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Ever been perched high in your stand, heart pounding as a trophy buck walks into range? Then, you felt your blood run cold as your tree saddle shifted unexpectedly. Yeah, me too. We’ve all heard the stories, the nightmares of gear failure at the worst possible moment.
Hunting Tree Saddle System
Look, I’ve been roaming woods for over twenty years, feeling the thrill of the hunt and the sting of disappointment. Trust me, gear failing you is brutal. It’s real, and it sends chills down any seasoned hunter’s spine.
Here’s the thing: we’re not just out for a walk in the park. This is a pursuit that demands the best from us, and that includes our equipment. We’re all resourceful, budget-conscious folks, but sometimes cutting corners isn’t worth the risk.
Imagine this: you’ve scouted for days, waited patiently for the right moment, and invested in a top-notch bow and arrows. Now picture a cheap tree saddle giving way under your weight. That’s not just a missed shot, it’s a missed opportunity, a story left untold.
But hey, there’s good news! This scenario doesn’t have to be your reality. Forget fancy marketing talk; I’m about to share a journey – mine and countless others, who made a change and never looked back. We’re talking about solutions that transform your experience and let you focus on the hunt, not the fear of what might happen.
But before I jump into the details, let me tell you…
Why you should trust our recommendations
With over two decades of experience as an archer and hunter—
All of these products have been live-tested or reviewed by archers with over 50 years of combined archery experience.
I tested some of what I got my hands on but wanted to offer diverse viewpoints, so I asked some expert friends (together with their families) to share their experiences—
We are real people, real hunters. We are not folks with access to some pro outdoors-shop inventory.
Hunting Tree Stand
- Strong, lightweight aluminum construction makes transporting and climbing a breeze
- Sit comfortably for hours thanks to the suspended foam-padded seat with cushioned backrest and padded armrest
If the personal reviews are lacking in information, we will search for verified buyer reviews and put them head-to-head with our own reviews to parse out sensible technical insights.
This list may not contain the biggest names in the industry, but rest assured, it contains practical choices that get the job done.
With that out of the way, let us get into–
The 3 Best Saddle Hunting Kits
HuntArmor Lightweight Hammock Hunting Saddle
Man, I used to dread spending hours in a tree saddle. My back would be killing me, and any slight movement sounded like an elephant stomping through the woods. Not exactly the recipe for a successful hunt.
That’s why I was so excited to try out the HuntArmor saddle. It’s honestly a game-changer (sorry, I promised I wouldn’t say that!), but hear me out.
This thing is unbelievably lightweight. We’re talking about just 20 ounces! It’s like carrying next to nothing, which makes climbing and maneuvering in the tree a breeze. Plus, the materials are top-notch. They’re not just light, they’re strong and quiet – no more metal clanging against the tree trunk to spook that trophy buck. They use this stuff called Dyneema, which is like the superhero of materials. It’s incredibly strong for its weight, so you know the saddle can hold you safely.
But comfort is king, right? I was worried a saddle wouldn’t cut it, but the HuntArmor surprised me. The design is surprisingly comfortable, even for long sits. And the adjustability is awesome. You can fine-tune the rope bridge length to find your perfect sweet spot, whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out.
This isn’t just another piece of gear. It’s an investment in your comfort, safety, and ultimately, your hunting success.
HuntArmor Lightweight Hammock Hunting Saddle
- High Quality Material: The Huntarmor hunting saddle is made of materials that were light weight, durable, and extremely strong, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene hollow braid rope, Built using top quality Dyneema, a lightweight synthetic fiber 15 times stronger than steel on a weight to strength ratio, you can maneuver silently and give you hours of comfort without stiffness or cramping. Weight rating is 300lbs, Fits waist sizes 26"-38". Everything you need to saddle hunt!
- Ultralight Hunting: Huntarmor Hammock hunting saddle is designed to let you freely move about on the tree. From one tie-in point, you can move up or down, side to side, and control distance from the trunk for stability and maneuvering. The belt and tree strap , are reliably safe and easy to use. give support for your back just where you want it. and stays tight and quiet to eliminate sagging, pinching, and discomfort while climbing into the tree and removes the risk of noise-making metal.
- Comfortable: Huntarmor tree hunting equipment saddle designs are comfortable and surprisingly lightweight and compressible, allows a hunter to suspend safely from a tree strap on the trunk, wearing a super lightweight and comfortable hunting saddle ideal for long hours of sitting. thanks to the hitch attachment you can set the bridge higher or lower on the loops for the best angle of support for your comfort and hunting style.
- Adjustable: Doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or experienced saddle hunter. The Huntarmor hunting comfort refined saddle is the saddle for you! There's endless amount of fine tuning and adjustability with 33" Rope Bridge. Giving you a full 360 degree mobility, hunting from a Huntarmor Hunting Saddle means you can always get into position for that perfect shot.The seat saddle hunting is ultra packable, easy to store, easy to carry.
- Ultra-Light, Optimized Fit: Lightweight; entire kit weighing only 20oz, the Huntarmor hunting saddle designs are comfortable and surprisingly lightweight and compressible. The sling seat is contoured to the shape of your backside, and you can customize the fit with a variety of adjustments accommodate a wider range of body sizes, including cold weather clothing. An additional band of wide webbing relieves the pressure of your body weight under your thighs.
Pros:
- Quality Materials: Constructed with high-quality materials, including ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, ensuring durability and strength.
- Ultralight Design: Lightweight design (20oz) for easy maneuverability and comfort during long hours of use.
- Adjustable and Comfortable: Offers adjustable features, including a 33″ Rope Bridge, allowing for fine-tuning and customization. Comfortable sling seat with wide webbing for pressure relief.
- Premium Construction: Crafted with premium materials, ensuring exceptional quality and durability.
- Silent Operation: Designed to eliminate noise, providing a quiet and stealthy hunting experience.
Cons:
- Size Limitation: Some users with a 38-inch waist found it small and lacking proper support.
- Individual Comfort Variation: Comfort may vary from person to person, and adjustments may be needed for optimal use.
- Excludes Platform
XOP Saddle Hunting Kit
I was intrigued by the XOP Saddle Hunting Kit. As a budget-minded hunter myself, it seemed too good to be true. So, I took it for a spin.
Here’s the thing: I’ve seen plenty of DIY setups that, frankly, worry me. Splicing your own ropes? No thanks. When it comes to safety-critical gear, skimping just isn’t worth the risk. This isn’t about missing a shot, it’s about coming home safe and sound.
Now, beyond the safety aspect, this kit isn’t just a bunch of thrown-together parts. It’s a proper starter pack. The platform feels solid – it comes with a lifetime warranty on the metal parts, so you know it’s built to last. Sure, it’s a bit heavier than some, but the price tag definitely makes up for it.
The ropes and carabiners aren’t an afterthought either. They have sewn eyes and secure steel carabiners – details that matter when you’re hanging from a tree. And the saddle/harness combo? Genius! It lets you switch between setups without breaking the bank, perfect for someone like me who likes options.
Listen, it’s not the most comfortable thing in the world – it’s not exactly an armchair. But with some adjustments, you can find a good position. And honestly, for the price, I’m happy to make those tweaks.
Here’s the real kicker: This kit isn’t just about this season. It’s an investment in your future hunts. It’s adjustable, versatile, and reliable – built to last, not just for one outing.
I’ve done my research – read reviews, talked to other hunters – and I’m genuinely impressed. Sure, some people have added their own touches, like loops or a different tether. But that’s the beauty of it! This kit isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal; it’s a starting point, a base you can customize to your needs.
So, if you’re a budget-conscious bowhunter looking to try saddle hunting, the XOP kit might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Remember, it’s not just about the gear; it’s about the trust you’ll have in your equipment. And that, my friend, is priceless.
XOP Sandlot Complete Tree Saddle Hunting System
- Includes everything you need to saddle hunt
- Bridge, tether, and lineman’s belt included
- Adjustable one size fits most saddle harness
- Hybrid harness can be used as a standard fall arrest system
- Adjustment: Fully Leveling Platform
Pros:
- Comprehensive Kit: Includes everything needed for saddle hunting, offering convenience for beginners.
- Durable Platform: Well-built platform with a lifetime warranty on cast aluminum parts.
- Value for Money: Considered a great value for the price, making it suitable for those new to saddle hunting.
- Adjustable and Versatile: Adjustable one-size-fits-most saddle harness for versatility in hunting setups.
- Quality Ropes and Carabiners: Inclusion of high-quality ropes and steel screw lock carabiners for safety.
Cons:
- Minor Modifications Needed: Some users suggest minor modifications, like adding Molle attachments for accessories.
- Tether Length Concerns: Length of tether, bridge, and linesman belt being the same might be inconvenient for some users.
Hawk Helium Hammock Lightweight Hunting Tree Saddle
You prep, you train, you’re buzzing with anticipation, then boom, your gear fails you. That feeling in your gut, the disappointment – it ruins the whole experience.
Now, here’s where the Hawk Helium Hammock comes in. Imagine the same scene, but this time, your saddle is rock solid – your best friend in the woods. Confidence, security, pure focus on the hunt, no gear worries.
I tested the Hawk Helium, and let me tell you, it’s like a sneak peek into a future of awesome hunts. You’re making those 360° shots, any angle, no sweat. And for us “bigger-boned” folks, the comfort is unreal. It’s not just a saddle, it’s peace of mind knowing your hunt will be as smooth as your bow draw.
Long term? Picture years of reliable hunts. This thing packs down tiny, so it’s not just for one season, it’s for countless seasons of comfort and trust. The removable pad lets you adjust for any weather, and the camo pattern adds a nice stealthy touch.
Now, let’s be real. I saw some reviews mentioning ropes and hardware concerns, and safety is everything. Then there’s the opposite, some talk about it feeling very strong even after a small fall, and at 240 pounds didn’t seem to affect it at all. Even a former rock climber and skydiver spent some time abusing the product and said that this Hawk is overkill in quality and safety compared to others.
Sure, there might be some recommended upgrades, but hey, that’s part of the journey, right? The Hawk Helium is like a trusty companion that grows with you, from your first tree-saddle hunt to becoming a seasoned pro.
Hawk Helium Hammock Hunting Tree Saddle
Pros:
- 360-Degree Shooting: Allows hunters to shoot from any angle and direction.
- Comprehensive Kit: Kit includes various components like a padded seat, reclining belt, carabiners, and more.
- Comfortable Seat: Padded seat for warmth and comfort, removable in warm weather.
- Ultra-Packable: Lightweight (less than 4 lbs) and ultra-packable, fitting into a small durable carrying bag.
- Versatile and Reliable: Reliable setup with climbing grade rope and attachments, suitable for avid hunters.
Cons:
- Safety Concerns: Some users raise concerns about the quality of metal snaps, carabiners, and hardware, emphasizing potential safety issues.
- Rope Quality Issues: Reports of issues with ropes, including fraying and breaking, impacting user confidence.
- Weight and Comfort: Some users express concerns about the weight of the saddle and discomfort during extended use.
- Excludes Platform
Tree Stand Umbrella
- Weather Protection: The tree stand umbrella is designed to protect you from the elements.
- Versatile Umbrella: The umbrella features a camouflage print for optimal concealment and can function as an effective ground blind and portable deer blind.
- Easy-To-Use: The umbrella is designed for quick and easy setup.
- Convenient: Full coverage from sun, rain, and wind.
Recap of the Best Saddle Hunting Kits
- Comfort and Adjustability:
- HuntArmor: Highly adjustable with a focus on comfort.
- XOP: Adjustable harness for versatility.
- Hawk Helium: Padded seat for comfort but concerns about overall comfort during extended use.
- Safety:
- HuntArmor: Emphasizes silent operation and premium construction.
- XOP: Comprehensive safety features, but some users suggest minor modifications.
- Hawk Helium: Safety concerns were raised regarding the choice of metal snaps and carabiners. It is recommended to get better ropes.
- Kit Inclusions:
- HuntArmor: Comprehensive kit with adjustable features. Does not include a platform.
- XOP: Comprehensive kit with a focus on affordability.
- Hawk Helium: Comprehensive kit with a padded seat and various components. It does not include a platform, but there is an option to include climbing steps or buy a separate platform.
- Weight and Portability:
- HuntArmor: Lightweight design at 20 oz.
- XOP: Relatively lightweight platform at 9.6 lbs.
- Hawk Helium: Ultra-packable, less than 4 lbs.
Bear Archery Cruzer G2
- Versatile: Maximum-versatility bow is engineered for all ages and skill levels
- Ready To Hunt: Ready to hunt bow comes equipped with six Trophy Ridge accessories
- Adjustable: Adjustable from 12" to 30" draw length range and from 5 to 70 lbs. peak draw weight
- Easy Adjustments: All adjustments are made using an Allen wrench with no need for a bow press
- Lightweight Power: Weighs only 3 lbs. and fires arrows at 315 feet per second
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