Figuring out which is the best tree stand for your hunt is no easy feat. It just isn’t a product that lends itself to an easy test drive. Tree stands often have a painful price tag and it’s one that isn’t easy to swallow if your stand makes your toes fall asleep mid-hunt.
When it comes to hunting, the right tree stand can make a significant difference in your overall experience and your success in the field. The right tree stand not only enhances your ability to spot game and remain concealed but also provides the comfort and stability needed for extended sits on harsh days.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking to upgrade your gear or a beginner seeking your first tree stand, we’re here to help provide some insights to help you make an informed decision on what stand is best for you. From lightweight climbing stands to robust ladder stands, we’ve chosen products based on criteria such as ease of setup, comfort, portability, and budget considerations.
From lightweight hang-on stands to semi-permanent ladder options, we can help you dig through the options and find a stand that will work for you. After perusing our recommendations, be sure to read through our Buyer’s Guide, check out our comparison chart, and clear up any confusion with our FAQ section.
The Best Tree Stands of 2024
- Best Overall Tree Stand: Novix Helo Hunt Ready
- Best Budget Tree Stand: XOP Vanish Revolution
- Best Ultralight Tree Stand: Ingwe Gear Hang-On Tree Stand
- Best Saddle Tree Stand: Tethrd Phantom Elite
- Best Ladder Tree Stand: Muddy Skybox Deluxe
- Best Climber Tree Stand: Summit Dual Threat PRO SD
- Best Compact Combo Tree Stand: Beast Gear Stand and Sticks
Novix Helo Hunt Ready
Specs
- Style Hang On
- Weight 9 lbs., 15 oz.
- Platform Dimensions 26.5” L x 16”W x 0.8" H
- Primary Material Aluminum
- Climbing Sticks/Ladder Included
Pros
- All-in-one system
- Budget conscious
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Easy to pack
Cons
- Somewhat complicated attachment points
XOP Vanish Revolution
Specs
- Syle Hang on
- Weight 10 lbs., 8 oz.
- Platform Dimensions 27" L x 19" W
- Primary Material Aluminum
- Climbing Sticks/Ladder Not included
Pros
- Budget friendly
- Comfortable
- Large, sturdy platform
Cons
- A bit heavier than other options
- Does not include climbing sticks
Ingwe Gear Hang-On Tree Stand
Specs
- Style Hang on
- Weight 5 lbs.
- Platform Dimensions 24" L x 15" W
- Primary Material Aluminum
- Climbing Sticks/Ladder Not included
Pros
- Ultra lightweight
- Easy to pack in and out
- Quick, easy mounting
- Minimalist
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Climbing sticks not included
TETHRD Phantom Elite
Specs
- Style Saddle
- Weight 1 lb., 8 oz.
- Platform Dimensions N/A
- Primary Material Synthetic fabric
- Climbing Ladder/Sticks Not included
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to hike in
- Tons of storage
- Easily move locations
- Comfortable for long sits
Cons
- Expensive for what's included
- No platform or climbing sticks included
Muddy Skybox Deluxe
Specs
- Style Ladder
- Weight 82 lbs.
- Platform Dimensions 19” W x 25” L
- Primary Material Steel
- Climbing Ladder/Sticks Included
Pros
- Very budget friendly
- Comfortable and secure
- Easy climbing ladder
- Flip-down rail
Cons
- Heavy
- Can't be packed into hard-to-reach areas
Summit Dual Threat PRO SD
Specs
- Style Climber
- Weight 22 lbs.
- Platform Dimensions 20" W x 36" L
- Primary Material Steel
- Climbing Ladder/Sticks Built in
Pros
- All-in-one climber system
- More comfortable than most hang-on stands
- Adjustable front bar to accommodate rifle and bowhunters
Cons
- Heavy
- More involved tree prep
Beast Gear Hang-On Tree Stand
Specs
- Weight 6 lbs., 12.8 oz.
- Platform Dimensions 29 in. L x 16 in. W
- Weight Rating 275 lbs.
- Seat Height 21 in.
