11 best ladder stands for bow hunting

Ladder stands for bow hunting are specialized hunting equipment designed to elevate hunters safely and securely into the trees, providing an advantageous vantage point for bowhunting. These stands consist of a ladder section, a platform, and a seat, and they are typically attached to trees. Here's what you need to know about ladder stands for bow hunting:

Elevation: Ladder stands are elevated platforms, usually ranging from 10 to 20 feet or more above the ground.This elevation allows bowhunters to remain above the line of sight of game animals, reducing the chances of being detected and increasing the effectiveness of their shots.
Construction: Ladder stands are constructed using sturdy materials like steel or aluminum to ensure stability and durability. The ladder sections are designed to securely attach to the tree, providing a stable ascent to the platform.
Platform: The platform serves as the base for the hunter to stand or sit while waiting for game. It's typically spacious enough for bowhunters to draw their bows comfortably and take accurate shots.
Seat: Ladder stands come with a seat that provides comfort during long hours of hunting. The seat may be padded and have a backrest for additional comfort. Some models also offer swivel seats for easier maneuvering and shot angles.
Safety: Safety is a paramount concern when using ladder stands. Most ladder stands come with safety harnesses or straps that hunters must use to secure themselves to the tree. It's crucial to follow safety guidelines and use safety equipment to prevent accidents while hunting from an elevated position.
Setup: Setting up a ladder stand typically requires multiple people and specialized equipment. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure a safe and stable installation.
Location: Selecting the right location for your ladder stand is critical for successful hunting. Hunters often choose spots near game trails, feeding areas, or bedding areas where they can remain concealed and have a clear shot at their target.
Transportability: Some ladder stands are designed to be portable and easy to transport, while others are meant to be set up and left in place for an entire hunting season. Consider your hunting strategy and needs when choosing a ladder stand.
Legal Regulations: Be aware of local hunting regulations and property owner permissions before installing ladder stands. Some areas may have restrictions or guidelines regarding the use of tree stands.

Ladder stands can be a valuable tool for bowhunters, providing an elevated position that enhances their hunting capabilities. However, it's essential to prioritize safety and adhere to best practices when using ladder stands for bow hunting.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ladder stands for bow hunting on the market

Muddy Skybox Deluxe 20 Foot Tree Stand

Based on 56 reviews Check latest price

20-FOOT TALL: Ladder stand lets you stay out of sight of deer and other game
COMFORTABLE: Rest comfortably as you wait for your prey thanks to the 22-inch-wide and 17-inch-deep Flex-Tek seat with padded armrests and a flip-back footrest
ADJUSTABLE: Seat flips back so you can use the full 19-inch by 25-inch foot platform
VERSATILE: Use the padded, adjustable shooting rail for gun hunting or flip it back for bow hunting or shooting while you stand
OPTIMAL SHIELD: Blind kit included to optimally shield you from view and provide the best hunting experience; Supports up to 300 pounds

User questions & answers

Question:	Says its a 20ft stand. Is 20ft the height to the platform or to the shooting rail? Why can't they be specific
Answer:	Yes, but mine broke after one use, so maybe i got a bad pair.
Question:	what is height to platform
Answer:	Edder, The Burton Profile glove will keep you dry, but I would not necessarily say it's waterproof. Depending on the conditions you're riding in, the glove could eventually leak through. If you are looking for a completely waterproof Burton glove, then I would suggest checking out the Burton Gore-Tex glove - those are no doubt waterproof. Let me know if you have any further questions at all. Thanks, Chris Richardson
Question:	if you leave the stand up all the time can the seat be removed in the off season
Answer:	Usa
Question:	Does the seat fold up
Answer:	I do not ride a bike but I work at O'Hare and I'm outside in the cold and my hands are always warm to to these gloves

Huntury Treestand Lifeline Rope, for Climbing Stand, Hanging Ladder Stand Or Treestand, Bow Hunting Lifeline, Fall Protection from Shooting On Stand, 30Feet

Huntury

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SPECIFICATIONS:

Rope:

Diameter: 0.47 inch/ 12mm

Length: 30feet(10M)

Material: Polyester

Breaking Strenthen: 18KN (4000lbs)

Carabiner:

Size: 3.9" x 1.8" x 0.4" (10x 4.7 x1 cm)

Material: Durable Steel

Breaking Strength: 9.8KN (2200lbs)

Prusik Knot:

Diameter: 0.32inch (8mm)

Length: 24 inch(60cm) Material: Polyeste

Breaking Strength: 11KN (2400lbs)

HOW TO USE THIS LIFELINE?

