Hunting from an elevated stand is one commonly used method by hunters. It provides a broader vision for the hunter and keeps them safer from any unwanted predators. It also helps prevent prey from seeing the hunters, leading to a more successful hunting trip.
However, this technique is risky as well. If you want your hunting to be as safe as possible, you need to understand this method deeply. More importantly, knowing its disadvantages clearly so that you can make some thorough considerations.
This article will provide insights into the disadvantages of hunting from an elevated stand and valuable tips to become a better hunter.
Image from Amazon.com
Common Types Of Elevated Stand
There are many types of elevated stands out there that might make you confused. However, to choose an appropriate stand for your hunting, you need to consider the purpose, the landscape, weather, your skills, and so on.
Before making the final decision, consider some common types of stands below.
1. Tree stand
Among hunting from an elevated stand,the tree stand is a platform that is quite simple and primarily used. From the name, you can partly virtualize how it looks and works. It’s a secure base to the tree so that the hunters can be elevated and start hunting.
This stand gives the hunters a better field of view and target. The tree stand is mainly used for hunting deers; that’s why it has another name which is the deer stand. This tree stand is categorized into different types as follows.
Climbing stand:
This is a hunting stand having two parts connected to a trap. One is for the hunters to stand, and the other top one is for them to sit. The climbing stand is relatively lightweight and easily packed. To use this stand properly, you should secure it to a tall tree with no excessive branches.
Ladder stand:
A ladder stand is more stable than the climbing one since it has a ladder for the hunters to climb up to the seat and platform. That also makes it easier to use. This stand is considered a more permanent method because of its large size and firm structure.
Hanging stand:
The hanging stand is another form of ladder stand, but no ladder is included. To attach the hanging stand to the tree at the desired height, hunters use chains or cables. They often use a separate ladder or screw-in steps to climb up to the stand.
Here is a video by The Hunting Public instructing you how to hang treestands safely:
2. Tripod box stand
This is a large enclosed type of tree standing. Hunters use ladders or steps to get to the tripod. The box saves hunters from inconvenient weather conditions and helps them be invisible in the game.
Disadvantages Of Hunting From An Elevated Stand
You have known about an elevated stand and some types of it. Now it’s time to learn about its drawbacks.
When talking about the disadvantage, the very first one that people often think of is the risk of falling. It might be caused by bad weather like rain or wind, the insecure elevated stand, or the hunter’s recklessness. If they fall, there could raise some injuries. They might have bumps or bruises, even broken bones.
Besides the high possibility of falling, hunting from an elevated stand has some other disadvantages that you need to pay attention to.
Most stands are very hard to be carried around due to the bulky side. They’re pretty large and tall. That makes it so inconvenient when you go in the woods with many such trees and other obstacles.
They give less or no protection from the bad weather. Besides the tripod box stand, all the other open stands could hardly keep you safe from the heavy rain, strong wind, or cold weather.
The shortage of room makes it uncomfortable for hunters to stay for such a long time. That means the hunters usually can just sit or stand in narrow and slippery positions. This makes them so exhausted and increases the risk of falling.
The hunters hardly move or change direction. This drawback is significant when the hunters want to chase or track the prey. Limitation in movement reduces their success in hunting.
It’s a hassle when the hunters set up the elevated stand in the wrong place. They have to disassemble it and move it to another position. Not only is this action time-consuming, but it also drains the hunters’ energy before they kick-start the hunt.
FAQs
What is an elevated stand in hunting?
For a general understanding, you need to know about the elevated stand first. What is it then? Briefly, the elevated stand is a temporary stand that places the hunters above from the ground level to shoot from the point of elevation.
Hunting from an elevated stand is becoming much more popular with both hunters using bows or firearms. This method provides them some significant disadvantages like the larger scale of sight, security from predators, or scent reduction.
How to safely hunt from an elevated stand?
You have come across some fundamental drawbacks of hunting from an elevated stand. These risks might be severe or not severe. However, it’s better that you put your safety first. To help that, there are some notes that you need to store in mind:
Firstly, you must check the stands carefully before taking any action. Don’t be afraid of losing time since the double-check or triple-check will firmly secure your safety during the hunting.
Next is to check the tree and space around. Choosing an appropriate tree that fits your elevated stand is necessary. Check the trunk and branches carefully. A firm and secure tree will provide you better convenience and safety.
You must always carry hunting safety equipment with you. Make sure all these things are in their position before climbing up and hunting.
Finally, the first aid kit is indispensable. It’s your savior in case you’re injured or in any danger.
Read more: Best Stands For Hunting On The Edges Of Fields Or In Open Country
Conclusion
Hunting from an elevated stand is easier to succeed but generates more risk as well. Once you’ve known what its disadvantage is and how to overcome it, prepare the best for the hunting so that it could become safer.