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BEARCLAW Folding Tree Steps - API Skyhook Type

Discussion in 'Manufacturers, Press, and Pro-Staff' started by PVArrowhead, Oct 3, 2009.

  1. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    Introducing….



    ~ Bearclaw Folding Tree Steps ~




    Okay Ladies & Gents, we are (finally) on the launch pad
    of a long awaited and anticipated product
    to fill in the gap from the old favorite, the API Skyhook.

    I got tired of looking for more Tree Steps and not finding anything
    but beat up “hand me downs” with expensive “New, off the shelf” pricing.
    If I can’t find any reasonable choices out there, I’m assuming YOU aren’t either.

    Besides being an avid Bow Hunter, I’m a machinist.
    I made these steps from a few different styles that I’ve owned in the past,
    taking the best parts and creating these.
    I liked them so much, I figured you might too.
    (The pictures speak for themselves)


    After 3 years in R&D, design, and now in limited production,
    we are proud to announce --



    "BEARCLAW"



    FULLY CNC MACHINED FOLDING TREE STEPS!!



    ~ PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A. ~



    STEPS ARE MADE OF 6061-T6 AIRCRAFT ALUMINUM ALLOY


    ARE YOU TIRED OF PAYING TOP DOLLAR FOR USED FOLDING STEPS?


    GIVE THESE A TRY… YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED


    Each Set Includes:


    4 NEW STEPS & 4 HIGH STRENGTH LAG BOLTS


    and is currently available on eBay via


     

    Attached Files:

  2. Live2Draw

    Live2Draw Die Hard Bowhunter

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    could yah add some back cuts on the teeth in the back to inhibit side to side motion?
     
  3. Dan

    Dan Senior Member

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    So, figure 20" spacing, I'd need 12 to get to 20'. That's $210? Ouch.
     
  4. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    Thanks for the suggestion. However, this design does not warrant back cuts. In field testing I have not had any side to side motion or shifting. The dual cleat design on this step wedges between the bark allowing no movement.


    Appreciate the input! Keep 'em comming!
     
  5. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    Sorry about the steep price. I have manufactured these in limited quanities as a market test. If there is enough demand I may be able to improve the cost/volume ratio, but currently this adjusted price covers my expenses. "It aint cheap makin' stuff in the US." Hopefully the quality will make up for that!!

    Hope you understand
     
    Last edited: Oct 6, 2009
  6. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    BEARCLAW Tree Steps in Action


    I just wanted to leave you a link - I show and explain the improvements that I've made on the very thing you're asking about -

    Go take a look -




    :cool: Monty​
     
  7. jfergus7

    jfergus7 Legendary Woodsman

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    Like the idea of them but that price is crazy. But I also understand that you are just getting started. Good luck.
     
  8. GreyGhostHntr

    GreyGhostHntr Newb

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    I purchased 28 of the sky hook steps before API stopped manufacturing them. I use them on every one of my stands and have not had any major issues with them. The only complaint that I would have with the original design is that they bend with extended use but not enough that I can not use them. I would love to purchase a dozen of these new steps but I cannot justify doing so at the current price. The original API steps have been a great tool to stop trespassers from hunting out of my stands as well as keeping my tree stands safe from theft. I really like the more rigid design of the new steps. The price of the steps are teh only thing holding me back from purchasing them.
     
  9. Live2Draw

    Live2Draw Die Hard Bowhunter

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    ever think about doing a group buy bud? could offer it at a lower price if the proper group pre ordered...
     
  10. jfergus7

    jfergus7 Legendary Woodsman

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    That isn't a bad idea and I might go for that if he can get the price down to a more realistic price!
     
  11. peakrut

    peakrut Facebook Admin

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    You working?
     
  12. jfergus7

    jfergus7 Legendary Woodsman

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    Not yet but working on that!
     
  13. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    I understand your position...

    But I don't think you understand mine...


    I would LOVE to reduce the prices to increase production, get 'em out there, and be able to further reduce the prices. That was the whole idea... to provide a good, safe, viable alternative to the ridiculous prices people are paying for a used Skyhook.


    But guys... YOU have to remember - I'm just a guy, on a shoestring, that went and DID it... not talk about it... not biotch about it... DID something about it.


    I AM NOT A BIG COMPANY... I don't have deep pockets, or a big distributor pushing these into the nearest Sporting Goods store, or Cabela's... I bought enough material to do a trial run. I've had 1000 hits on eBay, and they ARE actually starting to move.


    But until I recoop the money I already have in the initial materials, I cannot buy more, do a bigger run, lower the price, and so on... it's a hard circle to climb UP, and frankly, at the rate that they ARE moving... there doesn't seem to be enough serious interest to pursue it anyway.


    Don't you ever wonder WHY API isn't making theirs anymore? THEY are (or were) a big, healthy company, on it's way up... deep pockets, distributors etc. etc. etc... and THEY didn't see the value of continuing the product... doesn't that SAY something?


    I don't wonder.


    It's too bad.

    And currently, I'm not in the position to offer you a group rate. If I could, I would. I really want to get these out there - KNOWN about... but doing that wouldn't help me one bit as far as having to reinvest money for the next run. Sorry.
     
    Last edited: Oct 23, 2009
  14. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    Going - Going - GONE

    THANKS to those of you that support us,

    Whether that was with kind words or purchasing our steps.

    I'll let you know when they get relisted.


    Monty​
     
  15. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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  16. jfergus7

    jfergus7 Legendary Woodsman

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    I think that everyone here understands your position. It is always tough to get started. And from the looks of it several would be interested if the price was more reasonable. I hope this venture works for you and if the day comes that you are able to drop the pricing I will surely re-look at them! However where you currently have them I think it will be hard to convince people they are worth the price. But I do wish you well!

    Good luck!

     
  17. PVArrowhead

    PVArrowhead Newb

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    Thanks a lot - I really appreciate the good wishes... and the reality checks... all around.

    Hopefully it will work out - for all of us


    :) Monty
     

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