Best Climbing Tree Stand In 2024- Reviews With Buying Guide
In the exhilarating world of outdoor enthusiasts and avid hunters, finding the perfect vantage point is paramount. Imagine being perched high amidst the foliage, the earthy scent of leaves mingling with the crisp morning air, as you await the perfect shot. This is the realm of the modern hunter, where innovation and precision converge to create an unparalleled hunting experience. Welcome to our comprehensive guide – a beacon for those seeking the best climbing tree stand of 2024.
We understand the insatiable craving for a vantage that not only grants you a strategic edge but also connects you with nature on an intimate level. That’s why we’ve meticulously curated this guide, delving into the realm of climbing tree stands to help you make an informed decision that resonates with your hunting aspirations.
Hunting just got a whole lot more exciting with this climbing tree stand.
List Of The Best Climbing Tree Stands
- Best Overall Climbing Treestand – Summit Viper SD
- Most Comfortable – Summit Treestands 180 Max SD
- Best for Both Gun and Bow Hunters – OL’MAN TREESTANDS Multi-Vision Tree Stand
- Best for smaller-framed hunters – Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD
- Best For Big Guys – Summit Goliath SD
- Best Affordable Climbing Tree Stand – Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Tree Stand
- Best Lightweight- Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo
Best Climbing Tree Stand Reviews 2024
When considering the selection of climbing tree stands, it is imperative to make informed choices. Relying solely on credible sources for climbing tree stand reviews is essential. Only authentic and truthful reviews can truly guide you towards purchasing the optimal climbing stand. To this end, we have meticulously crafted a guide to help you understand the criteria by which we select our climbing tree stands. This will enable you to finish your preparations ahead of the onset of the hunting season.
Best Overall – Summit Treestands Viper SD
Summit Viper SD 81120 Climbing Treestand (Mossy Oak) is a self-climbing tree stand that is easy to carry and safe to use. Whether you are in a wild forest or you prefer to sit or stand upright for watching around, Summit Treestands 81120 Viper is a wise choice.
It is lightweight and easy to install. Built with a high-quality aluminum frame and the market-winning SummitLokt Technology, you can trust this Summit climbing stand.
The Viper SD stands out due to its incorporation of Summit’s Dead Metal technology, a feature designed to eliminate the disruptive metallic sounds that often startle game animals. This innovation empowers a hunter to navigate the tree stand without unwanted noise.
The Viper SD is a darling model of climber-type Summit tree stand. Compactly designed, ergonomically built, and heavy-duty tree stand seat that users have found a safe choice. It’s fantastic at camouflaging in its mossy oak color.
The Summit Viper SD 81120 Climbing Treestand, (Mossy Oak), stands out as a top-tier option among the lightest climbing tree stands available. If you’re seeking a climbing tree stand that combines durability and lightweight design, this model ranks among the most comfortable and optimal choices.
Features we loved the most
- Closed-front aluminum climbing stand
- Suspended foam-padded seat with backrest offers great comfort.
- Weighs 18 lbs. and holds up to 300 lbs.
- The seat is built with 18” W x 12” D seat size, along with 20”W x 24.75” D platform size.
Most Comfortable Climbing Treestand – Summit Treestands 180 Max SD
Summit Treestands 180 Max offers a roomy design and a bearing capacity for bigger hunters as well as for those who love to sit relaxed. There is a height-adjustable surround seat. It will let you sit facing the tree as well as it can be reversed against a specific spot.
It is highly durable. It is noiseless, which is an obvious advantage. The tree climber is a heavy duty one with 350lbs.
Weight capacity. Light in weight and easy to use, Summit Max SD 180 Climbing Treestand, (Mossy Oak) is a wise investment.
The premium quality welded aluminum extended top frame is ideal for tall hunters. However, it is efficient in keeping the weight within 23 pounds. You will get to enjoy plenty of leg room to move around, the 180 Max shares the larger Titan platform.
The features we loved the most
- High-capacity climbing tree-stand–complete with a 4-point safety harness.
- RapidClimb Stirrups along with all necessary pads, hardware, ropes, and straps have made it a complete set.
- Summit’s sound deadening (SD) technology added.
- Large 6-channel aluminum platform and adjustable-height.
