Written By John VanDerLaan
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The best climbing sticks make a hunt easier before you ever reach your stand. They affect how far you can walk, how quietly you can climb, how secure you feel on the tree, and how quickly you can get set up in the dark.
Modern climbing sticks have changed a lot over the past few years. Older sticks were bulky, loud, and often relied on heavy straps or metal buckles. Today’s best climbing options are lighter, quieter, and built around mobile hunting, saddle hunting, and compact hang-on stand setups.
quietest
timber ninja c2
Best Lightweight
trophyline hyperlite
Best budget
xop x2
List Of Climbing Sticks We Tested
How We Tested Climbing Sticks
Our staff of hunting experts used each of these climbing sticks to access their tree stands and tree saddles. They compared each set of sticks and rated them on a number of criteria, such as weight, step size, portability, noise, versatility and climbing comfort.
Weight
Weight varies dramatically from brand to brand and even though heavier weight can meen good quality, you should consider where you are going to be hunting and plan accordingly. If you are going to be trekking miles through thick cover to set up your treestand, you don't want to be lugging any more weight than necessary. You would be much better off with lightweight climbing sticks. Each of our staff members rated the weight of each stick on a scale of one to five with five being the best.
Step Size
The smaller the steps are, the harder it is to climb trees safely and comfortably. We have some guys on staff that insist on the double step design because it makes climbing more comfortable when they can place both feet at the same height.
Make sure that the steps have enough room for your boots and have some kind of teeth for traction and added safety.
Each of our staff members rated step size on a scale of one to five with five being the best.
Portability And Stackability
Portability consists of how easily the tree sticks stack together and attach to your tree stand so you can easily carry them long distances to your hunting spot. We also took into cosideration how tightly they sacked and how quietly they could be transported. Each staff member rated portability on a scale of one to five with five being the best.
Noise
Noise is one of the most important issues with climbing sticks. We tested both the noise level when setting up the sticks on the tree and also the any noise made while climbing the sticks.
In our testing, single sticks were much quieter than stick ladder types. Each staff member rated each stick for noise on a scale of one to five with five being the best.
Versatility
All sticks will work on perfectly straight trees with no branches or limbs in the way, but what about crooked trees and trees with lots of limbs?
Each of our staff members rated each set of these sticks for versatility, taking into consideration multiple problem trees, and being able to get the sticks into these trees and access the tree stand or saddle.
Each one was rated on a scale of one to five with five being the best.
Climbing Comfort
Each set of climbing sticks were rated on how well they attached to the tree. Was there slippage or any movement? Were the steps a comfortable distance apart? Were the sticks far enough away from the tree so that the toes of your boots don't hit the tree?
Each of our staff members rated the sticks on a scale of one to five with five being the best.
Below you will find the results of our testing with complete reviews of each set of sticks.
Who Are We?
We are a team made up of real deer hunters. We are outdoor writers, contributors, field testers and pro staff that have used each of these climbing sticks to access our hang on tree stands and tree saddles. We then rate and review them based on our findings.
If you have done a google search for the best climbing sticks, then you have seen numerous pages that were clearly not written by deer hunters. Some of these pages don’t even make sense!
They are written by internet marketers trying to sell you on the climbing sticks that they make the most money from.
Don’t be fooled!
We are real hunters with many years of hunting experience and actually use all of the products that we rate and review.
Below you will find our reviews of the best climbing sticks that we have tested so that you can determine which ones are right for you.
Below you will find in-depth reviews of all the tree climbing sticks that our staff uses during the hunting season.
Best Climbing Stick Reviews And Recommendations
Lightest And Most Compact: Lone Wolf Custom Gear Micro Doubles
Lone Wolf Custom Gear Micro Doubles are built for hunters who want the smallest, lightest, most packable setup possible. The micro doubles are part of the D’Acquisto Series from Lone Wolf Custom Gear and use an ultra-thin metal design with no plastic parts.
The Lone Wolf Custom Gear Micro Doubles weigh under one pound per stick, which puts them among the most appealing sticks for long-distance mobile hunting.
The Micro Doubles can support up to 900 pounds in testing, while the listed field rating is 300 pounds.
The Micro Doubles are super compact and pack to a 4-inch height, making them one of the easiest options to carry available today.
The sub-pound weight and flat profile are the reason these sticks made the list. If your hunt starts with a two-mile walk, every pound matters. A four-stick setup feels super light compared with older aluminum sticks, and the thin stack keeps the pack from feeling awkward.
