In this product review article our hunting editor walks you through everything you need to know in order to pick the best hunting tree stand for your specific needs and hunting situation.

Best Tree Stands

	Best Climbing Tree Stand	Best Hang On Tree Stand	Best 2 Man Ladder Stand
	Summit Climbing Treestand	Lone Wolf Hang On Treestand	Guide Gear 16.5' 2-Man Ladder Tree Stand
Product Weight (lbs)	20 lbs	11 lbs	76 lbs
Capacity (lbs)	300 lbs	350 lbs	500 lbs
Special Features	All-aluminum climber combo. Great all around simple operation.	Ultra-light aluminum construction. Simple, clean and compact	Good weight:capacity ratio, roomy, transports in (3) five foot sections.
Customer Ratings	4.7 / 5.0 Stars	4.7 / 5.0 Stars	5.0 / 5.0 Stars

Also see: Hunting Tree Stands Comparison Table

Quick Answer: The 6 Best-Rated Tree Stands For Hunting – 2021

Best Climbing Tree Stands

1. Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand
2. Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo II Climbing Tree Stand

Best Hang-On Treestands

1. Lone Wolf Assault II Hang On Treestand
2. Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand

Best Ladder Stands

1. Guide Gear 16.5′ 2-Man Ladder Tree Stand
2. X-Stand The Jayhawk Ladder Stand

 Hunting Tree Stand Reviews

Best Climbing Tree Stands

#1 Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Treestand

Summit really has a great lineup of climbing tree stand products. Viper SD just happens to be the most popular size and capacity. You may also want to take a look at their larger units with more standing room and weight capacity.

For overall construction, weight and strength this is the best lineup of climbing-type treestands that are available. Also see the Summit tree stand accessories that are available.

#2 Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo II Climbing Tree Stand

When considering these climbing stands the weight of the unit is a big factor. The Lone Wolf is the lightest we’ve seen, but because of a smart folding design it maintains a high level of strength and capacity.

Not an inexpensive product, but a very high-quality unit that will last you forever.  For portability and the freedom to hunt where you want this is a close 2^nd runner up to the Summit product.

Best Hang-On Treestands

#1 Lone Wolf Assault II Hang On Treestand

We think this is the best hang on tree stand because of the light weight, and relative strength and capacity. The use of aluminium, which is a more expensive material to start with, has yielded the best performed in the hang on treestands category.

In this video the Lone Wolf Hang-On hanger stand is used with climbing sticks to make a single trip up the tree before mounting the lock on tree stand.

This unit is easy to pack and quick to deploy.

#2 Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite Tree Stand

Among hang on treestands the Millennium M100 may be the most common in use. Originally manufactured as “deer stands”, they were also called “hanger stands” in their early incarnations.

Today Millennium is a respected maker with a lot of experience under their belt. We like this unit just fine, and the only drawback against competitors is the extra weight factor.

Best Hunting Ladder Stands

#1 Guide Gear 16.5′ 2-Man Ladder Tree Stand

Ladder stands add another level of comfort and space for hunters. A two man ladder stand can extend up to 18 or more feet above ground and and accommodate two hunters. But along with this convenience comes a price – a two man tree stand can weigh over a hundred pounds and require more than 2 men to hoist.

For this rather large buying factor we chose the Guide Gear branded 2 man tree stand unit that weighs just 76 lbs. as our top pick.

#2 X-Stand The Jayhawk Ladder Stand

In the 2 person tree stand category The Jayhawk might be the Mercedes Benz of ladder tree stands. It’s big, heavy and comfortable.

Standing 20 feet tall at the railing and weighing 122 lbs. it can be a real monster to haul, assemble and hoist. Some reviewers have reported that 3-4 men are required to stand this ladder tree stand up.

We included here for its many features and quality.

Hunting Tree Stand Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Hunting Stand

• Introduction
• Types of Hunt Stand
• Purchase Considerations
• Weight Capacity
• Reliability and Strength
• Weight of Device
• Tree Stand Brands
• FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Introduction

If you’ve ever hunted with a tree stand you know the added element of excitement, and the skill required. There are a lot of factors to consider when you choose from the hunting tree stands available, depending on your weight and type of hunting. In this article we look at 3 categories of tree stands and pick our 6 top-rated hunt stands.

There are several different types of stand available on the market, from twin hunter stands, through ladder stands and climbing stands.  Sometimes these are called hunt stands and they help the hunter by sitting high within a tree, offering good visibility of the surrounding areas.

Thereby, the hunter can see his or her game as they approach and pass by.  A good stand is a key part of the success in finding your deer, boar, elk and so on.

Types of Hunt Stand

Hunt stands come in a variety of types.