- Material T6 Aluminum
- Includes Seat cushion, shoulder straps, fastening straps
Pros
- Lightweight
- Generous platform space
- Easy to carry on hunting pack
- Sticks and stand have excellent tree bite
Cons
- Noisy without Stealth Stripping
- Stand exhibits minimal flex
Tree Stand Comparison Chart
| Tree Stand | Price | Weight | Style | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novix Helo Hunt Ready | $580 | 9 lbs., 15 oz. | Hang on | Aluminum |
| XOP Vanish Revolution | $220 | 10 lbs., 8 oz. | Hang on | Aluminum |
| Ingwe Gear Hang-On Tree Stand | $575 | 5 lbs. | Hang on | Aluminum |
| TETHRD Phantom Elite | $340 | 1 lb., 8 oz. | Saddle | Synthetic Fabric |
| Muddy Skybox Deluxe | $280 | 82 lbs. | Ladder | Steel |
| Summit Dual Threat PRO SD | $450 | 22 lbs. | Climber | Steel |
| Beast Gear Hang-On Tree Stand | $599 | 6 lbs., 12.8 oz. | Hang on | T6 Aluminum |
How We Tested Tree Stands
With a host of experienced writers, contributors, and testers across the country, we are fortunate to have a breadth of knowledge and experience to pull from. From hang-on stands in the palm trees of the Everglades to saddle platforms in the backcountry of Idaho, we’ve stuck a stand in pretty much every location imaginable.
We’ve walked stands into the hardwoods, packed them in and out of the mountains, and napped in them in the mid-day sun. On-season and off-season finds us in any number of locations, putting tree stands up and taking them back down. Hours have been spent sitting in the most comfortable and least comfortable stands.
As we speak, we know of at least 30 tree stands that are currently in trees across the U.S. that are frequented by their GearJunkie owners. There may even be a stand on a light pole at the edge of left field at a Little League baseball field somewhere in central Montana. Some views can’t be beat.
We hunt year-round in countless different environments after countless different species. Our team has the unique ability to test these stands in a variety of settings without the pressure of picking a stand and sticking with it. If we don’t like a stand, we don’t use it. If we love a particular stand, regardless of the cost, we can let you know about it.
If you’re looking to spend some quality time up in a tree stand, make sure you’re suited up properly to stay warm and comfortable. Check out Gearjunkie’s guide to the best base layers for hunting, and keep your hands warm with a good pair of hunting gloves.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our Team
We’re certainly fortunate to test tree stands across countless environments in pretty much any condition. From mountain hunting in the west for elk and deer to beating the Texas heat in an aluminum seat, we see the spread of hunting conditions, the spread of seasonal conditions, and just about every target species you can imagine.
Hunt & Fish Editor Rachelle Schrute spends a lot of time in the woods, as her title implies. She’s hunted mountain mule deer, elk, whitetail, hogs, and even a few exotic species, all from the comfort of a tree stand. From old, rickety stands that her father put up to the newest, latest, and greatest, she’s spent some serious time in stands and has vowed to spend more time up there as the years go on.
Editorial Director Sean McCoy grew up hunting from tree stands and still finds the chance on occasion to scurry his way toward the sky in the pursuit of midwestern whitetails.
It isn’t easy prepping trees, putting up stands of all kinds, and taking them back down. You could almost say it’s a real job. Luckily for us, we actually do this as a real job, and we’re happy to break a sweat hauling in a variety of stands so you don’t have to.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Tree Stand
Finding the best tree stand for you is no easy feat, particularly if you’re inexperienced. The best bit of advice we can offer before you bust out your wallet is to find someone with a tree stand and ask if you can sit it. It’s hard to know what you’re looking for if you’ve never made that climb and taken that seat.
Aside from that, there are some things you should pay attention to when it comes to adding a stand to your pack.
Weight Considerations
Weight is likely one of the biggest considerations when it comes to modern tree stands. Though it might not seem like a lot of weight when you look at the specs, hauling these things in and out of an area can be a struggle. Not to mention, it can be an all-out battle to get on in a tree once you get where you’re going. When it comes to weight, two factors come into play.
Portability: Choose a lightweight stand if you plan to move frequently or cover long distances. This is especially true for climbing and hang-on stands. If that isn’t a concern, you can go all out with a heavy stand carried on the back of… your truck.
Stability vs. Weight: While lighter stands are easier to carry, ensure they do not compromise on stability and safety. Sometimes ultra-light isn’t always best. What you’ll find with lightweight stands is they may have a bit of flex that you might not like the feel of in a tree, particularly when the wind picks up.
