Choosing The Right Treestand… (Hang-on-Stand)

© By Othmar Vohringer

Choosing The Right Treestand for The Perfect Ambush (Hang-On-Stands)

Hang-on, or fixed, stands are the most commonly used stands. Of all the stand models this is the most versatile of all and relatively easy to set up. Hang-on stands come in a variety of designs and some even have features that let you adjust for leaning and bent tree trunks. The stand is a simple straightforward design consisting of a main beam with a sitting and standing platform attached. The seat and platform can be folded for compact transport and storage.

The stand is attached to the tree with a chain hook-up or webbing belt and ratchet, or cinch buckle, systems. Some stands require a stabilization cinch buckle belt to stabilize it to the tree. Other models use the standing platform to wedge the stand firmly against the tree trunk. I prefer the latter because it makes the stand rock solid on the tree without adding a second strap. Once the stand is secured to the tree the platform is pulled down, creating a lever action that firmly stabilizes the stand on the tree. There are also models that can be hooked onto brackets. The hunter can purchase as many treestand brackets as he wants and install them at different locations. This system has the advantage that only one stand is needed and if the hunter changes location all he has to do is to hook the stand onto the pre-installed brackets.

The hang-on stand is easy to transport and relatively light. Most hang-on stands weigh between 11 lbs to 17 lbs. Depending on the hunter’s physical ability it may make two persons necessary to set the stand up. With the variety of models and hook-up systems available there is barely a tree where this stand cannot be attached to, and that makes it one of the most popular models.

To mount and access the hang-on stand some sort of climbing device is necessary. There are two models of climbing sticks on the market. One model requires that the individual sections are connected together and then, with ratchet straps, attached to the tree truck. The other model consists of singe units that are individually connected to the tree. The single unit leader sections are especially handy if you have to navigate tree branches or bent tree trunks. Tree steps that can be individually screwed into the tree are another option and give great versatility but take a long time to install. I prefer the individual ladder type sections because it lets me navigate branches and bent tree trunks better than a solid 15-foot ladder stick.

Portability:

I do not consider the hang-on stand as a “run and gun” stand because set up takes at least five to ten minutes even for an experienced treestand hunter. However, these stands are affordable and having several stands set up at different locations does give a hunter the option to change locations quickly if need arises.

Usability:

As described above this stand model comes in a great variety of design, shapes and sizes. This variety makes this stand the most versatile of all. If there is a tree chances are it will accommodate at least one of the many hang-on stands available with relative ease. Many treestand hunters own at least a half dozen hang-on stands of various designs to accommodate a variety of trees and hunting situations.

In the next post we will look at climbing stands.

Image courtesy of: Gorilla Treestands


Related articles:
Treestand Hunting Safety Tips
Choosing The Right Treestand for The Perfect Ambush (intro)


Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit


Tags: Treestands, Treestand Hunting Tips, Choosing the Right Treestand, Deer Hunting, Hang-On Treestands,Treestand Hunting Tips, Gorilla Treestands,

Choosing The Right Treestand for The Perfect Ambush

© By Othmar Vohringer

Over ninety percent of hunters prefer hunting from treestands and quite rightly so. Hunting from an elevated position will get the hunter above the sight and smell of animals. Hunting from a treestand, unlike other methods such as stalking and deer drives, is a low impact method which means that a hunter is less likely to get patterned by deer or alert them in other ways of his presence.

However, to make treestand hunting work to your advantage the often-overlooked factor of choosing the right stand model for you and the area you hunt is very important. Given the large variety of models and brands available, choosing the right treestand can be a daunting task. To help you make the right stand model choice we will look at the different models in the coming few days.

Basically treestands are divided into four models. These are: fixed position stands, climbing stands, ladder stands and although not strictly a treestand, tripod stands fall into that category too. Despite the variation of the stand models there are a few basics that apply to all treestands and treestand hunting.

