Personally, I am buying at least two Ol Man Roosts for the coming season as a result of liking my climber and my need for a few more comfortable lock ons.
Not sure I can wear out my Lone Wolf, but I will be replacing the belts with new XL belts before next season. Honestly I check each bolt, strap and/or chain before using a stand each season. A little cheap maintenance can save a lot of $ plus peace of mind. No offense to the Ol Man guys, though I like the looks of the Ol Man Aluminum Pro I can't see myself buying one knowing its coming from China.
Only thing good to come out of Tennesse...Treewalker Treestands. Logan and his father are top notch and I really love this stand. ROLL TIDE!!!
What about Jack Daniels, Volunteers, and Al Gore ....well 2 out of 3 ain't bad :D And I fixed your post for you. I'm sure it was just a typo on your part.
Make my own Loc-ons. They are best there is and I have only had to replace one of them in 25 years because I left it up too long in an Oak tree and the tree grew around it. Had to cut it out... couldn't even see the chain. Seriously, if you have any broken welds, don't hunt from it.
Any aluminum stand with a broken weld should be trashed. Now, if you have a steel stand, and have access to a good welder or can weld well yourself, I wouldn't hesitate to weld it back up, maybe reinforce it a bit and keep using it. Thats only if the stand is in otherwise good shape (no rust, etc) I had a Loggy Bayou climber for close to 12 years without a hint of issues. Thing worked great. I still kick myself for getting rid of it. I miss that 12lb, one piece climber.
I've had about all of the climbers. I bought a treewalker this season. No Question best Climber I've ever owned. SB
I still use an old Warren & Sweat climber and (2) API Alumilock hangers that I bought in the late 80's/early 90's and with the exception of replacing the seats on all of them they are as solid as ever.
Couldn't agree more though aluminum can be welded. However the hidden stress of aluminum that you don't see is seriously frightening and if you have cracks anywhere that you can see, you may have several more that you can't see. I worked in aircraft maintenance for 25 years and the only way to verify the integrity of aluminum is with some pretty sophisticated X-Ray equipment. Don't risk it...
Couldn't resist after reading the earlier thread about the fellow who fell and is fighting for his life.
