Great video! I almost purchased a saddle for the upcoming season, but then I ran across this video. I'm most comfortable in a stand, and I realized after watching this video that I had everything in my garage to make a tether and seat. By virtue of my job, I've got a few Class II harnesses, rope, hardware, and prusik cordage, and it took me less than 10 minutes to set it all up and try it out. I'm pretty excited about being able to shoot from my Lone Wolf traditionally, but also have the option to sit in my harness off the side of the stand and shoot behind me without worrying about losing my balance. Thanks again!
Im with you on this. its nice to be able to turn around and sit down if i feel the need. and being realistic, nobody is going to be very successful trying to utilize 360 degrees shooting range anyway. More like 270 degrees, which in my mind you might as well hunt out of a traditional platform stand with your saddle/harness. I feel i am more versatile with this method.
I complete agree with all of this, especially with a trad bow. I have run into some really awkward situations in a saddle with a trad bow. Best of both worlds right here which I have considered many times. Running a saddle or rock harness out of a treestand. For many situations. This is the best, especially when it comes to a weak side shot in a saddle.
Jason this was incredible. Thanks for your perspective and knowledge on this. As always your videos are educational and full of great info. You’re channel is such a valuable resource. I couldn’t really get from your video though whether or not you will ever saddle hunt? I know near term it seems like you won’t but what about longer term- maybe in 2-3 seasons?
Great video Jason. I bought one of John's Tactisaddles at your recommendation last year and absolutely love it. It is my first saddle and I got to say that I never felt comfortable moving around in a tree stand with a longbow when standing for a shot, even with a rock climbing harness. Now I feel so much safer and more secure in the saddle. Combined with an Out on a Limb Podium, it is very comfortable. Security is my key factor.
Glad you love the saddle! I have talked to so many saddle hunters that switched to johns tactisaddle and say its been a game changer for them. And there is no safe way to hunt than from a saddle! I watch John shoot from his saddle and he can literally shoot 360 and be wicked accurate!
I could never get comfortable taking standing shots from a tree stand either. All my shots have been sitting down in a tree stand. Next season I’m switching to a saddle.
I just got my new saddle. I have used mobile stands, climbers and ground blinds ever since I started hunting with a bow 4 years ago(after 20 years of solely gun hunting from tower stands and blinds overlooking food plots). Just like I still gun hunt (when the season is running out and I haven't filled my tag haha) , I got the saddle as another tool/option. I'm also an avid golfer as well, I was sold on the saddle when Ernie from tethrd said " you don't play golf with one club." . I don't have a climber anymore(just like I don't use a 3wd in my golf bag) because you have to do what works best for your game. My stand, saddle, and ground blinds will be my options, cause one works better than the other in certain situations. I commend you on stating that very thing in both videos. Just cause I or you don't like a method of hunting doesn't mean we aren't both hunters and or one is right and one is wrong. Its all personal preference! Hence why I am now subscribed to your channel.
Thank you. You seen it as it was ment to be. To give pros and cons to both methods. Some people thought I was knocking a saddle. Not at all. You said it best I think with the golf reference. Thanks for the great comment and good luck this year!
I totally agree on the floating out and getting busted, however, in a saddle with a platform for your feet (I use the Lone Wolf Hand Climber as a climbing technique and ao platform), you can easily hide behind the tree. Did that last week as 3 deer walked right below my tree. Love different options and opinions and that we have so many at our fingertips.
Yep its a great time to be a deer hunter with so many amazing options. And its the saddle community that forced the manufacturers to get competitive and meet these demands! Love the options available today.
head the hide behind the tree argument all the time from saddle hunters. Woks great unit you have to shoot then you are in the open with nothing behind you to break your outline up. Always pros and cons.
I use the saddle as my safty harnesses in my lone wolf similar to the rock climbing harness. All day sits I'm using the stand. When I run out for a 1 or 2 hr sits I'll just use the saddle.
That I think is the best set up. Give you the best of both worlds. Especially in hill county with thermal changes or wind mood swings. When you have to drop down and change spits the last hour you can bring the stand down, leave it. Walk to another tree and using just the saddle be set up in 2-3 mins ready for the last hour of hunting. If I like this set up as much as I think I'm gonna im probably going to have John from tactisaddle.com build me a saddle and use it exactly like you are doing.
All very good points. I hunt out of a saddle and won't go back to a tree stand. However I realize saddles are not for everyone. Just as stalk hunt works for some and sit and wait works for others.
Yep have lots of buddies that only hunt out of saddles now. Saddles are amazing. It good to have so many excellent options out there for hunting from trees!
Saddles have opened up a ton of country for me. Getting a traditional stand through the thick rain forest here in western Washington the steep country, the alders and blowdowns are like a thousand hands grabbing at you every step. It is an absolute nightmare. However, back in Missouri? in the open timber? treestands are the ways to go. Horses for courses.
The varying shooting height point was valid. That's one disadvantage I hadn't heard of until I watched your video. A saddle hunter would have to change their tether height to be able to shoot lower, if needed. I've killed nearly 100 deer with a bow, mostly from a hand climber and I probably needed that versatility on ten of those shots. I'd have to say that "floating" factor for a saddle hunter is actually better, as your feet are connected to the trunk and your profile is the same as a branch coming from the main trunk, so it's definitely a more natural profile. I'm making the switch to a saddle this year, so I'm going to find out first hand . Thanks for the video!
Warren Wommack introduced me to a Loc on Limit stand and the woodpecker drill system then later on, the rock climbing harness years ago and even though he switched to a saddle, I still really like hunting from this system with a rock climbing harness!
Yep Warren is a brilliant man. Not only hoa stand set ups but his camper set ups in his trucks and all his tips and ideas to make you hunt better. Brilliant man!
I hunt exactly like you do. I use my rock climbing harness with my ropeman ascender out of a tree stand. Have shot several deer hanging off the edge of my stand behind the tree.
Glad to hear. That is gonna be a game changer for me coming from a full body harness with attachment between the shoulders. Looking forward to the added shooting capabilities!
Interesting how different people view things differently. Certainly some valid points. Personally, I noticed that I got picked off a LOT less in a saddle because with your feet against the tree and your body leaning away, your silhouette looks a lot more like a natural angle for a tree branch than it does in a tree stand. Even if you're right against a tree in a tree stand, I think deer are very used to a human silhouette on a platform and it just doesn't look natural to them from the side angle. For me, the biggest selling point for a saddle is the lack of bulk on your back walking in, not the lack of weight that comes with it. Game changer! Glad you have a system that works well for you, though. That's the beauty of having so many great options in 2020!
I'm never going to hunt with the saddle either! Those who claim to love the saddle is because their desire to be a apart of the herd follers than having a better bow shooting position. I see so many bad shots from the saddle and it is the saddle that is causing the bad shots. And you are exactly right on everything you said. I love my lock-ons. Light weight and flexible. No rope interfering with my shot. And the lock-on allows me a more comfortable setting.
Agree 100%. There is a reason thw saddle gain popularity in the 90s then faded out. In a time of 6 pound stands there is no need for a saddle. But they do offer a safety factor with not having to hang, climb into or out of a stand. But I seem to ve in the minority as there are a ton of people that love saddles. I'll take my comfy stand all day every day
another great one Jason. For me its real simple. I can't stand facing the tree and tether. Tried two sits outta one and it drove me insane! And as far as weight savings go, they'll always have the advantage, but the gap is significantly closing with the new 6 lb stand from Infalt, LWCG, and Out on a limb in the coming months.
