Sticks aren't necessary! They're a natural fit to the bulk and form-factor of a hang-on stand - and the benefits of quick/easy use carry over if you use them for a saddle as well - but depending on situation and priority there are many more viable ways up a tree!the way i look at it, some things it don't matter if you carrying a loc on or a saddle they are required
sticks, rope, lines man, safety harness, API loc on, = 18 lbs?
sticks, rope, saddle = 10 Lbs?
really you are switching your loc on, harness, linesman for a saddle,
my saddle is like 6 lbs lighter than the lightest loc on, linesman, harness, and twice as comfortable.
the choice is clear and easy. IMHO
Sticks aren't necessary! They're a natural fit to the bulk and form-factor of a hang-on stand - and the benefits of quick/easy use carry over if you use them for a saddle as well - but depending on situation and priority there are many more viable ways up a tree!
Comfort - my back killed me when I tired to sit for hours in any hang on. That and saddle is lighter and better suited for scout hunting IMO
Absolutely - and the ability to get rid of bulky, heavy items (like sticks) is a big appeal - with the bulk a bigger deal than the weight. It doesn't make as much impact *or isn't feasible in some cases) to use bolts, stepps, aiders, SRT, spurs, etc. when you're still hauling a 2-3 ft long foot long 1-2ft wide ~10+ pound hunk of metal that the sticks pack pretty naturally to. But after eliminating the stand you have a lot more meaningful choice available.Substitute sticks for any climbing method you wish otherwise you sitting on the ground.
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The saddle alone isn't any more than a nice stand, and you only need one...the only downfall of choosing the saddle is paying for one.