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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2595978
10/01/18 02:01 PM
10/01/18 02:01 PM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571 Grays Creek, NC
bigcountry692001
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571
Grays Creek, NC
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I’m not sure that could make an accurate shot without standing on a platform.
"You cant manage a deer herd with acorns."
-Dr. Craig Harper
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: bigcountry692001]
#2596116
10/01/18 04:49 PM
10/01/18 04:49 PM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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I’m not sure that could make an accurate shot without standing on a platform. I've worried about that as well, but they seem to be pretty stable and allow better "T" shooting form. The whole reason I'm not flying planes in the Marine Corps anymore is because I had lumbar spine surgery. So for me, if can probably practice my shots and get "good enough" for a 20-30 yard poke while hanging that would be worth it not to have to hump around a crap ton of gear. Decisions, decisions...
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: smokinya]
#2599252
10/05/18 10:54 AM
10/05/18 10:54 AM
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Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,632 Montgomery, AL
Forrestgump1
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,632
Montgomery, AL
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I've hunted from the Quidos web for a few years and switched to the Kestrel this year. I use 4 - 5 wild edge stepps to get to hunting height using an aider (swaider). Haven't used a climber since switching. As far as accurate shooting from my saddles I actually shoot as good in it as I do off the ground and practice out to 60 yards out of it. I love being so mobile and having more options to hunt the perfect spot due to more choices on trees you can hunt!!! Is the kestrel comfortable? I've heard some people say it's bad about hip pinch. I need something comfortable enough for an all day sit.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2599257
10/05/18 11:01 AM
10/05/18 11:01 AM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571 Grays Creek, NC
bigcountry692001
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571
Grays Creek, NC
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I’m not sure that could make an accurate shot without standing on a platform. I've worried about that as well, but they seem to be pretty stable and allow better "T" shooting form. The whole reason I'm not flying planes in the Marine Corps anymore is because I had lumbar spine surgery. So for me, if can probably practice my shots and get "good enough" for a 20-30 yard poke while hanging that would be worth it not to have to hump around a crap ton of gear. Decisions, decisions... Tetherd nation makes a small platform but if I need sticks or steps to get in the tree and a platform to stand on I might as well use my hang on
"You cant manage a deer herd with acorns."
-Dr. Craig Harper
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: SouthBamaSlayer]
#2599354
10/05/18 12:49 PM
10/05/18 12:49 PM
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 15,306 Ourtown, AL
BCLC
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 15,306
Ourtown, AL
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How do you take a leak in one? If you're a bank walker you just lift your pants leg a lil bit and air it out.
We’re not dead. We just smell that way. Dayum. - AC870
Yessir! I’m always gonna shoot what makes me happy and I want everyone else to do the same! If you shoot one be proud of it and don’t worry what anyone else thinks. - SJ22
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Forrestgump1]
#2599655
10/05/18 06:35 PM
10/05/18 06:35 PM
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 627 Hueytown, Al.
smokinya
4 point
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4 point
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 627
Hueytown, Al.
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I've hunted from the Quidos web for a few years and switched to the Kestrel this year. I use 4 - 5 wild edge stepps to get to hunting height using an aider (swaider). Haven't used a climber since switching. As far as accurate shooting from my saddles I actually shoot as good in it as I do off the ground and practice out to 60 yards out of it. I love being so mobile and having more options to hunt the perfect spot due to more choices on trees you can hunt!!! Is the kestrel comfortable? I've heard some people say it's bad about hip pinch. I need something comfortable enough for an all day sit. I hunted out of it opening week in Kentucky and first couple of days I felt hip pinch but I lowered the tether height like other saddle hunters say to do and wore the Kestrel a little lower and it was really comfortable. The web is still the most comfortable saddle out but I like the Kestrel better!