You are right. With a trad bow, I like a stand. The last few deer I shot with my longbow, I had to be in a specific tree and shoot a specific direction to make it happen that wouldn't work with a saddle. I do own a saddle and use it with my compound or gun hunting all the time. Just another tool in the box.
Kinda, and when I want to. But 99% of the time using a tree stand as a tree stand. But when I need to shoot behind the tree, going into saddle and platform mode.
Great video as usual. Haters gonna hate! Lol. I use lone wolf and sticks, ladders, saddle. They are all just tools in the tool box. I have hunted trees where a Lone wolf would not have worked. Too crooked. Or ladders wouldn’t work. Or where there were better options than a saddle. Great thing about hunting is all the choices. Find what you like and enjoy time in the woods.
Thanks! Yep bunch of different ways to skin a cat! Heck 2 of my swamp spots I use homemade 2x4 tripod stands that are 7 feet high just enough to get me up in the top of the bushes. Its good to have options and different methods.
Hi,Jason I tried John's saddle this season and like it but I went back to my LW and 3 sticks. I was picked out by deer like you talked about and with the rock harness you have the best of both worlds Great Video Thanks!!
Glad you have a system that works great for you. Yeah, Im not a saddle guy either. I hunted out of them for a season 23 years ago before saddle were cool and didnt like it. But the saddles then were nothing like the saddles now. I hunt with alot of saddle guys taht love them. But im with ya. Id rather be on a stand. Since you already have that saddle it would also make a great treee stand harness!
@@SamkoTradBow why didn't you use the saddle you got from John? Instead of the new rock harnesses? I just sold my saddle and bought a black diamond harness myself.
Love my API aluminum tech bowhunter climber. Light weight, cradles on it's self when packing. Also put a Ol Man style seat on it. Makes it's very comfortable and easier to climb when you can see the tree with out a seat blocking your view.
You have some great points. I think it’s great to have a loaded arsenal and have multiple options for different scenarios. I see what you mean with the body floating, I’ve had that problem with shooting out of a climber. I like how with saddles the leaning profile makes you look more like a tree branch. Personally, I’d rather look like nothing. But great video to show the multiple options you can get out of a hang on. Keep it up!
Thank you. Yep saddles are fantastic and one heck of great hunting tool. And many people love them. but for me the stand works better. Glad you enjoyed the video.
I actually saddle hunt a lot. I also have used my saddle similar to you, with my hang on stands. The saddle gives me more options than just having a harness on. Saddle hunting for me is still my favorite method since I can change location more easily, compared to moving my hang on stand. One thing you do not mention in the video is what you use for climbing.
Great Video! I've been looking at saddle videos for almost 2 years now. I'm so dang close to buying one but pretty much all the reasons I talk myself out of it you mention. I've got a Lonewolf hang on with sticks and lonewolf climber I bought in 2003 when I switched to a longbow. The stands are great. I really prefer my climber cause I just don't like hanging the lonewolf hang-on and messing with the straps so thats why i'm thinking about a saddle. However.... I have taken to using my lonewolf climber with my sticks if I'm hunting a new spot and unsure of what tree type i'll be climbing. If I get to a tree than a climber can go up then I just leave the sticks at the base of the tree. I also modified my lonewolf sticks with double steps and stealth tape and a wire rope aider on the bottom stick only and so 2 sticks gets me to where I need to be and the double step is so much nicer. I honestly think the climber and sticks and a backpack pack up super quiet and simple compared to the hangon and sticks. The ONLY thing with using the climber as a hang on is you have to be mindfull of how you step onto it from the sticks. Now if the hang-on stand had a belt like the climber rather than the straps then I'd use the hang-on more. Also been using a rock climbing harness for at least 6 years or so, it's just so much nicer.
6:38...you can do the same when using a saddle and platform. Its ok to not like a saddle but alot of your reasons seems like you really had to try to hard to come up with them.
I did have to try hard! Saddles are fantastic and like I said in the video have a ton of advantages. Thats why I titled the video why I don't but why you might want to use one. In order for me to say why I don't use a saddle means I have to mention the things I don't like.
Yeah I like stand hunting too, but I also like the saddle, no doubt with a lighter weight pack and efficient use of ropes , a stick, or a hand climber a saddle hunter can walk out further with less effort. But with a large stand foot platform you definitely can move around, and be more comfortable . Lock one are noisy to put up and heavy for the most part.
Got my bag of Doritos?? Lmao. Another great video. I will be doing saddle hunting this year. I think the big thing is that you have to have your pre sets up before you go to hunt. Coming in with a throw ball and trying to hunt is a recipe for complete frustration. I plan on doing more "hybrid hunts". I define that as using a saddle and SRT or DRT climbing method and using a lone wolf tree stand. I eliminate the weight and bulk of the sticks. The climbing rope and gear does have weight but it travels very compact. In Oklahoma, where I hunt, trees are crazy crooked, making climbing stick operations frustrating, scary and less safe. The lone wolf stand is easy to haul up and affix to the tree. For me, this is the best of both worlds because of the comfort of the stand. Having a tree in your face with the saddle hunt is an advantage for not being spotted but it takes away from all the beauty of nature, which is a significant reason for me to get out into the woods. The best part of the hybrid method is that when I am done I get down to the ground in 30 seconds and dont have to pack up my sticks. Thanks for all that you do!
Man that was very well said! Appreciate the honest right from the field experience and reasoning! I know those Osage trees can be an adventure with any climbing method...lol deal with alot of them where I hunt in KS. Love that you have multiple systems ready to go at the drop of a hat based on where you are hunting!
Tried for years to like using a saddle and even ended up making my own but my biggest problem was I couldn't stay still long enough to keep from ocassionally getting "picked off" by deer. I didn't want to hunt 25 feet or higher off the ground just so I could get away with a little movement. Sure I could fool a few does and fawns but when the older, smarter bucks started showing up I just couldn't get away with anything. I went back to my treestands and can stay comfortable for hours with minimal movement.
I don’t shoot trad anymore. When I did, I found having my feet stable and being steady was paramount for accuracy. I hunt out of a climber. I just don’t see how swinging from a rope with your feet on a glorified step would let you be accurate with a traditional bow
One of the beautiful things about a tradbow is that you do not have to jave a good stance or form and can shoot from crazy angles and positions. So they do work fantastic out of saddles. Probably better than any other type of bow. But im with ya as far as preferring a stand over a saddle.
its all about preference when you get right down to it. i love my summit titan and dont plan on giving it up but i am trying a tethrd mantis this year for more mobility. love the comfort of my climber but i dont want to be carrying it in and out everyday
Make sure you dont keep side loading your carabiner, in the video when you leaned away from the tree it was side loaded (thats a very weak point on beanier's). I lost a more or less permanent spot for hunting, the property was sold and logged but regardless, my tree stand was stolen and now kind of limited to public lands so Ive been debating between a hang on or saddle set up.
Yep never good to sideload a carabiner. Great job point that out. Sucks you lost the private hunting option but might be a blessing in disguise! Public land offers amazing hunting opportunities! As for the stand vs saddle can't go wrong either way and it's well worth trying both to see what you like most.
I know so many people that saddle hunt exclusively and love it! Glad you have a system that works great for you. When its time for a new saddle you should check out tactisaddle.com Johns saddles are pretty amazing!
I think it depends on style of hunting I tear down and move sometimes and with a saddle that makes it nice, I can also plop down easily and hunt from the ground if you move a lot a saddles a great tool
Yep saddles are great for mobility. I often move 3 to 4 times a day during the rut and doing that with my stand takes a minute or 2 longer than if I was in a saddle. But for me personally that extra minute is worth the comfort I get on stand. I do belive this mobility capability of the saddle sure is a strong solid point to get one for many people
Good video. I don't get the whole war going on about stands vs saddle hunting. I'm just getting into saddle hunting and think it's a great tool. I also will keep my stands and use them. I just don't get the people that get so infuriated at saddle hunters and vice versa (mostly coming from the former). To each their own, who cares what someone else does. Grow up, live and let live.