- 350-pound is the weight limit.
- The tree stand is protected with Five year limited warranty.
Best for Both Gun and Bow Hunters – OL’MAN TREESTANDS Multi-Vision Climbing Stand
Ol Man Steel Tree Climber is one of the best tree stands in the market that comes with versatile design, durability, and convenience. It is sturdy and at the same time quite noiseless in its operation. Both gun and bow hunters will be able to use it safely, especially for those seeking the ideal for bow hunting.
It is a multi-vision Tree Climber. Even on a windy day, as reported by the users, is absolutely stable. The footrest, handrail, gun rail are at par and work perfectly. Shifting from one place to another is easy.
It has a clean design. It is definitely not a slim tree stand, but portability is fine, and one can use it single-handedly. There is no point to get skeptical of its heavier weight in comparison to aluminum-built stands.
If you are fond of different hunting styles in versatile forest ambiance, this is one of the best deer stands for you to buy.
The features we loved the most
- The stand is built in a 3-way design that lets you adjust the set-up to match your hunting style.
- The seat can be fitted silently: its Ultra-quiet operation is a definite plus.
- Compact and helps in friendly storage or carrying.
- Patented ComforTech Technology is a definite plus.
- Mesh seat is a standard feature.
- The platform is 18″ x 32″, which is quite roomy.
- Seat width: 21″, which can adjust slim and little bulgy people both.
- Weight: 29 lbs, which is lesser in its category.
- The tree climber includes a full-body safety harness.
- Maximum weight bearing capacity: 300 lbs.
Best for Smaller-Framed Hunters – Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD
Everyone’s preliminary asset being a hunter or just a nature watcher is a sturdy treestand!
Having said that, the Summit Mini Viper SD climbing treestand is the most durable and promising one!
Being able to balance the priorities and satisfying everyone’s needs, the foam platform is spacious and noise-free.
As the platform is engineered in such a way to reduce unnecessary noise while climbing up or down the sound-deadening technology is used.
The features we loved the most
- Weighing as light as 18 pounds, this treestand is ought to make your kid’s hunting session adventurous.
- No rattling of pins, knobs, screws, or any other fumbling noises.
- With the quick draw cable retention system, you can now hug the tree just by inserting the cable wrapping around the tree and fixing it to its retention bracket!
- To boost up stability and maintain authenticity, the Summit Mini Viper SD climbing treestand is bumped with extreme features.
- The precise welds of aluminum make the treestand expand its life by being rigid and sturdy.
- Being able to match and make you feel safe, comfortable, and secure, the treestand strives its best. The Summit Mini Viper SD climbing treestand welcomes by fitting in any type of boots!
- Glad to get a tick mark to all the major priorities of every hunter which are: Safe, secure, comfortable, quiet, and sturdy.
- The Summit Mini Viper SD climbing treestand guarantees a 5-year limited warranty.
Best For Big Guys – Summit Goliath SD Climbing Treestand
The Summit Goliath SD SU81119 Climbing Treestand in Mossy Oak is a popular lightweight climber tree stand, known as the best climbing tree stand for big guys. Its ease of transport and storage is coupled with durability, ensuring safety and comfort.
Designed with additional room and leg space, this Summit climbing stand specifically caters to the bigger hunters. Assembling and mounting this climber is notably hassle-free, and the seat’s locking and unlocking mechanism is effortlessly manageable.
The inclusion of the QuickDraw trigger guarantees secure locking in place, allowing for easy detachment from the tree. An added standard feature is the Rapidclimb Climbing Stirrups on this aluminum tree stand. With a 5-year warranty, this Summit deer stand stands as a secure investment.
The features we loved the most
- Built with Dead Metal Sound Deadening Technology.
- Aluminum built 5-channel platform frame stands for its light weight and durability.
- Comfortable foam seat with backrest and 3-16″ zippered arm pads will add improved ergonomics.
- QuickDraw retention system is added here with 2 coated steel climbing cables.
- 4-point FAS (harness) with safety strap and attached SRS strap.
- RapidClimb stirrups are comfortable and adjustable.
- Green utility strap for additional comfort and security.
- Stand umbilical rope keeps your platform and top securely fastened.
