The Best Tree Stands of 2024

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

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

The Novix Helo ($580) strikes the perfect balance for a tree stand. The all-in-one system is a true plug-and-play package that is easy to get into a tree and comfortable once you get up there. The seat is amply cushioned, and the platform allows for plenty of space to shift your weight around and choose your shooting lane.

With climbing sticks that mount directly to the stand for pack-in and pack-out, even at nearly 10 pounds, it’s a convenient haul. However, full disclosure: Make sure you check out how the climbing sticks fit into the clips on the stand itself. We spent a good 15 minutes trying to get them reattached the first time. Now that we have the attachment pattern dialed in, it’s slick.

Because of the configuration, it isn’t tough to haul two or more of these in at once. Packed in opposite directions on your pack frame, you can easily carry in double.

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

The XOP Vanish Revolution ($220) is a budget-conscious stand with almost all the perks of a higher-price-tag tree-hunting setup. It’s certainly not ultra-light, but for the price tag, it’s pretty nimble. The Vanish Revolution also happens to have one of our favorite platforms. The studded, grippy texture and wide front end make for a secure feel in the tree, which isn’t something to take for granted.

The seat of the Vanish Revolution is also one of our favorites. It likely helps up the weight factor, but the trade-off for the added comfort is totally worth it. There is a mountain of cushion on this stand, which really makes a difference when the sitting gets long.

One thing to note about this wallet-friendly option is that it does not include climbing sticks. That being said, you can pick up a set of X2 climbing sticks from XOP for under $100, meaning this setup is still far more budget-friendly than most.

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

As far as we know, the Ingwe Gear Tree Stand ($575) is about the lightest tree stand you can get your hands on. Without the added heft to your pack, this stand goes up smoothly, feels secure, and is shockingly comfortable for being so minimalist.

The seat isn’t as bulky and padded as some of the other stands on the list, but it’s still very comfortable for what it is.

A detail we really appreciate is the hook (pictured at the top of the image above). Because this stand is so lightweight, you can just attach it to a belt look and walk in.

Now, this might be a lightweight tree stand, but that weight doesn’t include climbing sticks, so keep that in consideration. You will need to pick up a set of climbers to get yourself in the tree.

That all being said, for really long, difficult pack-ins to unruly areas, the weight savings is well worth it.

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

Alright, this isn’t truly a tree stand, but saddle hunting from a platform feels like it qualifies. The TETHRD Phantom Elite ($340) is anything but minimalist and is shockingly comfortable. With plenty of storage options, you don’t have to worry about skimping on what snacks you bring with you to the tree. Any tree stand hunter knows that snacks are what actually make or break a hunt.

Technically, you don’t have to have a platform to saddle hunt, but when it comes to really sweet honey spots, there’s no reason not to put up a bit of a base to help you hang out longer. The Predator Platform is a solid, lightweight choice for rounding out the setup.

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

Now we get to the big boys. Ladder stands are notoriously heavy, and the Muddy Skybox Deluxe ($280) is no exception. At 82 pounds of steel, this stand is prime for flat ground and UTV life. While the downside is so much weight, the upside is comfort and accessibility. Ladder stands are easier to get into than a traditional tree stand and climbing sticks.

The Muddy Skybox would make an epic semi-permanent stand for those with a spot that begs for hunting year after year. For those with some mobility limitations, kids, or just those hunters who are more comfortable hunting from a secure stand with a flip-down rail, this is such a low-cost option with high-caliber features.

Not to mention, it’s comfortable in ways traditional stands just can’t touch.

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

The ultimate all-in-one package has to be the Summit Dual Threat PRO SD climbing stand ($450). It’s not nearly as heavy as a ladder stand but double or more what you’d find with a traditional stand and sticks; a climber that really stands on its own.

Best suited for non-brushy hardwoods, climber stands are growing in popularity in the Midwest. These styles of stands do require a bit of prep work, though. Because of the way they climb the tree themselves, you’re going to need to bring your nippers along. Branches are going to have to fall.

Climbers offer a midway point between the comfort of a ladder stand and the portability of a stand and sticks. The Dual Threat has an incredibly comfortable seat and an adjustable front bar, allowing you to optimize your shooting opportunity whether you’re bowhunting or rifle hunting.

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

This isn’t a true combo, as in you are buying a stand and sticks separately. That said, the Beast Gear Stand and Sticks combo ($599) is ultra-light and packable in ways most combos aren’t.

If you’re serious about ambush-style mountain hunting and you have an intense hike, it doesn’t get much better than this setup. For its weight, it has a generous platform and a comfortable seat.

A bit noisy, it’s best to get this setup into your tree before the season, but aside from that, this combo bites the tree well, is easy to load and carry, and certainly accomplishes anything you might need from a traditional stand.

For a deeper dive, check out GearJunkie’s full review of the Beast Gear Stand and Sticks.

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.

Hauling Tree Stands — If you’ve got a long hike in, it’s best to go with a lightweight stand; (photo/Rachelle Schrute)

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.

Testing tree saddles and platforms; (photo/Adam Moore)

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

Packing in Tree Stands — (Photo/Rachelle Schrute)

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

Setting Tree Stands — Setting hang-on tree stands; (photo/Rachelle Schrute)

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

Securing a tree stand harness — Securing a harness before the pack-in; (photo/Mark Schwomeyer)

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.

Tree Stand Hunter — (Photo/Kolton Bachman)

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.