WTF - Please stop bashing saddle hunting. ..kidding. Good explanation. I will choose my summit viper every time I can. I have the smaller version of it and fits me perfectly. 17-18 pounds and packs well for most hunts with a molle pack setup. I have and used hang ons but never got a good system down and seem to have heavier setups that are noisy or found every issue that can be. Yes, I’m that guy clanking sticks and have dangling giveaway ropes and strings. Looking to improve on that this year and also try saddle hunting.
Definitely try the saddle! I know lots of people that love the simplicity and easy carrying of a saddle. But sounds like that viper had treated you well and it works good for you.
Thanks for this video. I bought an H2 saddle at the beginning of last season and it's great. But, I'm not certain that saddle hunting is for me. I don't like staring at the tree the whole time. I also don't like the tether in front of me and maneuvering around it. Also like you mentioned, the weight savings aren't that great unless you are a minimalist. Saddle gear doesn't pack as well without a pack. I like my bow on my lap or in a bow holder. Everyone has themselves convinced it's the end all be all, even though saddles have been around for decades. I'm leaning towards picking up the new mini XOP sticks when they are released to pair with my Vanish XT and selling my saddle setup. Also replacing my harness with a rock climbing harness. #makehangonscoolagain
I agree on all counts! Glad you are developing a system that works best for you. Gonna be a great season for ya! Can't wait ro hear how you like those new sticks, keep me posted!
Yes many videos on both. on my channel there is a magnifying glass in the upper right corner. hit that and type tree stand and a bunch of videos will pop up for you. do the same for harness and a bunch of those will also pop up. I have alot of videos on both subjects.
If that's what you like fine, personally I don't like hauling in a heavy ass tree stand that's more likely to make noise. Saddle's are way more user friendly and mobile, also extremely quiet.
I'm not interested in saddles myself. Bit I appreciate the comment as there are many saddle hunters that watch thos video and will be looking at getting a saddle. Good to know the jx3 is comfortable and works great for you. Many people will take that info into consideration for their saddle purchase. Thanks again.
What I tell everyone that I know that asks me about archery hunting, tree stands, and saddles is that literally everything is about personal preference.
After one season of using a saddle, at the risk of being burned at the stake by the saddle mafia, I prefer to use my lone wolf climber whenever I can. Saddle requires too much movement, I can understand if your a very small person- would be completely different. Pressured areas, & spooky deer won't often let me get away with movement necessary for awkward shot angles inherent to saddle hunting. Of course, if I completely focused on just using a saddle, I'd make it work and that's what most saddle guys do. I find the weight difference from my Lone Wolf climber, to a saddle with sticks or wild edge steps, isn't much at all. If you need to use aiders, & one stick to save weight, maybe it's time to lay off the soy latte & start weight training. I have no issues using the LW climber on long hikes, & it folds flat & doesn't get tangled or hung up on brush. It's all about fun & these differences of opinion are part of it. I still use the saddle on giant oak tree's with a double rope climbing system & it really is awesome for that. Great video, it took guts to make it- & you made some great points.
Great comment and appreciated! of all the climbers I have seen and handled that LW climber would definitely be the one I would go with. Man does that thing pack nice and flat! Glad you have some great systems that work well for you!
At 4:50 what you described, I watched a video of a saddle hunter last night and he had that same issue. Made a bad shot on a nice buck and ended up loosing it
This really a great video. Thanks for a very good presentation of counter points to saddle hunting. I plan to saddle hunt this year but I’m glad I still have my three hang on stands now. They may get more use yet.👍
Glad you are trying a ssddle. I think everyone should and saddles are game changers for many people and their hunting capabilities. Not to mention nothing is safer in a tree than a saddle! I bet you are going to love it.
Thing that is drawing me to trying a saddle is the fact when you hang there at that angle you look. Like a limb on the tree or at least it seems like that lol
yep in some trees that is true. in smaller trees like in a swamp you look like a big person floating in the air. But on a big tree you do look more like a branch.
I have a Mantis and really you don't. I am able to stay more still in a hang-on and I also have more compact silhouette in a hangon than a saddle. Also, I can fit in smaller spots than in a saddle. Saddle requires a large open area around you to work.
All great points. Not everyone is shooting the same bow so why is a stand to saddle any different. I have my Viper set up with a new backpack straps I can even feel the weight.
I've hunted from both. I can say I literally can say I doubled my kill rate out of a saddle then in a stand. The advantages are beyond what a Stand can do. My opinion based on data
this was a modified petzel gym harness. Best tree stand harness in a rock climbing style now is the one made by tactisaddle.com. John just came out with it and I have a video review on it. amazing!
I very much appreciate your videos and the way you teach! But is your rock climbing harness doing exactly the same as a saddle. I used a saddle this year and had fun and success. I have been wondering why I could not use and Assault II and my saddle! Win win! Just lower the tether as you show with your rock climbing harness and same deal. Anyway... my Assault II showed up today and I plan to give it a shot! Thanks again for the videos and all the insights! You ROCK!
Nope thats a petzl rock climbing harness. The tactisaddle is an actual hunting saddle that can be used by itself as a saddle or as a harness with a tree stand.
Never spent all day in a saddle. John the owner of tactisaddle.com does all day sits in his saddle all the time and loves it. I dont think he even uses knee pads. But me personally, Im like you, prefer the stand and the room I have up there.
Nothing wrong with that! I'm looking forward to the day I get tried of climbing trees and just hunt from the ground full time. Will add a whole new adventure to my hunting!
@cp404405 Thanks for the story and inspiration! Your affection for your father tells me me a lot about his quality of character. Thanks again for sharing. I wish you the best and be glad his stories can still serve to inspire others.
Personal preference of course.... if I tried to squat down like you did to shoot...I would lose my arrow and someone would have to come help me get back up 😂
The rock climbing harness is not a full body harness. If you are required to wear a full body harness you will want one that has shoulder straps as well and a connection point from the middle of the shoulders. These are like what you see made by gorilla, muddy, tree spider, hunter safety systems, etc.
In my opinion. I think portables stands are a whole lot safer than the saddles. Portable platforms are bigger and saddles are very small. Bigger the platform the safer youre up in the tree... Portables are safer to set up your safety belt than the saddles.
I definitely love my tree stands and am not a fan of saddles. But having spent time in saddles I can see they have some great safety advantages for many people as many tree stand hunters do not use lineman belts correctly and disconnect to get into and out of the stand where as saddle hunters being more tech savvy as a whole know to use a lineman belt correctly and also lock in thier tethers before hanging the platform and disconnecting the lineman belt. I do believe both saddles and stands are equally safe when used correctly. Just wish more stand hunters did it all correctly. I do believe in a fall saddle hunters have the advantage as there is no shock load from slack in the tether like us tree stand hunters have.
Bag of Doritos 😂 Good vid Jason! I have a lone wolf hang on and a saddle... definitely strengths and weaknesses to both systems. Enjoyed your perspective 👍🏽
@eightballwoody1 i am using the rubicon. That's all I've been using. If I said other wise in a video it's because I made the video a while ago before I got the rubicon. Remember I made a bunch of videos over a month ago to have ready to publish on this trip
@ you are absolutely correct. I totally forgot that you said you were going to do that as well. My apologies. I guess I’m just eagerly awaiting your impression of using that Rubicon on your hunting trip. 😎
Honestly the floating effect youre talking about when youre in a saddle isnt a problem because you look like a branch really. Youre feet are touching the tree. What trees dont have are branches that have legs like when youre sitting in a chair on the side of it lol my opinion. Both options are useful.
