Tree stands remain one of the most popular ways to hunt for deer in wooded areas. Hunting from an elevated stand reduces the chance that the deer will see or smell you. Plus, the extra height gives you a commanding view of the surrounding area. There are four basic types of tree stands: ladder, hang on, climber, and permanent stands.

Types of Tree Stands

Ladder stands include a platform supported by a ladder, which breaks up into sections for easier carrying. Ladder stands are one of the safest types of tree stands, since there are points of contact with both the tree and the ground.

Hang on stands attach to the tree with a strap mounting system. They are lightweight and easy to carry into the woods.

Climber stands combine the climbing system and platform in one. The climber straps around the tree and lets the hunter “climb” up the trunk. This type of stand is convenient, but it requires the right kind of tree (free of lower limbs, the right diameter, etc.).

Permanent stands are built into the tree. Over time, they can weaken because of continued exposure to the elements. Never trust a permanent stand if it has been neglected or you are not sure how solid it is.

The type of tree stand you use will depend on the trees in your area, the weight of the stand and how far you need to carry it, how many people will be sitting in the stand, and ease of setup, as well as other factors. No matter which type of tree stand you use, always wear a safety harness and practice the 3-point rule (always have three points of contact with the steps or ladder while climbing).

Both ground blinds and tree stands have their advantages and disadvantages. Which one is best often depends on the terrain and your hunting style. Here are a few pros and cons of blinds and stands below to help you decide which type of equipment is best for you.

Tree Stands

Pros:

• Unobstructed view of the surrounding area and approaching game
  Keeps your scent off the ground
• Deer rarely look up and spot you (except in areas with increased hunting pressure)

Cons:

• Can’t set up in areas with no trees. You need a good climbing tree within easy shooting distance of your hot spot.
• Fixed stands are more complicated to move, but climber stands allow for easy mobility.

Ground Blinds

Pros:

• Safer than tree stands – no risk of falling
• Warmer – gets you out of the wind and rain
• Good for open field areas without any trees

Cons:

• Can spook deer unless the blind is well camouflaged with natural vegetation and set up ahead of time to allow game to accept its presence.
• Good use of scent elimination on the blind and hunter is a must.

Ultimately, the type of hunting stand or blind that you choose depends on the terrain you hunt and your method of hunting. For the best options, get both a ground blind and tree stand and use the type that gives you the most advantages for each hunting situation you find yourself in.

Having trouble deciding which type of tree stand to buy? Here’s some pros and cons of the most popular tree stands on the market.

Climber Tree Stands

Self-climbing stands are convenient because you don’t need to haul in separate climbing sticks or a ladder. You also aren’t limited by the height of your climbing sticks. As long as the tree is clear of branches, you can climb as high as you need to. Self-climbers are also highly mobile. You can easily move from one area to another. On the downside, the tree you choose must be clear of low-hanging branches, and it’s difficult to use the climber without making too much noise.

Hang On Tree Stands

Hang on stands are convenient because you can set up your stand ahead of time, sneak in to the woods with your climbing sticks on the morning of the hunt, and climb up to your stand quickly and quietly. On the downside, moving your stand takes more work than a climber stand, and there’s a higher possibility of losing your balance when you step from the ladder into your stand.

Ladder Stands

Most ladder stands weigh around 100 pounds or more. The lightest weight I found for a ladder stand was just under 50 pounds. Add in the weight of your other gear, and you’re not going to want to carry this stand very far. If you don’t plan to move your stand very often, or you don’t need to carry it very far, this stand is a good option with the safety and convenience of an attached ladder.

Permanent Hunting Stands

Because these types of stands are left up year round, they require close inspection before each use. Over time, a permanent stand can rot or weaken, which makes it unsafe. One of the biggest downsides of a permanent stand is that you can’t move it from one spot to another.

Freestanding / Tower Stands

These types of elevated stands are best for areas with few trees to support your stand. Some freestanding structures are permanent. Others are portable. Unfortunately, most portable tower stands are a pain to move because of their bulk and weight, so whether or not this type of stand works for you will depend on how much you plan to change locations.