- Joined
- Oct 10, 2018
- Messages
- 1,377
Here is the next generation diy platform that I am testing out. Similar in shape as the original, I focused on shortening the distance of the outer edge from the tree to reduce the effects of leverage against the legs and adding "foot holds" to help with mobility and aid in stabilizing myself while shooting.
I first strapped it to the tree 1 stick high, tethered myself in and moved around on it to check for design flaws and build up my confidence in the "minimalist" design. I did get what I thought was the platform flexing but it was stretch from the wet strap I was using. It held up to my satisfaction and more so after removing it and conducting a thorough visual inspection. Next stop 22'...
This go round I made sure to lock the stand in real tight to the tree, no need to ruin a pair of boxers and climb down all messy because of a loose strap! Once tethered in I moved around on the edges pushing side to side checking for movement/flexing. After 10 minutes or so and confidence building it was time to hoist up the bow for some real testing.
The stand felt great, stable at every angle of force I gave it. The "foothold" tabs I incorporated really gave me the solid footing I was looking for while also making moving around easier and the more open platform allowed me to place a heel or toe in there to lock me in while shooting. This platform will be my go to platform for the hunting season (or until version 3.0 arrives).
As you can see I didn't put gussets or a brace between the legs as I did on the first stand with the reason being since I shortened the legs there should be less leveraging forces applied. The best part is the weight, or should I say lack thereof . . . 1.38lbs or 22ozs! I have gussets already cut as a just in case and they would add under 4ozs to the total heft if I decide to add them. Think I can reduce weight further . . .? You can see the size difference between the original and 2.0 in the pics.
I first strapped it to the tree 1 stick high, tethered myself in and moved around on it to check for design flaws and build up my confidence in the "minimalist" design. I did get what I thought was the platform flexing but it was stretch from the wet strap I was using. It held up to my satisfaction and more so after removing it and conducting a thorough visual inspection. Next stop 22'...
This go round I made sure to lock the stand in real tight to the tree, no need to ruin a pair of boxers and climb down all messy because of a loose strap! Once tethered in I moved around on the edges pushing side to side checking for movement/flexing. After 10 minutes or so and confidence building it was time to hoist up the bow for some real testing.
The stand felt great, stable at every angle of force I gave it. The "foothold" tabs I incorporated really gave me the solid footing I was looking for while also making moving around easier and the more open platform allowed me to place a heel or toe in there to lock me in while shooting. This platform will be my go to platform for the hunting season (or until version 3.0 arrives).
As you can see I didn't put gussets or a brace between the legs as I did on the first stand with the reason being since I shortened the legs there should be less leveraging forces applied. The best part is the weight, or should I say lack thereof . . . 1.38lbs or 22ozs! I have gussets already cut as a just in case and they would add under 4ozs to the total heft if I decide to add them. Think I can reduce weight further . . .? You can see the size difference between the original and 2.0 in the pics.