The best hang on tree stand may offer an aerial advantage and an improved line of sight, but if you choose the wrong one, you're in for an uncomfortable experience. From seat comfort and lightweight design to platform size, there are plenty of factors to consider.
At Deer Hunting Guide, we are hunters just like you. We know how important it is to find a durable lightweight tree stand that is not just easy to transport around, but also easy and comfortable to sit around in. We've spent many hours in tree stands and have tested some of the most popular hang on stands on the market for a number of different criteria, then prepared full reviews to help you pick the right one for your next hunt.
Best overall
Millennium M100U
MOST COMFORTABLE
Millennium M150
Best FOR THE MONEY
RIVERS EDGE BIGFOOT XL
If you're not quite set on buying a hang on, we also have other tree stand reviews for best climbing tree stands, best ladder tree stands, and a buying guide to the best tree stands available today.
Best Hang On Tree Stands At A Glance
Best Hang On Tree Stand Reviews
Below you will find REAL reviews written by REAL hunters of the hang on tree stands that we actually use for deer hunting every year.
Best Overall: Millennium M100U Ultralight
The M100U Ultralight found its way to number one on our list this year because of its comfort and light weight. It is one of the lightest tree stands that we use on a regular basis.
It is the little brother of the M150 Monster, but it is still plenty big enough and features the ComfortMax seat that we have come to know and love.
The seat, complete with backrest is really comfortable and flips up out of the way when you are standing.
The lightweight aluminum construction keeps the weight down to 13.5 pounds, making it really easy to transport these to your favorite tree for hanging.
The M100U is one of the quietest stands to hang that we have ever used. It is ideal for sneaking in close to bedding areas for a hang and hunt, without being detected.
Even though it is super lightweight, it still has a 300 pound weight capacity.
We have some guys on staff that use this stand with the optional shooting rail, which makes an ideal rest for hunting with crossbow or firearm.
Features:
- CamLock Chain Receiver
- ComfortMax Contoured Sling Seat
- Folds Flat For Easy Backpacking With Included Straps
- Roomy 38" X 20" Platform
- 20" X 16" Seat
- 17" Seat Height
- Full Body Harness Included
- Safe Link Included
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here is a video showing all of the features of the Millennium M100U.
Most Comfortable Hang On Tree Stand: Millennium Treestands M150 Monster
The Millennium Treestands M150 Monster is both roomy and stable, just how we like our tree stands. For us, the Millennium M150 Monster won high marks in the comfort department. We love this lightweight tree stand for its ComfortMax seat alone. Adjustable and complete with a backrest, this thing is almost home-recliner-level comfortable, which is saying a lot for a seat in a tree.
Comfort is so important. The more comfortable you are, the more time you are going to spend in the tree and that increases your chances of being successful.
The stand itself is also extremely lightweight, yet the platform offers more space to move, set up supplies, or a shooting bar. All around, the Millennium M150 Monster is an ideal choice if you value quality and comfort.
Even so, we did find the ratchets a bit finicky on take-down, and the chair is almost too big. Even though you can fold it up to shoot, it can get in the way a bit for a standing shot.
Impressive features of the Millennium M150 Monster include:
- Adjustable seat measuring 24” x 20”
- Sturdy 24” x 37” platform
- Rugged aluminum frame, seat, and platform
- Stand weighs in at just 19.5 pounds
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Can use on trees that lean up to 15 degrees
- Full body harness included
What We Like
What We Don't Like
The Millennium M150 is a good pick for guys up to 300 pounds that like to spend the whole day comfortably in a tree.
Best Hang On Stand For The Money: Rivers Edge Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger
It’s all in the name. The Rivers Edge RE556 Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger means business when it comes to comfort on a budget. This durable, wide-framed tree stand has a reputation for providing high-up comfort for a low-down price.
It has an extra-large roomy platform and a flip-up seat with padded armrests and a built-in footrest so you can kick your feet up and wait a while in comfort. We also found it impressively stable and a breeze to hang—if you're not aiming for a big tree.
