Why use the best ladder stand tree? Hunting on the ground can give away your sent to your prey. Moreover, hunting at a bird’s eye view will give you more advantage. A ladder stand tree allows you to be elevated several feet from the ground. Thus, you’ll have a better review of your prey.
And our top picks can tick the boxes off your list. It’ll also make your hunting season more successful and memorable. So let’s get on with our reviews
Our Top Picks for the Best Ladder Stand Tree (A Product Review)
1. Millennium Treestands M100U Ultralite- Most Comfortable
You might be able to sleep in this comfortable and ergonomic ladder tree stand.
The seat is quite ergonomic and comfortable. It’s lightweight too. It keeps your back off the tree and alleviates pressure rather well. It also has nice backstrap wraps that don’t require immediate replacement.
And even if it’s light, this is quite durable. And most of all, it comes with a lifeline. It has a lifeline which is a 35 ft rope with a prusik knot and a carabiner. This will help give more security when you’re ascending and descending the trees.
It also looks well made and the construction is rather sleek. The welds are clean and the fit and finish are impressive. Overall, it’s a great value for your money.
Features
- Made from rugged aluminum and features a durable powder coat finish
- Carrying capacity of 300 lbs
- Seat size is 22-inches wide and 16-inches deep
- Seat height is 17-inches above the platform
- Weighs 13.5 lbs
- Equipped with a Safelink
Pros
- Comfortable and ergonomic chair
- Lightweight yet durable
- Has a safelink
Cons
- Some find it a bit small
Why you should buy this ladder stand
It’s lightweight and the seat is comfortable and ergonomic. You might be able to sleep on it.
2. Big Dog Stadium Series- Most Spacious
The curved shape of this ladder stand offers a wider view.
This is perhaps the most notable advantage of the Big Dog Stadium Series ladder ttree. The curved shape will cover a rather wider view so you can spot your prey better.
Moreover, it has a camouflage material so you’re pretty well blended with the trees. It also has a wider platform. And you’ll find it pretty roomy when you’re up on the tree alone. And if you have heavy gears and hunting bows, the extra space is definitely useful.
It’s also rather easy to assemble. And it’s also rather sturdy. Overall, we are quite happy with how it performs.
Features
- Curved 53″ x 13″ foot platform;
- curved 37″ x 16″ padded seat
- Secured with 4 ratchet straps, pinned ladder sections, adjustable ladder support bar, 2 Fall arrest Systems
Pros
- Adjustable ladder
- Pretty roomy
- Sturdy and stable
- Affordable
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The base is open under the seat
Why you should buy this ladder stand tree
It’s affordable, quite roomy, and pretty sturdy too.
3. X-Stand Treestands The Duke – Most Heavy Duty
It’s as solid as a rock. Well, what can you expect from a ladder tree stand that’s made from 100 percent steel construction?
With its pure steel built, this bad boy is our most durable ladder tree stand on the list. If you’re looking for a heavy duty product, this is it.
Apart from stability, you’ll also love how roomy it is. It has a spacious platform measuring 26”w*18”d. And it can also get rather tall. So if you want a ladder stand that can elevate you more up into the trees, this is a great option.
Features
- Made of steel
- Padded armrests
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- PLATFORM SIZE: 18″ Wide x 26″ Deep
- SEAT SIZE: 22″ Wide x 16″ Deep
- Comfort flex seat cushion
- Comes with One 4-pt. Full-body safety harness
Pros
- Solid and heavy duty
- Quite high
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- Challenging to assemble
Why you should buy this
It has a rather solid platform, a comfortable seat, and the overall construction is durable. It’s the best heavy duty ladder tree on our list. Thus, you can feel secure and safe.
4. River’s Edge RE634- Most Stable
This ladder stand has a lounge style seat that can make hunters more comfortable.
So even if you are up all day waiting for your prey, you will still be comfortable. The lounge style seat can accommodate you for the entire day! With a thicker padding and a mesh seat, you will not mind waiting for your prey for the entire day.
Apart from the comfortable seta, this ladder stand is quite strong and sturdy too. Though it’s solid, it might not be able to accommodate two grown men, so you have to keep that in mind.
Features
- Flip up padded shooting rail
- 17 inch platform
- Comes with safety harness
- Made of steel
- Lounger-style, TearTuff mesh seat and backrest for all-day hunting
Pros
- Comfortable seat
- Solid and sturdy
- Affordable
Cons
- The seat doesn’t flip up for storage
Why you should buy this ladder stand tree
This is perfect for hunters who tend to wait for their prey for an entire day.
5. Guide Gear- Most Affordable
You can score this basic ladder stand tree at a very affordable price.
It’s an affordable ladder stand tree without the bells and whistles. But this basic ladder stand is quite stable and solid. And if you’re on the hunt for a more affordable product, then this could be the best option for you.
