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platform options for standing at times

Walleyeking

Walleyeking

New Member
Joined
Dec 5, 2019
Messages
30
Location
Nebraska
I am new to saddle hunting, just bought a tethrd mantis and all the gear I need, now I just need a platform. I am wondering if I will ever want to spin and just stand vertical on the platform, so spin and face away from the tree with my back against the tree with my tether and bridge somewhat holding me against the tree over my shoulder? do you guys do this? I am thinking I will want to do this now and then to change up my position and rest my butt/back at times. If I am going to do this I am thinking I will want a platform with the most square footage. what are the best options if this is what I am wanting to be able to do? Is Out on a limb making a larger podium? will this way of standing work on a Predator? the perch and ridge runner look too tight to the tree for me to use this method of standing, or am I wrong?
 
You can stand upright on the predator, and also spin around for a shot if needed. Standing up and facing away from the trunk isn't exactly ideal, but you can stand (or stand and spin) if you just want to move around, stretch, or rest your back for a few. I'm a size 13 boot and have no issues with the size of the platform and doing this.

Can't speak to the other platforms out there since that's really the only one i've used other than a DIY platform, which was similar in dimensions to the predator.
 
I do this quite often. It's doable on a Predator but that's about as small as you can feasibly stand on. I have a DIY platform that has about an inch more depth which helps a lot. I don't have any hands-on experience with the OOAL platforms. The LW Assassin/LWCG Ambush are larger platforms designed more for this hybrid application. Another option is to go with a hybrid setup utilizing a small treestand like a Windwalker or Chippewa Ghost with a saddle.
 
Haven’t tried it with a Predator but I know people do it. I have a LWHC and OOL Podium, close in size to the Ambush, and can stand on both easily. Not something I do a lot though.
 
I’ve only used the LWHC, ring of bolts, preset lock-ons, and the predator. For me, the nod unequivocally goes to the predator. For my 11.5 size feet, there’s enough room to comfortably stand completely upright and pivot slowly. For my purposes, it’s the right balance of lightweight, compactness, comfort, and function. The ridge runner is favored by many, and apparently has room to stand as well. It’s not as deep as the predator so I don’t know how easy it is to pivot completely around, but it might be. This weekend’s ATA show might reveal some more options...we shall know soon. FWIW though, I am fully satisfied with the predator in every way—standing included—and don’t see myself buying another platform anytime soon, regardless of what drops at the ATA.


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I have harvested several deer facing away from the tree. Twice I can remember deer came from behind, and had several occasions where they came from twelve o'clock, "this is how I try to set up keeping the tree between me and where I plan on them coming" but they walked around my right side. Instead of swinging around the tree, I prefer to let them pass and spin. I have absolutely no problem, and am completely silent turning on an Assassin platform. Plenty of room and no looking down on feet placement.
 
I have not used a ridge runner, just the two by Lone Wolf. A couple smaller ones I tried were no good for me. As long as they cam solid, and I do not have to take my focus off the target to shuffle my feet, it's good for me. Now that saddle hunting is getting popular, I'm sure there will be lots of choices coming.
 
I love platforms mostly for this reason of being able to stand up. I use garage built klemz stuff but if I was in the market I would be on the list for the updated lone wolf.
 
I have the OOAL ridge runner and for me and my size 11 boots, its wide enough to turn fully around and put my back to the tree no problem
 
MettBriler said:
I have the OOAL ridge runner and for me and my size 11 boots, its wide enough to turn fully around and put my back to the tree no problem
Click to expand...

I have size 16 feet still works good for me too !


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