The independent standoff design helps the stick contour to uneven bark. That improves bite on the tree and makes the setup feel rock solid once properly seated.
Choose the Micro Doubles if you hunt public land, prefer a minimalist pack, and care more about saving weight than having huge steps. They are ideal for tree stand and saddle hunting.
Key Features:
- Under 1 pound per stick
- Each Stick is 14" long
- High-strength metal construction
- Buckle-less strap system attachment method
- 300 lb weight limit
- The Micro Doubles pack to a 4-inch height
- Double-step style design with independent standoff points
Test Results Average Score: 4.9
- Weight: 5
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability: 5
- Noise: 4.5
- Versatility: 5
- Climbing Comfort: 5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video taking an in depth look at the Lone Wolf Custom Gear Micro Doubles climbing sticks.
Quietest: Timber Ninja C2 Carbon Fiber
Timber Ninja C2 Carbon Fiber Climbing Sticks are built around stealth, comfort, and reduced noise. Carbon fiber climbing sticks produce less noise than aluminum sticks, and they feel better in cold weather because they do not get as icy to the touch.
The C2 is the newest model and an upgrade over the Timber Ninja C1 sticks. The Timber Ninja C2 sticks weigh just over one pound, and they are super quiet right out of the box.
The C2 uses carbon fiber construction with wide 9-inch steps and a 4.5-inch standoff. That gives the climber more boot room and more confidence during the climb.
Carbon fiber is the main advantage. It is quieter than aluminum, warmer in the hand, and naturally dampens vibration. If you are setting up close to bedding cover or climbing before daylight, that can be a game changer.
The magnetic stacking system also helps reduce loose parts. There are no folding steps to rattle, and the amsteel rope attachment keeps the setup simple.
Choose the Timber Ninja C2 if you want premium materials, good stealth, and extra space for your boots. It is a strong pick for saddle hunters who prefer quiet gear over the absolute lightest number on a scale.
Key Features:
- 1.3 pounds per stick
- Each Stick is 18.25" long
- Proprietary carbon fiber construction
- Amsteel rope system attachment method
- Standoff is 4.5 inches
- Steps are 9 inches wide
- 300 pound weight rating
- Magnetic stacking system for packability
Test Results Average Score: 4.9
- Weight: 5
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability: 4.5
- Noise: 5
- Versatility: 5
- Climbing Comfort: 5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video showing the features of the Timber Ninja C2 Carbon Fiber climbing sticks.
Best for Semi-Permanent Sets: TETHRD Workhorse
TETHRD Workhorse Climbing Sticks are built for hunters who want durability, simplicity, and value. The workhorse sticks use die-cast aluminum, a DynaLite rope attachment, and the stickloc pin system for tight stacking.
These are not the lightest sticks in the box, but they are rugged and practical. Tethrd designed them for hunters who climb a bunch of trees throughout the fall and want gear that can take abuse.
The rope containment system helps manage loose rope during the carry. That matters because dangling rope can snag brush, make noise, or slow you down when hanging sticks in the dark.
The Workhorse is about reliability. The rope and tab attachment system is fast, simple, and quieter than old-school buckles. The aluminum construction feels strong, and the stickloc pin system keeps the stack controlled on the walk in.
Choose the Workhorse if you prioritize durability and do not mind carrying extra weight. It is a good fit for a hunter who wants a dependable setup at a reasonable price without jumping into carbon fiber pricing.
Key Features:
- Just under 2 pounds per stick
- Each Stick is 16.75" long
- Die-cast aluminum construction
- DynaLite rope and tab system attachment method
- 300 pound weight rating
Test Results Average Score: 4.6
- Weight: 4.5
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability: 4.5
- Noise: 4.5
- Versatility: 4.5
- Climbing Comfort: 4.5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video showing the features of the TETHRD Workhorse climbing sticks.
Best Lightweight: Trophyline Hyperlite
Trophyline Hyperlite Climbing Sticks are designed for bowhunters who want a balance of low weight, fast climbing, and stability. The HyperLite line uses Magnite, a proprietary material designed to be lighter than aluminum while absorbing vibration.
HyperLites weigh just 4 pounds 4.3 ounces for four sticks. Each stick is roughly 17.5 ounces, which keeps the total setup very manageable for mobile hunting.
The HyperLites stack to 18 inches long and 6 inches high, which is compact enough for most saddle and hang-on setups. The double-step design also makes the climb feel more natural than single-step sticks.
