Ever climbed a tree that was too large for your climbing tree stand or one that was too small? If you ever have I am sure you quickly discovered the angle was uncomfortable and the stand felt unsteady.  Not only is this unsafe it also limits your range of movement and increases your chances of being seen by a deer. 

An uncomfortable tree stand usually results in frequent repositioning of the hunters body as he or she tries to find a comfortable position.  This extra movement is often detected by a deer as as they approach your stand location.  90% of the time the hunter never knows the deer was in the area. 

With a little thought and preparation, selecting the proper tree to climb with your climbing tree stand can be easy.

1. Always wear a safety harness with a climbing safety rope.
2. Always select the proper tree for use with your tree stand.  Select a live, straight tree that fits within the size limits recommended in your tree stands instructions. (usually 15 to 20 inches in diameter.)
3. Find a tree that has very little taper as it gets taller. Some trees may be 25 inches at waist level and taper rapidly to 15 inches at 10 feet or less. This type of tree is not acceptable.
4. Ideally the tree should be free of limbs in the area you plan to climb. If not, a small saw or pruner will be needed to remove the limbs.
5. Place your tree stand on the tree with the foot rest of the stand at a slightly upward angle. The angle of the stand will change as you climb the tree. The goal is to climb until the stand levels out. Do not climb past the level position or the tree stand may loose contact with the tree and become unsafe.

• NEVER CLIMB OR HUNT FROM TREE STANDS WITHOUT A SAFETY BELT, ROPE OR HARNESS. The belt should be rated greater than 600lb test. Attach the belt to the tree at waist height or a little higher with no more than 12 inches of slack. In the case of a fall, the hunter can't drop more than a foot.
• Always set stands strictly per the manufacturers instructions. Once the tree stand is set, always test its security by applying your weight gradually, beginning with only one foot, with firm support from the safety belt, climbing mechanism, and tree for the balance of your weight.
• NEVER CARRY YOUR BOW OR PACK WHILE CLIMBING. Use a haul line tied to a belt loop to pull up your equipment after you are securely in your stand, with your safety belt on. Orient your haul line to avoid catching your arrows on branches.
• For stands with seats NEVER USE THE SEAT AS A STAND.
• After securely in place in your stand draw your bow and check for obstacles which may strike its limbs resulting in damage or injury.
• Avoid sleeping in stands, even with a safety belt falling may crack ribs. Make sure you’re wide awake prior to descending from your stand.
• Use your haul line to lower your bow, pack, and equipment. Swinging them to the side so a fall will not result in your landing on them.
• USE YOUR SAFETY BELT AS YOU CLIMB DOWN.