- Written instruction and instructional DVD is a plus for new users.
Best Affordable Climbing Tree Stand – Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Tree Stand
Hunting or wildlife watching is a tough job and risky too. Therefore you should not compromise on the climbing tree stand quality. For a durable and comfortable tree stands seat, you can try Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Climber Tree Stand.
Users have reported that this steel-built climbing tree stand is sturdy, safe, and comfortable to seat. It is built with a nesting design that will help you to keep your guns and luggage. It offers great portability, plus nylon foot stars are impressively flexible for helping in quick climbing.
The climbing tree stand comes with a padded cushion, which is a way to sit comfortably on the most inconvenient tree top even. It is easy to carry a super portable tree stand that is storage-friendly and offers a full body harness.
Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Tree Stand is the best bait for you in the climbing tree stand category, if you are looking for a good quality tree stand on a budget. Made with steel, it is climate-proof and completely durable.
The features we loved the most
- Sturdy steel construction long endurance, climate-tolerant, and sturdy.
- It is roomy but compact in design with 19″w. x 26″d. The integrated foot platform provides enough leg room for taller users.
- It is built with 17″w. x 10″d. sling seat with 1″ thick foam and comfortable backrest.
- Adjustable nylon foot straps are there for quick and easy climbing for the users.
- Cam-buckle straps can lock the foot and seat platforms in perfect place.
- There are integrated nests for easy transport and storage.
- It is easy to carry with its 33 lbs. weight.
Best Lightweight Climbing Tree Stand – Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo
Sturdy and high-quality engineered treestands are a rare find. The Lone Wolf Hand Climber is one of those rare finds which manages to balance space and quality as promised.
That being said, this amazing hand climber can be carried at ease to anywhere as it is foldable to 5 inches! Being designed with an aluminum 30 * 19.5-inch spacious platform, the hand climber weighs just 17.5 pounds!
Being compact and being lightweight are the major concerns of every individual, and this Lone Wolf Hand Climber sure bumps up everyone’s wish list!
The features we loved the most
- The smart 3D camo design disguises you from the target’s eye so that you can have more opportunities to shoot.
- The TMA approved fall arrest system will suffice to provide the required support and trust to opt for the Lone Wolf Hand Climber!
- Your safety and comfort being the topmost priorities, the foam-padded seat is spacious enough to provide sufficient legroom.
- As waiting for too long can be tiring, the Lone Wolf Hand Climber comforts you by their contoured seat.
- Choosing any tree ranging in between 6 inches too around 19 inches of diameter is welcome. Although, go for the one through which you can have the maximum coverage and clear visibility.
- Staying quiet while climbing or setting up the treestand is utmost essential, which is why the Lone Wolf Hand Climber is designed to be silent.
Related: Best Hang on Tree Stand & Best ladder Tree Stand
Best Climbing Tree Stands Comparison Chart
Check out our top recommendations chart below:
| Model | Weight Capacity | Item Weight | Platform | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summit Treestands Viper SD | 300lbs | 18lbs | 20″ x 24.75″ | Check Price |
| Summit Treestands 180 Max SD | 350lbs | 20lbs | 21″ x 30.75″ | Check Price |
| OL’MAN TREESTANDS Multi-Vision | 300lbs | 29lbs | 18″ x 32″ | Check Price |
| Summit Treestands Mini Viper SD | 300lbs | 18lbs | 20” W x 24.75” | Check Price |
| Summit Treestands Goliath SD | 350lbs | 25lbs | 21″ x 30.75″ | Check Price |
| Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe | 300lbs | 37lbs | 19″ x 26″ | Check Price |
| Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo | 350lbs | 17.5lbs | 30″ x 19.5″ | Check Price |
| Best Choice Products Tree Stand | 300lbs | 31lbs | 35″ x 19.75″ | Check Price |
How To Choose The Best Climbing Tree Stand
It`s no secret that climbing tree stands have completely transformed hunting. Having a tree stand means you can make better use of your hunting time.
Buying the best climbing tree stand can be tricky, as there are certain crucial aspects that you need to take into consideration while buying your tree stand.
So let`s talk about those aspects.