The HyperLite is built around speed and function. The single piece unibody design has no moving parts, which helps reduce rattle. The amsteel rope and prusik knot attachment method is quiet and secure once you learn the process.
Choose the Trophyline Hyperlite if you want a super lightweight four pack with double steps and good packability. It is especially useful for bowhunters who move often and want to spend less time fighting their sticks.
Key Features:
- 17.5 ounces per stick
- 16-inch step-to-step spacing
- Magnite proprietary material
- Amsteel rope with friction hitch and prusik knot for secure tree attachment
- Excellent stackability at only 6" high for 4 sticks
- 300 lb weight rating
Test Results Average Score: 4.8
- Weight: 5
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability:5
- Noise: 4.5
- Versatility: 5
- Climbing Comfort: 4.5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video and honest review of the Trophyline Hyperlite climbing sticks.
Best Budget: XOP X2 Climbing Sticks
XOP climbing sticks and tree stands are very similar to Lone Wolf hunting products and here's why.
XOP stands for Extreme Outdoor Products and the company was started by the original founder of Lone Wolf Products. He sold Lone Wolf and when the patents were up and the non compete period was over, he founded XOP and began making similar products.
The big difference?
Lone Wolf products are made in the USA and XOP products are made in China.
XOP has designed some really awesome products, but we prefer products made in the USA when we can get them.
Now you know the back story. Let's take a look at the XOP X2 set and what sets them apart from other climbing sticks.
XOP X2 climbing sticks are constructed from 6061 aircraft grade aluminum with heat treated steel fast strap buttons that make hanging them quick, effortless and safe.
They also have a pivoting bracket system that follows the natural contour of the tree and a patented arch step technology that forms to your boot for secure tree climbing.
The V brackets have a deep stand off for more room between your boot and the tree. If you have ever used climbing sticks with a short standoff, you know how hard it is to comfortably climb when your toes are hitting the tree with each step.
The pivoting steps are also reversible with relative ease.
They also have a patented self locking mechanism that locks the sticks together making them easy to carry without the need for a separate strap to hold them together.
Key Features:
- Aircraft grade aluminum construction
- Single tube design
- 350 pound capacity
- There is 17 inches between each step
- Each stick weighs 26 ounces
Test Results Average Score: 4.4
- Weight: 4
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability: 4
- Noise: 4
- Versatility: 4.5
- Climbing Comfort: 5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video taking an in depth look at the XOP climbing sticks.
Staff Favorite: Hawk Helium
The Hawk sticks are a solid stick built from aircraft grade aluminum at price anyone can afford, making them a great value.
Each stick is 30 inches long and utilizes cutouts to bring the weight down to 2.9 pounds.
It consists of three anti slip steps, but this stick has all three steps on both sides of the stick making it easy to stand with both feet at the same level.
These sticks attach to each other with a suction cup design formula that has failed numerous times and is almost useless. You will need to strap these together, but the price is right.
The silent use versa button and strap system is noiseless when attaching to the tree and the tree digger teeth really bite into the tree bark for a solid connection to the tree.
Key Features:
- Quality aluminum construction
- TreeDigger™ teeth
- Suction cup attachment system
- 300 pound capacity
- Stick is 30 inches long
- There is 10 inches between each step
- Each stick weighs 2.9 pounds
- Dual steps
- Locking pegs
Test Results Average Score: 4.25
- Weight: 4.5
- Step Size: 4
- Stackability: 3
- Noise: 5
- Versatility: 4.5
- Climbing Comfort: 4.5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video showing the key features and value of the Hawk Helium lightweight climbing sticks.
Best Footing In A Lightweight Stick: Novix Mini Sticks
The Novix sticks are a must have for the mobile hunter. Weighing in at just 1 pound 12 ounces apiece, these sticks are the ultimate in portability.
Each stick is 17 inches long and carries a weight rating of 300 pounds.
It features reversible steps and a pivoting bracket similar to the XOP climbing sticks that enable you to use it in just about any tree.
If you are the type of hunter that is mobile and looking for the best portable climbing sticks to take deep into the woods, you need to check out the Novix sticks.
Key Features:
- Single tube design
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Easy to install
- 300 pound limit
- Stick is 17 inches long
- 9" wide steps for excellent footing
- There is 15 inches between each step
- Each stick weighs 1 pound 12 ounces, 6 pounds 15 ounces for 4 sticks
- Pivoting V-bracket
- Reversible steps
Test Results Average Score: 4.66
- Weight: 5
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability: 4.5
- Noise: 4.5
- Versatility: 4.5
- Climbing Comfort: 4.5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a video showing the key features of the Novix Sticks.
