8 Best Climbing Tree Stands For The Money (Top Rated)

Selecting the best climbing tree stand can be a challenge. Most of us will have specific requirements for what we want in a tree stand. What we might not yet know is which would be the best suited to our needs. 

It’s incredibly important to research different tree stands to know the characteristics you’re looking for. You don’t want to be out hunting one day and have your tree stand malfunction. 

Buying the wrong product could lead to injuries, but luckily for us, many exceptional climbing tree stands are available on the market. 

Reviews for the Best Climbing Tree Stands

1. Summit Goliath SD Climbing Tree stand

The first question you could be asking yourself is, what is the best climbing tree stand? Only you can answer this question. However, the Summit Goliath climbing tree stand can be considered one of the best.

This climbing hang-on tree stand can be cumbersome to carry from tree to tree, making noise and scaring away deer. However, it has a carrying capacity of up to an incredible 350 pounds.

The platform is 37.75 inches deep and 21 inches wide. Additionally, the seat comes with an attached backrest that measures 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide, allowing maximum comfort.  

As we know, the safety and construction of a tree climber are of the utmost importance while participating in hunting. The Goliath SD is a device design that has your safety in mind. 

This device is built from rugged aluminum with a mossy oak camo material padded covering the seat and armrests. With the Goliath SD tree climber, you can set it up quietly and efficiently. You can efficiently adjust this tree climber with the quickdraw cable retention system unique to the brand Summit. 

The Summit Goliath SD tree climber stand comes with the SummitLokt technology. The technology provides rigidity and absolute strength to ensure every joint can handle the weight upon it. This allows for peace of mind while out in the wild.

Comfortability is vital when out hunting, so it’s highly convenient that this climber deer stand is the most comfortable climbing tree stand to be in. Spending hours in a tree climber stand will be less of a hassle if you decide to go with the Goliath SD by summit as it has a comfortable full backrest that comprises high-quality supportive foam padding.   

2. Summit 180 Max SD Climbing Tree Stand

This climber tree stands review wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t include a climbing tree stand by popular brand Summit. The top-rated Summit 180 Max SD could be a purchase you’re unlikely to regret.

The Summit 180 Max SD is 21 inches wide and 38 inches long and has a remarkable holding capacity of up to 350 pounds. With this climbing tree stand, you can adjust the height, and the seat is reversible so that you can sit facing the tree.

Summit has an array of unique features in its tree climber design. This tree climber features the dead metal technology that includes custom expanding foam, which ensures you stay quiet regardless of the movements you make. 

The rapid climb stirrups are comfortable and able to fit any boot size with their adjustable setting capabilities. You will be able to quickly climb until you reach the height you want to be. 

The quickdraw cable retention feature is innovative and unique to Summit. You’re guaranteed the fastest and quietest cable attachment system ever to be invented for tree climber stands. 

Not only does the Summit 180 Max SD come with this array of unique features, but it also has impressive safety features. With this climbing tree stand comes a four-point safety harness, hardware, pads, straps, and SummitLokt technology that ensures every joint is locked and secure before welding occurs to produce a quiet, safe, and secure tree stand.

However, some users have reported that the straps are of inferior quality compared to other Summit climbing tree stands. Also, the backpack straps have proven to serve no real purpose. Despite this, the Summit 180 climbing tree stand is still overall a great product.

3. Summit Viper SD 81120 Climbing Tree Stand 

When searching for the best climbing tree stand for the money, we came across the Summit Viper SD 81120. This climbing tree stand could very well be the best value for money should you compare it to competitors on the market.

The Summit Viper SD 81120 climbing tree stand can hold up to 300 pounds and has a seating dimension of 18 inches wide and 12 inches long. Regarding the platform size, it’s 20 inches wide and 26.5 inches long, which gives you more than enough space for comfortable movements. 

With this tree stand, you will get Summits famed features, which include their dead metal technology. This technology will allow you to move freely in your tree stand while making minimum noise.

The famed quick draw cable retention system will allow for fast and quiet cable management. Upon inserting the cable into the bracket, you will be able to adjust the line to fit the diameter of the tree. 