Every hunter should be aware that no matter what type of stand is chosen they all require some agility and strength to transport and to set up. In the many years I have hunted from treestands I have yet to find a model that is comfortably light to transport for much more than a half-mile. Even the lightest models can be of considerable weight when combined with climbing sticks or screw-in steps. A light quality stand weighs around 10 to 14 pounds but add to that the weight of the steps at (give or take) another 6 to 8 pounds and you could end up with close to or just over 20 pounds that you have to haul on your back to your stand location.

I strongly recommend going with a stand that has been manufactured by a member of the Treestand Manufacturer Association (TMA). Members of this organization periodically undergo unannounced product safety and quality checks to guarantee quality of the materials and workmanship. Stands from TMA members usually are a little bit more expensive than those of non-TMA members. In my opinion a few extra dollars are well spent on a device that potentially could kill you if poorly manufactured with cheap materials. It is for the same reason that I do not recommend using a D-I-Y-stand made with 2 x 4’s nailed to a tree. These contraptions are just not safe to use in the long run.

A good treestand should have a decent sized standing platform of at least 20 inches by 29 inches and a comfortably sized and padded seat. There is nothing worse than sitting perched like a crow on a branch for up to six or more hours on an uncomfortable stand. An uncomfortable seat will make treestand hunting a battle of endurance and lead to fidgeting around and this in turn alerts deer to your presence.

The treestand has to be easy to install and hang onto the tree. It is a very different matter to hang a stand onto a tree with both feet on the ground compared to 15 feet, or higher, off the ground with your feet balancing on a narrow metal rod step and your upper body tied to the tree trunk. I like fixed stand models that come with a hanging bracket. This permits me to hang the stand onto the bracket that is previously attached to the tree trunk, freeing both my hands up to fasten the stand to the tree versus having only one hand free to install the stand.

In a climbing treestand I look for the same things as in a fixed stand: comfort and a decent sized standing platform. In addition I like climbing stands that can be quickly and quietly assembled with only a few pins. It is easy to assemble a stand in daylight with lots of different straps, nuts and bolts making the need for tools necessary. But try that same task before daylight, when most of these stands are assembled during a morning hunt and it will become a frustrating nightmare placing all the tiny nuts and bolts in the right position. Forget it if you happen to drop a small bolt in the dark, you never will find it again on the forest floor. Fortunately, treestand manufactures have become more concerned about practicality and offer modes that do not need any assembling.

In order for a treestand to be of any use as an element of a surprise ambush the stand has to be quiet to transport and to hunt from. A stand that rattles as you walk through the woods or is squeaking and popping each time you move on it is worthless. All stands can at times make a popping noise, especially when the temperature falls below freezing. Here I am talking about stands that produce noise constantly and in my experience stands with riveted rather than welded frames are the culprits.

To summarize what all stands should have in common:

A good quality stand wears the TMA seal of approval, is safe to use and comfortable to sit on, easy to install and quiet. The brand name of the stand is of no consideration to me. What is important is the model design. Discussing brands is like discussing cars. Each person has his or her favorite. There are those that like Fords and others who prefer Chevys. It’s the same with treestand brands. If you’re in the market for a new stand try out as many models as you can to find the one that comes close to suit your needs of comfort and the environment you intend to use the stand in.

In the next post we will look at fixed stands and what situations they suit best.

Related articles:
Treestand Hunting Safety Tips

Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit


Tags: Treestands, Treestand Hunting Tips, Choosing the Right Treestand, Deer Hunting

Treestand Hunting Safety

© By Othmar Vohringer

With the hunting season approaching fast hunters are getting ready. After scouting, which you hopefully have done by now, our next task is to hang the treestands. Hunting from a treestand is for many the preferred method of hunting. And quite rightly so. Treestands offer many advantages over other hunting methods. However, every time humans leave terra firma they expose themselves to certain risks that could get deadly in a heartbeat.

