We're they squishy, or just not as solid laterally?I made a ROS with the squirrel steps and OCB. They are not as solid to the tree as ameristeps but not bad at all. I'd take them hunting over the ameristeps just because of packability.
I didn't stay on them long so I don't know about comfort over time.
We're they squishy, or just not as solid laterally?
Not yet, but I will this weekend!
As @redsquirrel has said a couple times, having the cleat on the back would keep the step from sliding down and tightening to the tree. It would actually make it worse. The BearClaws for example work well with a cleat because they are hung from a lag bolt, not a strap.I think they need a cleat against the tree. Smooth doesn't do it.
A good example of this is there was a time people were putting machine screws through their ameristeps on each side of the step support "spine" to try to make them more solid. This quickly fell to the way side. Though they "MAY" have made a slight difference on smooth barked trees like young maples when I tried the ones I had, you did almost have to push away from the tree a little with your foot and down as you tried to seat them--and this got progressively harder with each of the steps on the ring. IT also meant your body force was goign away from the tree...not super comfortable. I took all the screws out of the ones I had and they were much much better that way. Especially as I PRACTICED more with them...As @redsquirrel has said a couple times, having the cleat on the back would keep the step from sliding down and tightening to the tree. It would actually make it worse. The BearClaws for example work well with a cleat because they are hung from a lag bolt, not a strap.
Vet wrap works great. Can buy at Tractor Supply stores, Amazon, or my websiteI received my steps today and have one of DanO’s straps as well, all I’ve been able to do is play with them in the yard so far, but I can say I believe they are going to work great! The strap gets them solid on the tree and the little bit of movement doesn’t seem like it will be a problem. One question tho, what do y’all recommend for silencing them? I’ve seen stealth strips mentioned a few times but if there is a better option let me know please. Thanks!