7 best climbing tree stands

Climbing tree stands are essential tools used by hunters to elevate themselves above the ground while hunting game. These tree stands provide hunters with several advantages, including improved visibility, scent control, and safety. Here's what you need to know about climbing tree stands:

  1. Purpose: Climbing tree stands are primarily designed to provide hunters with an elevated and concealed vantage point in the trees. This height advantage helps hunters remain undetected by their prey and provides a clear line of sight.

  2. Portability: Climbing tree stands are known for their portability and ease of use. They are typically lightweight and designed to be carried into the hunting area. This portability allows hunters to move quickly and adapt to changing hunting conditions.

  3. Components: A climbing tree stand consists of two main components:

    • Platform: The platform is where the hunter stands or sits.It's usually a flat, sturdy surface with room for the hunter's feet and sometimes a seat or cushioned pad.

    • Climbing System: The climbing system is what allows the hunter to ascend and descend the tree. It typically includes two climbing sections or "climbing sticks" that attach to the tree and interlock to create a secure, ladder-like structure. A hunter can alternately stand on one section while adjusting the other to ascend.

  4. Safety Features: Climbing tree stands come with safety features like harnesses and safety straps that attach the hunter to the tree, ensuring they stay securely attached while ascending, descending, or sitting in the stand. Safety is a top priority when using tree stands.

  5. Setup and Use: Using a climbing tree stand involves attaching the climbing sticks to a tree and ascending to the desired height. Once in position, the hunter can secure themselves to the tree and remain quiet and still while waiting for game to approach.

  6. Game Retrieval: After a successful hunt, hunters can use the climbing tree stand to descend from the tree safely. They can also use the stand to hoist their harvested game for field dressing and transport.

  7. Tree Selection: Choosing the right tree is crucial when using a climbing tree stand. It should be healthy, sturdy, and free of loose bark to ensure a secure attachment.

  8. Hunting Regulations: Hunters should be aware of local hunting regulations and guidelines regarding the use of climbing tree stands. Some areas may have restrictions or specific requirements.

  9. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including checking for wear and tear, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting safety equipment, is essential to ensure the tree stand's reliability and safety.

Climbing tree stands are popular among hunters for their versatility and effectiveness in providing a concealed, elevated position for hunting. However, it's crucial for hunters to receive proper training in their use and prioritize safety to prevent accidents while hunting from elevated positions.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best climbing tree stands on the market
  

Guide Gear Hang-on Tree Stand & Climbing Stick Combo

Guide Gear

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Guide Gear Climbing Stick and Tree Stand Combo.The whole hunting package, and a NRA "Gear of the Year" winner!SAVE BIG! - A sturdy, easy Tree Stand and a 20' Climbing Stick to get you up there... and the winner of a NRA Publications 2010 Golden Bullseye Award!! This is a dynamic deer hunting duo, a direct-to-you quality bargain, and now an honoree! NRA Publications says the Golden Bullseye Award "is a symbol of excellence and innovation in firearms, accessories and related equipment." We can't disagree, and we are proud to offer the American Hunter magazine 2010 Gear of the Year winner. The Fixed Tree Stand: Lightweight folding steel frame forms a super-sturdy perch; Weighs in at 18 lbs. for easy backpacking; 14 x 8" flip-up seat is 20 1/2"h.; Hefty platform cables for serious support; 18 x 25 1/2" mesh platform; All-welded seams; 2 ratchet straps make it secure and tree-friendly; Powder-coated surface resists corrosion; Includes FAS safety harness.; The 20' Climbing Stick: Five 4' sections are easy to transport, assemble and place; Strong all-steel construction; Sturdy, angled steps; 4" tree braces; Cam-buckle system securely and quickly attaches to tree; 300-lb. capacity. Weighs 23 lbs., 2 ozs. Get this potent prize-winning pair now! Guide Gear Climbing Stick and Tree Stand Combo

User questions & answers

Question: description says "includes fas safety harness" is that for fall protection
Answer: Yes it is.
Question: Does this set up come with a Hunter Safety rope
Answer: While this setup does come with a harness and tree strap. It does not come with a rope for use while climbing into the stand.
Question: How long is the shipping process if i dont order expedited shipping
Answer: 3 to 4 business days.
Question: Does this stand set up come with a safety harness
Answer: Yes. I didn’t feel safe using it though, I am 6ft 250lbs .