Best Tree Bite: Beast Gear Climbing Sticks
A relative newcomer to the climbing stick industry is the Beast Gear Lightweight Climbing Sticks.
Beast sticks were started by Dan Infalt, a public land bowhunter that set out to develop the better climbing sticks than were available at the time, after he saw a gap in the market for lightweight, high quality climbing steps.
The main thing that stands out about these sticks is how secure they are on the tree. They really bite into the tree and once set up, they do not move at all.
Key Features:
- 6061 Aluminum construction
- Non-staggered In-line Stacking™ Design
- 300 pound weight capacity
- Stick is 20 inches long
- There is 18 inches between each step
- Each stick weighs 1.7 pounds
- No Moving Parts
Test Results Average Score: 4.58
- Weight: 5
- Step Size: 5
- Stackability: 4.5
- Noise: 4
- Versatility: 4.5
- Climbing Comfort: 4
What We Like
What We Don't Like
I used the Beast Gear Climbing Sticks for the first time last season and I was very impressed with their light weight and how solid they were on the tree..
The only downside with the Beast Sticks is the 18" steps. That is the longest step of all the climbing sticks we have tested and it could be getting on the big side for some hunters.
These sticks are ideal for saddle hunting and hang and hunt hunters who like to travel light.
Here's a video showing you how Beast Gear Climbing Sticks were designed and developed.
Best For The Money: Muddy Pro Sticks
Muddy sticks have gotten a bad rap because they were recalled back in 2012, but these are new models significant improvement and are deemed safe.
We really like these sticks because they are super lightweight aluminum at only 2.5 pounds each and the specially designed rope cam system is really easy and quiet to use with Silent Lock technology.
The aluminum bark biters give you a really solid attachment to the tree and the steps have built in teeth for easy gripping with your boots in all weather conditions.
Each stick is 20 inches long with 10 inches between steps and carries a weight rating of 300 pounds.
The sticks stack together nicely and are compatible with most lock on treestands.
Key Features:
- Dual step design
- Silent Lock technology
- Easy to install
- Steps have built in contraction teeth for extra grip
- Rated for 300 pounds
- Each stick is 20 inches long
- There is 10 inches between each step
- Each stick weighs 2.5 pounds
- Fiberguard powdercoat for a non slip grip
- Quiet cam system rope attachment method
Test Results Average Score: 4.08
- Weight: 4.5
- Step Size: 4
- Stackability: 4
- Noise: 4
- Versatility: 4
- Climbing Comfort: 4
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here is a video showing you some of the key features of the Muddy Sticks.
Best Value: Rivers Edge Big Foot Grip Stick
The Rivers Edge Grip Stick is a solid stick and our choice for the best value.
These are no frills climbing sticks with a very simple design that flat out works.
As you can see in the photo, it is a welded design with no bolts or parts of any kind that can loosen or fail and make noise.
Each step is 11 inches across, which is plenty of room to have both feet on one step and is covered with a non slip coating for a secure grip.
Each stick is 32 inches long with 15 inches between steps and carries a weight rating of 300 pounds.
The welded design is nice, but it does limit your tree selection to different trees that are fairly straight.
They are also heavy at 4 pounds each, but they do nest together nicely.
These are the best sticks for hunters on a budget.
Key Features:
- Double step design
- Rated for 300 lbs
- Stick is 32 inches long
- There is 15 inches between each step
- Each stick weighs 4 pounds
- Non slip powder coated finish
- Quiet looped strap attachment
Test Results Average Score: 3.5
- Weight: 3
- Step Size: 4
- Stackability: 3.5
- Noise: 3
- Versatility: 4
- Climbing Comfort: 3.5
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a video showing the features of the Rivers Edge Stick.
Climbing Sticks Buying Guide
In this section we will teach you all about the different types of climbing sticks, as well as what you should consider when shopping for the sticks and stick systems.
We will also go through all of the frequently asked questions so that when you are done reading this article you will possess all of the knowledge necessary to make a well educated and informed decision on which sticks are right for you.
Tree stand climbing sticks are used to access hang on treestands, they are not used with climbing tree stands, ladder stands or 2 man ladder stands.
They are also used with tree saddles depending on your hunting style.