That’s awesome. I’d like to find a rock climbing harness with lineman loops and loop center of front and back for tying off to the tree and the back for dragging. And leg buckles on the side.
I like both. I use summit vipers and they are the most noisy ass stand I’ve had. Not a big fan of lugging that bastard a mile downhill into a thicket. Saddle gives me that ability. But my fav all day sits are in the climbers. Hang ons are the most dangerous ime
I dont think it would qualify as a 5 point. I have never heard of a 5 point harness law. But if there is a state requiring it I do not believe a rock harness would qualify.
Deer busting you doesn’t matter as long as you climb over 20’. I find deer have no clue as long as I’m 20’ plus in most any tree. I still try to find trees that have other trees or cover around them but 20’+ is magic
That may work for compound shooters taht can shoot farther. For traditional guys we like our shots closer like 8-12 yards on average. a shot from 20 feet up at that distance is almost always a one lung hit. But for compound guys you sure can get away with alot more at 20 feet!
orignial lone wold 3 step 32 inch climbing sticks. Same ones now sold by novix. I use 3 32 inch sticks and a 2 foot aider on the bottom one. lets me get 18 feet max.
Completely disagree with safety and weight aspect. A saddle only offers one method of fall protection, whereas a climber or lock on the stand itself is a protection, and the harness is a secondary protection. I also disagree about the weight. When you account for climbing sticks, platform and whatever is used for transport, the saddle gets around 15 or so pounds, which is similar to a good aluminum bowhunting focused climber. Great video, I did a video that compared the different methods of climbing, and the saddle crowd was furious.
Nope. 4 treestand companies have asked me if they could sponsor me or send me free stuff. Turned them all down so that all my content could be 100% unbiased.
What is comfortable to one may not be to another. Why demonize someone for their opinions and the way they do things. Saddle, climbers, hang ones, or ladders what ever works for you, that’s what you use. This world has gotten ridiculous with putting someone on blast for their opinion that very well may help someone else. What is wrong with that? Nothing.
What part of anything I said suggests I don't like or approve of saddle hunters?did you not hear the whole first half of the video where I talk about how great saddles are and how my best friend makes one of the best saddles out there? Nothing you are saying or accusing me of was in thoa video. I do believe you have twisted it for you to see something not there. The video was to explain why I personally do not use a saddle. Just like the title says. I think you need to watch it again, maybe with a little less hatred for me or bias for a saddle.
Not a sub but I did give you a thumbs up even though you can do everything in a saddle that you can do on your stand the tether does give you the ability to shorten and length and how far you are from where the tether starts but to each his own I wish you well
Is it comfortable? No, never. Don’t believe anyone. The originators of the saddle hunting movement, Chris and John Eberhart will never tell you it is comfortable. It is not. In fact for extended sits it will get painful. It is effective, stealthy to set up and flexible allowing you to have tens of stand locations rather than just a few. Neither uses a platform either. Use a platform and you might as well carry a stand. Neither uses sticks. They carry in a small bag screw in steps. You try walking through brush with four sticks and a platform strapped onto your already bulky pack, carrying a bow. All this gizmology is not saddle hunting, its stand hunting from a few fixed locations without a hard seat. You’d be more comfortable and nimble carrying 15 screw in steps and a light Lone Wolf stand. FAD...
Great video! I almost purchased a saddle for the upcoming season, but then I ran across this video. I'm most comfortable in a stand, and I realized after watching this video that I had everything in my garage to make a tether and seat. By virtue of my job, I've got a few Class II harnesses, rope, hardware, and prusik cordage, and it took me less than 10 minutes to set it all up and try it out. I'm pretty excited about being able to shoot from my Lone Wolf traditionally, but also have the option to sit in my harness off the side of the stand and shoot behind me without worrying about losing my balance. Thanks again!
Yeah its the best of both worlds
Im with you on this. its nice to be able to turn around and sit down if i feel the need. and being realistic, nobody is going to be very successful trying to utilize 360 degrees shooting range anyway. More like 270 degrees, which in my mind you might as well hunt out of a traditional platform stand with your saddle/harness. I feel i am more versatile with this method.
Agree 100
I complete agree with all of this, especially with a trad bow. I have run into some really awkward situations in a saddle with a trad bow. Best of both worlds right here which I have considered many times. Running a saddle or rock harness out of a treestand. For many situations. This is the best, especially when it comes to a weak side shot in a saddle.
Thanks! I'm excited to hunt out of this new rig this year.
I agree with your comment about “the comforts of home”. I sit all day for 3 to 4 weeks straight. I wanna be comfortable!
Yep i dont mind carrying a couple extra pounds of comfort.
Your wisdom and techniques you share have me anxious for the upcoming season being in a tree for the first time.
Hahaha. I feel ya. I have hung about 30 stands in last month to make videos or test my new set up. Everything I climb I get excited for the season!
Jason this was incredible. Thanks for your perspective and knowledge on this. As always your videos are educational and full of great info. You’re channel is such a valuable resource.
I couldn’t really get from your video though whether or not you will ever saddle hunt? I know near term it seems like you won’t but what about longer term- maybe in 2-3 seasons?
I have stands and saddle... it's great to do both.👍
Great video Jason. I bought one of John's Tactisaddles at your recommendation last year and absolutely love it. It is my first saddle and I got to say that I never felt comfortable moving around in a tree stand with a longbow when standing for a shot, even with a rock climbing harness. Now I feel so much safer and more secure in the saddle. Combined with an Out on a Limb Podium, it is very comfortable. Security is my key factor.
Glad you love the saddle! I have talked to so many saddle hunters that switched to johns tactisaddle and say its been a game changer for them. And there is no safe way to hunt than from a saddle! I watch John shoot from his saddle and he can literally shoot 360 and be wicked accurate!
I could never get comfortable taking standing shots from a tree stand either. All my shots have been sitting down in a tree stand. Next season I’m switching to a saddle.
I just got my new saddle. I have used mobile stands, climbers and ground blinds ever since I started hunting with a bow 4 years ago(after 20 years of solely gun hunting from tower stands and blinds overlooking food plots). Just like I still gun hunt (when the season is running out and I haven't filled my tag haha) , I got the saddle as another tool/option.
I'm also an avid golfer as well, I was sold on the saddle when Ernie from tethrd said " you don't play golf with one club." . I don't have a climber anymore(just like I don't use a 3wd in my golf bag) because you have to do what works best for your game. My stand, saddle, and ground blinds will be my options, cause one works better than the other in certain situations. I commend you on stating that very thing in both videos. Just cause I or you don't like a method of hunting doesn't mean we aren't both hunters and or one is right and one is wrong. Its all personal preference! Hence why I am now subscribed to your channel.
Thank you. You seen it as it was ment to be. To give pros and cons to both methods. Some people thought I was knocking a saddle. Not at all. You said it best I think with the golf reference.
Thanks for the great comment and good luck this year!
I totally agree on the floating out and getting busted, however, in a saddle with a platform for your feet (I use the Lone Wolf Hand Climber as a climbing technique and ao platform), you can easily hide behind the tree. Did that last week as 3 deer walked right below my tree. Love different options and opinions and that we have so many at our fingertips.
Yep its a great time to be a deer hunter with so many amazing options. And its the saddle community that forced the manufacturers to get competitive and meet these demands! Love the options available today.
How do you have the hand climber setup? Just curious, looking at using one myself.