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2600083
10/06/18 09:06 AM
10/06/18 09:06 AM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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I’m not sure that could make an accurate shot without standing on a platform. I've worried about that as well, but they seem to be pretty stable and allow better "T" shooting form. The whole reason I'm not flying planes in the Marine Corps anymore is because I had lumbar spine surgery. So for me, if can probably practice my shots and get "good enough" for a 20-30 yard poke while hanging that would be worth it not to have to hump around a crap ton of gear. Decisions, decisions... Well I took the plunge and ordered an Aero Hunter Kestrel. It's backordered, so I'm hoping it will be here before the rut, if not...lesson learned and I'll just have to hump some gear in. Also waited to long on the Wild Edge steps, backordered too... Plan on doing a lot of practicing in my backyard before actually hunting. I'm really hoping this is the ticket for me, as I'm going to be using water access a lot around the state and the less gear/weight the better.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2600106
10/06/18 09:39 AM
10/06/18 09:39 AM
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Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 3,126 KY
AUstan23
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 3,126
KY
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I’m not sure that could make an accurate shot without standing on a platform. I've worried about that as well, but they seem to be pretty stable and allow better "T" shooting form. The whole reason I'm not flying planes in the Marine Corps anymore is because I had lumbar spine surgery. So for me, if can probably practice my shots and get "good enough" for a 20-30 yard poke while hanging that would be worth it not to have to hump around a crap ton of gear. Decisions, decisions... Well I took the plunge and ordered an Aero Hunter Kestrel. It's backordered, so I'm hoping it will be here before the rut, if not...lesson learned and I'll just have to hump some gear in. Also waited to long on the Wild Edge steps, backordered too... Plan on doing a lot of practicing in my backyard before actually hunting. I'm really hoping this is the ticket for me, as I'm going to be using water access a lot around the state and the less gear/weight the better. I'd like an honest review after the season if you get around to it. I might end up ditching the hang on and climber.
It is easier to fool a man than to convince him he has been fooled.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: AUstan23]
#2600610
10/06/18 05:25 PM
10/06/18 05:25 PM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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I’m not sure that could make an accurate shot without standing on a platform. I've worried about that as well, but they seem to be pretty stable and allow better "T" shooting form. The whole reason I'm not flying planes in the Marine Corps anymore is because I had lumbar spine surgery. So for me, if can probably practice my shots and get "good enough" for a 20-30 yard poke while hanging that would be worth it not to have to hump around a crap ton of gear. Decisions, decisions... Well I took the plunge and ordered an Aero Hunter Kestrel. It's backordered, so I'm hoping it will be here before the rut, if not...lesson learned and I'll just have to hump some gear in. Also waited to long on the Wild Edge steps, backordered too... Plan on doing a lot of practicing in my backyard before actually hunting. I'm really hoping this is the ticket for me, as I'm going to be using water access a lot around the state and the less gear/weight the better. I'd like an honest review after the season if you get around to it. I might end up ditching the hang on and climber. Will do. Was scouting an area today that's "way back there" and was thinking how nice it would be to not have to hump 15-20lbs of stand back there, not to mention after kayaking to it, and then I turned around and somebody had left a climber on a tree from last year. haha I can only imagine how far that dude toted that stand in if he didn't get there by water...
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2601546
10/07/18 04:31 PM
10/07/18 04:31 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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I’m making my first hunt out of one now.
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Hoss606]
#2601673
10/07/18 07:32 PM
10/07/18 07:32 PM
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Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 3,126 KY
AUstan23
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 3,126
KY
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I’m making my first hunt out of one now. Thoughts?
It is easier to fool a man than to convince him he has been fooled.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: AUstan23]
#2602538
10/08/18 08:17 PM
10/08/18 08:17 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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I’m making my first hunt out of one now. Thoughts? So far I like it. I got 2 sits out of it. Second sit was better than first. I need a longer bridge (I bought it with a fixed bridge from a buddy and it’s to short for me). I also want to get the predator platform.
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: TGbow]
#2605370
10/11/18 02:48 PM
10/11/18 02:48 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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How is the comfort factor? I've considered one myself but not sure about the comfort part. Better than my lone wolf hang on but not as comfy as my summit Goliath. The predator platform is much better than the step IMO
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Hoss606]
#2605617
10/11/18 08:17 PM
10/11/18 08:17 PM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571 Grays Creek, NC
bigcountry692001
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571
Grays Creek, NC
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How is the comfort factor? I've considered one myself but not sure about the comfort part. Better than my lone wolf hang on but not as comfy as my summit Goliath. The predator platform is much better than the step IMO IF... there was any chance of me using a saddle I’d definitely need the predator platform
"You cant manage a deer herd with acorns."