This lifeline rioe works after you are done putting up your tree stand or get to the height to where you would be hunting at. Then you wrap it around the tree and hang one end of the rope down, and hook your safety harness tail with the prusik knot, then climb and slide the knot to go up and down the tree.

KEEP YOU SAFE ALL THE TIME:

Once you set up this lifeline, it will protects you while you are climbing up to your tree stand, while you in your stand, and all the way back down to the ground. Never climbing up/down the tree and new hunting on your stand without this lifeline, if you still want to walk out of the woods to see your family.

GREAT FOR OLDER AND YOUTH HUNTER:

Being older and not as stable and having the balance that you did when you was younger, you will concerned for your safety when climbing any elevated stand. But once you have installed this lifeline you will feel completely safe. This also great for younger kids, they don't have to reach around tree to adjust tree strap with this lifeline.

More Cost-EffectiveTHAN DIY LIFELINE:

It also doesn't cost much more than buying the rope for a diy version. Our lifeline is a thick-well constructed rope, and it comes with a strong carabineer and the prussic knot is durable. Whether it is professional or security, our lifeline have more advantages than diy version.

PACKAGE INCLUDED:

1x Storage Bag

1x Hunting Rope

1x Prusik Knot

1x Carabiner

【A MUST HAVE FOR HUNTER】This life line adds a great level of safety to your hunt, you're tethered from the moment you start to climb the stand until you finish the day and are back on the ground. It will save your from some unfortunate serious tree stand accidents such as you slip, ladder or stand fails. Don't take chances, use these for your sake and for your family.
【EASY TO USE】Put around tree and pull the carabiner with slip knot and the rest of the rope thru the big loop and pull tight and slide black slip knot up tight to tree it cannot slip. It should be used any time you are using a climber or a lock on deer stand.
【MAKE CLIMBING STAND AND HANGING STAND OR STEP SAFETY】Attach this line to your vest or harness while you are still on the ground. Slide the knot up the main line as you climb, then you slide the knot back down as you are returning to the ground after the hunt. The sturdy D-ring and easy to slide knot make this one of the simplest ways to safely climb.
【MAKE YOU FEEL SAFETY AND COMFORTABLE WHILE SHOOTING OR SITTING ON STAND】It gives you security and confidence that knowing you are attach to the tree with the lifeline all the time, helps tremendously to alleviate some of the nervousness so that you can concentrate your hunt, and you don't need to worry about falling from your treestand or ladder stand.when take a nap on tree.
【MAKE BOW HUNTING EASIER AND SAFETY】You are allowed to shooting from 360' with your saddle once you attach to the tree with this lifeline. You will enjoy the freedom and range that you have to move around while in my tree stand

High Point Products Gear Lift Cord for Tree Stand, 25 Feet of Nylon Cord Clamps onto Tree Stand, Fits Square 1-Inch Tubing, Clamps On for Easy Assembly, Hauls Hunting and Archery Gear, Gun and Bow Easily into Tree Stand

High Point Products

Based on 35 reviews Check latest price

Product description

High Point Products Gear Lift Cord will quickly and conveniently get your hunting and archery gear from the ground into your tree stand or ladder stand. Use the rope to pull your bow, rifle, backpack or any other gear into your stand. When you’re ready to store, wind the rope on the device and clamp it to your tree stand for easy storage. No more tangled mess; no more hassle. This nylon-braided cord is approximately 25 feet long, lightweight, compact, and quickly attaches to any 1-inch square tubing on a tree stand or ladder stand.

Hoist your hunting and archery bow, gun and gear from the ground into your tree stand
25 feet of nylon cord quickly clamps onto 1 inch square tubing; No tools required
Once in your tree stand, pull the line to haul your gear to the top; wind the cord to store
Lift your backpack, bow, crossbow, rifle, shotgun or other gear into your tree stand or ladder stand
Lightweight; No tangled mess; made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question:	What problem does this solve? I'd have to climb up, unspool the cord, climb down, connect my gear, then climb back up and haul up the gear
Answer:	No, at least through the point in time that the same part on one of ours broke. I fixed it with a bolt-on clamp that is a standard piece of hardware for chain-link fencing. It is sad that a material as great as Coolaroo appears to be sold in this country by some very shoddy companies.
Question:	Will this attach to a Summit Viper climber treestand
Answer:	Tops are made from premium polyester.
Question:	Will this work on a lone wolf sit and climb
Answer:	Comes complete to set up but you must purchase the big 18" cement squares to keep it upright or bolt to your wooden deck....In the last 2 years the company has cheapen their quality by using plastic in all the high stress areas and the umbrella lasts maybe one season....if you are lucky to purchase one that is all metal they are wonderful and very functional...I bought my 1st coolaroo umbrella 6 years ago at OSH and it is still beautiful and functional....