You won’t need to bother with knobs, pins, or nuts as once you pull the lug mechanism, the quickdraw trigger will automatically lock into place. Providing you with a safe and quiet hunting space. However, the Summit Viper could use some upgraded engineering on the design as some users have been disappointed with how it can be difficult to maneuver while changing locations.

As far as safety features go, you could be pleasantly surprised. The Summit Viper SD includes a full-body fall arrest harness for if you should ever lose your footing. Along with its other safety features, the safety harness provides versatility, functionality, and comfort while hunting.  

4. Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo II

The Lone Wolf hand climber combo II climbing tree stand is one of the most efficient models available on the market. This tree climber stand is so efficient because of how lightweight the platform is, making it very quiet when you utilize it. 

Lone Wolf has ingeniously thought up the deer stand platform to be 31 inches wide and 20 inches long. This climbing tree stand is mighty with a holding capacity of up to 350 pounds while maintaining its light carrying weight of 17.5 pounds. 

The seats open design makes it ideal for bow hunting as it’s easier than ever to lean around crooked trees when lining up your shot. 

The comfortable seat cushion provides the user with a convenient lean-to pad. If you’re standing or transporting this climber, you won’t have to worry about noise as this device is quiet when you need to move it to a better position. 

The Lone Wolf Hand Climber Combo II comes with a six-point fall arrest system and accessories such as the backpack straps and the one bungee strap. There have been some concerns with the safety design of this product by some users, but overall the majority of customers are happy with this climbing tree stand.

5. XOP Vanish Evolution Climber Tree Stand

If you’re looking for a climber tree stand where you have to utilize climbing sticks, The XOP Vanish Evolution fits the bill. This tree stand also comes with a variety of accessories that other brands don’t offer. 

This heavy-duty climber stand that you attach to a tree can hold 350 pounds. However, some customers have reported that the stand can bend and break under the 350 pound weight limit. The platform is 27 inches wide, and 19 inches long with a transporting weight of only 12 pounds making this one of the most lightweight stands on the market.

The XOP Vanish Evolution comes with accessories such as cam straps, seat cushion, UV-treated fastening straps, a six-point bracket, backpack straps, and an XOP safety DVD. 

With this tree stand, there is a tri-layer foam seat that provides comfort while sitting and shooting. The seat has had some issues in certain models where it has broken off the tree stand itself. However, the high-quality aluminum construction of this tree stand will provide you with years of use. 

You will receive a safety harness for safety purposes to ensure that you will be safe no matter what height you decide to be. If you’re worried about sound and whether this device is noisy, you don’t need to. 

The XOP Vanish evolution is perfect for mobile hunting as its lightweight design ensures its quietness. Additionally, the climbing sticks allow for quiet ascension up and down the tree while hunting. 

6. Lone Wolf Wide Sit & Climb Combo II Climbing Tree Stand

The Lone Wolf Climb Combo II is one of the best in performance for climbing tree stands. The tree stand features a unique pivoting sit and climb bar and can fit trees that are between 6 inches and 19 inches wide in diameter. This will provide you with the versatility you need while hunting from a great height.

The tree stand is made with a 3D distinctive camo design and is very lightweight, coming in at only 21 pounds. You won’t have to worry about hunting in discomfort as this tree stand is not only convenient but also very comfortable.

With the Lone Wolf Combo II, you will receive a climbing tree stand that is extremely high quality and made with long-lasting, durable products. This stand comes with a comfortable two-panel contoured seat that consists of heavy duty foam cushioning; however, some hunters have complained that it isn’t as comfortable as it could be.

Should you decide to go with this tree stand, you will have a platform that is 30 inches long and 19.5 inches wide. Another attractive feature of this tree stand is that it is conveniently compact and can fold down to a slim 4inch profile.

You don’t have to worry about if it will be able to hold your weight as this tree stand has an incredible holding capacity of 350 pounds.