Treestand hunting is only safe if the person using them acts responsibly and pays attention to a few commonsense safety guidelines and here they are:

• Never carry equipment with you while climbing. Use a haul line to raise or lower your gear. Make sure guns and crossbows are unloaded and broadheads are covered prior to raising or lowering firearms, crossbows, or bows.
• Always use a climbing belt when climbing up or down a tree. Use a safety harness when hunting from elevated tree stands. Study manufacturer’s recommendations before using any equipment. Never use a rope to replace a safety harness.
• Check permanent tree stands every year before hunting from them. Replace any worn or weak lumber.
• Read, understand and follow the factory recommended practices and procedures when installing and using commercial stands. Inspect portable stands for loose nuts and bolts before each use.
• Choose only healthy, living trees when using climbing devices. Rough-barked trees such as oak are best. Do not use a tree that is rotten or has dead limbs.
• Never put all your weight on a single branch. Keep at least one hand and one foot on a secure place when reaching for the next hold.
• Climb higher than the stand and step down onto it. Climbing up onto it can dislodge it.
• Wear boots with non-skid soles, because steps or platforms can be slippery in rain, sleet or snow.
• Never hunt from a treestand in high wind, lightening storm or under the influence of alcohol and medication that could impair your judgement and reactions.
• Always make sure you choose a tree that is not over or under the tree diameter recommended by the stand manufacturer.
• Tell a dependable person where you’re hunting and when you plan to return. Map your whereabouts and leave a note at camp, at home or in your vehicle so that you can be found.
• If sleepy, move your arms and legs to promote blood circulation until you feel alert. Always be well rested before attempting to hunt from an elevated stand
• Maintain your treestands regularly after each hunting season and store them in a dry place. Check the stand before each use for wear and tear.
• Repair treestands only with manufacturer recommended parts.
• As a precautionary measure, clear all debris, branches, rocks and other hard or pointy material from the ground below the tree stand.
• Use updated equipment. Newer tree stand equipment is solid, safe and secure. Updated safety harnesses offer more protection than older ones.
• Carry a whistle to call for help and carry a first aid kit, flashlight and cellular telephone in a fanny pack.
• Before you hunt from a newly purchased treestand practice attaching and detaching it to/from the tree at about a foot or two of the ground. Stand and sit on it until you become absolutely familiar with the stand and how to set it up.
• Only use stands that carry the approval rating seal of the Treestand Manufactures Association (TMA)

Make the best of treestand hunting

© By Othmar Vohringer

Over ninety percent of hunters prefer to hunt from treestands and quite rightly so. Hunting from an elevated position will get the hunter above the sight and smell of deer. In addition hunting from a treestand, unlike other methods such as stalking and deer drives, is a low impact method which means that a hunter is less likely to get patterned by deer or alert them in other ways of his presence. However, to get the full benefit of treestand hunting a hunter has to pay close attention to details in locating stand sites, placement of the stand and the treestand model that suits the habitat hunted best (see “related articles” in footnotes). In this column I’ll provide tips of how to choose the perfect location and how to place a treestand for maximum effect.

Proper treestand location starts with scouting (see “related articles” in footnotes) the area that deer will be using during the times you hunt. Obviously scouting should start well ahead of hunting season. Once you found out where the deer will be you need to find the right tree to hang the stand on. The right tree may not necessary be a “nice” tree with easy access. In fact, most perfect trees are in the thick stuff, bent, twisted or gnarly. The tree you select should be close to a trail with lots of deer traffic within shooting range of your bow or gun.

The ideal tree should also allow you to travel to and from it without running the risk of deer detecting you by sound, sight or smell. The tree will be downwind of where you expect deer to be and should have other suitable trees close by to position alternative stands for times when the wind is switching on you. Never underestimate the nose of a whitetail, even if you think that you did all you can to control human odour. Once a deer know you have been in the area it will only be a matter of time until it detects your stand and will vacate the area.

