A treestand is a platform mounted to a tree to provide an elevated position for hunting. Originally designed for archery hunting but many states permit hunting with a firearm from a treestand or elevated platform. When buying a treestand you will want to consider how heavy it is, how easy it is to set up, the comfort it provides and maximum platform elevation. As you understand the different types of treestands available, there will be other factors that will help you determine the best treestand for your hunting style.

Treestands can be divided into three basic types, fixed position, climbing and ladder stands. Tripod style stands are also available but are not really treestands. The following explains the different types of stands and how each has something different to offer for both archery and firearm hunting.

Types

• Fixed-Position Treestands

  These are the most common types of portable treestands available and used most for archery hunting. They provide a platform with a fold up seat making them compact and versatile. Fixed position treestands mount to the tree by a chain or a strap and supported by a “T” screw or built in spike on the platform. These portable stands are available in many sizes but the smallest treestands available are the fixed-position types.

  Fixed-Position stands can be placed at any elevation but tree steps, ladders or climbing sticks are necessary for access and are sold separate from the treestand. Although these stands are the lightest of any treestands it is recommended to set up the stand prior to hunting to avoid having to transport the stand, climbing equipment and all your archery hunting gear needed at the same time of the hunt. Fixed position treestands tend to be the most difficult to set up and this will allow you to sneak into your hunting stand without spooking any game that may be close by.

  Having a good set of climbing sticks or a portable ladder and multiple fixed position stands allows for hunting several different locations without having to move the treestand for each hunt. The climbing sticks are easily setup and removed so they can be transported to each different location you have set up. Some fixed position stands offer a wrap around support arm that surrounds the hunter at about chest high when seated. This provides fall protection as well as a rest for firearm hunting but may interfere with archery hunting. A rope or other lifting device is also necessary to get your gear up to the stand for archery hunting.

• Climbing Treestands

  Climbing treestands have a 2 piece design with the seat and platform as individual parts. The platform and the seat are attached to the tree at ground level and with the seat supporting your arms and the platform supporting your feet, they are used together to climb the tree to any desired elevation. These stands are not as compact as a fixed position but most designs offer straps to allow them to be transported on your back to your hunting location. This design makes it easy to carry with the rest of your hunting gear and set up is fast and quiet at the time of your hunt. Typically your archery gear can be secured to the seat as you climb the tree so a lift rope is not needed.

  Climbing treestands tend to be the most comfortable of any stands with many models offering a reclining seat position as well as a surround arm support. These features make climbing treestands very comfortable for firearm hunting but may make archery hunting more difficult. The main drawback to the climbing treestands is the tree trunk needs to be relatively straight and clear of limbs and large branches. Smaller limbs are generally not a problem as they can be removed with a small hand saw on the way up the tree. Other than a safety harness, no other climbing devices need to be purchase to use a climbing treestand.

• Ladder Treestands

  Ladder stands are several ladder sections that lock together with a platform at the top. Some ladder stands come with a seat built in and some require the seat to be purchased separately. When completely assembled, the ladder stand is leaned against the tree trunk and secured. The elevation of the platform depends on how many ladder sections come with the treestand. Most ladder stands offer 12 to 14 foot platform heights but there are models offered now that will go as high as 20 feet.

  Ladder stands are the largest and bulkiest style treestands. They are usually set up once and left up for the entire hunting season because of the difficulty to transport but can be moved from one hunting location to another when needed. Ladder stands are used more often on private lands but are a great alternative for short hunting trips on public land where screwing fasteners or steps into a tree or cutting tree limbs is illegal in most states. Ladder stands are the safest treestands are the quietest to enter when hunting.

• Tripod Stands

  Tripod stands are not really treestands but do provide an elevated position for hunting fields or limited wooded areas. Like ladder stands they are generally bulky and heavy and meant to remain set up for longer periods. They are designed with a platform mounted to the top of three legs hence the name tripod. The platform again depends on the height of the legs and steps are welded to one of the legs for access to the platform.

  The seating position is usually on a swivel in the center of the platform to allow a 360 degree view while hunting. The seat is surrounded by a rail to prevent falling and a good gun rest. Tripods offer no place to hide and can easily be spotted in an open field and are mainly used for firearm hunting where getting close to the game is not required and longer shots are common.

Treestands are mainly constructed of metal, either steel or aluminum. Some treestand models offer plastic or carbon fiber platforms that weigh less than 7 pounds. The material used will have a big impact of the overall weight of the treestand. If you plan to transport your treestand in and out of your hunting location, a stand with a lighter frame is recommended. If you plan on leaving your stand set up when you are not hunting, you may also want to consider purchasing a locking device to prevent theft.

You will also need to factor in your body height and size. You will want to be sure the platform is large enough for you to stand up on and the overall stand will support your body weight. A platform that is too small may make you feel less comfortable and cause you to fall when high up in a tree. Also, if you are buying a treestand for archery hunting, be sure the stand allows you to properly handle your bow. The same holds true for gun hunting.