worried about the weight which is stopping you from using a treestand? Even you weigh more than 250-pounds, it can easily handle that. It’s because this treestand can hold approximately 350 lbs. So, worry no more and take advantage of hunting in different height.
The 180 Max SD is constructed of high-quality aluminum and features SummitLokt technology. Each joint is locked into one place and welded with precision. As a result, it’ll provide you with absolute rigidity to withstand every extreme situation. This is why you can fully rely on this treestand for its weight lifting capability.
The camouflage design of this treestand will easily blend with the environment and make you unnoticeable to the animals. Besides, it has a round seat and padded armrest to retain your comfort during usage. It also comes with a wide platform compared to others. This means you’ll be able to change your position comfortably. Oh! Like the previous model, you’ll get Summit’s QuickDraw, RapidClimb, and DeadeMetal technology too.
Pros
- Features high-quality aluminum construction
- Camouflage design
- Equipped with a large platform
- 350 lbs weight limit
- Comes with reversible surround seat
- Offers height-adjustment
Cons
- Can damage the tree during the attachment
- A bit heavy
9. Millennium Treestands M25 Hang-On Tree Stand
The M25 Hang-on Treestand was specially designed for the ease of transport. Its compact naked profile is relatively lighter in weight and can be easily folded flat to fit in your backpack. As a result, you’ll get the comfort and ease to carry your tree stand to your suitable place. Don’t worry; it’s not going to consume all your energy for being bulky. With only 19 pounds of weight, it can be taken anywhere with a minimum effort. As the backpacking straps are included, you can also attach it with your backpacks.
Once you reach your destination, you can easily set it up without any complications. However, the treestand has a ComfortMAX seat and a wide footrest to provide you with ergonomic support. The combination of these two will give you a comfortable platform to get a memorable hunting experience.
This tree stand is made with tough steel that has durable powder coating on its surface. This means you’ll get a longer lifespan with this product. Due to its heavy-duty construction, it has the max weight lifting capacity for up to 300 pounds. A compact and portable treestand with this much durability is literally unseen. That’s why it’s also considered as one of the best treestands for hunting.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Folds flat to fit into a backpack
- Built for the ease of comfort
- Weighs 19 pounds only
- Made of tough steel
- Can hold up to 300 lbs of weight
- Equipped with a comfortable platform
Cons
- The chain is too short
- Not a good treestand for medium to large-sized trees
10. Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand
Looks like we’ve come to an end of our list. So, we are ending our review list with the Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand. At present, Lone Wolf has taken the lion-share of the market of portable treestands. They offer superior comfort and ease of transportation without sacrificing performance. And that’s obviously visible in this particular treestand.
In comparison to others, this tree stand has a combination of a full-sized platform and a spacious seat. This means you won’t have to sacrifice your comfort zone while waiting sitting on this treestand for the target. Moreover, the seat is equipped with a contoured foam cushion for your added comfort. You’ll also get a bow holder that can hold different types of bows. So, you can simply hold your bow and rest your hands during the operation.
If you specifically hunt the deer, then this feature is going to be way more helpful for you. Many deer hunters have loved it as they can put their bows without the risk of dropping it. And get some rest until the target appears. That’s why the Lone Wolf Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand is also considered as one of the best treestands for deer hunting.
With just 21 lbs of weight, it is neither the lighters nor the heaviest. But due to its slim profile design, you can easily pack it in your backpack without sacrificing much space. However, the sturdy construction of this treestand can take around 350 lbs of weight, which makes it a perfect one for all types of hunters.
Pros
- Can hold around 350 lbs of weight
- Two-panel contoured foam seat
- 3D camo platform design
- Slim profile can be easily packed inside of the backpack
- Easy to set up
- Integrated with backpack straps, one bungee strap, stabilizing straps and a wide platform
Cons
- The color remains visible and doesn’t blend
- The features are less compared to other models.
Buying Guide of the Best Treestands for Bow Hunting
So, how did we manage to take out the best treestands for bow hunting from the variety? After all, all of them aren’t equally built and not particularly designed for bow hunting. What was the real secret? Well, actually, we ensured some key features before selecting any products. Those features are responsible for providing you with all the desired support. Now that you’ve come this far, let’s discuss them.
Construction
Durable construction is the first and foremost thing that should be looked for while selecting a treestand. You’re going to climb up with this equipment, and obviously, you’re not going to be the lightest person sitting on its base. That’s why they need to be durable enough to hold your weight. Otherwise, you may fall from a fairly good height and face some unwanted situations. Frankly, no one would like to face those situations in the middle of the wood.
Well, treestands are usually made from robust steel and high-quality aluminum. Both of these materials are renowned for their sturdiness. A steel made treestand has more weight lifting capacity, but the problem is they are relatively heavy.
It actually depends on you, what you’re going to choose. However, make sure to choose from these two constructions when you’re looking for the best treestands for bow hunting.
It actually depends on you, what you’re going to choose. However, make sure to choose from these two constructions when you’re looking for the best treestands for bow hunting.
Comfort
Honestly, you’re not going to get something fruitful easily. You’ve to wait for a while and let your prey come under you. In this case, if the treestand isn’t comfortable one, waiting will be much frustrating. In fact, sitting on an uncomfortable seat for a long-time can lead you to some health issues too.
To avoid this type of situation, you’ve to pay special attention to the comfort zone of the tree stand. Most of the tree stands are padded adequately to give its users the required amount of comfiness. Even the armrests and footrests of these items are found to be padded. You can stay comfortable while sitting on those seats.
But that’s not going to work if you can’t get enough space for the movement. No one can sit in one position for a long time. And for getting a perfect shot, you must have to move. That’s why it’s recommended to pick those that can provide you with ample space for precise movement. It actually depends on the dimension of the platform. Only with the best treestands for bow hunting will provide you with both of these. So, make sure to pick one of those.
Portable
This feature is only required if you would like to try different vantage points for every shooting. Obviously, you won’t be able to take a heavy tree stand to your preferred place. Their heavy frame won’t give you the required amount of mobility. In this case, you can simply pick one from the above list. Most of them are lighter in weight and features a foldable design. You can pack them or attach them with your backpack and carry it to your suitable place easily. But if you like to hunt from a particular place, you can pick the ladder stands and attach them with one of your preferable trees.
Safety
Risking your safety will not be ideal at the time of hunting. That’s you’ve to ensure the maximum amount of safety. The treestands usually secure the attachment with some special straps. Some of them will provide you with safety harness too. But these are only available with the premium versions. The cheaper model may lack to provide you with the necessary amount of safety. That’s why we suggest you make the selection form the premium products from the leading brands. Only they can give you the best treestands for bow hunting.
Final Words
Around 13.5 million Americans hunt every year. Aren’t you one of them?
Each hunting season usually begins with a chill and buzzing sound that fills the air to the fullest. At that time, the hunters gear up and prepare themselves to enter the woods, waterways, forests, and more for a chance to catch some precious wildlife.
Many hunters spend a lot of money in quest of finding the appropriate gears, like hunting knives and its sharpener, boots, guns, bows, and much more. The treestands are one of those essential gears that have satisfied the hunters with the desired results. So, if you also want to make your hunting more fruitful, then bring one of the best treestands for bow hunting. These are the necessary evil, indeed.