That brings me to the next item on the list of choosing the perfect tree to hang your stand. The ideal stand tree will provide you with good background cover form surrounding trees and other vegetation. There should also be sufficient cover to your left or right, depending from what direction deer approach your stand. If the deer approach from the left side then that is where you want the cover to be. Side cover ensures that deer will not be able to see you getting ready for the shot while they are still some distance away. Remember traveling deer are keenly aware of every movement in the vicinity and despite what you may think deer do look up into the trees.

Some hunters think that if they climb high into a tree, like 30 or more feet off the ground, deer will not be able to see them. Big mistake. The higher you climb the more likely you’re to run out of cover and get skylighted. In other words you will stick out like the proverbial sore thumb. Remember, deer look up and they can see you against the sky from much lower heights then you think possible. What about climbing high to get away from deer’s nose. If you stay lower your scent will linger around the base of the tree and you still can get a shot at a deer that comes close enough. On the other hand if you climb higher your scent will be carried off 150 yards maybe even more before descending to the ground. If a deer can smell you 150 yards away it surely will not come any closer. Advocates of high treestand placement often say that they never had a deer spook because it caught a whiff of the hunter. What these hunters don’t say, because they don’t know, is how many deer they miss seeing because the deer could smell the hunter long before it came into visual range of the hunter.

In the almost 20 years of exclusively hunting from stands I never felt the need to climb much over 20 feet high. I would say on average my stands are never higher than 12-18 feet off the ground. I am more concerned with being clean, having good surrounding background cover, wearing good head to toe camouflage such as ASAT and wind directions than with how high the stand is off the ground.

When we found the perfect tree, or tress, and placed our stand we need to prepare the site. After installing the stand on the tree I usually sit in it and look all around me searching for possible shooting lanes. Once I found good shooting lanes I look for obstacles that could interfere with the flight path of the arrow or bullet. Trimming shooting lanes is a tricky business. You want to trim enough branches to give you a free shooting lane but not trim too much so that you loose important cover. The rule here is the less you cut out the better.

While I am in the treestand I also scrape off all lose bark where I will rest my back against the tree. This will solve the potential problem of making unwanted noise when deer move by my stand. I also measure shooting distance with my range finder form my stand to specific landmarks in my shooting lanes. Next I use my bow or firearm and try out different shooting positions to familiarize myself with the situations that could occur when I am hunting. Next I use my bow or firearm and try out different shooting positions form the stand to familiarize my self with the situations that could occur when I am hunting.

After all that I am ready to hunt with confidence and that often has made all the difference in my treestand hunting success. There is only one more caution I would like to add. Hunting from a treestand is the best way I know of to hunt whitetail deer but it is also a dangerous way if you’re not careful and take safety precautions. Before using and installing a treestand carefully read the owners manual that comes with your stand and strictly follow the instructions and recommendations. Never ever climb into your stand, hunt from it or climb down after the hunt without wearing a full body safety harness. For additional safety only use quality made products such as the ones offered by Gorilla Treestands


Related articles:
The four cornerstones of scouting.
Choosing the right treestand for the perfect ambush.

Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit

Tags: Hunting Deer from Treestands, Deer Hunting, Treestand Tactics, Hunting Tips

Public land hunting tip

© By Othmar Vohringer

I have often heard “There are no big bucks on public land”. Nothing could be further from the truth then that statement. Just because you don’t see any big bucks during hunting season doesn’t mean that they are not there. The bucks are there you just have to find them.

In order to find the big bucks forget scouting as you normally would. Instead scout for other hunters and what they do. Learn as much as possible about the other hunters habits, where they park their trucks, what routes they take to their stands, where they place the stands and finally what times they are coming and going.

Write your findings down on an aerial or topographical map and you soon will see a pattern appearing on the map. There will be areas that are absolutely void of any hunter presence and these are most likely the places bucks will go when the hunting pressure starts to build up. To get to these places deer use escape routes. Check these hunter free islands out and then determine on hand of the topography, availability of cover and the structure of the land how the deer get to these hunter free islands.

