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NEWB in North Georgia

O

OEB0630

New Member
Joined
Sep 8, 2019
Messages
3
Hello everyone! Self-admitted newb to not just saddle hunting, but to big-game hunting period! Have been an avid fowl hunter, and I raise, train, and judge versatile hunting dogs. Although that passion won't change, I also need more reason to stay in the woods. (GA not a great state for bird hunting, but the wife says this is now home....so, I need to make the best of it.)

Started researching deer and bear hunting earlier this summer to get started. Due to a few run-in's with some IED's in Iraq and Afghanistan, I have a few physical challenges I need to work around....which is what led me to the saddle. (I do not have opposable thumbs, and most of my right hand is weakened to the point of not working all that well; so hanging a stand, while balancing on sticks was prob not going to be my gig.)

I'm a young-at-heart mid-40's male...not in great shape...so need to work on that! I live up near Dahlonega, GA....so plenty of access to public land/National Forest. Absolutely love that this forum exists, and I have read a TON of good info. Hopefully after a few seasons I'll be chiming in more than just asking questions!
 
First off, Thank you for your service. I hunt on National Forest about 30 mins north of Dahlonega. Not many deer left on the NF, but plenty of bear and hogs which can be hunted from the ground fairly easily. If either of those interest you shoot me a PM and I will point you in the right direction.
 
As jbogg said thank you for your service!!!! Welcome from coastal NC! And sorry for your injuries!!!!
 
Hey bud, proud Veteran here too. Glad you made it home. I'm a little further south near Winder ga. Welcome to the forum and let me know if you ever need anything.
 
Welcome from Maryland!! Thank you for your service!! I’m gonna give some more thought to a saddle setup for you..... So can you expand a bit on your capabilities? Firearms only, or are you able to shoot a bow (probably a good mod for that w/ what you described)?? As you know, Climbing method is gonna be the challenge .... a linesman belt would be your best friend here. Public land : spurs & presets w/bolts are out, stepps would be rough to tie that knot & lock them in. I think sticks would be the best bet , I’ll test it out but I think you could do some one one handed (for the most part)...
 
Welcome to the family! It is always good to see fellow veterans making the best of limitations and disabilities. The outdoors have been a blessing for me, especially mentally. You’ll find this is some of the most genuine friendly and helpful groups of guys out there!!!!
 
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Bigterp said:
Welcome from Maryland!! Thank you for your service!! I’m gonna give some more thought to a saddle setup for you..... So can you expand a bit on your capabilities? Firearms only, or are you able to shoot a bow (probably a good mod for that w/ what you described)?? As you know, Climbing method is gonna be the challenge .... a linesman belt would be your best friend here. Public land : spurs & presets w/bolts are out, stepps would be rough to tie that knot & lock them in. I think sticks would be the best bet , I’ll test it out but I think you could do some one one handed (for the most part)...
Click to expand...
I agree, I think hawk sticks with ocb strap are probably the easiest way up a tree on public land. If you can get in on a hunt club you can probably get some permanent sets in place.
 
I want to say thank you for your service and welcome to the site from Iowa. Fellow veteran as well. This site has a ton of info and good people that offer advice and help. Good luck this season!
 
Welcome from God’s country Missouri


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
 
Bigterp said:
Welcome from Maryland!! Thank you for your service!! I’m gonna give some more thought to a saddle setup for you..... So can you expand a bit on your capabilities? Firearms only, or are you able to shoot a bow (probably a good mod for that w/ what you described)?? As you know, Climbing method is gonna be the challenge .... a linesman belt would be your best friend here. Public land : spurs & presets w/bolts are out, stepps would be rough to tie that knot & lock them in. I think sticks would be the best bet , I’ll test it out but I think you could do some one one handed (for the most part)...
Click to expand...
Thanks Bigterp! Yes, I have decided to go with Hawk Helium sticks. (As I am sure everyone is aware, 2019's are nowhere to be found, so I have some previous versions being delivered tomorrow.) I'll mod with a VersaButton to lose the buckle and cinch. I do not think I am going to cut them down, as I am not overly concerned about the weight (yet) - maybe once I get used to the whole setup. For now, rifle only. Hoping once I know I will enjoy it, I'll progress to archery in a year or two. Thank you for all of the insight!
 
Welcome to the forum. I’ll be in Dahlonega: Helen area next month if there’s anything you would like to see or try.
 
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