-Dr. Craig Harper
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: gobbler30]
#2609207
10/15/18 05:32 PM
10/15/18 05:32 PM
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 627 Hueytown, Al.
smokinya
4 point
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4 point
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 627
Hueytown, Al.
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I hunted for the first time last year in a trophyline saddle and really liked it. I sold it and ordered the Tethrd Mantis and predator platform . The predator has arrived ,but I’m still waiting for the mantis. Can’t wait for it to arrive.
Hunting from a saddle opens up more opportunities , such as smaller treees that you can’t hunt from a traditional stand/climber. Sitting in my Kestrel saddle right now in a tree only a saddle hunter could hunt!!
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Sasquatch Lives]
#2609769
10/16/18 08:34 AM
10/16/18 08:34 AM
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 627 Hueytown, Al.
smokinya
4 point
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4 point
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 627
Hueytown, Al.
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Pee same way as u do in climber. As far as taking a dump in a tree I have never done that and I hunted for 29 years. I get down and crap in a hole or in a creek if I have to that bad. Leaning back...... they have a back band which is a must have in my opinion and supports your back nicely. Those things look like a nightmare. They look uncomfortable. Can you lean back against anything in them? How do you pee out of one? How do you take a sky dump out of one? Pee same way as u do in climber. As far as taking a dump in a tree I have never done that and I have hunted for 29 years. I get down and crap in a hole or in a creek if I have to that bad. Leaning back...... they have a back band which is a must have in my opinion and supports your back nicely.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: beeline08]
#2612823
10/19/18 02:35 PM
10/19/18 02:35 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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what do you guys use for climbing? sticks or steps I’m using sticks. I should have some wildedge steps for next season to try
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Atoler]
#2616445
10/23/18 06:59 AM
10/23/18 06:59 AM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571 Grays Creek, NC
bigcountry692001
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571
Grays Creek, NC
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So here is my question. Are you actually saving any weight? I wouldn’t be opposed to trying saddle hunting, but i don’t really see how it’s any lighter than my 12lb x stand. From what I’ve researched, you pretty much would have to use a pair of carbon fiber climbing spikes, and a light saddle to come out ahead. Toting around a pair of 10lb climbing sticks seems to completely defeat the purpose. What am I missing here? These are some of my thoughts too. I’m curious and wouldn’t mind checking one out but if I’m not cutting a significant amount weight I don’t see many more advantages.
"You cant manage a deer herd with acorns."
-Dr. Craig Harper
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: bigcountry692001]
#2616447
10/23/18 07:00 AM
10/23/18 07:00 AM
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Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 15,978 Brierfield
Beadlescomb
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 15,978
Brierfield
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So here is my question. Are you actually saving any weight? I wouldn’t be opposed to trying saddle hunting, but i don’t really see how it’s any lighter than my 12lb x stand. From what I’ve researched, you pretty much would have to use a pair of carbon fiber climbing spikes, and a light saddle to come out ahead. Toting around a pair of 10lb climbing sticks seems to completely defeat the purpose. What am I missing here? These are some of my thoughts too. I’m curious and wouldn’t mind checking one out but if I’m not cutting a significant amount weight I don’t see many more advantages. I think you leave the sticks on the tree but I could be wrong?
We will burn that bridge when we get there
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Beadlescomb]
#2616569
10/23/18 08:46 AM
10/23/18 08:46 AM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571 Grays Creek, NC
bigcountry692001
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,571
Grays Creek, NC
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So here is my question. Are you actually saving any weight? I wouldn’t be opposed to trying saddle hunting, but i don’t really see how it’s any lighter than my 12lb x stand. From what I’ve researched, you pretty much would have to use a pair of carbon fiber climbing spikes, and a light saddle to come out ahead. Toting around a pair of 10lb climbing sticks seems to completely defeat the purpose. What am I missing here? These are some of my thoughts too. I’m curious and wouldn’t mind checking one out but if I’m not cutting a significant amount weight I don’t see many more advantages. I think you leave the sticks on the tree but I could be wrong? Most guys that saddle hunt are hunting different trees and areas every sit and packing them in and out. I hunt public land so definitely don’t leave anything in the woods.
"You cant manage a deer herd with acorns."