@@bigshlonggooo4332 I actually posted a video on that yesterday - th-cam.com/video/Axw4GBRREl4/w-d-xo.html. I love it.
@@joshholmes thanks man!
head the hide behind the tree argument all the time from saddle hunters. Woks great unit you have to shoot then you are in the open with nothing behind you to break your outline up. Always pros and cons.
I use the saddle as my safty harnesses in my lone wolf similar to the rock climbing harness. All day sits I'm using the stand. When I run out for a 1 or 2 hr sits I'll just use the saddle.
That I think is the best set up. Give you the best of both worlds. Especially in hill county with thermal changes or wind mood swings. When you have to drop down and change spits the last hour you can bring the stand down, leave it. Walk to another tree and using just the saddle be set up in 2-3 mins ready for the last hour of hunting.
If I like this set up as much as I think I'm gonna im probably going to have John from tactisaddle.com build me a saddle and use it exactly like you are doing.
All very good points. I hunt out of a saddle and won't go back to a tree stand. However I realize saddles are not for everyone. Just as stalk hunt works for some and sit and wait works for others.
Yep have lots of buddies that only hunt out of saddles now. Saddles are amazing. It good to have so many excellent options out there for hunting from trees!
Saddles have opened up a ton of country for me. Getting a traditional stand through the thick rain forest here in western Washington the steep country, the alders and blowdowns are like a thousand hands grabbing at you every step. It is an absolute nightmare. However, back in Missouri? in the open timber? treestands are the ways to go. Horses for courses.
Awesome. Sounds like you have a good system dialed in for both set ups!
The varying shooting height point was valid. That's one disadvantage I hadn't heard of until I watched your video. A saddle hunter would have to change their tether height to be able to shoot lower, if needed. I've killed nearly 100 deer with a bow, mostly from a hand climber and I probably needed that versatility on ten of those shots. I'd have to say that "floating" factor for a saddle hunter is actually better, as your feet are connected to the trunk and your profile is the same as a branch coming from the main trunk, so it's definitely a more natural profile.
I'm making the switch to a saddle this year, so I'm going to find out first hand .
Thanks for the video!
Saddles are great tools! Many people love them. Only way to see if you like it is to try it. And they sure do make packing in and out mich easier!
Warren Wommack introduced me to a Loc on Limit stand and the woodpecker drill system then later on, the rock climbing harness years ago and even though he switched to a saddle, I still really like hunting from this system with a rock climbing harness!
Yep Warren is a brilliant man. Not only hoa stand set ups but his camper set ups in his trucks and all his tips and ideas to make you hunt better. Brilliant man!
I hunt exactly like you do. I use my rock climbing harness with my ropeman ascender out of a tree stand. Have shot several deer hanging off the edge of my stand behind the tree.
Glad to hear. That is gonna be a game changer for me coming from a full body harness with attachment between the shoulders. Looking forward to the added shooting capabilities!
Interesting how different people view things differently. Certainly some valid points. Personally, I noticed that I got picked off a LOT less in a saddle because with your feet against the tree and your body leaning away, your silhouette looks a lot more like a natural angle for a tree branch than it does in a tree stand. Even if you're right against a tree in a tree stand, I think deer are very used to a human silhouette on a platform and it just doesn't look natural to them from the side angle. For me, the biggest selling point for a saddle is the lack of bulk on your back walking in, not the lack of weight that comes with it. Game changer! Glad you have a system that works well for you, though. That's the beauty of having so many great options in 2020!
Well said and glad you have a system that works great for you!
I'm never going to hunt with the saddle either! Those who claim to love the saddle is because their desire to be a apart of the herd follers than having a better bow shooting position. I see so many bad shots from the saddle and it is the saddle that is causing the bad shots. And you are exactly right on everything you said. I love my lock-ons. Light weight and flexible. No rope interfering with my shot. And the lock-on allows me a more comfortable setting.
Agree 100%. There is a reason thw saddle gain popularity in the 90s then faded out. In a time of 6 pound stands there is no need for a saddle. But they do offer a safety factor with not having to hang, climb into or out of a stand. But I seem to ve in the minority as there are a ton of people that love saddles. I'll take my comfy stand all day every day
another great one Jason. For me its real simple. I can't stand facing the tree and tether. Tried two sits outta one and it drove me insane! And as far as weight savings go, they'll always have the advantage, but the gap is significantly closing with the new 6 lb stand from Infalt, LWCG, and Out on a limb in the coming months.
Very true and very valid points!
Just received my TactiSaddle from John today. Can’t wait to try it out. Thanks for the recommendation!
You are gonna love it!
You are right. With a trad bow, I like a stand. The last few deer I shot with my longbow, I had to be in a specific tree and shoot a specific direction to make it happen that wouldn't work with a saddle. I do own a saddle and use it with my compound or gun hunting all the time. Just another tool in the box.
Yep great to have options and find what works best for you. Thanks for the great comment. It will help others in their decisions.
@@SamkoTradBow 5 yards is a big difference when trying to be successful with a trad bow. 10 extra pounds with a stand is worth it sometimes.
@@steveyd101 agree 100%
Using the rock climbing harness you are basically hunting with a saddle and a large platform kinda
Kinda, and when I want to. But 99% of the time using a tree stand as a tree stand. But when I need to shoot behind the tree, going into saddle and platform mode.
Smart way to hunt, I especially like hugging in on the tree being harder to be seen by the deer, they do look up
Great video as usual. Haters gonna hate! Lol. I use lone wolf and sticks, ladders, saddle. They are all just tools in the tool box. I have hunted trees where a Lone wolf would not have worked. Too crooked. Or ladders wouldn’t work. Or where there were better options than a saddle. Great thing about hunting is all the choices. Find what you like and enjoy time in the woods.
Thanks! Yep bunch of different ways to skin a cat! Heck 2 of my swamp spots I use homemade 2x4 tripod stands that are 7 feet high just enough to get me up in the top of the bushes. Its good to have options and different methods.
Hi,Jason I tried John's saddle this season and like it but I went back to my LW and 3 sticks. I was picked out by deer like you talked about and with the rock harness you have the best of both worlds Great Video Thanks!!
Glad you have a system that works great for you. Yeah, Im not a saddle guy either. I hunted out of them for a season 23 years ago before saddle were cool and didnt like it. But the saddles then were nothing like the saddles now. I hunt with alot of saddle guys taht love them. But im with ya. Id rather be on a stand. Since you already have that saddle it would also make a great treee stand harness!
@@SamkoTradBow why didn't you use the saddle you got from John? Instead of the new rock harnesses? I just sold my saddle and bought a black diamond harness myself.
Love my API aluminum tech bowhunter climber. Light weight, cradles on it's self when packing. Also put a Ol Man style seat on it. Makes it's very comfortable and easier to climb when you can see the tree with out a seat blocking your view.
Love the Api stands! Always have! Still have 2 of the 6 pound api mini stands. Glad you have a system that works great for you!
You have some great points. I think it’s great to have a loaded arsenal and have multiple options for different scenarios. I see what you mean with the body floating, I’ve had that problem with shooting out of a climber. I like how with saddles the leaning profile makes you look more like a tree branch. Personally, I’d rather look like nothing. But great video to show the multiple options you can get out of a hang on. Keep it up!
Thank you. Yep saddles are fantastic and one heck of great hunting tool. And many people love them. but for me the stand works better. Glad you enjoyed the video.
I actually saddle hunt a lot. I also have used my saddle similar to you, with my hang on stands. The saddle gives me more options than just having a harness on. Saddle hunting for me is still my favorite method since I can change location more easily, compared to moving my hang on stand. One thing you do not mention in the video is what you use for climbing.