Although here is a deer stand placement tip for guys that like to use climbers:
Some of our guys like to hunt out of climbing stands in multi trunked trees, because it is great camouflage and very easy to hide in the middle of 2 or 3 tree trunks. The problem is that you can't fit a climber around the base of a multi trunked tree because the tree trunk base is huge. So these guys use a climbing stick or two to get five or six feet up and then climb into their climber and up they go.
RELATED: How To Maintain Your Tree Stands And Climbing Sticks
Types Of Climbing Sticks
There are basically two climbing methods and two types of climbing sticks on the market that you will be choosing from. Single and ladder style climbing sticks.
Some say that there are three types and throw tree steps into the mix, but tree steps are not climbing sticks, they are individual metal steps that either strap on or screw into the tree.
Single
Single climbing sticks are the top choice for most situations. They are individual sticks with two or three steps on them, which you attach to the tree. You attach as many as you need to achieve the height that you want.
These sticks can be used in almost any tree, whether crooked and gnarly, or straight and are a better alternative for most hunting situations.
Ladder Style
Ladder style sticks consist of a metal tube in the center with steps on each side. The ladder sections are pre assembled on the ground and then set against the tree and attached as one unit.
This style of climbing sticks is usually less expensive and can be quite noisy due to the friction where the sections connect.
This style can also only be used on fairly straight trees with no branches or limbs in the way.
RELATED: Best Tree Stand Harnesses Tested With Reviews
Things To Consider When Buying Climbing Sticks
In this section we are going to go through all of the things that you should consider when you are shopping for good climbing sticks.
Height
This should be your first consideration. How high do you want to be and how many sticks is it going to take to get you that high.
Most climbing stick systems are designed to go 20 feet high.
Keep in mind that your tree sticks should extend above your tree stand so that you are stepping down onto the stand. This is a safety factor and the best way to enter your stand. Most tree stand accidents happen when you are entering or exiting your stand. Don't be a statistic.
So if you purchase a 20 foot climbing stick, your treestand should only be about 15 to 16 feet off the ground, which is about as low as you should go in most instances.
If you want to go higher than that, you are going to need the individual climbing sticks and you will have to purchase the correct number of them that you need to reach your height you want. This number varies by manufacturer and model.
RELATED: How To Hang A Hang On Tree Stand
Weight Capacity
This should go without saying, but we are going to say it anyway. Make sure that you stay under the rated weight limit for the sticks you choose.
Remember, they are not talking about how much you weigh when you step on the scale in your skivvies. They are talking about the actual weight, which is your overall weight, fully dressed and any hunting gear that you will have on your person.
RELATED: Lightest Hang On Tree Stand
Durability
As hunters, we want our hunting gear to last a long time so that we can safely and confidently use it year after year and our tree climbing systems are no different.
The best climbing sticks that are the most durable are going to be the ones that are made from aluminum.
Aluminum steps will not rust like steel, so even though you may think that the steel is more sturdy, it will not be as durable in the long run.
Price
This should go without saying, but you get what you pay for when it comes to climbing sticks. If you choose a lower priced set of sticks, you are giving up some of the features of the higher priced sticks. Always buy the best that you can afford.
Final Thoughts
The best climbing sticks are the ones that match your hunting style, your budget, and the way you actually climb. Lone Wolf Custom Gear Micro Doubles are the ultralight choice, Timber Ninja C2 sticks are the stealth-focused carbon option, TETHRD Workhorse sticks are the rugged value pick, and Trophyline Hyperlite sticks offer an impressive balance of weight and function.
Before you buy, think about your walking distance, boot size, preferred attachment system, and how much noise you are willing to manage. The right setup improves safety, mobility, and confidence every time you climb into a tree.
Hunt high and hunt safe.
Related: Hunting Accident Statistics
These are crap compared to others on the market. I have used quite a few and sold most years ago. These are Flintstone era climbing sticks. Shikar, beast sticks, one sticks just to name a few are all way better in every way shape and form.
Hi Tony,
Thanks for adding in your opinion. We are currently testing some of the Beast sticks to add to the article. The climbing sticks that we have featured so far are great sticks for hunting out of tree stands. Saddle hunters require sticks that are lighter and more portable.
I recently reached out to saddle hunters over at saddlehunter.com and asked them what their favorite sticks are. We had a ton of responses and we are currently testing a number of different sticks for saddle hunting.
Thanks again Tony!
Best,
John