10 Helpful Items for Hanging Treestands

This past weekend I started hanging my treestands for the upcoming archery hunting season. Over 3 days I was able to hang and prepare 6 full sets, however, each day it seemed that I managed to forget something critical that would have made hanging them a lot easier.  As I prepared to hang a few more sets, I thought I should make a list. 

I figure that I can’t be the only one that gets deep in the timber, only to realize I left a helpful tool at home. Here is a list of my top 10 products that make hanging treestands easier:

1. Safety Harness – Safety should always come first. When hanging stands, I prefer a vest style harness with a lineman’s strap. The extra pockets come in handy and allow my hands to be free. I always put a lifeline up as well.
2. Glow Tacks – Easily find your trail with glow tacks. It does you no good to hang the perfect set if you’re wandering around on opening morning because you can’t find your stand.
3. Pole Saw – Don’t miss the shot of a lifetime because a stray limb is in the way. A few years back I bought a pole saw and it’s been well worth it. 
4. Tool Kit – It seems that something will always break or need to be tightened up once you’re in the woods. I carry a compact socket set, adjustable wrench, screw driver, etc. 
5. Insect Repellent – This time of year the bugs can eat you alive. A good bug spray or Thermacell can make your life easier.
6. Bow Hanger and Rope – I would hate to count how many times I’ve been fumbling around on opening morning with no hooks in the tree and none in my pack. The bow rope will also aid in pulling the stand up. Don’t forget to get these set up before the season.
7. Compass – Wind is a factor to consider. A compass will allow you to properly place your stand in relation to the trail for a particular wind direction.
8. Sickle or Machete – Thick greens and briars can get in the way. A sickle or machete will make quick work of clearing thick greens and briars.
9. Work Gloves – Hanging stands can be tough on your body. Tree bark is very abrasive and will tear your hands up. Pesky poison ivy can also creep up anywhere in the woods. Gloves can protect your hands from all of this.
10. Rangefinder – Don't forget about distance. A rangefinder is a great tool to ensure that you are setting up within a comfortable shooting distance of whatever trail you anticipate deer traveling. I also use mine to range all possible shooting lanes, so I know what to be prepared for, come the first day.

I’m not saying that all of these items are necessary, but they sure will make hanging your treestands easier.  These tools do come with a price (weight) and chances are that you will not need every tool every time you hang a stand.  At the same time, having them with you is better than making another trip, or even missing a shot opportunity that could have been possible.

I hope the lessons I’ve learned from trial and error can help someone avoid making mistakes of their own this year.  

Good luck to everyone this season!

Like this article? Check this one out to see how you can stay safe in your treestand.

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