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Climbing Transition

cliffordBRT

cliffordBRT

Member
Joined
Oct 30, 2019
Messages
83
Location
Fredericksburg, VA
Am I the only one who puts their platform directly above their last step? I believe the "safest" method is to offset the steps and the platform 90 degrees, but I don't think I'd get as good of a bite with the platform.
 
I usually offset my Predator about 45 degrees, gets it out of the way of my top WE stepp but not so far that’s it’s difficult to step onto.
 
I do something similar, I put my predator 45-90 degrees from my last step of my stick. Usually about a foot or two higher and to the left but that depends on direction of setup (deer movement) and lean of tree if there is any.
 
I like to ONE STICK...when I'm at height, I stand on my stick and place my stand about 1-2 feet above where my feet are. If I'm using my muddy then the same...however since this year I'll be using the shikar mini, I will still put it at the same distance. After placing my platform, I then take my three folding steps/strap with OCB buckle and place one step on the left, right and behind my stand. That way I can move safely around the tree.
 
I'm with you. I hang the Predator about knee height dead above my last step. I transition from the linesman to the tether before I step up in case something should slip. I use my knees to hold the platform in front of me so I have two hands free to set the strap.
 
My last step is always about 8 inches ABOVE the platform and slightly offset from the platform.
That last step allows me to step off the platform if needed during the hunt and get around the tree a little. It also acts as a foot rest to adjust positioning during long hangs...it improves comfort to be able to occasionally put a foot up above the platform.
I see no benefit in having steps directly below the platform. And, if anything, it makes it a little awkward going from the last step to the platform.
 
My platform when I use sticks is at the same level as my top step and 90 degrees to the side. I tether in and then step on to the platform if I'm not advancing the tether up the tree as I climb.

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I try to put the platform at the same height or a little below the top step on my weak side at 45 to 90 degrees rotation. Back in the tree stand days, I was taught to always step down from your climbing system onto your platform as a safety best practice. With the saddle, I always connect into the tether before stepping on the platform so I’ve adapted that rule a little. I like having the stick at the same level offset from the stick so I can use it as a step when rotating around the tree for a week side shot.
 
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