While the Rivers Edge RE556 Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger is an excellent hang on stand, the ratchet straps are just too short to tackle larger trunks. You could pick up a longer strap, but that does add some hassle to the buying process.
There can also a bit of noise when you flip up the seat. That isn't a huge concern, given the seat is so comfortable, you likely won't even want to take a standing shot, but a point to note nonetheless.
Features of the RE556 Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger include:
- Lever-action stability
- Sturdy backrest
- Flip-up seat and armrests
- Noiseless strap attachments
- Built-in footrest
- Oversized platform measures 37” x 24”
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Best Hang On Tree Stand For Bow Hunting: XOP Vanish Evolution
XOP stands for Extreme Outdoor Products and it was started by the original founder of Lone Wolf Treestands.
The XOP Vanish Evolution offers lightweight, durable stealth for bow hunting and more. With a slimmed-down design and a host of safety features, this tree stand is a fierce competitor and comes in at a lower price than most Lone Wolf models.
It is sturdy, affordable, provides outstanding camouflage, and the lightweight design makes it easy to pack for long trips, but all that comes at the cost of a footrest, backrest, and bow holder. It's basic, but it does basic well.
Features of the XOP Vanish Evolution include:
- Dual-action seat cushion provides a convenient lean-to pad when standing & eliminates noise during transport
- Indestructible Heat-treated steel Fast strap attachment buttons for added strength and durability
- Heavy Duty UV treated full polyester attachment straps for a prolonged in-field life
- In cast accessory hooks for Binoculars and other hunting gear
- Quick connect bracket capability (XOP's Exclusive offset Leveling design)
- Fully leveling seat and platform for trees leaning/ crooked trees
- Integrates with XOP Climbing sticks for a quick efficient mobile hunting system
- XOP’s patented I-Beam technology replaces the hollow tube for added support that eliminates all resonation of sound
- Ultimate offset 6-point bracket for advanced leveling capability
What We Like
What We Don't Like
We really like what we are seeing from XOP. This stand is the best we have found for under $200 and is better than a lot of much more expensive stands.
Best Hang On Tree Stand Under $100: BIG GAME Captain XL Hang On Treestand
We know not every seasoned hunter has a big budget to throw around or wants to spend a bundle on a tree stand, for that matter. If you're looking to try out a stand without a pricey commitment, the BIG GAME Captain XL Hang On Treestand is a solid budget option. This sturdy, big-framed stand clocks in at under $100 and doesn’t skimp on comfort or durability.
It packs a lot of features into a very affordable package. It has a massive 24" by 30" platform and 14" by 12" seat—plenty of room for hunters of all sizes—and still manages to be lighter than many of the stands in our review at just 17 pounds. It even comes with a 6 point fall arrest full body safety harness.
The flip up footrest makes spending long hours in this stand much more comfortable.
Of course, at this price point, you have to expect some downsides. The Captain XL isn't the quietest option, and some hunters have noticed a squeak if you move around too much. A bit of rubberized spray seemed to help in that department. The stand we bought was also missing some bolts, so BIG GAME may need to up their quality control game to reach industry standards.
Features of the BIG GAME Captain XL include:
- Flex-tek flip-up seat measuring 14” x 12”
- Flip-up footrest
- Spacious 24” x 30” platform
- 2” nylon strap
- 4-point full-body harness
- Weight rating up to 300 lbs
What We Like
What We Don't Like
For those hunters that have a limited budget, we have chosen the Big Game Captain XL as the best hang on tree stand under $100.
Best Lightweight Hang On Tree Stand Under $200: Rivers Edge Big Foot Lite
The Rivers Edge Big Foot Lite is our first pick for best lightweight hang-on tree stand under $200. This stand is affordable, durable, and lightweight, making it a top pick for longer hiking treks. It's one of the lightest stands on the market, weighing in at less than 15 pounds.