Rivers Edge RE656, Retreat 1-Man Ladder Stand, Black

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Retreat 1-man ladder stand 18'
Flip out Footrest and padded armrests
2-way adjustable Shooting rail flips back, and is easily removable for bow hunting
included components: Safety Harness
material type: Steel

User questions & answers

Question:	Does the set flip up
Answer:	Yes just line dry them.

Rivers Edge RE556, Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger, Lever-Action Hang-On Tree Stand with TearTuff Flip-up Mesh Seat, Oversized 37.5” x 24” Platform, Arm/Foot/Back Rests, Black

Rivers Edge

Based on 288 reviews Check latest price

Product description

THE MOST COMFORTABLE BIG FOOT - The TearTuff XL Lounger features a flip-up, TearTuff mesh seat and armrests paired with a 37. 5” x 24” large platform and footrest providing plenty of extra room for standing shots. The unique Big Foot lever action system and noiseless strap attachment creates a secure and silent installation during your hunt.

EXTRA LARGE PLATFORM: At 37”x 24” the TearTuff Lounger offers an oversized platform with extra room for standing shots.
FLIP-UP SEAT AND ARMRESTS: Not only will you experience the all-day comfort of the TearTuff mesh seat and padded armrests, but both features also flip-up independently allowing for full use of the oversized platform when standing to shoot.
ULTRA QUIET ATTACHMENT: With a noiseless strap attachment the TearTuff Lounger has eliminated metal on metal contact and all of the noise that goes with it.
BACK AND FOOTRESTS: The Tear-Tuff backrest offers additional comfort when seated while the built-in footrest provides plenty of room for leg stretching.
LEVER-ACTION STABILITY: Big Foot Hang-Ons bite into the tree with an aggressive lever-action eliminating the need for a second strap. Perfect for sitting at ground level or way up high, the TearTuff XL provides unprecedented stability at any height.
Included Components: Safety Harness
Material Type: Steel

User questions & answers

Question:	does it come with a saftey harness
Answer:	It is really for a tower or ladder stand. There are no straps to attach it to the seat section.
Question:	Can 2 people sit together at a time
Answer:	Just the foam but it’s very thick and comfortable, I’m over 285lbs and it’s great
Question:	Is the Plattform one piece or can it be dismantled
Answer:	17x14 x2.5 very nice seat used it last season if you hunt from a tree stand you need this really glad i bought this one
Question:	Can the armrest padding be removed? I want to attach a bow holder to the armrest
Answer:	The seat is 1 1/2 inch the back is 3/4 inch . It is a very nice cushion. I set on the stand for hours in comfort. It's also very warm . I bought two , for my husband and I.

Product features

Rivers Edge Big Foot Hang-On Tree Stands

Nothing attaches to a tree tighter than a Big Foot tree stand! Our line of lever-action hang-on stands bite into the tree eliminating the need for a second strap. Other tree stands use small ratchet straps that are not as secure once installed. Perfect for sitting on a tree at ground level or higher up when paired with our climbing aids. Feel the stability of a Big Foot tree stand for yourself!

Attach Noiseless Strap System

Noiseless strap attachment system eliminates metal on metal contact, making installation a whole lot quieter.

Tighten Strap

With the platform folded up, pull the loose end of the 2" strap as tight as possible.

Push Down on Tree Stand

Pull or push the stand firmly in a downward direction to tighten strap further.

Pivot Platform Down

This pulls the uprights away from the tree, making the strap extremely tight and the stand stable.

Durable Construction

All Rivers Edge products are designed and thoroughly tested at our headquarters in Cumberland, WI before going to market. We use high-quality products that ensure years of reliable use.

Stable and Secure

When you trust your tree stand, you can focus more on your surroundings. We work hard to ensure high stability and security when you're in our stands. Our products meet industry standards recognized by the Treestand Manufacturer’s Association.

Comfortable

We build our tree stands with the hunter's comfort in mind. Whether it's thicker padding, ergonomic mesh seats or larger platforms, we want our customers to enjoy their time in the tree.

Muddy Outdoors Excursion Ladder Stand Black

Muddy

Based on 61 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Excursion Ladder stand features a removable two way adjustable flip back padded shooting rail, flip back Flex Tec lumbar seat, footrest, bolted ladder sections and silencer technology for no metal on metal contact. Stand Weight: 61 lbs., Weight Rating: 300 lbs., Platform Dimensions: 19"x25", Seat Dimension: 22"x17"x19", Stand Height: 17'.

