Rookie archery hunter here.

[302brownst]

I've been a rifle deer hunter for years and getting into the archery fun this year. I could use some recommendation on saddle hunting. I live in Kansas.
1. Which to get and why?
2. Where can I try one out?
3. What's a good climbing set up and why?

I'd be willing to buy used since i'm getting started on a budget.

Thanks

 

[EricS]

Kestrel, Kite, Mantis. I can’t say that any one is better than the other for you. If you post your location or look at the saddlehunter map there may be someone close to you that has something you can try. I definitely reccomend trying before you buy. Like if there’s someone within an hour of your location that has multiple saddles it’s worth the drive.
As far as climbing methods check out the climbing methods and platforms section of the forum. Read enough and you will understand that every popular method is great for one reason or another and all have their negatives.

 

[Allegheny Tom]

The 1st question I would ask you in regards to climbing...Are you hunting public or private land?
One opinion I have for archery saddles...I much prefer fewer knots and clutter, especially on my strong side. Less stuff to ever interfere with a bowstring. I love my Kestrel, but I like it a lot better with an Amsteel bridge than the stock bridge. I'm still intreagued by webbing bridges though. Might have to experiment with it one of these days.