Additionally, this climbing tree stand also comes with a few handy accessories. You will receive backpack straps for convenience while relocating, a bungee strap, and stabilizing straps for when you are situated in your tree of choice. Although structurally sound, some have complained that it is disproportionate for bigger hunters.

If we have a look at the safety features on this tree stand, it can be seen that the Lone Wolf Combo II features a six point fall arrest system, so when you’re climbing the tree, you select you will have peace of mind.

7. Ol’Man Multi Vision Climbing Tree Stand

One of the best tree climbing stands that we came across in terms of durability was the Ol’Man Multi Vision climbing tree stand. The brand went above and beyond when producing this ultra-durable tree climbing stand.

The stand itself is lightweight and weighs 29 pounds, and has a holding capacity of 300 pounds. This tree stand has a platform size of 18 inches wide and 30 inches long. You will receive a seat size of 21 inches wide.

When we look at this climbing tree stand, it truly is a three in one. With this climbing tree stand, you can set it up in three different ways, depending on how you prefer hunting. There have been reports of the teeth of the stand having difficulty gripping certain trees properly.

You can set it up with the classic Ol’ man straight bar, or you can set it up with the included reversible gun rest/footrest, which will accommodate you if you’re a bow hunter or a rifle hunter.

Comfortable yet durable this tree stand is one of the highest quality climbing stands available on the market presently. Its construction comprises 100% steel, which adds credibility to its durability claims.

The durability of this tree stand doesn’t take away from how quiet it is. Currently, the Ol’Man Multi Vision climbing tree stand is the quietest available for purchase.   

8. Big Game Hunter HD Climber Tree Stand

Should you want a climbing tree stand that is budget-friendly, then the Big Game Hunter climber may be the right one for you. This tree stand is one of the cheaper options available on our list, but its lower price doesn’t take away from its quality.

The Big Game Hunter has a platform that is extra wide and extra deep. You can look forward to a width of 23.5 inches and a depth of 29 inches. This climber tree stand can support a holding weight of up to 350 pounds.

This tree stand’s design is innovative from the extra-wide platform that allows for a foldable seat and moveable shooting arm to the flip-up footrest. You’re bound to be comfortable for hours while engaging in your favorite pastime.

The 100% steel frame ladder affords you the safety you need while climbing up a tree to get into the perfect position. Getting there might be a bit of a hassle as this tree stand can be difficult to assemble, and some people have complained that the instructions are not clear.

This tree stand comes with fasteners consisting of two 1 inch ratchet straps and two 1 inch stabilizer straps, adding to its design’s safety features. The four single rail oval tubing ladder sections are stable and durable, so you won’t have a problem with slipping when you climb. 

What to Look For When Using a Climbing Tree Stand 

We often overlook climber tree stands because of the strength required to hoist oneself up a tree. Luckily nowadays, many climber tree stands are not that hard to work, such as the Summit Goliath SD climbing tree stand and some climbers will even include levers. 

Climber tree stands are convenient if you’re a mobile hunter who likes to hunt in various places instead of just camping out at one the whole day. 

There are some things that you should look out for when using a climber tree stand. When looking for a tree to place your climber tree, try and search for one that has jagged or rough bark. This type of bark will help to prevent you from slipping.  

Try to avoid trees like beech trees as they are soft and slippery, and you don’t want to be sliding around when you’re more than twenty feet in the air. Here are some tips for picking the right tree for you. There are a few types of trees that you can look for that would be perfect for attaching your climber tree stand to. 

Pine Trees

You’re probably thinking pine is a softwood, and you’ve just said to avoid softwoods if possible. This is true but although pine wood is soft, it is still able to handle most climber tree stands.

The teeth of your climber will dig into the softwood reasonably well, and the somewhat rough-textured bark of most pine trees will help to keep your climber tree stand in place. It’s important to remember the downsides of using a pine tree; besides that, the wood is softer than what’s preferable. 

Pine trees excrete a lot of tree sap, and their branches tend to fall out more frequently than other trees. These problems can present hazards to you while you are up in such a tree. However, on a positive note, pine trees provide an excellent backdrop for finding you with an outline for a perfect shot. 