-Dr. Craig Harper
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: bigcountry692001]
#2616863
10/23/18 01:28 PM
10/23/18 01:28 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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So here is my question. Are you actually saving any weight? I wouldn’t be opposed to trying saddle hunting, but i don’t really see how it’s any lighter than my 12lb x stand. From what I’ve researched, you pretty much would have to use a pair of carbon fiber climbing spikes, and a light saddle to come out ahead. Toting around a pair of 10lb climbing sticks seems to completely defeat the purpose. What am I missing here? These are some of my thoughts too. I’m curious and wouldn’t mind checking one out but if I’m not cutting a significant amount weight I don’t see many more advantages. I think you leave the sticks on the tree but I could be wrong? Most guys that saddle hunt are hunting different trees and areas every sit and packing them in and out. I hunt public land so definitely don’t leave anything in the woods. Yes most are hunting public or private where they don’t hunt the same tree each hunt. Packing everything in and packing out each hunt. So going to a saddle gives you the weight reduction and more options when choosing a tree. Rough estimating here, my summit Goliath and all my gear I was sitting around 36lbs, lonewolf/ sticks/ gear sitting around 30lbs and saddle/ sticks/ gear sitting around 20lbs. I feel safer in the saddle than a climber or hang on. I’m also able to move through thick bush quieter, climb rocks on the mountain with less effort than with a climber or hang on.
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Atoler]
#2616959
10/23/18 03:39 PM
10/23/18 03:39 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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20lbs would be my problem with the saddle. I’m about 16.5 with my. Stand, harness, and gear except for weapon.
What method do you use to climb?
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Hoss606]
#2616968
10/23/18 03:46 PM
10/23/18 03:46 PM
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Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 2,277 Alabama
gcr0003
8 point
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8 point
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 2,277
Alabama
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20lbs would be my problem with the saddle. I’m about 16.5 with my. Stand, harness, and gear except for weapon.
What method do you use to climb?
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: gcr0003]
#2617047
10/23/18 05:18 PM
10/23/18 05:18 PM
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Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 8,395
Atoler
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 8,395
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20lbs would be my problem with the saddle. I’m about 16.5 with my. Stand, harness, and gear except for weapon.
What method do you use to climb? X stand sit and climb. It’s a legitimate 12lbs. Then I carry a rangefinder, pull rope, bow hanger, and harness tether in a small fanny pack. I pack a little more during the rut, but that’s my bow season 4-5 hour sit setup.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2617081
10/23/18 06:23 PM
10/23/18 06:23 PM
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Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 14,578 Tuscaloosa Co.
N2TRKYS
Booner
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Booner
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 14,578
Tuscaloosa Co.
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What safety harness are y'all wearing in the saddles?
83% of all statistics are made up.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Atoler]
#2617103
10/23/18 06:42 PM
10/23/18 06:42 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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20lbs would be my problem with the saddle. I’m about 16.5 with my. Stand, harness, and gear except for weapon.
What method do you use to climb? X stand sit and climb. It’s a legitimate 12lbs. Then I carry a rangefinder, pull rope, bow hanger, and harness tether in a small fanny pack. I pack a little more during the rut, but that’s my bow season 4-5 hour sit setup. That’s a light stand for sure. I didn’t like several things about the stand, the biggest was tree options.
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: N2TRKYS]
#2617106
10/23/18 06:43 PM
10/23/18 06:43 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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What safety harness are y'all wearing in the saddles? None. The saddle is your harness
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Hoss606]
#2617129
10/23/18 07:02 PM
10/23/18 07:02 PM
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Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 14,578 Tuscaloosa Co.
N2TRKYS
Booner
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Booner
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 14,578
Tuscaloosa Co.
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What safety harness are y'all wearing in the saddles? None. The saddle is your harness The saddle is your stand not your safety harness. Good luck with that.