• Ladder Tree Stands

These are an inventive structure that attaches to the tree and is topped by a stand.  These constructions are versatile, so not a lot of time has to be spent choosing a tree to use.  Often, they come with a big enough platform to hold a second person comfortably.

• Climbing Tree Stands

These stands have a seat and a foot rest.  The stand attaches to the tree from the ground, and the hunter uses the stand to ascend the tree trunk.  One part of the stand is moved while the hunter keeps their weight on the other section.

• Hang On Tree Stands

Sometimes called lock on tree stands, these attach to various types of trees.  Often, a climbing facility will need to be purchased separately.

• Tripod Tree Stands

These are great when there are few trees around.  They can be erected pretty much anywhere, and the best give a full 360 degree view.

Purchase Considerations

• Ladder Tree Stands

Ease of use is a big plus with this kind of device, as getting up and down is straight forward.  Ladder tree stands are towards the cheaper end of the market, and a solid construction can be purchased for well under $100.

• Climbing Tree Stands

These stands tend to be towards the upper end of the purchase market, and expect to pay in excess of $300 for some varieties.  But, as always, you get what you pay for.

• Hang On Tree Stands

Expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a stand such as this, plus extras.  However, at the cheaper end of the market, the seats can be basic and if a long session is planned it is worth spending the extra on a comfortable model.  The stand is specially good for deer, since it is quiet to fit and use.

• Tripod Tree Stands

Expect to pay around the $200 mark for one of these.  There is definitely a slightly less secure to a free standing tripod, and it is important to check the construction quality of your piece.

Weight Capacity

• Ladder Tree Stands

With many of these sturdy devices designed to accommodate two people, weight is not usually an issue, although there can be a trade off between lighter, portable devices and heavier, stronger ones.

• Climbing Tree Stands

With the hunter’s weight being one of the locking devices to ensure the safety of the device, there is often a hearty weight capacity.  Good varieties can hold up to 300 pounds

• Hang On Tree Stands

These securely attach to trees, allowing more weight to be supported.  However, often the seats and platforms are small, so a bulkier person might struggle to be accommodated comfortably.

• Tripod Tree Stands

It’s important to feel secure with a tripod stand, which means that a heavier capacity can lead the user to feel more vulnerable.

Size

• Ladder Tree Stands

Size can be an issue when transporting these devices, since they can often be bulky.  However, many hunters will simply set up their stand and then leave them in place saving time and effort.

• Climbing Tree Stands

These devices often present plenty of space for standing and sitting, but because no climbing device is attached (other than harnasses) they are easy to transport.

• Hang On Tree Stands

As we saw above, hang on stands tend to be small.  This means that they are great for transporting through woods, but can lack comfort if used for long periods.

• Tripod Tree Stands

A tripod stand might typically stand at 15 feet above the ground.  That is a lot of steel and aluminium to move around, although since it is most likely to be used in a mostly empty area, that negates the difficulty of moving it around to some extent.  Even more than with a tree stand, a head for heights is necessary since the stand is likely to sit in the open.

Reliability and Strength

• Ladder Tree Stands

These do what they say they can do, and their simplicity makes them a sturdy option for the buyer.

• Climbing Tree Stands

A clear trunk is needed for access to the tree and the device itself does the climbing, rather than being fitted into position.  Having said that, where a good tree can be found, this kind of stand is often one of the most comfortable varieties.

• Hang On Tree Stands

Many come with lifetime guarantees.  Say no more.

• Tripod Tree Stands

A sturdy model is very important.  Be prepared to pay a little extra for your own security and safety.

Weight of Device

• Ladder Tree Stands

This can be an issue when it comes to transportation, since the very solidity of the design that offers ease of access can mean the device is heavy to move around, often it is a more than one man job.

• Climbing Tree Stands

By contrast, a climbing tree stand is very much a one man job to transport.  Designs are sturdy enough to be safe, but easily transportable.

• Hang On Tree Stands

These are really lightweight, and can weigh as little as 11 pounds, which makes them really easy to transport.

• Tripod Tree Stands

Because they are free standing models, the weight of tripod stands is a little more than others.  However, as with their size, they are not going to be moved in dense undergrowth and between hanging branches.

Tree Stand Brands

• Ladder Tree Stands

Something like the Guide Gear Basic offers a well priced introduction to this kind of tool.  Guide Gear also has an extra large model for more platform space, although the seating is basic, and there is nowhere to support a rifle.

• Climbing Tree Stands

Several brands are available on the market.  One of the best is the Summit 180 Max SD, which comes with a reversible seat allowing the rifle to be rested against the trunk.  It offers a big, comfortable seat but is lightweight to move around.

