How to Use a Self-Climbing Tree Stand

A self-climbing tree stand can give a hunter quite an advantage. This tree stand is better than the standard tree stand in that it requires no installation, can be as mobile as the hunter and allows the hunter to scale the tree with a stand without the aid of ropes, nails or ladders. Here are some steps on how to use self-climbing tree stands.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select a tree that is proper for self-climbing tree stands. An ideal tree will be thin, with tight bark and no branches between the forest floor and tree line. Avoid trees with loose bark or trunks that grow dramatically thinner as you go upward. These can lead to unsafe circumstances.

    • 2

      Wrap the upper half back bar around the tree and secure it using the locking mechanism. Give this half of the stand an upward angle, so when you sit on it gravity will hold you to the tree. Repeat this process with the lower half of the stand, including the angle. Attach these two with the tether rope.

    • 3

      Strap your body into the full body harness supplied with the self-climbing tree stand. Wrap the loose end around the trunk and knot it off so it is sturdy. You should be able to slide up and down the tree as you climb and descend.

    • 4

      Stand with your feet strapped into the bottom half of the tree stand. Most will have slots for your feet to lock in. Tip the upper half upward so it loosens and then raise it no more than a foot. Use your feet to tip the bottom half forward and then raise it a foot. Repeat this and slowly scale the tree until you have found a height that fits your needs.

    • 5

      Reverse this process to descend the tree. Tip the stand forward and slide it downward.