Stykbow1 said:I've seen it mentioned quite a few times for a lighter or minimalist saddle but I have to say that I can't imagine after years of schlepping around climbers and fixed position, sometimes weighing in the double digits, anything lighter than the current AeroHunter. I felt like i was practically running around naked when I put the saddle on for the first time and walked around. Compared to what I used to have to lug around the saddle is ultra light and minimalist for me I can't even imagine something smaller and lighter than that with the same safety, versatility, and functionality. I'm not saying it can't be done or shouldn't but for me the weight advantage, portability, and manueverability that I've gained by going to the current AeroHunter Evolution are to me anyway amazing compared to what I was used to using. What used to take up half of my truck can now be carried and stored in a canvas bag, what I had to lug in on my back I now wear, and the big cumbersome metal stand that banged and bumped into every branch and stick is replaced by softer quieter material that slips through the heaviest of cover with ease. Heck i think my bow and a quiver full of arrows weighs as much or more than my saddle!
While I realize there is always room for improvement with any product I'm just enjoying the freedom that the AeroHunter is affording me and looking forward to putting it to good use this fall and winter. I think an ultralight saddle appeals to a certain group of hunters with specific needs and wants just like ultra light backpackers think things like titanium spoons and cookware are the cats meow because they shave ounces off of what the person has to carry but the average camper wouldn't give it a second thought. Maybe after hunting with the saddle for a while I might think it is heavy but all I have to do is look at my climber, hang on, or ground blind to remind me just how far we come and I'm really happy with that.
Roger
I think it is the combined weight of all hunting gear. Start adding in sticks, platforms, camera gear, bow, arrows, field dressing, binoculars, calls, extra clothing, etc..... it all starts adding up. Then toss in the rockies while chasing elk near wallows----- I cut weight wherever I can so I can be as mobile as I can be. I would much rather not have to carry anything into the woods as far as tree stand/climbing but the truth is I hunt public land and everything goes in and out each time I hunt. I typically walk 5 to 7 miles each day while hunting (I do a lot of scout and hunt type set ups) and trust me, 10 pounds can make a world of difference in hills over the course of a season. Most of my stands are at least a two mile hike just to get to them - that's 8 miles a day right there for a morning and evening hunt.... but I typically scout a new section all day and hunt over best sign as I find it.
I do hope that you all can come out with a minimalist saddle at some point. I keep hoping