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Favorite Saddle for beginner?

Like you will read and hear, everybody's body and shape is different. This means some will find different saddles comfortable and others will not. I have a Transformer and I have an Cruzr XC on its way. Transformer is amazing for me. I bought the XC because of guys like bigmike23 and how much they say they like the XC. We will see which one wins but I plan to keep both if I like the XC.
 
First year saddle hunter here but it comes down to what type of person are you? Are you a plug-n-play type or someone who constantly tinkers with stuff?

For me, I went with an Aero Merlin due to reviews, this site, etc. I also ordered the kit since I was starting off new but knowing what I know know, I should've just bought the saddle. I've already swapped ropes, ascenders, bridges ect. as I continue to tinker with things but that's where my hobby enjoyment comes from. I almost bought a Latitude Method but with more parts to fiddle with, I went with a simpler design to start.
 
I bought an H2 slingshot last year for my first saddle and I have no regrets. Very comfortable.
 
Went with the Tethrd Phantom for my first. I have no real complaints and liked it a lot. This year I am trying the TX5 and Overwatch. I have the TX5 already and so far love it. It is more comfortable than the Phantom it subtle ways. After I get an Overwatch, I will decide and keep two. However, it’s nice that the Phantom is one size fits most. Allow me to take a buddy if it comes up.
 
If they were still made, I would suggest the Kestrel. Simple and robust, which helped me feel comfortable starting out.

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The TreeHopper Recon. This is from a guy who tried SitDrag and Trophyline Ambush Pro. But the Phantom is the one side fit all standard. Also heard nothing but good review on the XC. But 2 panels is the way to go!
 
I’m a Treehopper Recon lover myself! Tried the Sitdrag, Mantis, Tactisaddle and the H2. Nothing beats the price, comfort and adjustability. Look up the videos on Eberhart’s Outdoors YouTube channel and he explains in great detail why the two piece saddle beats a one piece. Good luck hope you find something that works for you.
 
Received my XC yesterday. Was able to sit in it today. Def not as comfortable as my Transformer. Pros and cons to each. XC is lighter amd quieter (less metal). Comfort I would say 2 panel all day long. Will try both this season and sell one of them
 
Still haven't bought my first saddle, Not sure which one to buy yet, Hoping to find a used one first to try for the first year,
I bought a new set of Helium climbing sticks,
 
I dont suggest getting the Trophyline Ambush Pro or Lite. There is a reason they are on sale. IMHO they are the worse saddles in the market. The classified is good. Or a DIY fleece saddle with a RCH is the best budget and a lot more comfortable than you realizes.
 
I’m a Treehopper Recon lover myself! Tried the Sitdrag, Mantis, Tactisaddle and the H2. Nothing beats the price, comfort and adjustability. Look up the videos on Eberhart’s Outdoors YouTube channel and he explains in great detail why the two piece saddle beats a one piece. Good luck hope you find something that works for you.
I like the Recon a lot too, but I don't know if I would recommend it for a brand new saddle hunter. I think a single panel saddle is simpler and probably easier to learn on all other things equal.

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I like the Recon a lot too, but I don't know if I would recommend it for a brand new saddle hunter. I think a single panel saddle is simpler and probably easier to learn on all other things equal.

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Couldn’t disagree with you more. Nothing complicated with it at all.
 
My first saddle was the Mantis. It's affordable when purchased second hand, and built well like you would expect any manufactured saddle to be. It doesn't have the cache it had when it first hit the market, but that doesn't mean it's not a solid saddle that can get you into saddle hunting. You won't know what you don't know, so whichever one you pick, you can search for your second and third saddles to improve upon the things you don't like about your first one.
 
I already have a set of hawk helium sticks that I bought for a hang on.

Do you have a budget in mind? Saddle is not one of those 'buy once cry once' kind of purchase due to it being a very personal preference item. You can DIY something for around $50 with a sitdrag/RCH option. OR go 300+ with a custom saddle. There are some debate between 1 and 2 panels, but I suggest you try both if you can. Its a long time until whitetail season. And to be honest, some people dont end up liking saddles. But again resale value is high due to low cost of shipping. Single panel shine if you are planning to walk in with it, but 2 panels are more comfortable while hunting IMHO. Some people over come this with adding a back band, each their own.
 
Decided to go with the Cruzr XC. In part due to everyone’s recommendation and reviews I’ve watched on YouTube and also due to the fact that I got their super kit that includes the saddle, upgraded adjustable bridge, upgraded ropes, back band, saddle pouch and their platform for less than $600 with a 10% discount code.
 
Nice! Now the wait for it to arrive. Let us all know what you think once you get to test it out
 
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