Tree saddles have been gaining momentum in the hunting world, especially for those pursuing deer. With countless debates surrounding their effectiveness, many are left wondering: Are tree saddles truly revolutionizing hunting, or are they just another passing fad? Let’s break down the pros and cons of saddle hunting to see if it’s the real deal or just hype.
Mobility Like Never Before
One of the biggest draws to saddle hunting is the unparalleled mobility it offers. Unlike traditional tree stands or climbers, a tree saddle allows hunters to scale virtually any tree, giving them the flexibility to set up in new locations without lugging around bulky equipment. When you’re hunting public land or traversing unfamiliar terrain, this kind of freedom is invaluable. Tree saddles allow hunters to move and adapt quickly to changing patterns, making them a top choice for mobile hunters who prioritize versatility.
Lightweight Setup for Long Hikes
Saddle hunting gear is lightweight, often coming in at around 10 pounds for a full setup, including the saddle, platform, and climbing sticks. Compare that to a typical climbing stand, which can easily weigh over 20 pounds, and it’s clear why saddles are appealing to those trekking long distances. If you’ve ever trudged through the woods with a heavy stand on your back, you know how exhausting it can be. Switching to a lighter option makes those long hikes to your favorite hunting spot significantly easier, reducing fatigue and allowing you to stay more focused.
Low Profile and Stealthy
Another major perk of tree saddles is their low profile. The compact nature of the saddle means you’re less likely to snag branches or make noise as you make your way through the woods. With no bulky equipment extending beyond your body, you can slip through thick brush quietly, leaving minimal ground scent and avoiding the risk of alerting nearby deer. For hunters looking to maintain the element of surprise, this stealth factor is a game-changer.
Safe and Secure
Safety is a top concern for any hunter using elevated platforms, and tree saddles shine in this department. You’re connected to the tree from the moment you leave the ground until you touch back down, eliminating the risk of falling without being tethered. The secure tether system means you can hunt with confidence, knowing that you’re protected at all times. For hunters with families depending on them, safety is non-negotiable. The peace of mind that comes with a tree saddle setup is something traditional stands often can’t match.
Long-Term Cost Efficiency
While the initial cost of a tree saddle setup can seem steep – often around $1,000 – there’s potential for long-term savings. Instead of buying multiple stands and setting them up across different properties, one saddle system can be used anywhere. This is especially helpful for hunters who travel to different states or regions. Once you’ve invested in a quality saddle, you avoid the recurring costs of multiple stands and minimize the hassle of installing and removing equipment in various locations.
A Steep Learning Curve
Not everything about tree saddles is perfect, though. For many, the learning curve is a significant barrier. If you’re used to traditional stands, figuring out how to climb, set up, and shoot from a saddle can feel like an entirely new skill set. Many hunters struggle with the ropes, platforms, and the different body positions involved in saddle hunting. But like any new technique, practice makes perfect. With time and repetition, most hunters find the saddle’s unique mechanics become second nature.
Less Intuitive Than Traditional Stands
For those who grew up using tree stands, the transition to saddle hunting can feel less natural. Shooting from a saddle requires a different posture, and while some hunters rave about the flexibility it offers, others find it awkward at first. The key to overcoming this discomfort is practice. If you’re willing to put in the time to familiarize yourself with the saddle, many argue it can become just as intuitive as hunting from a traditional stand.
Initial Discomfort
Many hunters report initial discomfort when they first start using a tree saddle. Complaints about hip pinch and pressure around the waist are common. However, most of these issues can be resolved with adjustments to the saddle’s settings, such as tweaking the tether height or adjusting the bridge loops. Once dialed in, the comfort level improves dramatically, allowing for all-day hunts. Those who’ve mastered their setups often boast about the saddle’s comfort, even during long sits from dawn until dusk.
More Movement Equals More Chances?
One downside of saddle hunting that’s frequently mentioned is the potential for increased movement. Being in a saddle often results in more fidgeting, as hunters shift to find the best angles or adjust their positions for comfort. This extra movement can risk spooking game. However, others argue that the ability to pivot and shoot from different angles offsets this risk, as it gives hunters a broader range of shot opportunities than a traditional stand would offer.
The Weak Side Challenge
Shooting from a tree saddle comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to “weak side” shots. Since hunters are tethered to the tree, shooting at angles behind them can be tricky. While there are techniques to overcome this, such as rotating around the tree or swinging the bow over the tether, it adds complexity to the hunt. In contrast, a traditional stand may provide easier shot opportunities from certain angles. For hunters who prioritize simplicity, this might be a drawback worth considering.
Requires Fitness and Time
Climbing into a tree with a saddle requires a decent level of physical fitness. If you’re not comfortable with the climbing process, or if you lack the strength to handle setting up sticks and platforms while suspended, a saddle might not be the best fit. It’s also time-consuming to set up for each hunt. Unlike pre-set stands, which are ready to go season after season, using a saddle requires you to climb and tear down your gear each time you move locations. This can be a hassle for hunters with less time or patience.
Not for Every Situation
While tree saddles offer tremendous benefits, they aren’t the right tool for every hunting situation. If you have permanent spots that consistently produce deer year after year, a traditional stand might be more convenient. For hunters with access to private land or pre-set hunting spots, there’s no need to give up the comfort of ladder stands or lock-ons. Saddles are best suited for mobile hunters or those exploring new ground.
Game-Changer or Gimmick?
So, are tree saddles for deer hunting a game-changer or just a gimmick? The answer lies somewhere in between. For hunters who value mobility, stealth, and safety, saddles can certainly enhance the hunting experience. However, they come with a learning curve, and not everyone will find them to be the right fit. Whether or not they’re a game-changer depends largely on your hunting style, preferences, and willingness to adapt to a new method. If you’re a mobile hunter willing to put in the time, tree saddles can be a revolutionary tool in your arsenal. But if you’re more comfortable with traditional stands, there’s no harm in sticking to what you know.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.