Me and a buddy spent most of the day testing out different gear and trying to figure out what we’re going to use next season so we can get it dialed in so we’re not trying new gear while during season (like I did all last year).
We had a 2TC kit, a few different types of sticks, and a couple saddles & stands to tinker with.
The first method I tried was
15” EWO FeatherStick with cam cleat
Angled Scout on top
3 step Ultimader
Loc On Windwalker
Loc On fleece pack
40’ Canyon C-IV
Figure 8
Separate 8’ tether for going up and at height
The way the stand pairs with the pack, the amount of room it has in the pockets, and how the one-stick packs on the outside makes this set up was awesome.
One-sticked up the tree, usually 2 or 3 moves to get 15 to 20+ feet.
Stood on the scout and put up my bow/gear hanger, hung the pack on the hanger, sat back down and weighted my tether, unzipped the pack and let the stand slide out of it, and hung the stand on the tree about even with my scout. I had planned to replace the strap it comes with, but it was easy and after setting the stand, I was very surprised at how solid it was.
The stand is surprisingly comfortable and had more than enough room for sitting, standing, or leaning (size 9 boot).
We tried all our other gear, but I had my mind made up on what I was using next year and spent a couple hours with this set up after we ran through the rest. I was able to climb up and have the stand set in 5-7 minutes from having the one stick in my hand to sitting in the loc on. This was on a tree without limbs on the way up, FYI. I’m not a speed guy, but in a hunting situation (with limbs and being quiet) I could see doing this in 10-20 minutes with minimal effort.
Another benefit of the stand paired with a saddle is that when sitting in the saddle with the seat folded back, it was the perfect height for my knees and with the seat bearing padded all the way through, this eliminated any need to knee pads or a Knushion-like item.
I was very surprised and have changed my view on what I think my best set up for next year is. The price of this set up compared with the weight/comfort/pack ability is well worth it in my opinion.
I don’t think it will be too much of an issue with the Windwalker not having leveling capability since we have mostly oaks and can typically find a straight tree; however, I’m keeping my Hush stand just in case.
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