Types of Stands
Hang-On (Lock-On) Stands
This style of stand is the most versatile (aside from a saddle) and can be used in various tree types, including those with branches. They do require some kind of climbing aids like ladders or climbing sticks unless you just want to give it a go with your boots (not recommended). The Novix Helo Hunt Ready is our favorite hang-on stand.
Climbing Stands
These are ideal for mobile hunters who need to change locations frequently but want a bit of comfort and a secure feel. They are relatively lightweight stands but require straight, branch-free trees — think of those clean Midwestern hardwoods. Though pricey, the Summit Dual Threat PRO SD is much lighter than a ladder stand and comfortable enough for extended sits.
Ladder Stands
This stand style provides the most stable and comfortable platform, which is great for long hunts and for both older and younger hunters. They are heavier and more challenging to move but offer increased stability and accessibility. The Muddy Skybox Deluxe is a great ladder stand, just remember that it weighs 82 pounds, and that will limit where you can set it up.
Safety Features
Straps and Harnesses
When it comes to hand-on (or lock-on) stands, you will need straps to secure your stand and… secure you. Ensure the stand you’re ordering either comes equipped with dedicated straps. If it doesn’t, you can always order straps separately.
You should always wear a tree stand harness. This is a non-negotiable item when hunting from a tree stand. There is no reason not to wear a harness of some kind. A fall from that king of height, with razor-sharp weapons in your hand, could mean the end of your hunts and the end of your life. I highly recommend the Summit Tree Stand Harness. Your Black Diamond harness from your rock climbing days will absolutely do in a pinch. We don’t recommend you skip out on wearing a tree stand harness, but if you’re without one, please wear some kind of harness.
If you’re serious about spending any length of time hunting from trees, make sure to invest in a proper harness with a tether and a tree strap.
Weight Capacity
Many people overlook the weight capacity of a stand. Every tree stand has one. Make sure to verify the stand’s weight rating to ensure it can safely support your weight plus your gear. Play it safe and give yourself some weight-wiggle room.
If you’re a larger hunter having a hard time finding a stand rated for you, there’s nothing wrong with playing it safe and hunting from a ground blind or even an elevated box blind.
FAQ
The type and style of stand you should consider will depend on a variety of factors.
First and foremost, you have to have a stand that is capable in your hunting environment. If you have a mile between the road and the tree you plan on hunting from, you are not going to want a ladder stand. Your focus will much more likely be on weight savings, which will either find you in a hang-on stand or a tree saddle. The Ingwe Gear Hang-On Tree Stand is a good choice if you’ve got a long hike ahead of you.
You also have to look at your tree species and size. Some tree stands have a maximum and minimum tree diameter, meaning you’ll have to plan your stand accordingly if you have straggly trees or bulky beasts.
Aside from environmental conditions, you need to consider your physical abilities. Are you capable of climbing a tree? If not, you may have to consider a climber stand or a ladder stand. If those still don’t fit in your ability, there’s nothing wrong with hunting from a ground blind.
Hunting from a tree stand has obvious risks. One way to mitigate the risks that come from hunting from a tree stand is to take a tree stand safety course. Understanding the risks associated with getting into a stand and hunting safely while you’re up there will help make your tree stand hunt safe. One of the biggest things you can do is to make sure you’re wearing a dedicated tree stand harness at all times.
Ambush-style hunting has a lot of benefits over spot-and-stalk hunting. The biggest advantage is the hunters’ ability to have a perch above the wildlife below. While in a tree, animals can walk, unalerted, right below you. This gives a tree stand hunter the advantage of both positioning and time. Where spot-and-stalk ground hunters often have to make hasty pursuits and take split-second shots, tree stand hunting offers a bit more leniency and time to set up your shot.
Not to mention, sitting in a tree stand conserves a whole lot of energy over hiking around through the hills.
Yes. Every state is different. It’s important to get a copy of your state’s hunting regulations to ensure your are using a tree stand legally. Some states do not permit rifle hunting from tree stands. Others won’t allow you to leave a tree stand on public ground. With regulations that change every season, it’s important to stay up to date with what’s current in your location.
Most hunters place their stands somewhere between 15 to 20 feet off the ground. This will vary depending on the terrain, the types of trees you have available, your shooting lanes, and the game behavior. We have tree stands that only sit 10 feet off the ground and others that sit 30 or more feet up. It really will depend on your environment, your target, and your comfortability that high up.
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