This is my first year in thw saddle and had shot some targets, but what is the biggest obstacles from the saddle set up during a hunt? Is the tree tether or platform an obstacle in anyway or does it just depend where the deer is? What are your thoughts on limiting factors of a saddle or what did you do to alleviate them?
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I believe you’ll find these responses somewhat repetitive, if seasoned hunters are responding. First the tether is not “in the way” unless you are standing on the platform and spinning for a weak side shot. I don’t do this, I always keep a couple squirrel steps and I walk the backside of the tree. The platform won’t be an obstacle, however learning to properly set platforms takes a few tries in the yard. I suggest you practice setting them at height as well just for real simulator experience. The two biggest “obstacles” would be learning to adjust to trusting your equipment and the new pressure points you’ll experience. You are essentially hanging from a couple of straps. Yes there’s mesh or cordura on there as well but they spread weight distribution, the webbing is still your support. It takes a few long (think hour or longer) sits in the yard to really fully adjust to that new pressure and to learn to trust yourself in it.
The second obstacle is shooting from a saddle. In my opinion it’s easier to keep good form while shooting from a saddle. I have heard guys complain though about it. Always climb your tree, check your shooting lanes, and draw your bow to double check your gear is functioning and that your shooting lanes are clear. Those “obstacles” can all be negated by doing one simple thing- Practice.
Practice trusting the equipment and learning your system at ground level. Then practice everything including your climb and gear set up at height.