I use 3 lone wolf climbing sticks with aider on bottom.
Great Video! I've been looking at saddle videos for almost 2 years now. I'm so dang close to buying one but pretty much all the reasons I talk myself out of it you mention. I've got a Lonewolf hang on with sticks and lonewolf climber I bought in 2003 when I switched to a longbow. The stands are great. I really prefer my climber cause I just don't like hanging the lonewolf hang-on and messing with the straps so thats why i'm thinking about a saddle. However.... I have taken to using my lonewolf climber with my sticks if I'm hunting a new spot and unsure of what tree type i'll be climbing. If I get to a tree than a climber can go up then I just leave the sticks at the base of the tree. I also modified my lonewolf sticks with double steps and stealth tape and a wire rope aider on the bottom stick only and so 2 sticks gets me to where I need to be and the double step is so much nicer. I honestly think the climber and sticks and a backpack pack up super quiet and simple compared to the hangon and sticks. The ONLY thing with using the climber as a hang on is you have to be mindfull of how you step onto it from the sticks. Now if the hang-on stand had a belt like the climber rather than the straps then I'd use the hang-on more. Also been using a rock climbing harness for at least 6 years or so, it's just so much nicer.
Love it. Sounds like you have a solid system. And pretty brilliant too!
Fantastic points vs saddle. I hunt from lone wolf assault...tried saddle. Learning curve and comfort was tough to overcome. Thx
Glad you enjoyed the video!
I like to saddle hunt, but you make excellent points, there are pros and cons, plusses and trade-offs to either. Nice video!
Yep both have advantages
If using a platform to stand on,you can loosen bridge enough to stoop down for shot
Isn't that alot of movements with a bow in your hand at the few precious moments you might get trying to focus on killing a mature buck?
6:38...you can do the same when using a saddle and platform. Its ok to not like a saddle but alot of your reasons seems like you really had to try to hard to come up with them.
I did have to try hard! Saddles are fantastic and like I said in the video have a ton of advantages. Thats why I titled the video why I don't but why you might want to use one. In order for me to say why I don't use a saddle means I have to mention the things I don't like.
Man you nailed and said pretty much everything I’ve been thinking about saddles.
Glad you enjoyed the video.
I have a alot respect for bowhunters who.with long bow or a recurve i am a big fan of Fred Bear
Fred was the man! And he set up all those amazing hunts before the internet, and easy research! I have huge respect for him as well!
Yeah I like stand hunting too, but I also like the saddle, no doubt with a lighter weight pack and efficient use of ropes , a stick, or a hand climber a saddle hunter can walk out further with less effort. But with a large stand foot platform you definitely can move around, and be more comfortable . Lock one are noisy to put up and heavy for the most part.
The areo kestral flex tree saddle and the cruzr tree saddle, H2 tree saddle are very comfortable tree saddles
Have heard the same! Never tried those models but hunt with alot of saddle guys and hear great things.
Got my bag of Doritos?? Lmao. Another great video.
I will be doing saddle hunting this year. I think the big thing is that you have to have your pre sets up before you go to hunt. Coming in with a throw ball and trying to hunt is a recipe for complete frustration. I plan on doing more "hybrid hunts". I define that as using a saddle and SRT or DRT climbing method and using a lone wolf tree stand. I eliminate the weight and bulk of the sticks. The climbing rope and gear does have weight but it travels very compact. In Oklahoma, where I hunt, trees are crazy crooked, making climbing stick operations frustrating, scary and less safe. The lone wolf stand is easy to haul up and affix to the tree. For me, this is the best of both worlds because of the comfort of the stand. Having a tree in your face with the saddle hunt is an advantage for not being spotted but it takes away from all the beauty of nature, which is a significant reason for me to get out into the woods. The best part of the hybrid method is that when I am done I get down to the ground in 30 seconds and dont have to pack up my sticks.
Thanks for all that you do!
Man that was very well said! Appreciate the honest right from the field experience and reasoning! I know those Osage trees can be an adventure with any climbing method...lol deal with alot of them where I hunt in KS. Love that you have multiple systems ready to go at the drop of a hat based on where you are hunting!
I like saddles but have had more luck in the past with spot and stalk here in the south. I’m going to give a saddle an honest chance.
I think you will really like the saddle. They light, fast, and extremely safe!
Good info, for an old hunter. Think I'll stick with my Summits and my many full harnesses, up and down the tree.
Yep that set up will work great and kill animals all day every day!
Tried for years to like using a saddle and even ended up making my own but my biggest problem was I couldn't stay still long enough to keep from ocassionally getting "picked off" by deer. I didn't want to hunt 25 feet or higher off the ground just so I could get away with a little movement. Sure I could fool a few does and fawns but when the older, smarter bucks started showing up I just couldn't get away with anything. I went back to my treestands and can stay comfortable for hours with minimal movement.
Yep I fee the same
I don’t shoot trad anymore. When I did, I found having my feet stable and being steady was paramount for accuracy. I hunt out of a climber. I just don’t see how swinging from a rope with your feet on a glorified step would let you be accurate with a traditional bow
One of the beautiful things about a tradbow is that you do not have to jave a good stance or form and can shoot from crazy angles and positions. So they do work fantastic out of saddles. Probably better than any other type of bow. But im with ya as far as preferring a stand over a saddle.
Ya i gree, i perferr a treestand over the Saddle any day...more comfortable for long sits, especially for late season cold winter days..
Agree 100%
Like you said it's all personal preference! For me the saddle is the best option.
Yep and we live in amazing times with so much great options! Glad you have a system that works great for ya.
Fair enough man. It's all about personal preference. I prefer a saddle but thats just me. I think its all about the person
You nailed it! All personal preference and what works best for you
its all about preference when you get right down to it. i love my summit titan and dont plan on giving it up but i am trying a tethrd mantis this year for more mobility. love the comfort of my climber but i dont want to be carrying it in and out everyday
Sounds like you have a great system and great options for different situations. Gonna work great for you thos season!
Make sure you dont keep side loading your carabiner, in the video when you leaned away from the tree it was side loaded (thats a very weak point on beanier's). I lost a more or less permanent spot for hunting, the property was sold and logged but regardless, my tree stand was stolen and now kind of limited to public lands so Ive been debating between a hang on or saddle set up.
Yep never good to sideload a carabiner. Great job point that out. Sucks you lost the private hunting option but might be a blessing in disguise! Public land offers amazing hunting opportunities!
As for the stand vs saddle can't go wrong either way and it's well worth trying both to see what you like most.
I saddle hunt but these are excellent points to think about. Thank you Jason
I know so many people that saddle hunt exclusively and love it! Glad you have a system that works great for you. When its time for a new saddle you should check out tactisaddle.com Johns saddles are pretty amazing!
Traditional Bowhunting And Wilderness Podcast that’s what I have
This is good man - the up and down for shooting small windows- great point
Thanks! Pros and cons to both saddles and stands as you know.
I think it depends on style of hunting I tear down and move sometimes and with a saddle that makes it nice, I can also plop down easily and hunt from the ground if you move a lot a saddles a great tool
Yep saddles are great for mobility. I often move 3 to 4 times a day during the rut and doing that with my stand takes a minute or 2 longer than if I was in a saddle. But for me personally that extra minute is worth the comfort I get on stand. I do belive this mobility capability of the saddle sure is a strong solid point to get one for many people
@@SamkoTradBow agreed I definitely think stands are a lot more comfortable
Good video. I don't get the whole war going on about stands vs saddle hunting. I'm just getting into saddle hunting and think it's a great tool. I also will keep my stands and use them. I just don't get the people that get so infuriated at saddle hunters and vice versa (mostly coming from the former). To each their own, who cares what someone else does. Grow up, live and let live.
