Looking for Lock On Stand Advice

[U.S.ArmyRetired]

I have never used lock ons. They seem difficult to get up into trees and setup. Also, I have heard stories of them slipping. However, it it hard to find trees for ladder stands in Central TX. Many of the trees where I hunt are smaller scrub oaks and cedars. So, what are some cheaper and easier lock ons to use? I would use them in smaller diameter trees mostly. Thanks.

[whitetailfanatic]

tripod stands?

[Setxbowhunter58]

X-Stands make the lightest stand. When I hang lock ons, I always put my ladder on first and stay attached to the tree using a linemans belt. When I get to the top to hang it I tie a strap around the tree with a hook on it. I tie a loop around the base of the seat and pull it up and put it on the hook. Now all you have to do is put two straps on it.

[gemini2759]

I've never hunted from a lock on either, but looking into saddle hunting. There's a lot of info on saddle Hunter.com.
You also might want to look at the millennium t100 tripod. It weighs under 40lbs.

Sent from my moto e5 cruise using Tapatalk

[hardtner]

Many of them are more adjustable for tree angle. I've had all types but I like one with a swivel boat seat like a gametamer. Sat many many hours in them from Texas to Kansas.

I never trust the mounting that comes with any stand. I always add a redundant chain system for my peace of mind. Probably over kill, but it makes me feel better. Goes without saying to use a lifeline as well.

All lock-ons are PIA to install for me, but once in place are super comfy for longer sits.
IMO, installation is much safer with 2 people. Just not worth it to have an accident.

[ByronB]

Many of them are more adjustable for tree angle. I've had all types but I like one with a swivel boat seat like a gametamer. Sat many many hours in them from Texas to Kansas.

I never trust the mounting that comes with any stand. I always add a redundant chain system for my peace of mind. Probably over kill, but it makes me feel better. Goes without saying to use a lifeline as well.

All lock-ons are PIA to install for me, but once in place are super comfy for longer sits.
IMO, installation is much safer with 2 people. Just not worth it to have an accident.

This^^^^^^

[TN_boy]

I had a lone wolf Assault. As one who never hunted or installed a lock on, it was fairly simple. Use the linemans rope to keep you connected to the tree. Once the stand is installed place a safety rope above with a prusik knot and the next time you climb it become much easier than fooling with the linemans setup.

[rut-ro]

Tagged

[TxBowHntr]

X-Stands make the lightest stand. When I hang lock ons, I always put my ladder on first and stay attached to the tree using a linemans belt. When I get to the top to hang it I tie a strap around the tree with a hook on it. I tie a loop around the base of the seat and pull it up and put it on the hook. Now all you have to do is put two straps on it.

I use this technique as well. Only thing I do in addition is I zip tie the platform to the seat before I pull it up. It keeps it nice and tight while it is hanging on the loop and you are strapping it to the tree. Once the strap is in place, I snip the tie, and lower the platform putting further tension on the strap. My buddy showed me this technique and it has saved me countless headaches...

[adam_p]

I'm not a big fan of the game tamer/ woodsey too style stands, they just aren't comfortable to me, but there is probably not a better stand for the oaks in the hill country, problem is they aren't cheap. If you plan on moving it a lot look at something else as those stands are heavy. I used an XOP maximus (huge platform) last year and will be downsizing to something smaller this year. I like the Millenium M50 for something I'm not going to move around. They are cheap and comfortable but not as versatile as a Lone wolf or XOP. I haven't used it but I bet the Millenium M360 is incredibly comfortable if you like hunting sitting down. Again, not cheap and not very portable.

[sqiggy]

I hunt 95% out of lock ons. Mine have a large platform with a foot rest and a good padded seat. Just about all of mine are made out of aluminum, which is way easier to hang than one out of steel. I also have a pulley system that I use. Once I get my climbing sticks up and in place, I hang my pulley about 3 ft above where I intend to place the stand. Tie the rope to my stand and pull it up. Once I get it up, the pulley locks in place, leaving the stand hanging in mid air. Then, all I have to do is wrap the strap around the tree, snug it up just a little till I get the stand position just where I want it, then pull strap tight, and fold stand out. Once I do that, the stand is rock solid.

[bboswell]

Tag

[Codie]

I got a couple of tree stand buddies for Christmas this past year and they are great. So much easier connecting a small plate to the tree and just sliding the stand on the plate than connecting the tree stand itself to the tree.

[ranchdog]

Add a Hunter Safety System rope that goes from the bottom of the tree to above your stand so you are always connected going up and coming down. I always add an extra ratchet strap on mine.

RD