I have been looking at getting some better hang ons and sticks. I know I hear a lot about LW, but seriously compare the two? Let me know thanks!
I cant compare because I only have LW. They are great stands but a little pricey. Big platform, very easy to set up, and light. Some say the seat isnt very comfortable but I actually like it. Theres just enough padding there to make it comfortable for me. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldnt have bought my other 6 hang on stands and just went with 2 or 3 LW stands.
I have always used L/W, but considered trying muddy after Andrae sold L/W... I hunted out of a friends Muddy stand with short sticks for a weekend and it was no comparison. The stand was so noisy I could barely move. Every shift in weight was met with a loud noise or creak. The sticks were not very stable either and did not lock in like L/W long sticks do.
I have both LW & Muddy sticks. I also have a Alpha II and a Muddy Hunter. Both have their benefits. A Like the Muddy sticks because having two feet at the same height is much easier to prep the tree on the first climb. The Muddy stand is rock sold and dead quiet. I actually feel more secure with the Muddy specifically because one of the two straps is a ratchet. Out of the box I like the muddy better. The seat on the LW leaves alot to be desired. Upgrading to the Comfort Tech seat is a must. Your looking at 20+ pounds between the stick and the stands either way. I simply prefer carrying a lock on and a climber for most my hunting here in KS. Although if I have a spot already scoped out I'll bring my climber because it can't be beat as far as comfort and security. Especially for all day sits.
I have to admit I haven't hunted out of Muddys. My hunch is they build a better than average stand. However I agree with Dan above, they have to be louder. The noise factor doesn't come in to play until the temp. gets in the 20s or below. This is where the LW will shine. I laughed when I watched a Midwest Whitetail Episode from the State of Missouri and the guy talked about his stand popping because it was so cold during a late season hunt. Not a very good way to display your stand when you are a sponsor. I love my LW stands for late season and mobility.
I have a couple Loggy Bayou stands which are pretty much the same thing as the Muddy other than the seat and one less strap. They are decent stands but are not even comparable to a Lone Wolf IMO. I find the surface on a Muddy platform to be a little slippery when wet which is not a problem on my LW. Also LW stands are solid cast, not hollow tubing welded together. That is what makes them so quiet and they will probably last a lifetime provided some of the components are replaced now and then.
Cooter hit the nail on the head. I also have the Loggy's and while I like them, my Lone Wolfs (wolves? :D) are on a whole different level.