Well said
WTF - Please stop bashing saddle hunting. ..kidding. Good explanation. I will choose my summit viper every time I can. I have the smaller version of it and fits me perfectly. 17-18 pounds and packs well for most hunts with a molle pack setup. I have and used hang ons but never got a good system down and seem to have heavier setups that are noisy or found every issue that can be. Yes, I’m that guy clanking sticks and have dangling giveaway ropes and strings. Looking to improve on that this year and also try saddle hunting.
Definitely try the saddle! I know lots of people that love the simplicity and easy carrying of a saddle. But sounds like that viper had treated you well and it works good for you.
Thanks for this video. I bought an H2 saddle at the beginning of last season and it's great. But, I'm not certain that saddle hunting is for me. I don't like staring at the tree the whole time. I also don't like the tether in front of me and maneuvering around it. Also like you mentioned, the weight savings aren't that great unless you are a minimalist. Saddle gear doesn't pack as well without a pack. I like my bow on my lap or in a bow holder. Everyone has themselves convinced it's the end all be all, even though saddles have been around for decades. I'm leaning towards picking up the new mini XOP sticks when they are released to pair with my Vanish XT and selling my saddle setup. Also replacing my harness with a rock climbing harness. #makehangonscoolagain
I agree on all counts! Glad you are developing a system that works best for you. Gonna be a great season for ya! Can't wait ro hear how you like those new sticks, keep me posted!
Lol
I was considering hunting from a saddle, presently hunt from a tree stand,cost of saddle hunting doesn't make sense at my age to make the switch
Saddles are great for some people. For me, I'd rather be In a stand
So with the climbing belt you have the rope at your waist I like that idea instead of having it in your way over your shoulder
Yes, thats how im running it with my rock harness.
What videos do you have on how you climb and hang a stand?
Also, do you have a video on what rock climbing harness you like?
Yes many videos on both. on my channel there is a magnifying glass in the upper right corner. hit that and type tree stand and a bunch of videos will pop up for you. do the same for harness and a bunch of those will also pop up. I have alot of videos on both subjects.
If that's what you like fine, personally
I don't like hauling in a heavy ass tree stand that's more likely to make noise. Saddle's are way more user friendly and mobile, also extremely quiet.
Yep. Those are some reason saddles are so popular today. Still not for me, but I see the draw to them, and why so many like them.
I agree what kind of safety harness do you use?
I use a tbws tree stand safety harness that I designed and tactisaddle.com is now building. I have a couple reviews of it on my channel too.
You should look at a JX3 Hybrid. It is a saddle and is very comfortable.
I'm not interested in saddles myself. Bit I appreciate the comment as there are many saddle hunters that watch thos video and will be looking at getting a saddle. Good to know the jx3 is comfortable and works great for you. Many people will take that info into consideration for their saddle purchase. Thanks again.
What I tell everyone that I know that asks me about archery hunting, tree stands, and saddles is that literally everything is about personal preference.
Yep thats exactly right. And uts worth trying them all!
After one season of using a saddle, at the risk of being burned at the stake by the saddle mafia, I prefer to use my lone wolf climber whenever I can. Saddle requires too much movement, I can understand if your a very small person- would be completely different. Pressured areas, & spooky deer won't often let me get away with movement necessary for awkward shot angles inherent to saddle hunting. Of course, if I completely focused on just using a saddle, I'd make it work and that's what most saddle guys do. I find the weight difference from my Lone Wolf climber, to a saddle with sticks or wild edge steps, isn't much at all. If you need to use aiders, & one stick to save weight, maybe it's time to lay off the soy latte & start weight training. I have no issues using the LW climber on long hikes, & it folds flat & doesn't get tangled or hung up on brush. It's all about fun & these differences of opinion are part of it. I still use the saddle on giant oak tree's with a double rope climbing system & it really is awesome for that. Great video, it took guts to make it- & you made some great points.
Great comment and appreciated! of all the climbers I have seen and handled that LW climber would definitely be the one I would go with. Man does that thing pack nice and flat! Glad you have some great systems that work well for you!
At 4:50 what you described, I watched a video of a saddle hunter last night and he had that same issue. Made a bad shot on a nice buck and ended up loosing it
That sucks he was not able to recover the deer.
This really a great video. Thanks for a very good presentation of counter points to saddle hunting. I plan to saddle hunt this year but I’m glad I still have my three hang on stands now. They may get more use yet.👍
Glad you are trying a ssddle. I think everyone should and saddles are game changers for many people and their hunting capabilities. Not to mention nothing is safer in a tree than a saddle!
I bet you are going to love it.
Thing that is drawing me to trying a saddle is the fact when you hang there at that angle you look. Like a limb on the tree or at least it seems like that lol
yep in some trees that is true. in smaller trees like in a swamp you look like a big person floating in the air. But on a big tree you do look more like a branch.
I have a Mantis and really you don't. I am able to stay more still in a hang-on and I also have more compact silhouette in a hangon than a saddle. Also, I can fit in smaller spots than in a saddle. Saddle requires a large open area around you to work.
All great points. Not everyone is shooting the same bow so why is a stand to saddle any different. I have my Viper set up with a new backpack straps I can even feel the weight.
Yep. Lots of options out there for everyone! And often having multiple options gives you the best options!
I've hunted from both. I can say I literally can say I doubled my kill rate out of a saddle then in a stand. The advantages are beyond what a Stand can do. My opinion based on data
Glad you its all working great for you.
What harness are you using?
this was a modified petzel gym harness. Best tree stand harness in a rock climbing style now is the one made by tactisaddle.com. John just came out with it and I have a video review on it. amazing!
John is the best hunter in the world
great points!
Glad you enjoyed it
I have a assault. My seat post is too high what do you think about cutting 2 inches and just dropping the hardware to mimic the cut
I can't see a reason it wouldn't work but I'm not certain it would or would not mess up the geometry.
I very much appreciate your videos and the way you teach! But is your rock climbing harness doing exactly the same as a saddle.
I used a saddle this year and had fun and success. I have been wondering why I could not use and Assault II and my saddle! Win win! Just lower the tether as you show with your rock climbing harness and same deal.
Anyway... my Assault II showed up today and I plan to give it a shot!
Thanks again for the videos and all the insights! You ROCK!
Yes you could do exactly that. Use your saddle and the assault stand, or just use thw saddle, etc. Tons of options with that saddle.
Spot on video. They each have their own pros and cons. Is that a tactisaddle you are wearing in this video?
Nope thats a petzl rock climbing harness. The tactisaddle is an actual hunting saddle that can be used by itself as a saddle or as a harness with a tree stand.
The #1 point is that comfort factor.... all day saddle sit sucks. I don't care what kind of cushion you have on the tree...it is hell on the knees.
Never spent all day in a saddle. John the owner of tactisaddle.com does all day sits in his saddle all the time and loves it. I dont think he even uses knee pads. But me personally, Im like you, prefer the stand and the room I have up there.
I just hunt on the ground.
Nothing wrong with that! I'm looking forward to the day I get tried of climbing trees and just hunt from the ground full time. Will add a whole new adventure to my hunting!
same also, depends on location
That’s what I’m doing soley this year with the longbow, all on the ground, light and mobile.
@@TheHYENA87 That's what I'm doing.
@cp404405 Thanks for the story and inspiration! Your affection for your father tells me me a lot about his quality of character. Thanks again for sharing. I wish you the best and be glad his stories can still serve to inspire others.
