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10 Best Tree Stand Climbing Sticks
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Climbing Tree Stands
Buying Guide for the Best Tree Stand Climbing Sticks
When shopping for tree stand climbing sticks, it's important to remember that safety, convenience, and compatibility with your hunting style are top priorities. Climbing sticks come in various lengths, weights, materials, and connection methods, each affecting how easy they are to carry, set up, and use. Your goal should be to choose sticks that are stable, easy to pack in the field, and suited to the types of trees and stand heights you'll encounter most often.Length per StickThe length of each climbing stick refers to how much vertical distance it covers on the tree. This is important because longer sticks generally mean fewer total pieces to carry and attach, making setup quicker. However, longer sticks can be heavier and trickier to maneuver in dense woods. Shorter sticks offer more placement flexibility and are easier to transport, but you’ll need to carry more of them to reach your desired height. Choose longer sticks if you set up in open areas and want fast setups, but opt for shorter sections if portability and flexibility matter more.
WeightWeight signifies how heavy each stick, or the set, is for carrying into the field. A lighter stick makes it easier to travel long distances and haul gear, which is a plus for mobile hunters or those hiking into remote spots. Heavier sticks can sometimes offer more stability, but may be cumbersome for long treks. If you have short walks or prioritize stability, slight additional weight might be less of an issue. For those who hike in far, go as light as you can without giving up strength.
MaterialClimbing sticks are made from materials like steel, aluminum, or sometimes composite. Steel is strong and often more affordable but heavier, while aluminum is lighter and resists rust, making it ideal for frequent carrying and wet climates. Composites are relatively new and can balance weight and strength, but may be less proven over time. Choose steel if maximum durability and cost-saving are priorities, aluminum if you walk far or need rust resistance, and consider composites for an in-between solution.
Attachment MechanismThis refers to how the sticks secure to the tree. Methods include straps, ropes, or cam-over buckles. Some are faster but bulkier, while others are quieter or lighter. Quiet attachment is vital if you hunt cautious game, while fast and easy mechanisms are key for frequent set-ups. Make sure the mechanism is easy for you to handle with gloves on and can securely fit the types of trees you'll climb.
Step DesignThe step design affects both safety and ease-of-use. Single-sided steps are usually lighter but require more careful foot placement, while double-sided steps give you more options when ascending and are generally safer. Wide, grippy steps offer better foot support and security when wet or icy. If you’re less confident climbing, choose double-sided or wide steps; for experienced climbers or when shaving ounces, single-sided might suffice.
Stackability and PortabilityStackability refers to how well the sticks nest or attach together for carrying. Some sticks lock tightly into a compact bundle, while others are bulkier and may rattle. Good stackability makes it easier to keep everything together in transit and reduces noise. If you walk long distances, look for sticks that stack tightly and can be strapped to a pack.
Maximum HeightThis is the combined climbing height achievable using the entire set. You should think about how high you want your stand to be. Some hunters prefer higher setups to stay out of sight, while others are content with lower stands for quicker setups and reduced risk. Calculate the height you typically need and ensure your chosen set provides it, even if tree conditions aren’t perfect.
Weight Rating (Safety)Every climbing stick is designed to safely support a certain amount of weight. This includes your body, clothes, and any gear. Always pick sticks with a rating comfortably above your loaded weight to ensure safety. Don’t compromise here – higher ratings offer more peace of mind, especially if you hunt with heavy packs or in bulky gear.