This is what I'm after.... Light, easy to setup, affordable. A lone wolf would be PERFECT, but however this particular stand will be left up in public land, and I would hate to for someone to make off with a brand new lone wolf. While scouting I found an absolute beautiful stand site that just screams big bucks. It is definantly a hike to get to climbing up bluffs and large ridges to get to, but I think I can escape the crowd up there. So if I am going to be packing a stand 2 miles deep up these hills I would prefer it to be something a little lighter on my back. I am leaning towards the Gorilla Silverback Scout. Only 9lbs. and fairly priced. Any other suggestions?
I picked up the Summit Open Shot Deluxe last weekend. I have not hunted out of it yet but I did test it out for a minute. I am liking it so far. If you might go with a climber, consider this one.
Made in the USA, price is fair and mine has alot of room for me...6' 2". I have the gun version, meaning the rail all the way around, but i do not have the shooting rest or the chill pad. I basically have the climber, with a bow holder from Bass Pro. I got mine at a show, paid show price and got a very good deal. I spoke with Logan and his dad for about 20 minutes last year. We discussed deer (of course) and when I walked by their booth this year (almost missed em), Logan grabed my arm and ask how it went with the trailcam buck. That is pretty impressive.
If you are looking for a hang on type stand, it's hard to beat Big Game stands. Very nice/comfortable stands and cheap. You can get The Boss at Bass Pro for $90. The only brand of stand I buy anymore.
If you are going pulic land i would recomend just using the cheapest stand you can find, thats all that me and my brother use and we have never had any problems with them. you can find them at ****s for like 40 bucks.
Hunting public land? Get a climber. Trust me, there are thieves everywhere and they can spot a hang-on, tree steps, ladder, etc... - and they WILL take it!! I have a Summit Viper X4 (2004 model) that is still in excellent condition, and I have hunted with it year after year, and love it. Summit makes some awesome stands that are both lightweight and rugged.
It's a long story, but a climber is definantly something I no longer trust going up or down a tree in.
