The law of diminishing returns states: as you continuously increase one input while keeping others constant, the additional output gained from that input will eventually decrease. Let’s apply this economic law to hunting. Every time you hunt the same stand, the number of deer sightings will begin to decline. Your first sit in a stand is often your best opportunity. If you don’t want to take my word for it, check out Alex Comstock’s article, “The Power of the First Sit,” published by the National Deer Alliance. To take full advantage of this concept, many hunters turn to mobile hunting—an approach that allows you to frequently or quickly change your hunting positions.
In this article, we’ll dive into mobile hunting setups, specifically focusing on stand hunting. Mobile treestand hunting typically comes in three main forms: climbers, hang-ons, and saddles. Each option has its own strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses. Let’s break them down so you can decide which makes the most sense for your hunting style.
Climbers
Climbers are the simplest and most straightforward option. They are an all-in-one system that combines both the stand and the climbing mechanism. A climber doesn’t require any additional gear, making it an economical choice depending on the model you select. Climbers work best in areas with mature trees that are straight and free of low-hanging branches or forks. These stands also shine during gun and crossbow seasons, as the bar on the front of many climbers can double as a rest for steady shots.
However, climbers do have limitations. Finding the right tree is critical, as not every tree is suitable for climbing. Climbers also tend to be bulky and heavy, typically weighing between 18 and 25 pounds. This can make them less ideal for longer hikes or remote setups. Despite these downsides, a climber is a great option for hunters who prioritize simplicity and affordability.
Hang-Ons
Hang-on stands are the go-to option for many bowhunters. Unlike climbers, a hang-on stand requires a climbing aid—usually a set of climbing sticks—to reach your desired height. These stands are incredibly versatile, working in a wide range of trees, as long as the tree is sturdy enough to hold both you and the stand. This flexibility allows you to utilize trees with branches for better concealment, giving you more creative options for setting up your ambush.
Hang-ons are also lightweight, with many models weighing 10 pounds or less. They’re often considered the most comfortable option for all-day hunts, which makes them especially useful during the rut. The main drawbacks are the need for additional gear (like climbing sticks) and the lack of a built-in gun or crossbow rest. Despite this, hang-ons are an excellent choice for hunters who value comfort and adaptability, particularly during bow season.
Saddles
Saddle hunting has surged in popularity in recent years. A saddle functions as a harness that tethers you to a tree, providing a lightweight and highly flexible hunting setup. Saddles require an initial investment in gear, including a saddle, tree tether, lineman’s rope, platform, and climbing sticks. While this setup is the most expensive of the three options, it is also the lightest and easiest to carry.
The biggest advantage of saddle hunting is its unmatched flexibility in tree selection. You can hunt virtually any tree that will support your weight, allowing you to adapt to a wide variety of situations. Additionally, the saddle setup naturally uses the tree itself as cover, helping you stay hidden from approaching deer. Saddle systems also offer the largest shooting radius of the three options, giving you more opportunities to take clean shots. For gun and crossbow hunters, a folding bow hanger can be repurposed as a rest, adding another layer of functionality.
The main downside to saddle hunting is the learning curve. It can take time to adjust your setup and find the right settings for comfort. Once dialed in, however, many hunters find that saddles excel in versatility, especially for long hikes and all-day hunts. Personally, I prefer saddle hunting for gun season because it combines comfort, concealment, and mobility in one package.
Which Option Is Right for You?
When choosing a mobile hunting setup, it’s important to consider your hunting style and goals. If you’re an occasional gun hunter, a climber may be your best bet for its simplicity and affordability. If you live and breathe bowhunting, a lightweight hang-on stand paired with climbing sticks offers the comfort and flexibility you need. And if you’re like me—hunting across multiple seasons with a variety of weapons—you may find that saddle hunting is the ultimate solution for year-round adaptability.
Each of these mobile hunting systems has its place. Ultimately, the best option is the one that fits your needs, preferences, and budget. Take the time to evaluate your hunting style and terrain, and you’ll find the system that helps you make the most of your time in the woods.
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