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Toe gaffs

Yeah when I first saw this thread I searched it up and was wondering what in the world this had to do with hunting, don't think the deer would even know the difference!!!!! I still never found what you were talking about!!! I just gave up!!!
 
They are tree climbing spurs...traditional spurs lock in at the heel...toe gaffs are more toward the balls of your feet...they take the pressure off of the knees...they allow for a different angle of your foot to lock into the tree...I want to saddle hunt this year and I am looking for the method of climbing that seems suitable to me.. all the steps naders swaders sticks and stuff seem like a lot of work and baggage to carry...any thoughts?
 
So you wouldnt advise using toe gaffs or just spikes in general for a safe climb?
Sorry I lost this thread for a bit.I suppose if your deliberate and controlled they would be safer. Just in my head I'm thinking it wouldn't be where I would be looking for a safe climbing method. I've never used toe gaffs so I really can't make an educated argument for or against. I did watch flingin do his climbing video and he seemed like he was quiet, safe , and in control, so, what do I know. Like all the climbing methods, it's what suits the individual. Climb safe, and happy huntin.
 
I worry about safety too. Tough to explain without a video but picture spurs, the traditional location is very close to your heel so your body weight naturally digs the spur into the tree.

Now imagine all your weight on your toe. You would have to KICK into the tree, not just walk up like we do now. I also bet you would have to point and angle your toe downward quite a bit depending on how the toe spike is angled. A toe spur would also require you to aim for the middle of the tree whereas traditional climbers comfortably go into the side of pretty much anywhere.

I’m not saying toe spikes are dumb or can’t be done. I’m saying I see a lot of disadvantages and potential risks. But that doesn’t mean I’m right, the right design could address all those concerns and create an awesome new product and climbing method.
 
Sorry I lost this thread for a bit.I suppose if your deliberate and controlled they would be safer. Just in my head I'm thinking it wouldn't be where I would be looking for a safe climbing method. I've never used toe gaffs so I really can't make an educated argument for or against. I did watch flingin do his climbing video and he seemed like he was quiet, safe , and in control, so, what do I know. Like all the climbing methods, it's what suits the individual. Climb safe, and happy huntin.
What do you use to climb the tree?...Its my first year at this so I am open to all discussion...you guys rule!
 
I'm highly in favor of the Knaider/Swaider and WE steps. I've used them the conventional way the last two years. I carry 6 steps for 30 feet should I need to get that high. I'm usually at 20-25 feet. I'm going to go traditional so I want to bring my height down to 12-15sh so I'm looking at the original Cain method so I don't have to use a linesman belt. I'll try with the tether, but I'm leaning towards a biner on my waist belt only. Risk taker. I was just out taking measurements this morning. It'll be the over the head tie on, which I'm not crazy about. Not 7 feet, but just under. I'll use only the knaider. This way I'll be able to utilize trees with more cover and not have to worry about passing limbs, and I'm not going so high, so it should be quiet and quick. It will give me just under 3.5 feet per step. I'm thinking I'll carry 5 steps.
 
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