Oak and Maple Trees

The bark of most kinds of maple and Oak trees provide the right texture for most climber tree stands. Maple and Oak trees provide the right level of grip and prevent most types of shifting from happening.

However, you should note that maple and oak trees can be difficult to attach your climber tree stand onto. This is often due to how impenetrable the bark appears.  

Therefore it’s best if you decide on these kinds of trees as they will allow for extra safety when you are up high in the air. You will want a tree that affords you the best stability possible. 

5 Climber Tree Stand Safety Tips 

It would be best if you consider safety as your first priority. You always involve yourself at some risk when you use a climber tree stand. We often view this risk as worth it because of the potential rewards that the added height can gain us. 

Statistically, one in three hunters will fall when using a tree stand. That’s why it’s important to remember some tips to practice safety in all aspects of your hunting experience when utilizing a climber tree stand. 

1. Alert Someone to Your Hunting Trip 

Should you decide to go on a hunting trip, it’s vitally important to tell someone. This is especially the case if you’re planning on using a climber tree stand. Climber tree stands are known to have some risks involving their use. 

By telling someone, you are going hunting; they will know to look for you if you don’t come home. You won’t have to worry as much if you suffer a fall from your climbing tree stand as you will know that someone is on their way to help you.  

2. Don’t Ever Forego a Safety Harness

When utilizing a climbing tree stand, always remember to use the tree stand harness that you can get. By using a harness, if you happen to fall, you will avoid serious injury. You will want to put the harness on before climbing up into your tree stand as you could fall while making your way up the tree. 

A safety harness should prevent you from falling no more than 12 inches. You might still get hurt, but it won’t be as significant as it will be if you fall without your harness on. 

3. Avoid Carrying Your Firearm or Bow While Getting Into Your Climbing Tree Stand 

When making your way up a tree, you mustn’t carry your firearm or bow when climbing your tree stand, as this could lead to you having a terrible accident. You will want to make sure that you have the proper bow hunting gear, such as your haul rope and knife. With the correct equipment, you can easily hoist up your rifle or box safely and securely. 

4. Learn How to Assemble Your Climbing Tree Stand

Before using your climbing tree stand for the first time, it would be to your benefit to learn how to assemble it. Try not to deviate from the instructions as this could lead to you building the climbing tree stand incorrectly. If you don’t learn how to assemble your tree stand correctly, you may injure yourself when on your next hunting trip.

5. When Climbing Maintain 3 Points of Contact

Perhaps one of the most crucial safety tips you should keep in mind is maintaining a 3 point contact with your climbing tree stand. Almost 75% of all tree stand accidents occur when a person is climbing up into their stand. Keep three points of contact with your stand at all times to avoid falling.  

Tips for Hunting Deer with a Climbing Tree Stand 

A climbing tree stand is perhaps one of the best kinds of tree stands you can use for hunting deer. 

You can quickly move your tree stand to wherever you want to, and the beauty of this is that you can easily hunt deer. We’ve put together a few pointers on how you can hunt deer with a climbing tree stand. 

Lighter is better

When using a climbing tree stand, it’s better to pack lighter as you’re often going to be on the move. If you know that you will be changing locations often you should consider using a lightweight tree climber like the Lone Wolf hand climber combo II. You will also find it easier to travel with your climber if you don’t carry a backpack. 

Try to keep your essentials on you or in a waist pack. If you think you’re going to need extra clothes, simply strap them to the back of your tree stand.

Find the right cover

As with most tree stands, you’re still going to need to seek out the right cover. You will want to place your climber tree stand somewhere where there are straight trees with a lot of grips.

Look for trees growing in a cluster that have lots of dense leafy coverage. If you can hide your climber sufficiently, you are more likely to bag yourself a deer.  

Potentially Stay Low

If you hunt in the first half of the season, it’s often best for you to use your climbing tree stand to stay low to the ground. 

Early on in the season, the low ground cover is usually better than up high, so you only need to use your climber tree stand to situate yourself about 10ft off the ground. 