Bolted ladder sections
Flip back padded shooting rail
Flex Tec lumbar seat

User questions & answers

Question:	How many ladder sections? How long are the sections
Answer:	3 sections, about 5-6’ each.
Question:	My package came totally torn up with no bolts/screws. can anyone tell me how long the 1/4 delta bolt is? and if it has fine threads? thanks
Answer:	2 1/4" usa thread
Question:	Does it come with a bar stabilizer
Answer:	Yes it does - best ladder stand I’ve owned. Very stand and comfortable. Bought 2
Question:	Why does it show one rail on the ladder in one picture and two rails in another picture
Answer:	This stand only has single rail

BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Treestand - Adjustable Shooting Rail, Extra Wide/Deep Platform for Wide Stances, Flex Tek Comfort Seating 18.6' Tall

BIG GAME

Based on 155 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hunt your favorite hot spot for mature bucks from the Big Game Treestands Hunter HD 1. 5 Ladder Stand. Made from 100% steel, the Hunter HD 1. 5 stand offers a 23. 5” x 29” foot platform for plenty of room to maneuver as well as a flip-up Flex-Tek seat for enhanced comfort during long sits. Additionally, the Big Game Hunter HD 1. 5 ladder stand offers a flip-up shooting rail and 4 single-rail oval tubing ladder sections.

Adjustable, Removable, Padded Shooting Rail that Flips Up allowing you to get the perfect shot.
Extra Wide, foldable Flex-Tek Seat Contours to Legs and Back for Ultimate Comfort.
Extra Wide and Deep 23.5″ Wide x 29″ Foot Platform for Wide Stance
Weight 61 Pounds- Weight Rating 350 lbs.

User questions & answers

Question:	can you buy an enclosure for it
Answer:	Logan, yes everything you need comes with it, I did add an additional tie down strap for additional safety.
Question:	Does the backrest sit up against the tree or is it spaced away from the tree
Answer:	Says in the description, mine is 19 feet. DO NOT have this shipped. Box ripped, pieces missing not discovered until assembly. Big Game refused any request for parts. Had to order and pay for parts 3 months ago and have not received anything. The only solution would be to disassemble and return and hope the next one arrives complete. Total joke.
Question:	does it come with the straps and everything needed to mount it
Answer:	I use a small mixer, the Behringer Xenyx 502 to sum the audio into my in-ears. This also helps me playing on stage because i get a FOH mix direct from the board and I can mix it in to my in-ears.
Question:	How tall is the stand
Answer:	Comes with batteries. No Ac adapter. The adapter is the PSB-1U

Product features

The Hunter HD 1.5 Treestand

Hunt your favorite hot spot for mature bucks from the Big Game Treestands Hunter HD 1. 5 Ladder Stand. Made from 100% steel, the Hunter HD 1. 5 stand offers a 23. 5” x 29” foot platform for plenty of room to maneuver as well as a flip-up Flex-Tek seat for enhanced comfort during long sits and ability to have wide stances while taking that important shot. Additionally, the Big Game Hunter HD 1. 5 ladder stand offers a flip-up shooting rail and 4 single-rail oval tubing ladder sections.

Flex Tek Seat

Flex Tek conforms to your legs so you can sit comfortably for hours. Seat is foldable giving you ample standing room.

Extra Wide Platform

Foldable Seat and Movable Shooting Arm allows for wide stances.

Flip Up Foot Rest

Giving your comfort and stability during the hunt.

HME Products 25ft MAXX Hoisting Rope

HME

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

25 Feet Long
The 1.5 Inch Orange Reflective Wrap Makes Locating Your Tree Stand In The Dark Much Easier
Heavy-Duty Carabiner-Style Hook - Dipped In Pvc To Prevent Damaging To Your Bow String Or The Finish On Your Bow
Plastic Sleeve Covers & Protects The Clasps

User questions & answers

Question:	What’s the weight limit on this product
Answer:	Call Amazon Customer Service. Be sure to have order number and sellers name available. Let them know that the seller was unresponsive and they will file a report and resolve your issue for you.
Question:	Ships within 1 to 2 months?? is that an error
Answer:	Gave as gift and have never seen the actual product.
Question:	Is the rope thicker then 550 paracord
Answer:	Very similar
Question:	Does this get tangled every time you use it
Answer:	it does not include a removable liner

Rivers Edge RE646, Classic One Man Ladder Stand, Black

Rivers Edge

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

STABLE DESIGN WITH PADDED SEAT - The Classic is a simple and stable ladder stand that is lightweight and easy to set-up. With a comfortable padded seat and 18” wide foot platform, this stand makes for an affordable ladder stand option for any woods.

