Using a ratchet for your steps.

[Cajunshooter]

Guys we’ve had a discussion about the best means of strapping your steps to a tree. I was using an over center buckle because it seemed to be the best low noise option. I was never really satisfied with it’s stability nor trying to figure out exactly how tight to get the strap before locking the buckle down.

I’ve now decided to go with a ratchet with a rubber coated handle and I’ve figured out how to strap it down extremely tight without making any more noise than a OCB.

Here’s a little video of how I do it. You will hear a little noise but the majority it just the crunching sound from the strap. Also I didn’t really take it as slow and careful here as I do in a tree.

Enjoy

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[rabidd099]

Guys we’ve had a discussion about the best means of strapping your steps to a tree. I was using an over center buckle because it seemed to be the best low noise option. I was never really satisfied with it’s stability nor trying to figure out exactly how tight to get the strap before locking the buckle down.

I’ve now decided to go with a ratchet with a rubber coated handle and I’ve figured out how to strap it down extremely tight without making any more noise than a OCB.

Here’s a little video of how I do it. You will hear a little noise but the majority it just the crunching sound from the strap. Also I didn’t really take it as slow and careful here as I do in a tree.

Enjoy

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

That's how I have always done mine works great, never bought a OCB cause I was always satisfied with how tight the ratchet got.

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[Nutterbuster]

I have used a ratchet, and agree that they can be used quietly. But red's little ocb is just so light and fast. I just got back from a hunt, and I had my ring of steps cinched around a bay tree tight in no time at all.

I know some guys have talked about not being able to get it tight or breaking the buckle, but that definitely isn't my personal experience. I pull the strap tight and mash the lever down with the palm of my hand, using a good little bit of body weight. I use the tail end of the strap to cushion the buckle when it breaks over, and it is noiseless that way. When it's time to go, I use the tail end to leverage the buckle back up.

A huge part of getting a ROS tight is the strap itself. A heavy duty POLYESTER strap won't stretch on you. A cheap strap will stretch, and you'll never get the thing tight, no matter what buckle you use.

Definitely a good video. For those just starting out, a ratchet might be easier to get a hold of than an ocb. Just be sure to get a good one. I folded the handle over on one trying to get it tight one morning.

Edit: I also really like the idea of using the buckle as a "step." Helps offset the weight difference, and eliminates the "deadzone" that's usually caused by the buckle. You've definitely given me something to think about.