However, you sacrifice space and features to gain that low price tag and weight. The Big Foot Light has no backpack straps or backrest, and the platform is on the small side. We'd call this stand the epitome of basic, but the price is right.
Features Include:
- A lightweight design of just 14.5 lbs.
- One Piece cast aluminum platform
- Noiseless strap attachment
- Dual-post flip-up seat
- Lever-action stability
- Padded seat
What We Like
What We Don't Like
If you are looking for the best budget hang on tree stand under $200, you need to take a look at the Rivers Edge Big Foot Lite.
Best Cheap Hang On Tree Stand: Guide Gear 20x18 Hang-On Tree Stand
Another affordable option with no bells and whistles, the Guide Gear 20x18 Hang-On Tree Stand is an excellent choice if you aren't looking to spend a bundle. This no-frills design manages both comfort and portability without ratcheting up the price. For well under $100, the Guide Gear actually isn't as low-quality as you'd expect.
The platform is decently sized, durable, and has a fold-up design. It isn't terribly uncomfortable or hard to carry around, but as you'd expect from a budget model, it isn't the quietest option out there. It also doesn't have a rust-proof coating, so it may not last as long as some tree stands.
Features of the Guide Gear tree stand:
- 10” x 12” foam cushion seat
- Platform measures 25" x18"
- 300-lb weight capacity
- 2 straps
- Carry-weight of 18.3 lbs.
- A seat height of 22”
What We Like
What We Don't Like
At the end of the day, you get what you pay for. That being said, if you are looking for cheap hang on tree stands that will get the job done, then the Guide Gear 20X18 is the stand for you.
Best Hang On Tree Stand For Big Guys: X-Stand Treestands The Jester
Hunters come in all shapes and sizes. For bigger hunters looking for plenty of room, stability, and comfort during a hang ‘n’ hunt, the X-Stand Treestands Jester is the best tree stand you can buy. It can accommodate up to 350 pounds and has a nice wide 20" by 40" seat, complete with a backrest, footrest, and padded armrests. While that extra-large seat isn't adjustable, at least it isn't small.
We also like the extra-tough aluminum construction on this option, which gives you a lightweight stand in a big package. This big boy weighs in at only 17 pounds. Making it easy to transport and pack out, despite its large size.
Features of the X-Stand Treestands The Jester include:
- Weight limit of up to 350 pounds
- Sturdy aluminum construction
- A broad 23.5” x 35” platform
- Wide 20” x 14” seat
- Backrest, footrest, and armrest
What We Like
What We Don't Like
X-Stand Treestands is another company that you should keep an eye on. These guys are designing and building tree stands with some pretty cool innovations. If you are a big guy or you just like extreme comfort, take a look at the X-Stand The Jester.
Biggest Hang On Tree Stand: Rivers Edge Big Foot XXXL
The Big Foot XXXL is truly the biggest lock-on tree stand on the market at an impressive 37" by 30". Combined with the reliability and strength of Rivers Edge products, it is a great choice for big hunters with big goals. Both the seat and larger platform offer ample room for you and your supplies.
However, this stand's size makes it a heavier option, and it can be a bit of a workout to get it up in a tree. We also wish it came with additional straps to better secure the extra-large platform, but you can always buy some separately.
Features included are:
- A wide 37” x 30” platform
- Noiseless strap attachments
- Flip-up, extra-wide seat
- TearTuff mesh protection
- Built-in footrest
- Lever-action stability
- Improved traction mesh
What We Like
What We Don't Like
If you are a larger person looking for the biggest hang on tree stand available today, then the Rivers Edge Big Foot XXL is the stand for you.
Best Hang On Tree Stand With A Shooting Rail: Primal Treestands Comfort King Deluxe
True to its name, the Comfort King Deluxe from Primal Tree Stands offers maximum comfort and style. This affordable, well-designed tree stand comes packed with a limited one-year warranty and a padded shooting rail.