Moreover, it does come with a safety harness, so even if it’s a basic ladder stand, your safety will not be compromised. It might look plain, but it can still be supportive.
And the product came in neatly packed. It’s also quite easy to assemble and seems structurally sound.
Features
- 15 ft
- Syria paint coated
- Coes with a safety harness and setup dvd
- Carrying capacity of 300 lbs
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to assemble
- Decently sturdy
Cons
- Can be noisy
Why you should buy this ladder stand
If you’re tight on the moolah, you can get a decent ladder stand. This Guide Gear ladder stand tree will still be able to provide a safe spot where you can wait for your prey.
6. Sniper Deluxe 2-man- Most Suitable for Bow Hunting
This 2 man ladder stand tree is extra roomy and feels solid and sturdy too.
It has a really strong support and best for bow hunting. And the extra roomy platform allows hunters to move about more freely.
Moreover, as solid as it is, this is quite lightweight. One of the things you have to look for when buying a ladder stand tree is the weight. You want something sturdy. But you do not want it to be too heavy. Then this is a great choice.
So transporting it to your hiking site will not feel like such a workout.
Features
- 2 person tree stand
- 17 ft high
- Ocems with hardware, adjustable support bar, and 2 safety harness
- Foot platform: 37 inches wide x 13 inches deep. Cushioned seat: 38 inches wide x 13 inches deep
- Weight capacity of 500 lb
- Weighs 65 lbs
- flip-up shooting rail, oversleeve ladder sections, durable steel construction
Pros
- Sturdy and solid
- Lightweight
- Roomy platform
Cons
- The padding seems flimsy
Why you should buy this ladder stand tree
This Is the perfect ladder stand tree for bow hunting
7. Summit Treestands Steel – Most Weather Proof
It’s heavy duty and can withstand the hash elements.
This tree stand is built for the big league. The solid steel construction ensures that there are no shakes or wobbles. The ladder is bolted together by metal flanges. And the platform has 2 sets of teeth gripping the tree. So even if you exert effort to shake it, it won ‘ t budge.
Moreover, it’s quite roomy and spacious. And It’s bigger than most ladder stand trees in the market.
Features
- Brown powder coat
- Made of steel
- Weighs 83.6 pounds
- Padded gunrest, flip up seat, and full backrest
- Weight capacity of 300 lbs
- 25″ w x 14″ D seat size
- 25″X 32″ platform size,
- 18″ height to gun rest
- includes full body Fall arrest harness System and all necessary hardware
Pros
- Weather resistant
- Solid and stable
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The cushion could have been better
Why you should by this ladder stand tree
‘It’s the most weather resistant ladder stand tree on our list and it’s quite stable and solid too.
8. Millennium Treestands L110 – Most Comfortable
It features an ergonomic swing style chair that can prevent backaches.
Hunting all day can take a toll on your back. And the longer it takes your prey to come out of hiding, the longer you have to sit on the ladder stand.
This Millennium Trees stand on boats of a sling style chair that’s pretty comfortable on your back. It’s also quite roomy so you have more liberty to move. And you’ll have no problem with its construction. It’s rather solid and sturdy too.
It’s also structurally secure so it will not fail you.
Features
- padded shooting rail, folding footrest, and ComfortMax seat
- Safelink
- Adjustable platform
- Tubular Steel construction
- Carrying capacity of 300 lbs
- The platform measures 20-inches wide and 32-inches deep. Seat size is 20-inches wide and 17-inches deep.
- Weighs 92 lbs
Pros
- Well made
- Easy to put together
- Can be used on most trees
- Comfortable on the back
Cons
- Some still find it small
Why you should buy this ladder stand tree
If your back has been aching from waiting for the deer to come out, you need this swing style ladder stand tree.
9. Guide Gear Swivel- Most Functional
If you’re looking for ladder stands that can swivel, well look no further!
It can swivel to 360 degrees! So it can provide you a better view from the top. You might have a bit of a challenge setting it up, but after the setup,the output is worth it.
It’s well built and you can even customize it. Should you want to add loading and a roof, this ladder stand tree will oblige.
Moreover, it’s rather sturdy and solid. And it’s also comfortable.
Features
- 16 feet
- Rotates to 360 degrees
- Comes in matte black color
Pros
- Can be customized
- Swivels to 360 degrees
- Sturdy
Cons
- To set up
Why you should buy this ladder stand tree
This is the only ladder stand tree in our list that can swivel to 360 degrees.
10. Ameristep 9426- Most Suitable For Photography
It will not make any sounds. Thus you have all the time to take a lovely snap of those deers.
It won’t even make a creak! That’s why this ladder stand tree is suitable for photography. Your subject will not be scared off by little noises. Moreover, it’s solid and all the parts are snug and fit together. Hence there is no noise.
It’s also easy to assemble. This well constructed and well built ladder stand tree is very stable even with 2 adults sitting on it.
