New Guy Thought Process

[B Hunter]

So I've been lurking on the site for a few months now but have yet to pull the trigger on any equipment. In order to justify the cost of a saddle, I want to be able to get to around 10 lbs total system. That being said, I am leaning towards the one stick method (muddy pro stick) with an aider right from the start. I am a fully mobile public land hunter with sticks and hang on currently.

My question is if this approach is ok for a newbie or is it for more advanced and experienced saddle hunters. I understand there will be a learning curve but I don't want to go in over my head and end up burning myself out.

I've been doing some research on platforms as well and am leaning towards the predator. I first thought about doing a diy lone wolf seat or the podium but with both of these you are still going to be spending about $120, correct? To me, if I'm spending $120 I might as well spend $180 and get what I'm thinking will suit my needs better.

Am I thinking correctly on platform costs? I've decided against ring of steps and the dyi plywood platforms. Are there other options out there I've missed that may be a little more cost effective?

Thanks in advance.

 

[drew13]

If I were you I wouldn’t rule out ROS. If you’re going to one stick with a muddy stick then you’ve already got one part of your platform right there. Put a squirrel step or similar on either side of the top steps of the muddy and you’re done - way under 10 pounds, very packable and quiet and pretty dang inexpensive. If you don’t like the steps, you can always sell them and buy a platform.

I don’t think you’re trying to skip to something too advanced as long as you practice, practice, practice at a safe height first.

One man’s opinion only. I’ve been doing ROS for 10 years, tried a couple of platforms including the predator and ended up selling them. Nothing wrong with platforms, I just prefer ROS.

 

[Bwhana]

I just tried 1 stick climbing this past Saturday for the first time and it was extremely easy. I will be using it from now on, but not exclusively, still like the 3 WE steps method with aider. Either will keep the weight down to your target. ROS vs platform is more of a personal preference and also depends if you are more of a leaner or sitter. Use the Saddlehunter mantra and you will be fine not matter what - buy one of everything and then sell the ones you don't use on here in the classifieds. There is always another waiting to try the one you didn't want!

 

[Patriot38]

I tried making a DIY platform. It worked ok but then I realized that the predator was built specifically for saddle hunting and designed really well. The cost is WAY worth it. Its alot up front but it will last for years to come. If you dont like it you can sell it. I love the extra space on a platform. I tried my WE stepps as a platform and it works but in my opinion the platform is alot more comfortable. It also packs really well. You are spot on that if you will spend 120 you might as well get the best and spend a little extra, you wont regret it.

For what it's worth
...I've never tried the one stick method but I really enjoy using my stepps. I'd buy them again for sure.

 

[Exhumis]

I was able to build a LW platform for around $80 from parts I was able to get from the classifieds and doublesteps. I'm a new saddle hunter but not a new hunter. I've used many different types of stands and thus had a pretty good idea of what I wanted going in to saddle hunting. I will be doing one stick method. I have a muddy pro with aider. I can show you how I set mine up. I think whatever method works for you, go with it. Some guys use squirrel steps, some silent approach, some steps/bolts, some multiple sticks, etc.