Given the price tag, we were surprised by how comfortable this stand was. It has features often forgotten in lower-cost options, such as arm and footrests, and the platform isn't miniaturized. It is a bit hard to assemble, though, and is far from the lightest-weight option at 29 pounds.
Features of the Primal Comfort King Deluxe include:
- Spacious 35.75” x 24” platform
- 20.5” x 15.5” flip-up seat
- Comfortable backrest
- Included footrest
- Armrest
- Adjustable shooting rail
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Most people say the shooting rail helps to make them feel safe.
The adjustable shooting rail stand makes this a good pick for those that want a shooting rail.
Lightest Hang On Tree Stand: Millennium M7 Microlite
We've mentioned some lightweight hang on stands in our list so far, but the Millennium M7 Microlite clocks in as the lightest tree stand we've found. It only weighs 8.5 lbs! Millennium Treestands are trusted for durability and comfort, but the M7 Microlite is designed specifically for easy carrying and light pack weight.
What it isn't designed for is comfort. The seat leaves a lot to be desired, and if you don't sit forward enough, you're essentially sitting on a metal bar. It also is pretty loud to set up, but as most of us leave our tree stands in place for a good while, we wouldn't say that's a dealbreaker.
Overall features of the Millennium M7 Microlite include:
- 300 lbs weight limit
- 20.5” x 26” platform
- Carry weight of 8.5 pounds
- Sturdy aluminum build
What We Like
What We Don't Like
If you are looking for the lightest hang on tree stand on the market today, then the Millennium M7 Microlite is for you.
Honorable Mention: Hawk MEGA COMBAT
Among hunters looking for a rock-solid tree stand, the Hawk MEGA COMBAT shouldn’t go unmentioned. This tree stand earned an honorable mention for its durable build, excellent price point, and spacious platform design, but it does have some drawbacks when looking for the best stands.
There's no backrest or footrest, and while that tall seat is great for tall guys, it isn't adjustable. If you're on the shorter side, this isn't the stand for you, but we have some guys on staff that love this stand.
Features of the Hawk MEGA COMBAT include:
- Steel construction
- One-piece platform design
- 24” x 30” platform build
- 17 Pound carry weight
- Backpack straps
- Memory foam seat
What We Like
What We Don't Like
The Hawk Treestand company is doing some pretty cool things with tree stands and accessories. Our field testers found the Hawk MEGA COMBAT to be a good option for many hunters.
Hang On Tree Stand Buying Guide
What Is a Hang On Tree Stand?
Stands are a common option to gain stealth and sight advantages in many hunting scenarios. Tree stands offer a quiet, comfortable way to elevate yourself for improved shot angles and stealth. Types of stands include climbing stands, ladder stands, and hang on stands. Climber stands and hang on stands are portable and can be carried in, while the best ladder stand often requires a more thorough setup.
Hang on tree stands secure to trees using straps or chains. Hunters carry hang on stands to hunting locations and use additional tools, such as the best climbing sticks, to set up and install the stand, even in a less than perfect tree.
Hang ons are also called lock on tree stands.
What Is the Difference Between a Hang On Tree Stand and a Climbing Tree Stand?
The primary difference between a hang on stand and a climbing tree stand is how the stand is set up.
With climbing tree stands, you literally climb with the stand using your legs and a locking seat mechanism to lift the seat as you go. With a hang on stand, you use climbing sticks, segmented ladders or screw in steps to climb and reach the tree stand.
Both options have their advantages. A climber tree stand is great for hunting trips where a tree stand cannot be left behind and the right tree is straight.
Alternatively, hang on stands offer better access to awkward trees, quick access, and trees with too many branches.
Many hunters prefer climbing tree stands because of their portability and the ability to move around quickly if the situation call for it.
Here is a great video showing the difference between a climbing tree stand and a hang on.
What Is the Difference Between a Hang On Tree Stand and a Ladder Tree Stand?