83% of all statistics are made up.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: N2TRKYS]
#2617153
10/23/18 07:18 PM
10/23/18 07:18 PM
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Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 13,880 Mobile, AL
SouthBamaSlayer
Gary's Fluffer
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Gary's Fluffer
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 13,880
Mobile, AL
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What safety harness are y'all wearing in the saddles? None. The saddle is your harness The saddle is your stand not your safety harness. Good luck with that. Yeah the whole point of a safety harness in a stand is so that you don’t have the opportunity for a single point failure.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: N2TRKYS]
#2617175
10/23/18 07:44 PM
10/23/18 07:44 PM
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078 Gurley
Hoss606
6 point
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6 point
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,078
Gurley
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What safety harness are y'all wearing in the saddles? None. The saddle is your harness The saddle is your stand not your safety harness. Good luck with that. Thank you so far so good
Obsession Lethal Force 70# 27.5"
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: SouthBamaSlayer]
#2617567
10/24/18 07:53 AM
10/24/18 07:53 AM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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What safety harness are y'all wearing in the saddles? None. The saddle is your harness The saddle is your stand not your safety harness. Good luck with that. Yeah the whole point of a safety harness in a stand is so that you don’t have the opportunity for a single point failure. Statistically speaking, there is a probability of both your stand and safety harness failing. Better add another safety harness, just to be safe.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2653028
11/26/18 06:31 PM
11/26/18 06:31 PM
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Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 257 Alabama
kntree
4 point
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4 point
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 257
Alabama
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Tree saddle came in today boys! Already messed around with it in the backyard hanging on a tree. I think I'm REALLY going to like using this setup versus humping in a heavy climber. Will try to get some pictures if I can figure out where I can host them.
Stay tuned! Just ordered one, I made the decision after sweating like a geyser carrying my climber today, even though it is very lightweight. Let me know how the learning curve is for comfort. I heard it can take some tweaking. I'll be using it for both bow and gun hunting.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2684278
12/26/18 08:14 PM
12/26/18 08:14 PM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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First saddle hunt today. Setup is the Aero Hunter Kestrel and climbing system is Wild Edge Stepp Ladder. Hung out in the tree from about 2:15pm to dark. No real issues other than I forgot my knee pads and had to use my pack as a cushion, but that actually worked out pretty well. There's a bit of a learning curve associated and I practiced going up and down trees in my yard before hitting the woods. Oh, and didn't see any deer. Pretty sure some poaching was happening in the cutover behind me, since nobody should be shooting a gun on Cahaba WMA today. Hanging out Wild Edge "Stepp" Ladder system Jerry Rigged Bow Holder
Last edited by 7x57_Mauser; 12/26/18 08:18 PM.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: grundan]
#2684691
12/27/18 10:42 AM
12/27/18 10:42 AM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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So how do you rate the comfort? Comparing it to a lock on stand. Can you use this system with cold weather bibbs and jacket etc? Weight of steps and your system? Comfort was about a 7.5/10 (I'd consider the Tree Lounge to be a 10/10, but I have no experience with lock on stands) and that discomfort was certainly due to the failed back surgery I had back in 2014. Sometimes, I get a cramping sensation in my right piriformis muscle. I didn't realize that I still had my wallet in my back right pocket, and the saddle was causing it to press into me pretty good. Once I got it out, the "pain" started to subside. You can definitely wear cold weather gear, as the waist and thigh adjustments have plenty of let out. You can add top layers while in the tree since all the attachments are around waist height. I wore my saddle in, so that weight really isn't really felt, but I think my saddle, ropes, and carabiners weigh around 5-6lbs. Set of 10 steps weighs about 11lbs. Water bottle was probably another 1lb, knife, .45, bow hanger, probably another 3lbs. It was definitely lighter than packing in the only climbers I have, which are tree lounges. Some lessons learned from practicing in the yard and yesterday: 1) You need footwear that has a shank to it. The arches of your feet will be sore the next day if you're using something like Merrell hiking shoes or something. I wore my Kennetreks yesterday and they were great. 2) Prusik knots can be a bit of a PITA. I've already ordered Ropeman 1 ascenders to replace them so I can have 1 hand operation on my lineman's belt and tree strap. 3) Knee pads are a must. I lucked out and was able to strap my pack to the tree so I could rest against it, and it actually worked out pretty well. 4) A platform would be even better than steps or climbing sticks. I'll probably add a Predator platform, or end up making something. 5) You'll need to practice to find the optimum height above your head for the tree strap. Obviously, there's an upper limit (how high you can reach), but for me higher was better as you're not leaned back as far. 6) I'm not 100% proficient on getting the loop tension correct on the Wild Edge Stepps, so climbing was a little slower than normal since I had to re-tie 7) SAFETY SAFETY SAFETY - check and re-check your gear. Back in the day I was a high ropes safety instructor, and this was drilled in me. that's about all I can think of right now. Check out YouTube for saddle review / instructional videos.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: bdw32]
