Types of Elevated Stands

Portable Tree Stands

Portable tree stands can be safe and environmentally friendly. Commercial stands that are manufactured, certified, or tested to Treestand Manufacturer’s Association (TMA) standards are best. Homemade stands should not be used. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and also practice installing a tree stand at ground level before you go hunting. Portable tree stands come in three basic types.

Hang-On Stands

These simple stands provide about four square feet of space. They must be hauled into place and secured to the tree with belts or chains. These stands require separate climbing aids such as segmented ladders or climbing sticks. When installing a climbing aid, determine your climbing route first. Attach the aid to the tree so that it extends above the stand’s platform and you can step down onto the platform.

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Climbing Stands

These platform stands are designed for trees with straight trunks and consist of two sections, which are also the climbing aids. A hunter “walks” the stand up a tree by moving one section with the hands and one with the feet. While on the ground, you must adjust the stand to allow for the tapering of the tree as you go up. When climbing, go slowly, take small steps, and always keep the two sections connected with a tether. This type of stand is not suited for trees with shaggy bark or with branches between the ground and the desired elevation. Never use these stands on trees covered with ice or snow.

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Ladder Stands

Ladder stands usually provide a platform 10 to 20 feet above the ground. The built-in ladder lets you use these stands with a wider range of trees. Due to their size and weight, hunters normally assemble and set up ladder stands before the first day of hunting. Three to five people are needed to erect or take down a ladder stand safely. When setting up the stand, clear the base area of all rocks and debris, making sure the ground is level. Then lean the stand against the tree and chain or strap it into place. Use all parts of the stand when installing it.

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Tripods, Quadpods, or Tower Stands (Free-Standing)

These stands are similar to a ladder tree stand but are free-standing and can be placed anywhere that has a firm base.