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Newbie Setup advice

WorldsOkayestDad

New Member
SH Member
Joined
Feb 29, 2024
Messages
7
Hello Everyone, just finished up my first season of Deer hunting and after alot of thought and some research I decided to try and get my feet wet Saddle Hunting. Because im just getting into im not looking for all the bells and whistles of the "best" gear, more focusing on the best value items.

My question is actually several parts:

1. I checked both new and used saddles and I think I have decided on the XOP Mondo & Edge Saddle/Platform package for the price. Anyone have any experience with them?

2. I am looking at sticks and im between buying new (XOP X3 for about $200) or used (Novix Mini or Latitude SS for around $150 or a Hawk Ranger for $50) for reference im 6' and 235 lbs and wear a size 11 shoe. Any input on these choices, anything I should be looking at?

3. Besides the sticks, saddle (comes with ropes) and platform, any other "must have's"? I think I will probably buy a kong duck but there are so many accessories and terms out there its a little overwhelming.

Thanks in advance to any guidance anyone can give, this seems like a great community and im excited to start putting some time in the woods.
 
If you are within driving distance of any of this year's mobile hunter expo's, you might want to attend before you start buying. There will be a lot of gear you can try out. Lots of folks you can ask questions too as well.
 
Come to the light, the JX3 tree saddle light..............
Don't be afraid, you will sit from dark to dark very comfortably, no fidgeting, be able to snooze when you want, no dreaded hip pinch, no back aches, you can shoot 360° around the tree with any weapon, bow or gun, no weak side shot.
No platform required, only a ROS, or a JX3 wide top climbing stick, no sore feet, no knee pads required, no sore knees, no tired legs from leaning as you can sit all day, built in pack frame for carrying all your needs. No getting into “saddle shape” as your Lazy Boy at home does it for you. Buy once, cry once.
Come to the light, the JX3 light...........
 
If you are within driving distance of any of this year's mobile hunter expo's, you might want to attend before you start buying. There will be a lot of gear you can try out. Lots of folks you can ask questions too as well.
I went to a hunting expo here in Central Ohio, some reps from Trophyline and Latitude but relatively limited. I looked up the 3 mobile hunting locations and they are too far for me unfortunately.
 
Yes do yourself a favor and try as many saddles and sticks as possible before buying. It will save you money in the long run. I started with a simple modified sit drag then Mantis onto the Tactisaddle, H2, Treehopper and finally the Cruzr XC which in my opinion the best and most comfortable out there. I had the beast sticks sold them for the Skeletors then finally made my own using the Eastern Woods Outdoors website. This is a lot different than treestand hunting something’s just fit differently for other people. Good luck!
 
Come to the light, the JX3 tree saddle light..............
Don't be afraid, you will sit from dark to dark very comfortably, no fidgeting, be able to snooze when you want, no dreaded hip pinch, no back aches, you can shoot 360° around the tree with any weapon, bow or gun, no weak side shot.
No platform required, only a ROS, or a JX3 wide top climbing stick, no sore feet, no knee pads required, no sore knees, no tired legs from leaning as you can sit all day, built in pack frame for carrying all your needs. No getting into “saddle shape” as your Lazy Boy at home does it for you. Buy once, cry once.
Come to the light, the JX3 light...........
JX3 owes you a free saddle for the hell of the promo you just cut them
 
Yes do yourself a favor and try as many saddles and sticks as possible before buying. It will save you money in the long run. I started with a simple modified sit drag then Mantis onto the Tactisaddle, H2, Treehopper and finally the Cruzr XC which in my opinion the best and most comfortable out there. I had the beast sticks sold them for the Skeletors then finally made my own using the Eastern Woods Outdoors website. This is a lot different than treestand hunting something’s just fit differently for other people. Good luck!
Alot of people speak very highly of the Cruzr XC in terms of comfort, im going to try and find a show or event where I can try one on. The XOP is just so attractive because of the price.
 
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