#2686800
12/29/18 09:43 AM
12/29/18 09:43 AM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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I see that first lite camo! Best stuff I’ve ever worn. Hell yeah it is! First Lite has the best customer service I've ever experienced. They basically gave me $140 of store credit because the jacket I bought went on sale the next week. Couldn't believe it... Anyways, another good hang yesterday in the saddle out on public land. I'm still dialing in my system and where to hang things, etc... About 16:15 I had a doe dead to rights at 27yds, but she still had a fawn (karma) and the pack out would've been more than I wanted on account of it being so warm. I was also hoping a buck was trailing her. I took a video with my iPhone, but I'm not sure I can post it here. I'll try to put up a You Tube link or something... I also used the Ropeman 1's on my tree strap AND my lineman's belt. Let me tell you, it makes adjustment a breeze. It's MUCH more simple since you can use only 1 hand to take in or let out rope. I won't be going back to friction hitches, but I may try to find a way to back up the Ropeman 1 ascender. This is a Ropeman 1 Ascender (no affiliation with REI)https://www.rei.com/product/115422/wild-country-ropeman-1-ascenderTakeaways: Pros: 1 handed operation (even with gloves), quick adjustments give higher confidence (I've had a couple times trying to tighten a Prussic where I felt unsafe), won't get unnecessarily tight like a Prussic knot / friction hitch when it gets wet Cons: more money to spend (about $44 a piece), not intended to be a life saving device (you can read all about their specs and failure modes. Bottom line, ascenders aren't made to take the shock of a long fall, but that shouldn't be a problem since you're already on tension), weigh more than a Prussic / friction hitch. Short video of the doe milling around. Be prepared to see a deer, in the woods, don't get your hopes up for anything cool!!!! https://youtu.be/WMsUqGYeXDY
Last edited by 7x57_Mauser; 12/29/18 09:56 AM. Reason: added video link
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: bowtarist]
#2690719
01/01/19 04:19 PM
01/01/19 04:19 PM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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I ordered a mantis Dec 7th. I'm hoping it gets here soon. I've got several options for getting up a tree already. My plan right now is to use 4 to 5 wild edge steps with a knaider and swaider. I should be less than 10 lbs with that system. I can't tote a stand anymore due to back issues. On Sunday, I got about 35' (too high) with 7 steps and an aider, 3 steps as a platform. Going up with an aider was easier than descending with one. Make sure you have a good headlamp.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2692342
01/02/19 08:35 PM
01/02/19 08:35 PM
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Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 34 Elberta, Alabama
Kbrewhunter1
spike
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spike
Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 34
Elberta, Alabama
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I apologize if this is already covered earlier but what’s the average cost to get started in saddle hunting ? What is the minimum gear you need and where do you get it? Does saddle hunting all 360 degree hunting? Thanks for the info
Matthew 9:38
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: Kbrewhunter1]
#2693867
01/03/19 08:57 PM
01/03/19 08:57 PM
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Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168 Birmingham
7x57_Mauser
OP
8 point
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OP
8 point
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 2,168
Birmingham
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I apologize if this is already covered earlier but what’s the average cost to get started in saddle hunting ? What is the minimum gear you need and where do you get it? Does saddle hunting all 360 degree hunting? Thanks for the info As with most things, it depends. Do you want a full-up kit? Or do you want to piece a kit together? New or used? I'm into my saddle for about $350. After that it's whatever climbing method you want to do. The amount of coverage you get depends on what kind of platform, ring of steps, etc that you use and how your gear is setup. Check out www.aerohunter.us for the saddle that I have, which is the Kestrel. I'm very happy with it. I logged another 4 hours in the saddle today, but only saw a spike.
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Re: Any "saddle" hunters on here?
[Re: 7x57_Mauser]
#2694244
01/04/19 07:50 AM
01/04/19 07:50 AM
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Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 34 Elberta, Alabama
Kbrewhunter1
spike
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spike
Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 34
Elberta, Alabama
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Ok cool thanks I will take a look at it. I would most likely piece it together because of the price and wouldn’t mind getting used stuff. I just don’t know what all I need. I have an ancient steel climber that I am ready to upgrade to lighter more efficient option that will allow lots of climbing choicest
Matthew 9:38
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