A hang on stand is a portable, highly customizable tree stand that is great for hunting on public land. This type of tree stand is also easy to set up solo.
A ladder stand is a platform, seat and ladder all in one. They are extremely heavy and awkward to set up, requiring at least two people to do so.
For public land, a ladder stand can also make a great choice. The best ladder tree stands last longer, tend to be more comfortable, and are remarkably durable. Ladder-style tree stands are also preferable if you like the security of rails.
Unlike a hang on tree stand, some ladder stands are big enough for two people.
Check out our list of the best 2 man ladder stands.
What to Look For When Buying a Hang On Tree Stand
Every hunter has unique needs, preferences, and hunting styles. When you’re looking for the right hang on stand, you may find it best to have a few different styles of tree stands, depending on what you have planned. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when shopping for a tree stand:
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Size
Beyond physical stature, the size of a hang on stand has a significant impact on functionality. A great tree stand should have a spacious platform, a comfortable seat, and enough room for any necessary weapons, equipment, or other supplies.
Comfort
Whether you’re planning a long hunt or a brief hang ‘n’ shoot, comfort is important. You are going to spend hours in the stand.
If you take your best shots from a comfortable seat with a backrest, footrest, or even standing, make sure you take those things into consideration when choosing a hang on stand.
RELATED: How To Keep Your Feet Warm While Hunting
Weight Limit
Remember to select a hang on stand with a weight capacity that can handle you, your equipment, and anything else you need to bring into the trees with you. Pay attention to all weight ratings and safety features before purchase and before each use.
Tree Fastening
If you know you’re going to need to climb up into crooked trees or angled trees, aim for a hang on stand with leaning and leveling features. These features allow the tree stand to attach at difficult angles without risking your safety. The best tree stand can handle straight trees, bent trees, and any size of tree trunk you might encounter.
Price
Price plays an important role both in the quality and the accessibility of a good tree stand. While it’s true that high-dollar tree stands have considerable benefits, there are many cheaper, more affordable hang-ons that offer comfort, safety, and stealth for an affordable price.
Extra Features and Needed Equipment
Other great features to consider when purchasing a hang on tree stand include any extra features you may want or need during your hunt.
For instance, do you need space for most parallel limb bows, extra room for standing shots, a holder for your compound bow, or tree digger teeth?
Is safety gear included?
If you’ve found you favor cast aluminum tree stands over steel tree stands, make sure you check the specifications and materials of the model you’re thinking of buying.
Beyond comfort features or added preferences, you also need to factor in all the needed equipment to install and carry your hang on stand safely. Make sure you to look for the best climbing sticks, segmented ladders, best hunting safety harnesses, or other necessary equipment.
RELATED: Best Hunting Headlamp
How to Hang a Hang On Tree Stand
Before you begin to install your hang on tree stand, make sure you read the appropriate manuals and safety instructions. Hunting is inherently dangerous—you don't need to add falling out a tree to your risk list. Always practice good tree stand safety and verify your stand is securely attached.
When you're ready to begin, select the best tree for your hang-on stand, hunting needs, and equipment. Plan your height and ensure all safety harnesses and other equipment are securely fitted.
Use Climbing Sticks
Once you’ve determined your goal height, use climbing sticks to scale the tree to your desired height. It’s a good idea to pack around 4 or 5 sticks to get the maximum height for your hang on stand.
Place the first climbing stick a foot or so off the ground to get a good start. Make sure that the sticks are positioned properly to prevent movement during climbing. All foot stands or ladder portions should be properly locked together or in place before you begin to climb.
Consult the safety manuals and manufacturer’s instructions provided with your climbing equipment, as well.
Rope Your Stand
Measure the rope to the height at which you want to place your tree stand, tie it to your tree stand, and then attach it to your harness. This rope will allow you to easily pull your hang on stand to the correct height when you are ready to install it.
This same rope technique may be used to lift any bulky equipment or other items into the tree stand once it has been securely fitted to the tree.