Safety
Your climbing tree stand has to bear your own weight and your hunting gear`s weight. If it isn’t strong enough to do that there`s a high chance that you will end up falling down.
Hence it is highly recommended that you buy the one which has the 4 point fall arrest system. It divides your weight with straps thus providing you with more safety.
Weight capacity
We learned that your climbing tree stand has to bear the weight of your hunting gear and your own body weight, so make sure the tree stand that you are buying has enough weight capacity.
Don`t worry the majority of the tree stands can easily handle the weight up to 400 lbs.
Seat and platform space
Comfort is the key to a successful hunt, so your tree stand needs to be comfortable as well, devoid of it and you will be stiff or aching.
So if you want to prevent your back from aching then choose the one which has a backrest.
If you aim to increase your maneuverability then your stand should be more spacious, always remember that.
Type of trees and accessing its locations
Undeniably the most important aspect of a climbing tree stand is the location of its use. I mean obviously, you need trees for a tree stand, but you can`t make use of just about any tree that you find.
Put it simply your tree should be straight without branches, also most importantly the bark should be enough to hold your stand.
Ease of climbing
At the end of the day, the thing that matters is how easily you can climb your tree stand.
When you start your climbing process you will also be carrying your hunting equipment, so it has to be as easy as possible.
Ease of setup
Many of the available tree stands are not at all easy to set up as they are made up of hinges and bolts.
This makes them quite difficult to navigate, gets quite frustrating for a neophyte.
So you need to be careful while choosing a tree stand as it should be easy to install in a short amount of time.
Easy to carry and pack
You can’t drive everywhere in the hunting area, which means you would have to cover a lot of ground on foot.
Needless to say that you would require a tree stand that is easy to carry, a portable tree stand will no doubt increase your chances of bagging a game.
Weapon
Your tree stand is highly influenced by the type of weapon you use for hunting. Simply put, if your tree stand is made for a bow arrow, then it won`t work for a rifle.
Noise-deadening feature
The last thing any hunter wants is his/her tree stand to make any noise and scare away the game, so make sure your tree stand has the noise cancellation features.
How To Use A Climbing Tree Stand Properly
Sure thing, I’d be happy to walk you through the proper way to use a climbing tree stand for a successful and safe hunting experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Select the Right Tree: Choose a sturdy and healthy tree with a straight trunk that’s free from dead branches. Look for a tree with a diameter that fits within the stand’s specifications for a secure fit.
- Check Your Gear: Before heading out, inspect your climbing tree stand and all accompanying equipment. Ensure that all straps, cables, and attachments are in good condition and functioning properly.
- Safety First: Before ascending, wear a full-body safety harness and attach it to the tree from the moment you leave the ground. This is a crucial step to prevent falls and ensure your safety throughout the climb.
- Start Assembling: Begin by attaching the bottom section of the stand to the tree, securing it at a comfortable height for starting your climb. Make sure it’s firmly anchored and level.
- Securely Attach Upper Section: Once you reach your desired height, attach the upper section of the stand. Ensure it’s properly secured to the tree and level, and make any necessary adjustments.
- Seat and Platform Setup: Set up the seat and platform according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure they are securely fastened and stable.
- Attach Your Gear: Use gear hoists or hooks to raise your hunting equipment to your stand. Keep them within easy reach to minimize movement and noise.
- Hunt Responsibly: As you wait for your game, keep safety and ethical hunting practices in mind. Always be aware of your surroundings and only take shots when you’re certain of a clean and ethical kill.
- Descend Safely: When you’re ready to come down, reverse the climbing process. Ensure that all sections of the stand are securely detached before descending.
Remember, using a climbing tree stand requires practice and patience. Start by practicing close to the ground before attempting higher climbs. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, prioritize safety, and respect nature while enjoying the benefits of hunting from an elevated position.
Pros and Cons of Using a Climbing Tree Stand
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of climbing tree stands to give you a well-rounded understanding of their benefits and limitations.
Pros.
- Mobility: One of the standout advantages of climbing tree stands is their mobility. They allow you to easily change your hunting location, adapting to shifting animal patterns and optimizing your chances of success.
- Elevated Perspective: Climbing stands provide an elevated vantage point, giving you a broader and clearer view of the surrounding terrain. This improved line of sight is incredibly useful for spotting game and planning your approach.