• Hang On Tree Stands

The Millennium M100U-SL is super light and folds flat, making it easy to get into place.  It attaches securely to its tree, and has a comfortable seat which folds back to allow stand up shots.

• Tripod Tree Stands

The Amerstep15 foot tripod is a good model.  It is well built and comes with accessories such as a roof kit, although these cost extra.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can a climbing stand fall out of a tree?

Answer: Unfortunately, it is possible. However, as long as you follow basic safety and prep guidelines you should be just fine like hundreds of thousands of other climbing stand users.

Here are a few tips to help keep you safe, but remember to follow the manufacturer’s rules step by step first and foremost.

1. Make sure the tree you’re climbing is the right size.
2. Use a harness while in the tree for backup safety.
3. Learn how to lower yourself safely in case of an emergency.
4. Perform a routine safety inspection of your gear.

A few other tips from pretty classic climbing techniques would include making sure that you climb slowly, deliberately, and only ever moving one limb at a time. Never carry gear in your hands while you climb – use a rope to pull up your gear after you’ve reached the stand seat.

Question: Can I build my own treestand?

Answer: If you’re hunting on public land you probably can’t legally build a permanent stand. Unfortunately, you also run the risk of other hunters stealing a nice climbing stand or mobile stand. Sometimes there’s just a lose-lose situation.

However, if you have private property, you can certainly build any kind of treestand that you want. Let it suit your needs and build away. Check local hunting laws before you go too crazy though, because sometimes there are treestand restrictions, such as platform height, even on private property.

Question: How can I keep my treestand from being stolen?

Answer: As I mentioned earlier, and you probably already know, people love to steal treestands. Even on private property, it’s not uncommon to go out to your stand just to find the straps slashed and the stand missing.

Trust me, the squirrels did not steal your stand. Some other trespasser or hunter on public lands just stole your stand. Boo!

Most people use a chain and a lock to keep their stands safe. Other options include a large gauge cable or nylon straps.

Of course, any treestand thief is going to come prepared to cut chains, locks, and ropes. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot you can do about it if someone is determined to make off with your stand.

One trick you can try is to cleverly hide a trail camera in a tree across from your stand. If someone triggers the camera, at least you’ll have a photo of the thief.

Question: Is aluminum or steel the best material for a treestand?

Answer: I would definitely go with aluminum if you can.

Why? It’s lighter weight, it’s rust-proof, and it’s just as strong as steel for the purposes of a tree stand.

Some parts of a tree stand are better made from steel like bolts, junctions, and teeth for digging into the bark. Steel parts can be easily built in to an aluminum stand body, though, and that means you get the best of both worlds when necessary.

Oober-light aluminum stands can weigh as little as 10 pounds or so. Meanwhile, two-person steel stands may push upwards of 150 pounds.

So, if you need a portable stand for yourself, aluminum is the clear winner. If you plan to leave your stand in place and you can carry it in on an ATV or UTV, a steel stand might be just fine.

Conclusion

There are other stands, such as specialised ones for bow hunting, on the market, but here we have seen a good cross section of types.  As with anything, the hunter needs to decide on what they want and where the device is going to be used.  A climbing stand, for example, is very flexible but needs a good degree of physical fitness to erect, whereas a ladder stand allows ease of access but can be tricky to get into position.

Look at the top picks herein and also read user reviews to determine which hunt stand best suits you, and meets your particular hunting needs.

Thanks for reading The 6 Best Hunting Tree Stands. We hope this article has helped you to discover the best choice for a tree stand for your needs and preferences.  You might also be interested in our related and informative deer hunting article entitled, Deer Hunting Regions of the United States.

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HUNTING GEAR  HUNTING BOWS | CROSSBOWS | HUNTING ARROWS | TREE STANDS | HUNTING BOOTS | HUNTING BACKPACKS | HUNTING RIFLE SCOPES | HUNTING BINOCULARS | LASER RANGEFINDERS | HUNTING HEADLAMPS | TRAIL CAMERAS | HUNTING GPS | BOW SIGHTS | SPOTTING SCOPES | HUNTING BLINDS

How We Researched

To come up with the top tree stands, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Backcountry, Moosejaw, EVO along with our own personal experience.

We also consulted online magazines for product research and reviews to get as much unbiased information as we could. To help weed out fake reviews we used Fakespot.com to make sure we only looked at genuine reviews.

With so much quality gear available, we had to narrow it down based on what we felt were the best options were for the price. The author, Richard Moore, is an avid hunter and outdoorsman. 

To help narrow down the selection he used his personal experience along with recommendations from fellow hunters and hunting outfitters.

After extensive research, we came up with our list to help you choose the right one for you.

Sources