Good review,what stand do you like best
lone wolf assault
Personal preference of course.... if I tried to squat down like you did to shoot...I would lose my arrow and someone would have to come help me get back up 😂
Hahaha. Yep all kinds of great ways to hunt from trees available today. Something for everyone regardless of what thoer style is.
You have to hang a perch or ring of steps with a saddle. Not much different from hanging stand. I love my lone wolf, same as yours. Thx man.
Yep lots of guys running mini platforms now as well.
I was mistaken don't know where I got that from meant to say full body harness
The rock climbing harness is not a full body harness. If you are required to wear a full body harness you will want one that has shoulder straps as well and a connection point from the middle of the shoulders. These are like what you see made by gorilla, muddy, tree spider, hunter safety systems, etc.
If you fall without a traditional harness cant you be hanging upside down because your not tethered between your shoulders?
With certain harnesses yes. With a saddle or a quality rock style harness most likely won't flip upside down because of how they transfer weight
In my opinion. I think portables stands are a whole lot safer than the saddles. Portable platforms are bigger and saddles are very small. Bigger the platform the safer youre up in the tree... Portables are safer to set up your safety belt than the saddles.
I definitely love my tree stands and am not a fan of saddles. But having spent time in saddles I can see they have some great safety advantages for many people as many tree stand hunters do not use lineman belts correctly and disconnect to get into and out of the stand where as saddle hunters being more tech savvy as a whole know to use a lineman belt correctly and also lock in thier tethers before hanging the platform and disconnecting the lineman belt. I do believe both saddles and stands are equally safe when used correctly. Just wish more stand hunters did it all correctly. I do believe in a fall saddle hunters have the advantage as there is no shock load from slack in the tether like us tree stand hunters have.
@@SamkoTradBow One thing that bothers me is that your all strapped in like a baby on the swing. I don't know how I can pee from the saddle....
@@meateaterwhitetail7291 hahaha.
Love your videos so much. Keep it up! 👍🏻
Thanks!
Bag of Doritos 😂 Good vid Jason! I have a lone wolf hang on and a saddle... definitely strengths and weaknesses to both systems. Enjoyed your perspective 👍🏽
Thanks! Yep can't go wrong with either system. And I hunt with alot of guys that will never touch a tree stand again and only run saddles.
The harness your using. Can you rappel down with it or would a saddle still be the better option since I like to 1-stick up.
@@eightballwoody1 you can repel down in a harness just like a saddle. Quick and easy
@@SamkoTradBow btw. I watched your video tonight. I thought you were gonna use the Rubicon on this trip?
@eightballwoody1 i am using the rubicon. That's all I've been using. If I said other wise in a video it's because I made the video a while ago before I got the rubicon. Remember I made a bunch of videos over a month ago to have ready to publish on this trip
@ you are absolutely correct. I totally forgot that you said you were going to do that as well. My apologies. I guess I’m just eagerly awaiting your impression of using that Rubicon on your hunting trip.
😎
@eightballwoody1 love love love the rubicon
No Matter witch way just hunt like you mean it
Solid advice
Honestly the floating effect youre talking about when youre in a saddle isnt a problem because you look like a branch really. Youre feet are touching the tree. What trees dont have are branches that have legs like when youre sitting in a chair on the side of it lol my opinion. Both options are useful.
What type of harness are you using? Thanks
modified rock climbing harness. Tactisaddle.com will have a version of this designed to my specs for tree stand hunters out soon.
That’s awesome. I’d like to find a rock climbing harness with lineman loops and loop center of front and back for tying off to the tree and the back for dragging. And leg buckles on the side.
@@dewaynewebb3467 rhe one tactisaddle is making will have all of those features. Just waiting on the prototype to be done so I can test it out
I like both. I use summit vipers and they are the most noisy ass stand I’ve had. Not a big fan of lugging that bastard a mile downhill into a thicket. Saddle gives me that ability. But my fav all day sits are in the climbers. Hang ons are the most dangerous ime
We live in great time with many great options to hunt out of. Glad you something for all your situations!
Is the rock harness legal in states that require 5 point safety harness
I dont think it would qualify as a 5 point. I have never heard of a 5 point harness law. But if there is a state requiring it I do not believe a rock harness would qualify.
Deer busting you doesn’t matter as long as you climb over 20’. I find deer have no clue as long as I’m 20’ plus in most any tree. I still try to find trees that have other trees or cover around them but 20’+ is magic
That may work for compound shooters taht can shoot farther. For traditional guys we like our shots closer like 8-12 yards on average. a shot from 20 feet up at that distance is almost always a one lung hit. But for compound guys you sure can get away with alot more at 20 feet!
What steps do u use to get up?
orignial lone wold 3 step 32 inch climbing sticks. Same ones now sold by novix. I use 3 32 inch sticks and a 2 foot aider on the bottom one. lets me get 18 feet max.
I like it
What camo and binoculars do you have
Only camo I still have is a vest by kuiu. Binos are swarovski 7x30s or 10x42s depending on situation.
Camo is over rated deer see ib shades of red
th-cam.com/video/Y9gbl-RS14A/w-d-xo.html
Where can I get a cheap rock harness?
Amazon
same👍👍
Completely disagree with safety and weight aspect. A saddle only offers one method of fall protection, whereas a climber or lock on the stand itself is a protection, and the harness is a secondary protection. I also disagree about the weight. When you account for climbing sticks, platform and whatever is used for transport, the saddle gets around 15 or so pounds, which is similar to a good aluminum bowhunting focused climber. Great video, I did a video that compared the different methods of climbing, and the saddle crowd was furious.
Great points!
Are you sponsored by any TREE stand companies?
Nope
Nope. 4 treestand companies have asked me if they could sponsor me or send me free stuff. Turned them all down so that all my content could be 100% unbiased.
You might change your mind about a lot of things once you see what I'm doing with a stand n saddle.
Glad you have a system thats working great for you.
@@SamkoTradBow thks
I had to switch to a saddle because I hunt adult deer.
Hahaha
What is comfortable to one may not be to another. Why demonize someone for their opinions and the way they do things. Saddle, climbers, hang ones, or ladders what ever works for you, that’s what you use. This world has gotten ridiculous with putting someone on blast for their opinion that very well may help someone else. What is wrong with that? Nothing.
What part of anything I said suggests I don't like or approve of saddle hunters?did you not hear the whole first half of the video where I talk about how great saddles are and how my best friend makes one of the best saddles out there?
Nothing you are saying or accusing me of was in thoa video. I do believe you have twisted it for you to see something not there. The video was to explain why I personally do not use a saddle. Just like the title says. I think you need to watch it again, maybe with a little less hatred for me or bias for a saddle.
Not a sub but I did give you a thumbs up even though you can do everything in a saddle that you can do on your stand the tether does give you the ability to shorten and length and how far you are from where the tether starts but to each his own I wish you well
Thanks!
Is it comfortable? No, never. Don’t believe anyone. The originators of the saddle hunting movement, Chris and John Eberhart will never tell you it is comfortable. It is not. In fact for extended sits it will get painful. It is effective, stealthy to set up and flexible allowing you to have tens of stand locations rather than just a few. Neither uses a platform either. Use a platform and you might as well carry a stand. Neither uses sticks. They carry in a small bag screw in steps. You try walking through brush with four sticks and a platform strapped onto your already bulky pack, carrying a bow. All this gizmology is not saddle hunting, its stand hunting from a few fixed locations without a hard seat. You’d be more comfortable and nimble carrying 15 screw in steps and a light Lone Wolf stand. FAD...
Lol. Nothing is more slow and taxing then placing a dozen screw in steps for hunting..nothing. never mind not legal on state land.
The fiddle factor to installing a saddle setup in the cold is annoying
I can imagine