Climbing sticks

kw12 · #1 08-03-2017, 12:43 PM

What do all you tree stand hunters use for climbing sticks?

Stinky Buffalo · #2 08-03-2017, 01:04 PM

Lone Wolf.

XOP is a spinoff from Lone Wolf (former Lone Wolf staff), if I recall correctly. They may be available at a more competitive price... Link to their sticks is here.

I've been eyeing the Hawk Helium series, though. I like that the foot pegs are on both sides.

korie83 · #3 08-03-2017, 02:52 PM

I have a set of Hawk Helium sticks. They are really nice, light weight, solid construction, and quick to hang.

However I'm still on the fence if I prefer using these sticks with a lightweight hang on stand, or having the simplicity of an all in one climbing stand.

Even better is using climbing gaff's/spurs instead of either and just a hang-on stand.

Passthru · #4 08-03-2017, 03:18 PM

I'm using screw in steps with a single set of climbing sticks at the bottom that I take with me when I leave. The steps aren't fast to install, so my stand doesn't move much.

Stir · #5 08-03-2017, 03:40 PM

Lone wolf using the climbing rope modification instead of ratchet straps

Stinky Buffalo · #6 08-03-2017, 03:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by korie83

However I'm still on the fence if I prefer using these sticks with a lightweight hang on stand, or having the simplicity of an all in one climbing stand.

I had a lightweight stand with sticks (I have a Lone Wolf climber now). I found that I had a bit more choice of trees with the stand/stick combo. With the climber, in some areas we are not allowed to chop branches off, so I'm stuck going up poplars, praying I don't tie off above a weak spot in the trunk.

My climber is a Lone Wolf as well, I love the fact that I can mix-and-match seats etc.

Quote:

Originally Posted by korie83

Even better is using climbing gaff's/spurs instead of either and just a hang-on stand.

Thought of that as well, there are some kits on Amazon that would be neat to try. Only downfall is after the trees are frozen, it's a bit harder to climb...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stir

Lone wolf using the climbing rope modification instead of ratchet straps

Interesting! What does that look like? (Pictures?) Is it like the old Muddy Outdoors system (like the one below)?

Apparently there was a recall due to the cams failing...

calgarychef · #7 08-03-2017, 04:35 PM

I've basically stopped climbing trees, I like pit blinds.

Stir · #8 08-03-2017, 04:37 PM

For the lone wolf mods check out DIY sportsman on you tube. I tried the loop extension a couple of different ways and prefer just carrying an extra stick instead. This rope mod can be done to a lot of different brands.just make sure you use the correct rope

kw12 · #9 08-03-2017, 07:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Passthru

I'm using screw in steps with a single set of climbing sticks at the bottom that I take with me when I leave. The steps aren't fast to install, so my stand doesn't move much.

Are the screw in steps quite sturdy I seen them the other day and thought about grabbing some to set one of my stands with.

Passthru · #10 08-03-2017, 07:55 PM

Yes they are solid as long as the tree you are on isn't an old tree that's starting to hollow out from the inside. Personal experience. Pick healthy trees.

kw12 · #11 08-03-2017, 08:00 PM

Sounds good! Thanks for all the tips guys. Gonna grab a set of sticks and also some pegs give them both a try.

Stinky Buffalo · #12 08-04-2017, 12:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stir

For the lone wolf mods check out DIY sportsman on you tube. I tried the loop extension a couple of different ways and prefer just carrying an extra stick instead. This rope mod can be done to a lot of different brands.just make sure you use the correct rope

Pretty cool. Thanks! I see what you mean about the rope size.

https://youtu.be/bF8Yz9wMno4

kman35ca · #13 08-05-2017, 11:27 AM

I just bought those cheap muddy ones. Not really practical for carrying in a long ways. But where I am, not that many trees, and where they are it's not a long hike. And they are solid when on the trees.
Probably upgrade when I can afford them, and get out to the foothills.

Knotter · #14 08-05-2017, 12:33 PM

I have 4 with a rope mod and 2 where i installed a climbing sling to get a few extra feet. easy, fairly light and durable.

Bigfeet · #15 04-23-2020, 02:35 PM

Reviving an old thread....
Have a set of Hawk Helium sticks and would like to do a rope mod. Can't find any Amsteel 1/4" rope. Anyone know where to get this?

Bock Fever · #16 04-23-2020, 02:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kw12

Are the screw in steps quite sturdy I seen them the other day and thought about grabbing some to set one of my stands with.

I've never had an issue with any screw in step I've ever used. The tree will fail you before the step.

I used these but also a lot of cheaper ones as well:
https://shop.hawkhunting.com/mega-step-6-pack/

Stinky Buffalo · #17 04-23-2020, 02:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bock Fever

I've never had an issue with any screw in step I've ever used. The tree will fail you before the step.

Same. Just take care when installing them, they work great.

For run-and-gun, I prefer the sticks or climber.

Bigfeet · #18 04-24-2020, 08:57 AM

To clarify-
This thread is from 2017. I was researching rope mods for climbing sticks, found this thread and thought to add to it. Hoping someone may know where to find Amsteel rope. Don't want to modify climbing sticks without having a proper and safe rope.

obsessed1 · #19 04-24-2020, 03:22 PM

I run three different systems.

Hang on stand: I use screw in steps with a strap on climber at bottom I can remove. Or I fix a pulley to the tree above my tie off point ( ratchet strap) and leave a rope attached with both ends able to reach the ground. I have a webbing ladder that can be hauled in and pulled up with the rope. Tie off both the bottom of ladder and pull up rope and away you go.

Summit self climber: self climber

Tree saddle: dyi self climbing system using choker style the offs. The lower climber also acts as my platform

Have Also played with different arborist rope climbing techniques and prusik knots....they seem like good ideas....they are hard work lol

Opalsasquatch · #20 04-24-2020, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bigfeet

To clarify-
This thread is from 2017. I was researching rope mods for climbing sticks, found this thread and thought to add to it. Hoping someone may know where to find Amsteel rope. Don't want to modify climbing sticks without having a proper and safe rope.

Try Continental Chain and Rigging
They have all kinds of stuff

obsessed1 · #21 04-24-2020, 08:25 PM

Amazon sells amsteel rope.

Bigfeet · #22 04-27-2020, 09:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Opalsasquatch

Try Continental Chain and Rigging
They have all kinds of stuff

I will check them out, thanks.

Amazon doesn't have the 1/4" size available, which is the recommended size and strength for the modification.