Guide Gear 2-Man 12' Tower Tree Stand

Guide Gear

Based on 74 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Climb aboard this 2-person command center for hunting success! - Eyeball whitetails on the hoof from this Guide Gear 12' 2-man Tower Stand. Spacious, 2-seat design is ideal for training a novice hunter, a husband and wife team, or for having plenty of space for a big guy alone. Made of sturdy steel for years of service, with comfortable padded 360 degree swivel seats and 4-sided padded shooting rail. Durable steel construction is built to last; Two padded seats with padded armrests for extreme comfort; 36"h. padded shooting rail; 20"w. ladder for easy entry/exit; 3" x 4" footpads keep the stand from sinking into the ground; Can be used with or without a full enclosure blind (not included); Construction: Steel; Platform Dimensions: 57.5" x 57."; Seat Dimensions: 18" x 12"; Seat Height: 20"; Backrest Dimensions: 16"h.; Height to Shooting Rail: 12'; Height to Platform: 9'; Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.; Weight: 145 lbs.

User questions & answers

Question: Is everything with it i have the blind need everything else the ladder and the floor and sides and what ever else is with it
Answer: MINE CAME WITH EVERYTHING. INCLUDING THE BLIND, PADS FOR SEATS AND PAD FOR SHOOTING RAIL
Question: Can this be mounted in a tree or do you need a platform stand
Answer: this is a 12' free standing platform. it is a tower blind
Question: Could one seat just be left off the platform
Answer: you can remove 1 set but the attachment for the seats are welded in place
Question: Description stated weight~145 lbs but package weight indicates 84 lbs
Answer: i would say 145 lbs. 84 lbs seems too light

Guide Gear 20' Climbing Sticks

Guide Gear

Based on 566 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The best value in climbing sticks! - With their packable design, the 5 sections of these Guide Gear Climbing Sticks are nearly effortless to carry through the woods, simple to assemble and place. If you're heading deep into the woods you don't wanna be hauling a bulky ladder tree stand! With our Climbing Sticks you can strike out with your hang-on tree stand and get to work filling that freezer! Strong, sturdy all-steel construction; Five 4' sections allow for easy portability and storage; Sturdy angled steps for safety; 4' tree braces for stability; Cam buckle system attaches your Climbing Sticks to the tree quickly and securely; Quick-connect snap pins for secure, easy assembly; Construction: Steel; Number of Sections: 5; Length of Sections 4'; Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.; Overall Height: 20'; Weight: 23.13 lbs.

User questions & answers

Question: How much weight will they hold
Answer: I am 230lb & they held me plus my stand weight while pulling it up. They are sturdy.
Question: How sturdy/ stable is it
Answer: You need a straight tree for it to be held securely to the tree. The "stick" itself I found to be sturdy.
Question: Where can i find pins to connect sections together
Answer: You do not need pins.
Question: Does the bottom of the stick have to rest on the ground or can you start the first step up a few feet
Answer: You should set the sticks on the ground per the instructions.

XOP Ambush Climbing Tree Stand

XOP

Based on 115 reviews Check latest price
  • Steel reinforced big tooth traction band
  • Cam alignment system
  • Packs down to a 5" profile

User questions & answers

Question: Why is this stand $400 on amazon, but $290 everywhere else
Answer: seller is running up the price for deer season
Question: i have a 40in waist will the xl work for me
Answer: 6'3" 300 lbs and it worked fine..
Question: How much does the stand weights
Answer: It weighs 18lbs. Thanks
Question: can you take the adjustable seat bar off
Answer: That adjustable bar is the part you sit on while climbing the tree if that’s the part your talking about

Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Climber Tree Stand

Guide Gear

Based on 433 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Roomy, comfortable and built solid as a rock. - Step-up to a deluxe vantage point for your next hunt with our Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Hunting Tree Stand. It's built strong, with sturdy steel, so you know it's last season after season. Thick, 1" padding on the seat, plus padded backrest and armrests add comfort while you wait for that shot of a lifetime. Packing and storage are easy thanks to nesting design that folds down to a low profile for transport. It all adds up to high quality at an exceptional value! Constructed from sturdy steel for years of durable use; 19" x 26" foot platform provides enough room to stretch out; 10" x 17" sling seat with 1" thick foam for all-day comfort; Padded armrests and climbing seat bar; 18" x 14" padded backrest for comfort; Adjustable nylon foot straps for quick, easy climbing; Cam-buckle straps lock the foot and seat platforms in place; Nests for easy transport and storage; Includes full-body safety harness; Weighs 33 lbs.; Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Hunting Climber Tree Stand

User questions & answers

Question: will it fit on big trees
Answer: I received mine and looks like it would fit up to maybe a 20" tree with wiggle room for climbing.
Question: Could this be set up to stay in a tree all season? Is it built to hang outdoors through weather
Answer: The stand can stay up year round. I would recommend taking the padded back and seat off to store off-season. Prior to hunting, I would thoroughly inspect the cables and D rings. Safety first!
Question: I can't figure out how to put the harness this thing comes with on I lost my directions any guidance
Answer: To be honest I threw that harness in trash and purchased a different one. The one that comes with the stand seemed cheap and there was no possible way I could figure it out in the dark
Question: can you sit facing the tree
Answer: Why on earth would you do that? Normally when people hunt they like to face the deer not the tree.Hope this will help you out.

OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS Climbing Stand, Aluminum Construction with 21" Wide Net Seat

Millennium Outdoors

Based on 89 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The AlumaLite CTS climbing treestand incorporates many of the same features of the original OL’MAN Climbing Stands such as patented ComforTech seating and pivoting spreader arms. We’ve made numerous improvements from other models, incorporating new oval tubing and an improved cable system that makes set up a breeze! The all new standing platform is designed lighter and features improved tubing style foot straps for easy entry and a better grip. The Alumalite CTS weighs only 21-pounds making it easy to pack in and out of the woods.

  • FEATHERLIGHT TREESTAND: Bowhunters and gun hunters have plenty of gear to haul in and out of the woods. The Alumalie CTS is built to be lightweight, offering hunters an easier option to get up in the trees and start hunting.
  • OVAL TUBING: The OL’MAN Alumalite CTS Treestand uses oval tubing in its construction. The oval shape is a much stronger shape than round tubing and is less likely to become misshapen over time. This offers hunters years of excellent use.
  • COMFORT: The Alumalite CTS features patented ComforTECH seating with a seat width of 21-inches. Hunters can look forward to a comfortable experience in the trees for hours. Entry and exit are super easy with the new improved tubing style foot straps.
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Weight: 21-pounds. Weight Limit: 300-pounds. Seat width: 21-inches. Platform size: 18-inches x 32-inches. Aluminum construction.
  • SUPERIOR HUNTABILITY: From our lightweight design to our rugged durability, OL’MAN Treestands are the highest quality treestands on the market today. We’re focused on customer service and comfort and stand behind everything we build.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the maximum diameter tree it can climb
Answer: In my experience it will be a challenge on any tree a couple of inches wider than the stand. So I would say after measuring my actual stand at only a touch over 20", 21"+ will be close to the max. I expect tree shape and bark roughness are a couple of variables which will impact this max so ymmv. Also in my experience, if you're not narrow in the hips, you can have problems with your pockets, etc. hanging up on the folding arm ends while climbing :-(.
Question: What's the weight limit
Answer: I believe it’s #300
Question: Does this have a mesh platform or straight bar platform
Answer: This one has the straight bar platform.
Question: How much does it weigh
Answer: I think it weighs 19.5 lbs.

OL'MAN TREESTANDS Multi-Vision Climbing Stand, Steel Construction with 21" Wide Net Seat, Gray, One Size (COM-04)

Millennium Outdoors

Based on 199 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Three treestands in one! Configure the Multi-Vision for the way you hunt. Set up this legendary climbing stand with the classic OL’MAN straight bar, or with the included reversible Gun Rest/Foot Rest to accommodate both gun and bow hunters. The Multi-Vision Series is the quietest climbing stand on the market. It remains our best-selling tree stand. Available in the OL’MAN aluminum Pro-Series for even lighter packability. The steel Multi-vision treestand has a 21-inch wide net seat and a stand weight of 29 lbs.

  • Steel
  • Made in the USA
  • LEGENDARY TREESTAND: The OL’MAN Multi-vision treestand is loved by gun and bow hunters everywhere.
  • 3 TREESTANDS IN 1: Configure the Multi-Vision for the way you hunt. Set up this legendary climbing stand with the classic OL’MAN straight bar, or with the included reversible Gun Rest/Foot Rest to accommodate both gun and bow hunters.
  • QUIET: The Multi-Vision Series is the quietest climbing stand on the market. It remains our best-selling tree stand.
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Steel Construction. Standing Platform measures 18-inches x 32-inches. Weight Limit: 300-pounds. Seat Style: 21-inch wide net. Overall Weight: 29-pounds. Seat Pad Cover: Black
  • OL’MAN EXPERIENCE: From our lightweight design to our rugged durability, OL’MAN Treestands are the highest quality treestands on the market today. We’re focused on customer service and comfort and stand behind everything we build.
  • Sport type: Fishing

User questions & answers

Question: Rep said their china made? Fyi
Answer: They are made in China but are of good quality
Question: Is the upper support that the pin goes in square or round because this picture is round and on the ol man website its square
Answer: The upper support where you pin the cable is square. Where the gun rest/foot rest is pinned on is round. Hope this helps.
Question: How wide of a tree will this work on
Answer: Up to a 20 inch tree.
Question: Does this include the Straight bar along with the gun/foot rest? Thanks
Answer: Yes straight and foot rest included its a great stand

Latest Reviews

View all