Features
- 15 feet
- Comes with 2 harness
- Powder coated
- 500 lbs weight capacity
- Padded seat and padded shooting rail
Pros
- Suitable for taking photos
- Does not make any noise
- Well built
Cons
- Too short for hunting
Why you should buy this ladder stand
It’s the perfect ladder stand tree for taking photos. Since it’s as quiet as a mouse, you will not scare your subjects away.
What to Consider When You’re Buying the Best Ladder Stand Tree (A Buying Guide)
Before making a purchase, here are some points to consider.
- Determine your hunting style
What type of a hunter are you? If you prefer to hunt while standing, a ladder stand tree is more suitable.
- Safety
When you are several feet from the ground, it involves a lot of risks. That’s why this is the primary concern when buying a ladder stand tree. It should either be accredited by TMA (the Treestand Manufacturers Association) or or has a Fall Arrest System. A Fall Arrest System or FAS means that the ladder stand is equipped with a harness. This will save you in case you lose your balance while climbing tree.
- Weight capacity
Different ladder stands have different weight capacity. So choose a ladder stand that will be able to support your weight. Do not use a one man ladder stand for two people.
- Weight of the ladder
You’re going to carry the ladder around and assemble it. So you have to be certain that you and your gang will be able to tag along the ladder to your hiking site.
- Size of the platform
Some ladder stand trees have a smaller platform and this is more suitable for seasoned hunters. And beginners should begin with ladder stand trees that have a larger platform.
- Comfort
Since you could be spending more time up in the tree, get one that you find the most comfortable. It can be with padded armrests, a padded shooting rail or a padded seat. Your idea of comfort may be different from others. So you have to look for one that will suit your needs.
Pros and Cons of Ladder Stand Tree
Let’s sit the pros and cons side by side. This will help you deice if a ladder stand tree is the best option for you
Here are the pros
- Since the stand is several feet from the ground, it will give you a better view of the forest. You may be able spot your prey from afar. Thus, it will give you a better shot of getting a god aim.
- Animals have a great sense of smell. But since you will be blending amongst the trees, animals such as deers will not be able to catch a whiff of your smell. And with the wind passing through, your prey will not be able to catch on your scent.
- It’s less likely to cause stray bullets. Since the shots are aimed at a vertical direction ccma pre ot a horizontal one, the aim is pointed to the ground.
- Gunshots fired from the top are more potent as it travels at a faster speed. This will be able to kill your prey with just one shot.
- Animals will find it hard to see you.
- Ladder stand trees have larger platforms compared to other styles of tree stands. And this will make it comfortable for hunters to move more freely.
You may also like: Best 2 Man Ladder Stand
And here are some of the reasons not to use one
- Being elevated several feet from the ground is risky. You’re prone to injuries and falling accidents.
- If your stand tree is mounted permanently, this will limit your location. So if your prey changes their movement, you might have difficulty shooting them.
- Shooting downward indeed is more powerful, but it also requires skill and competence to get a good aim.
- These things can be a bit heavy. Thus, moving it can be difficult. Even the ladders are big and heavy. So it’s not advisable for hunters who travel a very long distance to their hunting site.
Safety Tips When Using Tree Stands
A ladder tree stand, like climbing and a hanging stand must be used with extra cautions. To keep yourself safe from falling accidents, you should observe these.
- Always wear a harness
Most ladder stand trees come with a safety harness. But you can also purchase a separate one if you want a more high quality harness with the bells and whistle.
A safety harness must have a snug fit. But it should not limit your movement.
If you’re going to purchase a separate safety harness, always check if it adheres to the guidelines of the Treestand Manufacturers Association.
- Check for the lifeline
High quality ladder tree stands must have a life line. A feline is a hope that anchors to just above your head. And it’s also anchored to a solid base such as the tree base. It consists of a prussic knot that slides easily when you ascend or descend the tree. But it can stop when pulled with force.
Remember to always stay connected to your lifeline until you have both feet on the ground.
- In case of failure, try to regain proper position
In case of failing, body harnesses will prevent you from dropping to the ground. But you must act quickly to return to the tree, to the ground, or the ladder, whichever is more accessible for you.
- Practice makes perfect
Because you never know what can happen, you have to be prepared. Before the season, practice reviving from a fall. Should it happen when you’re climbing, you’d know what to do.
FAQ’s:
What’s the most common cause of accidents in ladder tree stands?
Among others, the main cause of falling accidents form ladder tree stands is from equipment malfunction. That’s why you have to buy from reliable brands.
Is it better to hunt in a standing position or on the ground?
Hunting with a bird’s eye view has more advantages. The higher you are from the ground, the more you’ll be able to see your prey from afar.
Can animals smell you up in the tree stand?
The combination of the height and the wind blowing through the trees masks your scent. Thus, animals such as deers will not be able to catch a whiff of your smell.
The best ladder stand trees can amp up your hunting score. Our top picks are from reliable brands so you can never go wrong with them. Happy hunting!