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Nice little mod for steps on a strap

Allegheny Tom

Well-Known Member
SH Member
Joined
Feb 4, 2018
Messages
6,027
Location
Western Pennsylvania
I insist on having 1 step on my strong side of my Predator strap. But Ameristeps or Squirrel steps dont stay put along the strap while I set the stand. They almost always need adjusted to how far from the platform that I like it. My general preference is usually about 10-12 inches from the platform. But as I maneuver the strap during the hanging process, the step usually slips along the strap to a different location. Not really a big deal, but it does consume a few seconds to relocate the step where I want it....sometimes, wasted seconds are critical when setting a stand.
I put a little loop of shock cord on the strap and it works great. The loop should be just tight enough to hold the step in place during the hanging process, but also be loose enough so the step can be repositioned if desired.
BTW, zip ties are THE BEST cord locks for shock cord. They dont break, and if zipped to the right tension, the cord is still adjustable. If you want it non adjustable, then zip it as tight as you can...instant shock cord loop.
This step lock system also works well on a ROS.
I used orange cord because that is what I had but I like it for seeing the step in low light conditions.
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Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
 
Nice little trick, Tom! Great idea.

I have to admit - on Tapatalk I saw the thread with the thumbnail picture and thought “oh no! Someone fastened an ameristep onto their predator strap with just a nite ize gear tie!!!!” That, obviously, would not be safe! I was so relieved when I saw it was you and that you were just using shock cord to keep the step from sliding.
 
I use a feed through ratchet strap I am always afraid of dropping a step! I’m so going to steal this.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
I just got a couple of Ameristeps from a buddy and put them on my predator strap. (Strong side/weak side) I was trying to come up with a solution for this very scenario. Thanks @Allegheny Tom!
 
I think I like the "X" style better that shows in the 2nd pic on the ROS.
The 1st pic was my 1st attempt at this mod, which I think should still work okay, but the crossed cord seems to be a slightly better way to run the cord. Very simple to fix that.
 
Why do you like having a step? I am guessing it is at your left facing the tree. I am completely new to saddle hunting and trying to find a platform to use. Thanks
 
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