Tree stands are essential tools for bow hunters looking to get an advantageous position in the field. They elevate hunters above the ground, providing better visibility of the area and reducing the chances of being detected by game. With the right tree stand, a hunter can gain the necessary leverage for an accurate and successful shot.
The market offers a variety of tree stands, each catering to different hunting styles and preferences. Climbing stands, for instance, are popular for their portability and ease of setup, while ladder stands offer greater stability and comfort but can be more challenging to transport and install. So which one works best? It’s honestly an individual choice.
We’ve picked a few of our favorite outdoor brands in hopes to help you make a more informed decision. They are all a single stand, not a two-person stand. We’ve always said that permanent stands are probably the best option, but not always ideal if you want to try hunting in a new spot. For the mobile hunter, take a look at a few of these below. We are hoping you will find a great stand for your next hunting trip.
Also make sure to check out our Best bow hunting backpack list and Best bow sights for hunting. Looking for How to sight in different bow sights? We’ve got you covered.
Top Tree Stands for Bow Hunting
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BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Ladder Stand
For a spacious and comfortable tree stand with great features, the BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 is a reliable choice.
Pros
- Excellent comfort with the Flex-Tek seat
- Spacious foot platform for stability
- Adjustable and padded shooting rail
Cons
- Assembly can be challenging
- Heavy to maneuver alone – 61 pounds
- Large size requires larger trees
The BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Ladder Stand impresses us with its 18’6″ height, making it one of the best ladder stands we’ve seen. The Flex-Tek seat provides a contour fit that helps keep long hunting sessions with comfort. Padded armrests and a roomy seat make a significant difference, especially during extended periods in the tree stand.
The wide and deep foot platform offers excellent stability and ample room to move around. The padded shooting rail is adjustable and flips back, making it versatile whether you need it up for a steady aim or down for a clearer view.
That being said, the assembly process can be a bit tedious, requiring careful attention to detail. It’s also quite heavy at 61 pounds, so setting it up solo can be tough. Also, the stand necessitates larger trees due to its size. Despite these points, the features and comfort level make it a worthwhile investment for serious bow hunters.
Big Game Warrior DXT Ladder Stand
This rugged and stable stand is a solid choice for bow hunters seeking a reliable tree stand with added safety features.
Pros
- High elevation at 17 feet ensures an excellent vantage point
- Comfortable Flex-Tek seat with padded armrests
- Sturdy steel construction with a high weight rating
Cons
- Assembly can be moderately challenging
- Some units have been known to arrive with missing parts
- Heavy at 43 pounds, which makes it less portable
The Big Game Warrior DXT Ladder Stand stands out with its impressive height and solid build. We appreciate the 17-foot elevation, which provides an excellent view of the surrounding area. The Flex-Tek seat and adjustable backrest increase comfort during those long hunting sessions.
Constructed from steel, the stand feels incredibly durable and supports up to 300 pounds. It’s equipped with multiple mounting straps and an adjustable support bar. The padded shooting rail can be flipped up or down, making it versatile for different hunting situations. We found the foot platform to be adequately sized, though it might feel a bit cramped for some.
One thing we didn’t like is the assembly process, which might be tricky and time-consuming. Also, some customers reported missing parts, which creates a NOT SO EASY setup. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall quality and features make this ladder stand a worthwhile investment for dedicated bow hunters.
Guide Gear Hang On Tree Stand
This product combines durability, comfort, and portability at a reasonable price, making it an excellent choice for deer hunters.
Pros
- Sturdy steel construction
- Comfortable padded seat
- Lightweight and easy to transport
Cons
- Seat padding could be better
- Setup requires extra washers
- Straps may need upgrading
These Guide Gear Hang-On Tree Stands are designed for serious hunters. Its robust steel construction ensures stability while you’re perched in the trees. The stand includes two ratchet straps and a safety harness to add an extra layer of security. You might need a few climbing sticks to help get you up the tree (not included).
We found the padded seat and spacious foot platform to be particularly comfortable. Spending long hours waiting for deer is easier when you can stretch out a bit. The closed-cell foam cushion offers basic comfort, but it could use a bit more padding for those long sitting periods. Also, if you are looking for a comfortable backrest, look elsewhere. This stand doesn’t even have one!
Transporting this stand is hassle-free due to its lightweight design. At just 18 lbs., it’s a good option if you are looking for something easy to carry to your preferred hunting spot. Although the setup might require additional washers, it’s straightforward and quick once you’re familiar with the process.
For those conscious about value, the price point is a major benefit. This tree stand is a reliable and budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features.
Summit Ledge XT Tree Stand
A great choice for hunters seeking a comfortable and sturdy hang-on stand for long days in the field. This is a great climbing stand if you are looking for comfort.
Pros
- Comfort-mesh seat for long sits
- Easy to set up with quick-attach straps
- Large platform with a fold-up footrest
Cons
- A bit heavy for long hikes
- Backpack straps could use more padding
- Relatively pricey
The Summit Ledge XT Tree Stand offers a high level of comfort with its textilene fold-up seat and spacious platform, making it suitable for extended hunts. The flip-up footrest is a nice touch, helping to reduce leg fatigue during long periods of sitting.
Setting up this stand is straightforward, thanks to the quick-attach straps. The sturdy steel construction ensures stability but does add some weight, which might be a downside for those who hike long distances to their hunting spots.
We love the thoughtful design of the fold-up seat, which makes it easy to enter and exit the stand. The backpack straps are useful but could benefit from more padding for added comfort during transportation.
Guide Gear Ultra Comfort 18′ Ladder Tree Stand
A solid choice for a durable and comfortable tree stand for bow hunting.
Pros
- Sturdy powder-coated steel frame
- Flip-up mesh seat offers great comfort
- Adjustable rail for shooting precision
Cons
- Assembly instructions can be confusing
- Not ideal for hunters over 6 feet tall
- Platform doesn’t reach tree trunk
First impression, the solid construction impressed us right away. The powder-coated steel frame felt stable and secure, crucial for long hunting days.
The flip-up mesh seat provided excellent comfort, even during extended periods. The adjustable shooting rail is a nice touch, allowing for precision when aiming.
There were some downsides, though. The assembly instructions could use more clarity, making setup a bit challenging. This stand’s comfort is a little less than ideal compared to the other options. Those taller than 6 feet may find the spacing between the seat and platform uncomfortable. Lastly, the platform doesn’t extend to the tree, which feels less stable compared to other models.
Despite these few issues, we found it to be a reliable and comfortable option for serious bow hunters.
If you love the outdoor life and are looking to add one or two stands to your bow hunting regime, we hope this list is a help! These mobile stands offer some of the best ways to elevate yourself and wait for the perfect game.