- Concealment: Being above the ground provides better concealment from the animals you’re hunting. The higher position minimizes your scent dispersal and reduces your visibility to game below, increasing your chances of remaining undetected.
- Reduced Ground Impact: Hunting from an elevated position helps minimize your impact on the ground, which is especially important for maintaining the natural habitat and reducing the disturbance to wildlife.
Cons.
- Learning Curve: Using a climbing tree stand effectively requires practice and getting comfortable with the process. This learning curve can be challenging, especially for beginners.
- Physical Demands: Climbing trees can be physically demanding, especially for those who are not accustomed to it. It requires strength, coordination, and a degree of physical fitness to safely ascend and descend.
- Limited to Suitable Trees: You need a tree with the right size, shape, and condition to accommodate a climbing tree stand. In some hunting areas, finding a suitable tree might be a challenge.
Safety First: Climbing Tree Stand Safety Tips
When using climbing tree stands, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some crucial safety tips to keep in mind:
- Inspect Your Gear: Before each use, thoroughly inspect your climbing tree stand, harness, and straps for any signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged components immediately.
- Use a Safety Harness: Always wear a safety harness that’s properly secured to the tree. This will prevent falls in case of a slip or stumble.
- Choose the Right Tree: Select a healthy and sturdy tree with a trunk diameter within the specifications recommended by the manufacturer.
- Maintain Three Points of Contact: When climbing or descending, make sure to have at least three points of contact with the tree at all times.
- Stay Connected: As you ascend or descend, keep both the platform and your harness connected to the tree at all times.
Benefits of Using Climbing Tree Stands
There are some obvious advantages of using a climbing tree stand in comparison to common tree stands. These advantages make the perfect sense for buying self-climbing tree stands.
- According to many climbing tree stands reviews, climbing tree stands are more comfortable to use than other tree stands.
- These climbing stand varieties come with a backrest, which is definitely an advantage.
- These stands are built with footrests and armrests, which is absolutely a bonus.
- These stands are safer than any other tree stands. Besides being lightweight climber tree stands, these stands are fitted with enclosure bars, which you can use as a gun rest or camera stand if you need to.
- Regardless the tree is straight, or is pruned, these hunting seats that strap to trees are safe to use.
Climbing Tree Stand vs Ladder Stand
Today, we’re diving into the great debate: Climbing Tree Stands vs. Ladder Stands. Picture this: you’re out in the wilderness, seeking that perfect vantage point for the ultimate hunting experience. Let’s break it down!
Setting up these bad boys is where the tale starts. With a Climbing Tree Stand, you’re in for a bit of a puzzle. Strapping it to your chosen tree and ascending – it’s a perplexing yet rewarding challenge. On the flip side, the Ladder tree stand boasts simplicity. Think of it as assembling Legos – steady, straightforward, and quite the burst of convenience.
Mobility is a whole different story. Climbing stands are the champs here. You can shift to new spots easily, making that elusive target harder to outsmart. Ladder stands, well, they’re a tad less agile. Once they’re up, they’re up.
Ah, visibility – a key to success. Climbing stands perch you higher, giving you a bird’s eye view that’s hard to beat. Ladder stands, while decent, might not offer that same “king of the hill” sensation.
Now, let’s talk sticky fingers and durability. Climbing stands, being portable, can be more susceptible to theft if left behind. Ladder tree stands, on the other hand, are bulkier – a bit harder to vanish with. Durability-wise, Ladder treestands to shine. They can weather the elements better while climbing stands might show wear sooner.
Safety first, always. Climbing stands demand a bit more caution during setup and climbing. But once you’re secure, they’re solid. Ladder treestands feel like climbing your grandma’s stairs – stable and secure.
Noise – the hunter’s nemesis. Climbing stands can be a bit creaky on the ascent, potentially alerting nearby game. The ladder tree stand wins the stealth contest here, offering quieter setups.
So, what’s the verdict? It all comes down to your style. Climbing Tree Stands offer adventure and versatility, while Ladder offers stability and simplicity. Whichever you choose, embrace the thrill of the hunt and relish the great outdoors!