Look For a Fork 

You’re going to want to look for a tree that has a fork in it. Otherwise, you’re going to want to look for an area where you can visibly see a ground fork. 

It’s best to choose a tree that forks at 18 to 20 feet so that you have a better vantage point of any deer that cross your path. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Go Higher

Should you own a climbing tree stand that you trust, you shouldn’t be afraid to go higher. If you still don’t have enough cover in your current position, you can go higher into the tree. The higher you are, the less noticeable you are regardless of how much cover the tree has.

If you’re closer to the sky and keep your movements to a minimum, you shouldn’t have trouble spotting some deer. Remember that trees taper as they go up so set your climbing tree stand at the bottom with the platform pitched at the right angle.

The 5 Best Places for You to Place Your Climbing Tree Stand to Spot Deer

Arguably one of the most important aspects of deer hunting is knowing where to place your climbing tree stand to attract deer. We already know what types of trees to look for to attach our tree stand to. We’re now going to look at where we can place our climbing tree stand to ensure we walk away with a deer. 

1. Place It Where You See Deer

This may sound obvious to some, and it is; however, it isn’t quite as simple as it sounds. In the early season and the late season, you will want to pay particular attention to where you are spotting deer. During this time, deer are focused on food, so it makes sense for you to place your climbing stand such as the handy Summit Viper SD 81120 in the vicinity you see the deer. 

You will also want to pay adequate attention to corridors, where you see deer traveling frequently. By doing this, you are ultimately saving yourself from wasting time. If you place your climbing tree stand in areas with no deer traffic. 

2. What Signs To Look For Before Placing Your Climbing Tree Stand

Besides the unmistakable sign of actually seeing deer, there are a few signs that you should look out for before placing your stand. Once you have identified a sign of deer weather by tracking or your handy camera feed, you will want to set up your tree stand further away from the actual spot. 

Deer will travel in the area of the path and most deer hunters will bag their deer for the season further away from the first signs of deer activity. 

3. Look For Funnels 

Funnels are terrain features that you can see where there was deer movement in an area. More specifically, funnels are paths that deer follow almost like a corridor. For example, there are many macro funnels, such as a saddle where one side of a mountain connects to another part of a mountain. 

You will likely only be able to see this on satellite imagery or topographic maps. These spots can be the perfect hunting grounds where you can place your convenient Ol’Man Multi Vision climbing tree stand when the deer travel widely during the season. 

4. Look For Deer Groupings

Whichever woods you are hunting in, there are bound to be areas where deer congregate. A way for you to identify where a hub is would be to look out for certain factors. 

Keep an eye out for where ditches, spurs, wood strips, fencelines, and other deer travel corridors meet. This is likely where you will see a lot of deer traffic and will be a perfect spot for you to place your climber tree stand. 

Remember that you will want to place it a little further down from a hub if you want to really increase your likelihood of shooting a deer. 

5. Seek Out a Ridge in the Area 

Ridges are easy to spot and are often natural travel corridors and bedding sites for deer. You can look for ridges on slopes, benches, and the sides of hills. Ridges are places where you are bound to spot many deer. Once you have identified the perfect spot you can set up your tree stand the XOP Vanish Evolution or whichever one you are currently using. 

For the best chance of getting a deer, you will want to set up your climber tree stand along the spine of a ridge. What’s great about this is that you can utilize this spot for an entire day, and often before the end of it, bag a buck. 

This location is ideal to set up your climber tree stand as you can shoot in both directions, and most times, there will be a cross breeze that will hide your sent from the roaming deer. 

FAQs

Conclusion

The best climbing tree stands for you will depend on your preferences. Overall the top pick has to be the Summit Goliath SD climbing tree stand because of its comfortability, durability, safety, and weight holding capacity.

If you’re not entirely sold on the Goliath SD, you can look at the Summit 180 Max SD. Yes, Summit is our runner up as well, as they have many of the best tree stands available on the market.

Whichever one you end up deciding upon, you’re going to have a climbing tree stand that will aid you in your hunting experiences.