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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Tree Stands

Get above the game with climbing stands, hang-ons, and ladder stands for deer hunting.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall
Assault II Hang-On Stand

Lone Wolf

Assault II Hang-On Stand

4.9 (4,567 reviews)

The stand that mobile hunters swear by. Lone Wolf's cast aluminum is virtually indestructible and whisper quiet.

Weight

11 lbs

Platform

19"x30"

Capacity

350 lbs

Material

Cast aluminum

Pros

  • βœ“ Ultra-light cast aluminum
  • βœ“ Large platform
  • βœ“ Silent operation

Cons

  • βœ— Premium price
  • βœ— Climbing sticks separate
  • βœ— Waiting list common

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Assault II Hang-On Stand
Assault II Hang-On Stand Best
Lone Wolf
4.9
$379 View
Viper SD Climbing Stand
Viper SD Climbing Stand Value
Summit
4.7
$299 View
M100U Ultralite Lock-On
M100U Ultralite Lock-On
Millennium
4.8
$329 View
Deluxe 2-Person Ladder Stand
Deluxe 2-Person Ladder Stand
Guide Gear
4.5
$199 View
Helium Kickback LVL Hang-On
Helium Kickback LVL Hang-On
Hawk
4.6
$249 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Assault II Hang-On Stand

Lone Wolf

Assault II Hang-On Stand

4.9 (4,567 reviews)

The stand that mobile hunters swear by. Lone Wolf's cast aluminum is virtually indestructible and whisper quiet.

Weight

11 lbs

Platform

19"x30"

Capacity

350 lbs

Material

Cast aluminum

Pros

  • βœ“ Ultra-light cast aluminum
  • βœ“ Large platform
  • βœ“ Silent operation

Cons

  • βœ— Premium price
  • βœ— Climbing sticks separate
  • βœ— Waiting list common
Best Value
Viper SD Climbing Stand

Summit

Viper SD Climbing Stand

4.7 (8,765 reviews)

Climb any straight tree without sticks or ladders. Summit's Viper pioneered comfortable climbing stands that hunters actually want to sit in all day.

Weight

20 lbs

Platform

20"x28.5"

Capacity

300 lbs

Style

Climber

Pros

  • βœ“ Self-climbing
  • βœ“ No sticks needed
  • βœ“ Comfortable platform

Cons

  • βœ— Tree diameter limits
  • βœ— Heavier than hang-ons
  • βœ— Learning curve
Premium Pick
M100U Ultralite Lock-On

Millennium

M100U Ultralite Lock-On

4.8 (3,456 reviews)

All-day comfort that makes long sits productive. Millennium's ComfortMAX seat is worth every penny on those cold November sits.

Weight

12 lbs

Platform

18"x24"

Capacity

300 lbs

Seat

ComfortMAX

Pros

  • βœ“ ComfortMAX seat
  • βœ“ Lightweight
  • βœ“ Quiet ComfortMAX

Cons

  • βœ— Higher price
  • βœ— Smaller platform
  • βœ— Sticks extra
Budget Pick
Deluxe 2-Person Ladder Stand

Guide Gear

Deluxe 2-Person Ladder Stand

4.5 (12,345 reviews)

Bring a hunting buddy without the budget sting. Ladder stands trade mobility for stability and comfort at an unbeatable price.

Weight

70 lbs

Platform

18"x38"

Capacity

500 lbs

Height

18'

Pros

  • βœ“ Room for two
  • βœ“ Easy climbing
  • βœ“ Shooting rail

Cons

  • βœ— Heavy
  • βœ— Permanent placement
  • βœ— Requires two for setup
Helium Kickback LVL Hang-On

Hawk

Helium Kickback LVL Hang-On

4.6 (5,678 reviews)

The stand that levels itself on sloped trees. Hawk's Helium line balances weight, comfort, and price better than most.

Weight

11 lbs

Platform

20"x24"

Capacity

300 lbs

Features

Self-leveling

Pros

  • βœ“ Self-leveling seat
  • βœ“ Lightweight
  • βœ“ Wide platform

Cons

  • βœ— Needs climbing sticks
  • βœ— Basic design
  • βœ— Seat adjustment limited

Buying Guide: How to Choose Tree Stands

How to Choose a Tree Stand

The Elevated Advantage
Height changes everything. You're out of a deer's eye line, your scent disperses, and your view expands dramatically.

### Stand Types
Hang-on stands: Lightest, quietest, require climbing sticks
Climbing stands: Self-contained, work on straight trees only
Ladder stands: Safest climb, semi-permanent, heaviest

### Weight vs Comfort
Light stands are easier to carry but less comfortable. Find your balanceβ€”a 5lb weight savings means nothing if you can't sit still for 8 hours.

### Platform Size
Bigger = more comfortable, heavier, harder to carry
Smaller = lighter, more portable, less forgiving

### Safety Non-Negotiables
  • Always use a full-body harness
    - Inspect straps and cables annually
    - Never climb higher than you're comfortable falling
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Stands

    Climbing stand or hang-on?

    Hang-ons are lighter and quieter. Climbers are more self-contained. Mobile hunters often choose hang-ons; occasional hunters prefer climbers.

    How high should I hang my stand?

    15-20 feet is typical. Higher isn't always betterβ€”wind increases, shot angles steepen. 18 feet works for most situations.

    How do I choose between weight and comfort?

    If you're walking a mile to your spot, weight wins. If you're sitting 100 yards from your truck, prioritize comfort. Be honest about your hunts.

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