Read also: What Are The Different Types of Hunting Tree Stands
Frequently Asked Questions About Climbing Tree Stands
What Are Climbing Tree Stands?
Climbing tree stands are portable hunting platforms designed to attach to trees. They allow hunters to elevate themselves above ground level, providing an advantageous vantage point for improved visibility while hunting. These stands consist of a seat and platform, and hunters ascend using their body weight to grip the tree and adjust their position. Climbing tree stands are popular among hunters for their mobility and concealment advantages, allowing them to change hunting locations easily and gain a strategic edge in the wild.
What is The Best Climbing Tree Stand?
The best climbing tree stand depends on individual preferences and needs. Prominent options include Summit Viper SD, Summit Tree Stand 180 Max SD, and OL’MAN Treestands. Choose based on comfort, weight, durability, and features like noise reduction.
What Climbing Stand Holds The Most Weight?
The Summit Treestand 180 Max SD is known for its impressive weight capacity, holding up to 350 lbs. It’s engineered to accommodate larger hunters while maintaining stability and safety.
How to Quiet a Climbing Tree Stand?
These steps help minimize noise and improve hunting stealth.
- Check Tightness: Ensure all bolts and fasteners are snug.
- Add Padding: Apply felt or foam to reduce friction noise.
- Rubber Coating: Coat metal parts to dampen sound.
- Secure Straps: Prevent flapping with Velcro or rubber bands.
- Silence Gear: Attach accessories quietly using padding.
- Move Slowly: Ascend and set up deliberately to minimize creaks.
- Lubricate Hinges: Use outdoor lubricant on hinges.
- Practice at Home: Identify and address noise sources.
- Test in Advance: Try your quieted stand beforehand.
Are Climbing Tree Stands Safe?
Climbing tree stands can be safe when used correctly and with proper precautions. Ensuring your safety involves using a reliable harness, following manufacturer guidelines, inspecting the stand for any defects or damage, selecting a sturdy and healthy tree, and practicing proper climbing techniques. However, accidents can still occur if safety measures are neglected. Always prioritize safety by wearing a harness, maintaining equipment, and exercising caution during setup and ascent.
What Is A Common Cause Of Accidental Falls From A Stand?
A common cause of accidental falls from tree stands is the improper use or neglect of safety harnesses. Failing to wear a body harness or securing it incorrectly while climbing or sitting in the stand increases the risk of falling. Hunters may become off-balance, slip, or lose their grip while ascending or descending.
Properly utilizing a harness, following manufacturer instructions, and consistently staying connected to the tree via a lifeline significantly reduce the likelihood of falls and ensure a safer hunting experience from a tree stand.
What Is The Perfect Treestand Height?
The ideal treestand height is around 15 to 20 feet above ground level. This provides ample concealment, enhances scent dispersal, and reduces the chance of being detected by deer.
What Is The Biggest Hazard Of Tree Stands?
The primary hazard of tree stands is falling. Inadequate safety measures, unstable attachments, and ignoring safety harnesses contribute to accidents that can result in severe injuries or even fatalities.
Is It Safe To Use A Climbing Stand On A Pine Tree?
Using a climbing stand on a pine tree is generally safe if the tree is healthy and sturdy. However, check for any signs of decay or weakness before ascending. Hardwoods like oak or maple are often preferred for their strength.
What Are The Best Trees For Climbing?
Hardwood trees like oak, maple, and hickory are preferred for climbing due to their sturdy branches and durability. These trees provide stable anchor points for climbing stands.
Do Climbing Tree Stands Spook Deer?
Climbing tree stands can spook deer if not used with caution. Sudden movements, noise, and unnatural scents associated with setting up the stand may alert deer. Minimize disturbances by setting up well in advance and practicing stealth during ascension.
Conclusion
Enthusiasts of hunting and wildlife observation will undoubtedly find immense value in a compact and versatile climbing tree stand. Portability, safety, and lightweight design stand out as the pivotal factors driving the choice of a climber tree stand. With these considerations in mind, any of these six options would be a wise investment, promising an exceptional and fruitful hunting experience. The insights provided here offer a comprehensive guide to selecting the optimal climbing tree stand. The decision ultimately rests in your hands, influenced by your preferences and budget.
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