The Best Ladder Stands for Bow Hunting – Check Our Top Picks!

Bowhunting. As fun as it sounds, nailing your target can be a real challenge. It’s easy to give away your position. Not to mention, trees and branches can come in the way of that perfect shot. So, how about you take your hunting high above the ground? Well, the best ladder stand for bow hunting will keep you one step ahead of your game. It offers a hawk’s eye view of the surrounding. All the while, it keeps you comfortable up the trees.

We have a rich selection of the best ladder tree stands for the money. But before you take the plunge, let’s introduce our best picks. For a one-person show, Rivers Edge RE651 is your best bet. It combines stability, comfort, and stealth in one package. In the event you want some company during the hunt, then you’ll be better off with X-Stand Tree Stands Jay Hawk. It’s pretty comfortable, roomy, and with advanced features.

Chances are, you don’t want to limit yourself to only two options. So, we’ve compiled a list of the seven best ladder tree stands to consider. Also, we have a guide that provides a checklist for narrowing down your options. Let’s dive into the review to find what’s in store.

Best Ladder Stands for Bow Hunting

1. Rivers Edge Ladder Stand Lockdown

Rivers Edge RE651 is the gold-standard for safety, stability, and fluid performance. At 94 pounds, it’s by far the heaviest one-person ladder stand. Well, that adds to its rock-solid stability. However, it’s not overly heavy for portability purposes.

There’s a ton of other features to maximize stability. First is the Gridlock safety system. It secures the top of the ladder, making it safe for the initial climb. It’s a useful feature, particularly when connecting the top straps.

Also, there’s a bark-biting stabilizer bar. With crisscrossing ratcheting straps, it holds the ladder firm and tight to any tree. Hence, it gives you the confidence to climb and finish the installation.

The quiet ladder lock system is the third feature targeted at improving stability. It eliminates any loose joints. Not to mention, it allows for silent entry and exit. This feature makes it one of the best ladder trees for stealth hunting.

Aside from being stable and secure, this ladder tree provides all-day comfort. First, it has a sizeable flip-up mesh seat. It keeps you comfortable hours on end. And at 20 x 15.5 inches, it provides plenty of room for one.

The 30 x 20 inches platform provides comfort to your feet. It offers ample room for movement. Also, it has a flip-up footrest, which is a thoughtful addition. The footrest gives you enough space to stretch your legs.

The shooting rail isn’t padded. But we like that it’s removable, keeping it out of your way when the need arises. Not to mention, you can adjust it to any depth and height. Such a level of flexibility gives this ladder stand an edge.

Rivers Edge RE651 has a depth to shoot height of 21 feet. Plus, it can hold up to 300 pounds. Lest we forget, it has an under-seat shelf where you can store hunting gear and other items.

Verdict

For a one-person ladder tree stand with rock-solid stability, Rivers Edge RE651 is your best bet. Though a bit bulky, it gives you the stability, comfort, and flexibility needed during the hunt.

2. BIG GAME Hunter Ladder Tree Stand

Few ladder tree stands can boast the comfort of Big Game HD. Well, there’s a ton of reasons to support that.

The Flex-Tek seat packs the most comfortable features. It’s a sizeable 23 x 18 inches. So, it has room to accommodate persons with large frame sizes. Not to mention, the seat contours to your legs and back. As such, it provides enhanced comfort during long sits.

The foot platform is another feature that adds comfort to this ladder tree stand. It provides an extra-wide stance of 23.5 x 29 inches. Hence, you have ample room to maneuver. And with a flip-up footrest, it adds comfort and stability during the hunt.

The big Game ladder tree stand also provides much-needed flexibility. The padded rail, for instance, is removable. Moreover, you can flip it up when the need arises. So, nothing is getting in the way of that perfect shot.

Safety-wise, this ladder tree stand doesn’t disappoint. It comes complete with a full-body harness, ratcheting straps, and stabilizer straps. So, there’s zero chance it will lose its grip.

Big Game ladder boasts a sturdy construction. It comes in steel to provide much-needed support. Overall, it can support up to 350 pounds. Even then, it remains lightweight. At 61 pounds, it’s easier to move from place to place.

On a side note, this ladder tree stand has a shooting height of 18.6 feet. Also, it fits tree trunks that are at least 9 inches in diameter.

Verdict

For a ladder tree stand that prioritizes comfort, Big Game is worth a try. Moreover, it provides the room and flexibility you need to nail your target.

3. Summit Solo Pro Tree Stand Steel Ladder

Of all one-person ladder tree stands, Summit Solo Pro has the roomiest platform at 25 x 32 inches. So, if you need a one-person ladder with the widest stance, Summit Solo Pro is your best bet.

Summit Solo Pro not only holds the record for the largest foot platform. It also has one of the biggest cushion seat sizes. It’s colossal and stuffed with comfort. Not to mention, this bench-style seat has a full backrest to provide all-day comfort.

Aside from the cushioned seat, this tree stand has a padded and foldable shooting rail. Plus, it’s removable for added flexibility. Thanks to the powder-coated steel, this tree stand provides durability and support. It’s weather-resistant. Moreover, it can support as much as 300 pounds without wobbling.

This ladder tree stand doesn’t lack in terms of safety. It comes with a full-body harness to prevent falls.

Verdict

Summit Solo Pro doesn’t boast the bells and whistles of other models. It has no footrest and is among the shortest (15 feet) on the list. However, few can match it when it comes to weather-resistant performance. Not to mention, it has one of the most comfortable seats and holds the record for the largest foot platform.

4. Guide Gear Jumbo Ladder Tree Stand

Big guys will love this ladder tree stand. It has a vast platform area of 24 x 25 inches. Though not the largest, it leaves plenty of room to maneuver. Despite the roomy design, this ladder is among the lightest. At 68 pounds, it provides much-needed portability. Not to mention, it’s easier to set up or take it down.

Guide Gear Jumbo provides superior comfort. It has comfy armrests that encourage a steady shot. They’re high enough for safety but low enough for archery.

The oversized seat provides added comfort. Not to mention, it has two seat pad silencers for stealth hunting. Other features targeted at comfort include a flip-up footrest and a flip-up shooting rail.

Straps and an adjustable stabilizer bar secure the ladder to the tree. Also, the package includes a full-body harness for added safety.

Thanks to rugged steel, Guide Gear Jumbo guarantees years of durability. Plus, it has an impressive weight capacity of 300 pounds.

Verdict

Guide Gear Jumbo offers stealth and comfort at an unbeatable price. Though it takes a bit of time to assemble, this ladder tree stand is a force to reckon with.

5. BIG GAME Guardian XLT Two-Person Ladder Stand

For the lightest two-person ladder stand, the crown goes to Big Game LS4860. It weighs only 53 pounds, making it even lighter than a one-person ladder stand. So, if you’re looking for portability and more seat area, the LS4860 will suffice.

At 12.5 x 6.5 inches, the foot platform doesn’t look like much. However, it suits the purpose well. Also, this tree ladder stand doesn’t have a full backrest. But it compensates for a deep bench-style seat, large enough for two.

Moreover, this ladder stand has a flip-up padded shooting rail. It allows for a clear and steady shot. Also, it has a certified full-body harness for guaranteed safety.

As light as it is, this tree ladder stand can hold a ton of weight. At 500 pounds, it can seat two people comfortably.

Verdict

Big Game LS4860 isn’t the most comfortable. However, it’s spacious and the lightest on our list. On the whole, it’s the best portable ladder tree stand for two people.

6. X-Stand Tree Stands Jayhawk Ladder Stand

Jay Hawk is easily the best two-person ladder stand for bow hunting. It combines comfort, stealth, and stability in one package.

The jaw safety system is perhaps the most outstanding feature. It grips the tree and the ground. Hence, it provides unrivaled safety and stability as you climb. Not to mention, it offers a fuss-free setup. Aside from the jaw safety system, it has a 4-position harness.

The seating space is another area where this ladder stand excels. The seat measures 39 x 17 inches, providing ample room for two. Also, it has a full backrest for added comfort. Padded armrests and foldable footrest are other features that improve user comfort.

At 34 x 42 inches, Jay Hawk holds the record for the largest foot platform. So, there’s plenty of room to maneuver and to stretch your legs. Alongside that is a padded shooting rail. It gives you the freedom to flip it up or remove it for bow hunting.

Stealth silencers are one of the biggest selling points in this tree ladder stand. Using self-lubricating washers eliminates the noise. Hence, you’re less likely to give away your position as you shift about the seat.

Helix oval tubing offers extreme strength and stability. It can support an impressive 500 pounds. Moreover, the frame has a weather defender powder coating. Hence, it holds up well in bad weather conditions.

Verdict

Jay Hawk ladder stand offers an unparalleled design. Not to mention advanced features to improve safety, stability, and comfort. On the whole, we vote it the best two-person ladder tree stand.

7. Guide Gear Ladder Tree Stand

Guide Gear offers a simple yet affordable way to elevate your hunt. At 52 pounds, it adopts a lighter design. That makes it the most portable among the one-person tree ladder stands.

At 15 feet, this ladder tree stand isn’t as tall as other competitors. However, it gives a vantage point for a once-in-a-lifetime shot. The foot platform is 10.5 x 17.75 inches, just enough for one person.

Guide Gear provides tested stability. It includes a stabilizer bar and cam-lock straps. Not to mention stabilizing ropes and a full-body harness for added safety.

Though lightweight, this ladder tree stand supports an impressive 300 pounds. Also, it comes in three 5-feet sections. That makes it easier to set up or take down for storage and transportation.

Verdict

Guide Gear ladder stand is a simple and affordable option. Those that desire more portability in a one-person ladder tree stand will find it handy.

Best Ladder Stand for Bow Hunting: Complete Guide

What are the features to look for in the best ladder tree stand? Here’s the ultimate checklist to help you out.

Type of Ladder Stand

Ladder stands for bow hunting come in two types. If you plan to hunt solo, then go for a one-person ladder tree stand. However, if you need some company, a double-man ladder stand will suffice. Whichever the choice, ensure it has ample room to avoid any discomfort.

Portability

You want a ladder tree stand that you can haul through the woods easily. Not to mention, it should be easier to take down and store after use. All the above models meet such requirements.

Platform Size

Before you take the plunge, ensure the foot platform is large enough to provide some room for movement. A foot platform with a rear that fits the tree trunk is a huge plus for a storage bow quiver, a ground blind, and a survival bow.

Seat and Backrest

The seat and backrest carry a lot of weight when it comes to comfort. Go for a wide seat that folds up against the tree. It will provide you with the much-needed flexibility to shoot. Also, consider a full-length backrest that can support the entire back. A cushion or any form of padding is also something to consider.

Footrest

It might not sound like much. However, a footrest gives you room to stretch your legs. After all, you don’t want your feet hanging in the air as you wait for the game. Instead, you want to keep them relaxed.

Ladder Height

Consider the height from the ground to the shooting rail. You want something tall enough to keep you out of sight. Go for a ladder tree stand of at least 15 feet.

Stealth

Even the slightest noise can cause you big trouble. So, you need to avoid ladder stands that squeak with every movement. Models with silencer pads or self-lubricating washers will suffice.

Weight Capacity

You don’t want a ladder stand that will give in to your weight. To be on the safe side, consider the steel ladder stands. We recommend a weight capacity of 300 pounds and 500 pounds for one-person and two-person ladder stands, respectively.

Shooting Rail

A shooting rail or handrail adds more security. It keeps you inside the stand. However, it shouldn’t come in your way, particularly when bowhunting. To avoid that, go for a flip-up or removable handrail.

Safety Harness

Being so high above the ground puts you at great risk of falling. To avoid that, you need a safety harness. But not just any safety harness. Instead, a full-body harness. Also, it should be strong and durable to hold up to daily abuse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the best ladder stand for bow hunting?

Well, for a one-person ladder tree stand, we vote Rivers Edge RE651 as the best. In case you need a two-person ladder stand, then X-Stand Tree Stands Jay Hawk is the best. However, based on the hunting conditions and budget, you might find other competitors on our list a handy choice.

What’s the best ladder tree stand for weatherproof performance?

Though they look tough, not all ladder tree stands can hold up to harsh weather conditions. For the best weatherproof performance, we recommend the Summit Solo Pro ladder stand.

Are ladder tree stands hard to set up?

Not quite. While some ladder tree stands are heavy, they’re not overly bulky. Hence, you can use an extra pair of hands to set up easily. Lightweight models, the likes of Guide Gear, are pretty straightforward, even for the novice user.

Conclusion

Picking the best ladder stand for bow hunting ought to be fun. However, with hundreds of players out there, it can be a real challenge. But so far, you already know the top models to consider. The above-mentioned ladder tree stands provide comfort and stability whilst remaining affordable to most hunters.

So, have you made up your mind as to the best ladder tree standing for the next bowhunting season? Let’s know in the comment section. If you’ve anything to add or any recommendation to make, feel free to do so.