Padded 20" x 10" seat for comfort
18" x 10" wide foot platform
Criss-cross straps and Adjustable Stabilizer bar
Weighs only 37lbs
300 lb. Capacity
Material Type: Steel

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this "one man" ladder stand be assembled by a single man in the field
Answer:	You probably could assemble the ladder in the woods, but it would be a lot easier if you would at a minimum partially assemble the ladder stand at home. I am not sure how many components make up the assembly, but there are many hardware items that could easily get lost if assembled in the woods. The assembly directions that come with the ladder stand are excellent, but when assembling the stand you must following each step in exact order as outlined in the assembly instructions. I estimate it took me an hour to assemble the stand at home. I do not think one person could place the stand against a tree alone. The stand is rather heavy, and to "walk" the stand up against the tree alone would be very difficult, and unsafe. Two people can put the stand up, three people would be better.
Question:	does the seat fold back
Answer:	The seat does not fold back. Once assembled, it is fixed in place.
Question:	How tall is this stand
Answer:	Hi, the height to the platform is 13'7" and the height to the seat is 15'3". Thanks!
Question:	why is shipping 20 dollars
Answer:	You will want to contact Amazon directly as they are the ones charging you with shipping.

Product features

Rivers Edge 1-Man Ladder Stands

Rivers Edge Treestands have always been the ladder stands experts. Our options of single person ladder stands all serve a distinct purpose when used in the field. Bowhunters and gun hunters of different heights and sizes all have a one-man ladder stand to choose from that will fit their needs.

Durable Construction

All Rivers Edge products are designed and thoroughly tested at our headquarters in Cumberland, WI before going to market. We use high-quality products that ensure years of reliable use.

Stable and Secure

Comfortable

We build our tree stands with the hunter's comfort in mind. Whether it's thicker padding, ergonomic mesh seats or larger platforms, we want our customers to enjoy their time in the tree.

Ameristep Tree Steps 8-Pack | Self-Tapping Screw Mount for Climbing to Tree Stands | Available in 2-Inch and 4-Inch Sizes

Ameristep

Based on 550 reviews Check latest price

Ameristep Hunting Ground Blinds & Accessories | Hunting success begins with the element of surprise. That’s what Ameristep has given hunters for over 20 years: ground blinds & accessories that cleverly conceal positions from up above and down below
Step-Up Tree Step from Ameristep features a 4-inch step area that can hold a maximum weight capacity of 750 pounds
2-inch thread length self-tapping screw ensures quick and easy installation no tools needed | Small design easily stows in pack
Non-reflective finish eliminates glare and distraction | Deeply knurled for safe climbing
Includes: Eight tree steps

User questions & answers

Question:	What size thickness of these
Answer:	They are about 15/32. They are pretty strong. I'm 200 pounds and can put all my weight one step.
Question:	Wont the trees die afterwards
Answer:	No, This is no different than tapping a maple tree for syrup.
Question:	What is the weight limit
Answer:	300lbs I believe
Question:	does this include the drill attachment? If no, where can I get one of them
Answer:	You do not need a drill attachment.

BIG GAME LS4860 18' Guardian XLT Two-Person Ladderstand, Camo/Black

BIG GAME

Based on 369 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Big Game Guardian XLT is a steel constructed, two-person, 18' ladder stand that comes fully loaded with a comfortable, stable, and spacious design. It offers a 6. 5" wide x 12. 5" deep foot platform, as well as a 38" wide x 12" deep Flex-Tec bench style seat design, all of which combine to ensure spacious comfort during an all-day hunt. This stand comes feature packed with a padded shooting rail that provides a steady shot for gun hunting, as well as holds the ability to flip up and out of the way for a clear shooting lane for bow hunting. Weighing in at only 53 lbs. , the Guardian XLT ladder stand holds a weight rating of 500 lbs. Included are two TMA-Certified full body harnesses.

18' tall to the Shooting rail
6. 5" wide x 12. 5" deep foot platform
38" wide x 12" deep flex-teak bench style seat design
Flip-up padded Shooting rail
Weighs only 53 lbs.

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the outside width of the ladder
Answer:	Yes it comes with the straps. FYI the seat is VERY low quality. I sent mine back as the seat is guaranteed to fail.
Question:	How long is the ladder support bar when pinned in the longest position
Answer:	Not sure what your referring to as "this", but the only thing I can think of it coming with is 2 safety harnesses.
Question:	Does it come with Enough straps For attaching to tree
Answer:	No
Question:	Does the ladder come with this
Answer:	There is approx. 5” away from tree.