Come opening day you should have found several escape routes that the deer use to evade hunters. Set up stands along these escape routes that get you within easy bow range of deer. Then on opening morning be in your stand long before every other hunter arrives. Sit quietly in your stand and be prepared to see action as soon as the other hunters enter the woods.

Scouting for other hunters on public land has been so successful for my hunting that I never bother anymore trying to figure out what the deer are doing. I concentrate all my efforts on the other hunters and how I can use their movements to funnel deer past my stand. People are creatures of habit, doing the same things over and over again, so this tactic works any time of the season and anywhere.

I’ve arrowed my biggest public land buck, a respectable nine point, in a Illinois State Park just 40 yards next to a hunter parking lot in a thick bramble bush where no sane hunter ever would look. I discovered the buck hideout returning to my truck after another morning seeing nothing but squirrels from my treestand and loosing all hope of ever killing a buck on public land. It had snowed a bit all morning and on returning to my truck I noticed fresh deer tracks going between the parked trucks and leading into the thicket. These tracks had not been there when I arrived shortly before daylight. I followed the tracks, found the hideout and set up a stand. Three days later I went back to that stand and the rest is history as they say. That was almost 19 years ago.

Since that day I have become fond of public land hunting and outsmarting other hunters. I enjoy the look on the face of other hunters when I drag a deer out of the woods where it was believed they don’t exist.

Early Season Scouting

© By Othmar Vohringer

The early season can be a very though time to kill a big buck. The vegetation is lush which makes deer hard to see and food is plentiful. To find the perfect early season stand location a hunter has to consider what I refer to as the four factors of scouting. These factors are the building blocks for proper early season scouting.

The beauty is ones a hunter understands what the four factors are he can apply these anywhere and anytime during the deer hunting season and predict the best ambush locations for deer long before the deer use a given area. The four factors are; Food, Cover, Terrain and Structure. It is these factors that determine deer movement at any time during the season. A good hunter understands these factors and how they relate to each other.

I have written an article in which I explain the four factors and how they dictate deer movement patterns. Read the article and I guarantee that it will improve your early season scouting efforts.

Learn more about my widely acclaimed line of deer hunting seminars or our deer hunting courses.

Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit

Hunting season is soon here. Have you perfected your aim?

© By Othmar Vohringer

Hunting season is just around the corner. I can already it smell it. Here in British Columbia the archery season opens in most areas on the 1st of September. If you’re like me you knocked months ago on doors to gain permission to hunt new land. You already scouted and placed your treestands for the early season. But are you hitting exactly where you’re aiming at with your bow or rifle?

Fact is, that when everything is done right and that deer stands in front of you it all boils down to making that one shot count. Now is the time to head to the shooting range and hone your shooting skills and make necessary changes and not a day or two before deer season opens. During the hunting season we encounter every possible climate from the hot days of the early season to the bitter cold sub zero temperatures of the late season.

Did you know that shooting and holding a bow or firearm changes the more clothing you put on? I hold my bow or rifle different in the early season when I only wear a T-Shirt then in the late season when I am all dressed up like an Eskimo. In order to learn and get familiar with that difference I have to practice ahead of the season wearing different clothing. I always shoot wearing my hunting clothing including gloves and facemask.

I also practice shooting in different positions, such as from a treestand, leaning against a tree, kneeling, sitting and twisting my upper body backward. In short, ones my bow or firearm is sighted in I do all my practice shooting under simulated hunting conditions. This type of practice has given me the confidence to take any shot that might present itself in the whitetail deer woods. When the buck stands in front of me the last thing I want to worry about is if I can make that shot. In addition as a ethical hunter I want to make absolutely sure that I can accurately hit what I am aiming at under any condition that might present itself.

Don’t leave your shooting to chance or guessing. Head to the range now don’t leave it until a few days before hunting season opens. Knowing your abilities and limitations will make you a better and consequently a more successful hunter.

Learn more about my widely acclaimed line of deer hunting seminars or our deer hunting courses.

Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit