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Best Overall
Summit Viper Pro SD
Summary: This model accommodates trees from 8-20 inches in diameter, and can be fitted with accessories to hold phones, rifles, and more.
Best for Rifles
Millennium Ol’ Man Alumalite CTS
Summary: Setup is quick and easy, with a large platform and seat that increase comfort and safety. The raised railing makes you feel safer and more stable when ascending and descending the tree.
Best For Bowhunting
Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber
Summary: It’s large enough to keep you comfortable, but more compact than others on the market. At 20 pounds, it’s heavier than some, but lighter than others.
Climbing tree stands are the name of the game for many deer hunters, and the best climber can elevate your game. They allow you to set up on any suitable tree, in a matter of minutes. No matter how you hunt—compound bow, crossbow, or rifle—there’s a climber built for it. But with so many options available, how can you sort through the fray and get to the good stuff?
Fortunately, I’ve done much of the hard work for you. As a lifelong deer hunter, I’ve had my fair share of hunts from a climber. I’ve tested quite a few of these, and largely understand what brands have to offer. Weight, portability, and comfort are just a few of the important factors that determine a quality climber. Here is what I look for in the best climbing tree stands.
Best Overall: Summit Viper Pro SD
Best for Big Guys: X-Stand Victor
Best for Bow Hunting: Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber
Best for Rifles: Millennium Ol’Man Alumalite CTS
Most Comfortable: API Outdoors Alumi-Tech Quest Climbing Tree Stand
Best Portable: Lone Wolf Assault Hand Climber
Most Quiet: Summit Viper Pro SD
Best Lightweight: X-Stand The X-1
Best Affordable: Game Winner Climber Tree Stand
How We Picked the Best Climbing Tree Stands
While it’s never easy to assign awards and winners for these categories, there is a method to the madness. First and foremost, I’ve spent many a day afield with climber in tow. I’ve used these quite extensively and know what different hunters are looking for.
Additionally, I looked at every available climbing tree stand on the market (that I could find), and dove into the specs and features of each. Some were even sent to me for in-person testing. I’ve become very familiar with the available offerings and am confident these selections align with industry standards and consumer expectations.
When analyzing these tree stands, I paid very close attention to product weight, weight capacity, compactness, portability, railing designs, platform designs, platform size, interior dimensions, platform gripping, tree gripping, quietness, comfort, price, and more. All aspects were considered.
The Best Climbing Tree Stands: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: Summit Viper Pro SD
Best Overall
Summit Viper Pro SD Summit Stands
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 22 pounds
Platform size: 20″x 36″
Material: Aluminum
Pros
Very quiet
Large platform sizing
Dead Metal sound-dampening technology
Cons
Slightly bulkier design
The Summit Viper Pro SD is very quiet. Summit Treestand’s trademark Dead Metal fills critical areas with expanding foam to cut down on sound, and ample coverings further decrease the chance of bumping exposed metal. But the pros don’t stop there.
Its cable system is very easy to attach and can even be locked with a cable or padlock to secure it to the tree. It checks comfort boxes with a large platform, and it includes a large and comfortable back and seat cushion. This model can accommodate trees ranging from 8-20 inches in diameter, and it can be fitted with accessories to hold phones, rifles, and more.
Best for Big Guys: X-Stand Victor
Best for Big Guys
X-Stand Victor Walmart
Specs
Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Weight: 25 pounds
Platform size: 20″ x 36″, 21″ x 28″ interior
Pros
High weight capacity
Large frame build
Comfortable seat cushions
Cons
Heavier weight
The Victor by X-Stand is a surefire winner for those looking for a heavy build and larger weight capacity. In addition to its larger platform and interior sizing, it also incorporates a 24-inch-by-13-inch-by-2-inch seat cushion and 19-inch-by-12-inch back cushion. It comes with padded armrests and a seat bar. This provides plenty of real estate for big guys, with enough comfort to get through long sits.
There were only two climbing tree stands I could find with a 350-pound weight capacity; all the others I encountered had 300-pound thresholds. While the API Outdoors Alumi-Tech Quest Climbing tree stand also has a 350-pound capacity and the same interior dimensions, it offers a slightly smaller platform. It weighs a bit more as well. Therefore, the category award for the best climbing tree stand for big guys goes to X-Stand’s Victor.
Best for Bow Hunting: Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber
Best for Bow Hunting
Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber Hawk
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 20 pounds
Platform size: 20″ x 27″
Pros
Low-profile arm rests
Large, hammock-style mesh seat
Built for bowhunters
Cons
Heavier product weight
With a bowhunting-centric stand, I’m looking for low-profile armrests. Ultimately, I want the least distance between the seat frame and the armrest rise. It makes it easier to shoot sitting down, because the railing isn’t as high to get in the way of a bow. I also prefer an open face on the front side of the top half of the climber, but that isn’t always possible, and I rank the former requirement ahead of this one. If you’re the opposite, consider The X-Stand The X-1.
In addition to the features outlined above, this tree stand has what bowhunters need. It’s large enough to keep you comfortable, but small enough to be more compact than others on the market. At 20 pounds, it’s heavier than some, but lighter than others. Still, this climbing tree stand gets the job done.
Best for Rifles: Millennium Ol’ Man Alumalite CTS
Best for Rifles
Millennium Ol’ Man Alumalite CTS OL’MAN
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 21 pounds
Platform size: 18″ x 32″
Material: Aluminum
Pros
Included gun rest
Large platform
Built for bowhunters
Cons
Heavier than other climbers
As best I can tell, Millennium just might be the only climbing tree stand brand that currently sells a gun rest with their climber. Others have available attachments, but this stand comes with it. It’s geared toward gun hunters. Because of this and more, it wins the category award for best climbing tree stand for rifles.
While the gun rest is a great selling point, it has other desirable features. This model from Ol’Man is a culmination of improvements from designs that came before it. Setup is very quick and easy. Its large platform and seat increase comfort and safety. The raised railing makes you feel safer and more stable when ascending and descending the tree. Again, this is a climber made for gun hunters.
Most Comfortable: API Outdoors Alumi-Tech Quest Climbing Treestand
Most Comfortable
API Outdoors Alumi-Tech Quest Climbing Treestand Bass Pro Shop
Specs
Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Weight: 26 pounds
Platform size: 20″ x 26″, 21″ x 28″ interior
Pros
Very comfortable with great seat cushions
Increased metal coverings for less likelihood of unwanted sounds
Higher weight capacity
Cons
Slightly heavier, hovering around 26 pounds
For those looking for the most comfortable option, the Summit Viper Pro SD offers everything a hunter wants. With a thick bottom seat cushion, tall back cushion, and side-panel cushions, this is the Cadillac of climbers. Its insulated seat cushion offers plenty of room for your rear, and the backrest makes leaning back more tolerable than on a bare tree trunk. And, an inside climber dimension of 21 inches by 28 inches offers plenty of room to twist and turn as needed.
This model also comes with storage pouches, traction ridges on the platform, and reinforced triangular extrusions to help deaden sound. The generous metal coverings and padding also help reduce unwanted noise.
Best Portable: Lone Wolf Assault Hand Climber
Best Portable
Lone Wolf Assault Hand Climber cabelas
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 14.7 pounds
Platform size: 26″ x 19.5″
Material: Cast aluminum
Pros
Quiet, with limited metal contact points
Compact, low-profile folded position
Fits trees as small as 6 inches in diameter
Cons
Smaller platform size
The Lone Wolf Assault Hand Climber Combo is extremely lightweight, quiet, and portable. This climber folds up quickly and easily, and there is little area for limbs and brush to contact as you quietly slip through the timber. Additionally, it’s the second-lightest climber I’ve found.
While its one-piece cast aluminum platform is smaller than other product offerings, it’s still a great size for what it is. It also features a contoured foam pad, distinctive 3D camo platform design, fits trees ranging from 6-19 inches in diameter, and is crafted from American made metal.
Most Quiet: Summit Viper Pro SD
Most Quiet
Summit Viper Pro SD Summit Stands
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 22 pounds
Platform size: 20″ x 36″
Material: Aluminum
Pros
Very quiet
Large platform sizing
Fits trees as small as 6 inches in diameter
Cons
Slightly bulkier design
A quiet climber will cover as many metal contact points as possible. This product addresses that concern, covering the entire railing, and features Summit’s trademark Dead Metal sound dampening technology. The Summit Viper Pro SD is very quiet, but it has other benefits, too. Its cable system is easy to attach and can even be locked with a cable or padlock to secure it to the tree. In addition to a large platform size, it also includes a large and comfortable back and seat cushion. This model can accommodate trees ranging from 8-20 inches in diameter, and it can also be fitted with accessories to hold phones, rifles, and more.
Best Lightweight: X-Stand The X-1
Best Lightweight
X-Stand The X-1 X-Stand
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 13.8 pounds
Platform size: 21″ x 26″
Pros
Very compact, lightweight design
Limited contact points for reduced noise
Fits trees as small as 6 inches in diameter
Cons
Smaller seat and platform
The X-1 tree stand is an excellent climber, especially for those wanting the absolute lightest climbing tree stand they can buy. Interestingly, the primary reason this tree stand is so light is due to the patented Pro-FleX carbon composite flex arms, which actuate in and out, eliminating the need for a heavy bulky upper framework. While other stands just grip the back of the tree, these arms allow the cable to move inward as weight is applied, which grips the tree trunk on the sides and back. The cables move away from the trunk while climbing.
The X-1 has a 21-inch-by-26-inch platform and 19-inch-by-10-inch-by-3-inch seat cushion, and it packs up very tightly into a compact carrying position. The minimal design has the added benefit of reducing contact points and making the stand more open. Thus, it’s another good option for those wanting a climber that’s quiet or good for bow hunting.
Best Affordable: Game Winner Climber Tree Stand
Best Affordable
Game Winner Climber Tree stand Academy
Specs
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Weight: 29 pounds
Platform size: 18″ x 12″
Material: Steel
Pros
Very affordable
Well-built steel design
Comfortable back and seat cushion
Cons
Heavy weight
Smaller platform
The Game Winner Climber Tree stand is the best affordable climbing tree stand. It offers a nonskid platform, adjustable, nonslip foot stirrups, quick-release cables, and a great back and seat cushion.
With the price cut, you’ll get fewer bells and whistles, or cutting-edge tech. It’s the heaviest climber on this list, but it has a relatively small platform. Still, there’s some good design behind it. It’s crafted with steel, and comes with a rust-resistant, powder-coated finish for increased longevity. It also has textured, glare-deflecting paint, and more.
What to Consider When Choosing a Climbing Tree Stand
As with any type of hunting gear, it’s best to consider several factors before dropping a wad of cash on a purchase. Here are seven things to analyze before you decide on the best climbing tree stand for you.
Weight: How much the stand weighs isn’t a big deal for hunters who will drive in and hang the climber on a tree. That said, if you plan to hike into private or public land, it quickly becomes a factor.
Weight Capacity: How much the tree stand can hold is important, too. This is especially true for larger hunters. Plus, you need to keep the weight of your gear in mind. Most climbing tree stands have a 300-pound capacity.
Compactness and Portability: Anyone who must hike through thick brush, or simply wants a compact design for easier carrying, should consider the portability of the climber.
Weapon of Choice: Do you bow hunt, gun hunt, or do both? This can impact the tree stand you purchase. Some stands have gun railings, and some don’t. Others have tree stand accessories for specific weapons.
Quietness: A stand isn’t any good if it’s loud, clunky, and spooks deer. Find one that’s quiet. Your success will increase with a quieter tree stand.
Comfort: While it isn’t as important on shorter hunts, the need for comfort quickly increases with half-day and all-day sits. A climber needs to keep you comfortable to be effective.
Price: We’re all on a budget. This is one of the most important factors when selecting the best climbing tree stand.
FAQs
Q: What makes a climbing tree stand more comfortable?
A climbing tree stand that has a larger platform will be more comfortable and reassuring for your feet and overall balance. A greater inner dimension translates to more room for your torso and body to twist and turn. Quality back and seat cushions make sitting for longer easier, and padded armrests or side panels increase comfort, too.
Q: How high are climbing tree stands?
Prices vary greatly, but generally range from $100-$500. Selecting an option within your budget, that also checks as many of your boxes as possible, should guide your decision.
Q: How high should you go in a climbing tree stand?
This varies greatly, but doesn’t change much from other tree stand types, such as lock-on models. Generally, the right answer is whatever height you feel safe, secure, and hidden at. That said, if you get much over 20 feet high, the kill zone on a deer (or any animal) begins to shrink greatly, as compared to being eye level with it.
Q: What is a tree saddle?
This is another elevated hunting option, but only incorporates a foot platform so that the hunter remains in a near-standing position throughout the hunt. A harness-like saddle is used to take some of the load off your legs while hunting. Climbing sticks are still used to ascend the tree.
Best Climbing Tree Stands: Final Thoughts
Best Overall: Summit Viper Pro SD
Best for Big Guys: X-Stand Victor
Best for Bow Hunting: Hawk Ultra-Lite Climber
Best for Rifles: Millennium Ol’Man Alumalite CTS
Most Comfortable: API Outdoors Alumi-Tech Quest Climbing Tree Stand
Best Portable: Lone Wolf Assault Hand Climber
Most Quiet: Summit Viper Pro SD
Best Lightweight: X-Stand The X-1
Best Affordable: Game Winner Climber Tree Stand
Each selection I made for the best climbing tree stands was thought out with serious consideration. I don’t take the award process lightly, and understand that hunters rely on accurate, credible reviews when trying to choose the best product for them. That means something to me, and I am confident these rankings will benefit you in the climbing tree stand selection process.
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For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.
