Deer stands

There are many types of deer stands and some are better in differnt parts of the country.


Climbing stands--
Where I hunt these offer little use at all. I hunt in mostly black jack and Oak trees in which you can not use a climber. We do have a few utility poles to climb with them but they are never where you want them. But when you do have a place to use one they are very nice. you fix both the seat and the foot base around the tree, Sit down and inch worm yourself up the tree to the heigth you want. Once there just strap down and hunt.

Hang on stands--
This is the most popular stand among the people here. You can fit one in any tree that will hold you and the stand safely and not move much. They come in so many sizes and shapes I won't even try to name them all. But the best most simple design seems to be a good expanded metal base with a cloth sling seat. They are attached to the tree using either a chain or ratchet type of strap. They are very portable and can be taken down and put up on a daily basis if desired, Yet tuff enough to leave up for the entire season.( I have some that have been up for many seasons).

Ladder stands--
these have to be one of the fastest to set up and use. Simply find a tree big enough to lean it against climb up, strap it down and hunt. there is no need for steps or limbs to climb up to your stand, they are part of the stand. The only problem with these stands is they can be bulky to carry around and some models are heavy as well.

Permanent stands--
Around here these can only be used on private land, But man what a treat they can be to hunt from. I like to build mine in a clump of 3 or 4 trees. 2x6 lumber and a good supply of nails and you are set. Finding the right trees in the right place can be difficult. look for mature trees with spacing big enought to build a 4'x4' platform at your desired height. They do not have to be this big but if your going to biuld one why not make it comfortable. always remember to check this type of stand each time you use it, A strong wind can break nails and make it very unsafe if not careful. One of my favorie stands is permenant it's about 6'x4 1/2' I have plenty of room for a five gallon bucket for a seat, room for extra clothes, Thermos of coffee, Video camera and sometimes my hunting partner (somebody has to run the camera).

Ground blinds--
These were most likely the first deer stands ever used. Simple yet effective. Find a good trail and pile up old sticks and limbs to hide you from the eyes of your prey, But being on the ground leads to problems, You are at eye level with the deer and any movement not hidden by your blind can be spotted easily and scent is also a problem so the wind must be watched very carfully.