Types of tree stands

1. Platform stands
2. Tripod stands
3. Hang-on stands
4. Climbing stands
5. Ladder stands

Any stand should be thoroughly inspected for proper materials and construction prior to use. Only materials that will support the appropriate weight should be used. All welds, hardware and stress points should be inspected prior to each use for damage or deterioration.

Platform stands come in multiple sizes and styles, and most are designed to accommodate more than one hunter. Some purchase pre-manufactured shooting houses, others build their own. When setting up a pre-manufactured shooting house, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's assembly instructions. If you are building your own, consider consulting a professional to be sure the design of your stand is safe.

These stands are used alone without the need to be secured to a tree. They are ideal for use in a field or in an area where there are no trees. For safety purposes it is important to set this stand up on hard ground free of any slopes.

Hang-on stands consist of a small platform attached to a seat. The stand is attached to the tree using straps and cables or chains. Chains, cables, and straps must be adjusted and tightened properly to provide a secure, stable stand position. All stand contact points must be in contact with the tree before you step onto your stand. When using a hang-on stand, practice attaching the stand at ground level before using it in a hunting environment.

Hunters using a hang-on stand must choose a way to climb up and down from the platform. The safest and most commonly used methods are sectional ladders.

Sectional ladders are usually manufactured in lengths of three or four feet and joined together to allow the hunter to reach the desired height. They are secured to the tree with ratcheting devices or chains limiting tree damage. Always check every ladder section connection every time you use the ladder. If any ladder sections are separating, do not use it. Sectional ladders should be spaced on the tree. Climbing aids must extend above the seating platform to allow you to climb above the stand and step down onto the center of the standing platform.

Always use a climbing system that is accredited by the Treestand Manufacturer’s Association (TMA).

Climbing stands consist of two pieces – the seating and standing platforms. Hunters climb the tree by moving the seating platform with their upper body, securing it to the tree, then lifting the standing platform with their feet, and securing it to the tree, until they are at the desired height.

Before using a climbing stand, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Use the connecting method between the seat and standing platform to prevent them from separating. To compensate for the narrowing of the tree trunk as you go up, attach both platforms together at ground level to the tree in a slightly upward direction. As the climber goes up the tree, the platform will begin to level. If the lower (standing) platform begins to slope downward or away from the tree, you must return to the ground to adjust it.

Never hurry! Only move one platform a short distance. Make sure the platform you move is secure and stable before moving the other platform.

Ladder stands include a ladder and platform that can be secured to a tree. They require at least three people to install as outlined in the manufacturer's instructions. Each section of a ladder should be held together with retainer pins, clips, or bolts to prevent the ladder sections from coming apart unexpectedly. The straps and stabilization devices should be attached to the tree before climbing to the platform.

The ground under a ladder stand should be firm and level. Sloping ground or an uneven surface can cause the ladder to tilt or shift off the tree as you climb. When installing a ladder stand, always bounce on the first rung to set the ladder. Bouncing helps to stabilize the ladder by pushing it deeper into the ground, ensuring that it is firmly anchored.

Always lean forward and maintain three points of contact while climbing the ladder. And check every ladder section connection every time you leave the ground.