Thanks for the great tips! The more I research and learn the more things seem clear. Saddle hunting has been a bit of a mystery to me.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
You can take 100 different saddle hangers and you will probably see 100 individual set-ups. I'm not sure any of us do things exactly like the next guy. There are so many variations of climbing methods, saddle modifications, platform or ring of step styles, and tether placement. Then, if you are primarily a leaner or sitter effects a bunch of other things and many of these interact and effect each other. It does sound complicated and a bit of a mystery, doesn't it?
1st things 1st...how are you gonna get up the tree? If you hunt private land, you'll have more options of how to climb.
2nd is your saddle. I don't think you can go wrong with the Kestrel or Mantis.
3rd is foot placement. Depending on where exactly you intend to hunt, you may want a few different systems, instead of just one. I prefer a Predator, others use primarily a ring of steps of one sort or another, and some guys own both and choose which will work best for the day.
Once you get those 3 required details in your possession, then you just need some time to practice at ground level and figure out how you want to utilize it for your needs and desires.
Everyone will tell you...safety is #1.
#2, IMO, is a tie between being organized and being comfortable. If you don't have comfort or are disorganized, then saddle hunting won't suit you.
Take it one step at a time and it isn't really a mystery. It's highly effective and a ton of fun.
And you are in the right place for learning. There is a wealth of knowledge, creativity and helpful guys here.
There are a lot of forums out there, I haven't seen a better one, yet.