I had planned on this being my go-to setup this year but I only ended up using it 3 times out of 20-some sits. Funny how things don’t always go according to plan.
In terms of comfort and functionality in the tree, it is definitely the best of both worlds in a way. It’s nice to be able to stand up straight on a roomy platform as well as lean into the saddle. And it opens up limitless shooting options. Comfort it can’t be beat. That aspect is great.
But once I got in saddle shape I was “comfortable enough” with my small saddle platform (DIY but basically the Predator, which is a mini-treestand, calling a spade a spade).
The reason I didn’t use the larger hang-on was it just doesn’t carry as well. Mostly related to going through brush. But also longer hikes. Just nowhere near as comfortable walking. I was willing to trade the slight comfort downgrade in the tree for the big comfort upgrade hiking. Which is kind of odd because the hike may be 1 or 2 hours out of the day versus 4-12 hours spent hanging.
Also this may just be me as a very disorganized person, but I really hated having multiple setups with different packs and accessories. It becomes a pain switching back and forth. Invariably that is how I forget stuff. Next year I’ll either totally duplicate my accessories or something so I can just grab and go.
Two functional considerations if you do go this route:
- Use a cambuckle strap to anchor the base of your platform to the tree. Otherwise when you swing around the tree for shots you put a lot of side pressure and kick your platform out. (I see now you already are planning this)
- Safety police, if you use a stock Mantis consider tying in a back-up bridge when using it this way. The Mantis bridge is Amsteel, which is made from Dyneema. Dyneema is rated very poorly for dynamic or shock loading. That is to say, the normal treestand style harness if you fall has slack in it – this force is shock loading - versus true saddle style your system should theoretically always be under tension so no shock loading.