Secure Yourself To The Tree
Always use a safety line with prusik knot to prevent lengthy falls. The tree rope goes around the trunk of the tree and then through the loop.
Next, attach the carabiner on the prusik knot to the loop on the collar of your tree stand safety harness.
Another option is to use a lineman's rope.
Attach a carabiner to each end of a length of rope to wrap tightly around the tree. Wrap the rope around the tree, clipping each carabiner to the sides of your safety harness. This measure adds extra resistance in the event of a slip or fall while climbing.
Make sure to move the rope with you as you climb and use a secure knot such as a bowline for added safety during the climb.
Here's a great video from Lee and Tiffany Lakoski about how to use a linesmen rope.
Keep Placing Climbing Sticks
As you move up the tree to your target height, place more sticks. Take your time and make sure each stick is properly installed before placing your weight on it. Move your safety harness ropes and safety line with each climbing stick and step up you take.
Repeat this process as many times as necessary until you reach the spot you’ve picked for your hang on tree stand.
Pull Your Stand Up
Once you’ve reached your desired height, double-check all safety harness ropes before proceeding. Once you are certain you’re safe, begin to slowly pull your hang on stand up using the rope you tied to it at the beginning of this process.
Avoid hitting or sliding against the tree with your tree stand as you pull it up. This reduces your chance of dislodging your sticks or other safety equipment. If you’ve chosen to carry your hang on stand on your back as you climb, simply remove the stand and prepare for installation.
Attach The Tree Stand
When you’re ready, place the stand up against the tree and wrap the strap around the tree and pull it tight.
Push down on the tree stand to tighten and lock it into place on the tree. This motion also tests your straps and ropes to ensure that they are secure.
Fold Down The Platform
Once your stand is securely fitted to the tree, unfold the standing platform and seat, if necessary. Test the resistance of each to check for safety before climbing on.
Double Check All Straps and Safety Equipment
Before beginning your hunt or hauling up extra equipment, climb into your tree stand and position yourself comfortably. Adjust your safety harness and safety rope accordingly, securing each tightly if necessary. Once you’re secure, haul up or remove any equipment and supplies.
To safely take down your stand, pay attention to your safety equipment before climbing down onto the sticks again. Remove your stand’s straps and safely lower the stand or attach it to your back before climbing down.
On your way down the tree, remove any unused climbing tools as you go and secure your safety gear with each movement. Pack all climbing tools and stand, hunting, or other personal equipment, and bring everything out of the woods with you when you leave.
Tip: If you are using your hang on stand on public land, consider taking the bottom two climbing sticks with you when you leave. This way no one can climb into your stand because the bottom sticks are missing. When you go hunting, just install the two bottom sticks to access your stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How High Should I Climb for My Hang On Stand?
A: Most hunters want to aim for a height of around 15 to 25 feet., but you should only climb as high as you feel comfortable. Hunting on the ground level puts you right in the line of sight of the game that you are pursuing. Lower than 15 feet and you begin to lose the advantages that a tree stand gives you. Higher than 25 feet makes for sharp, difficult shot angles.
Q: What Types of Trees Can I Hang a Hang On Tree Stand In?
A: Hang on tree stands are very versatile and can be used on different trees. Many options are designed to tilt and fasten to bent or angled trees, which is ideal for those times when you can't find the best tree. These stands feature leveling qualities to help you stay steady and safe while making good shots.
Q: Are Hang On Stands Safe?
A: Absolutely. While every type of hunting tree stand carries unique risks, hang on tree stands are reliable, safe, and durable when used, installed, and stored correctly. All manufactured treestands today must meet TMA standards. Make sure to read all available safety materials and brush up on hunting and tree stand safety before every hunt.
Q: Are Hang On Stands Comfortable?
A: Yes, they are comfortable. The best models are the most comfortable. Generally, the bigger they are and the more comfort features that they have, the more comfortable they are. If you are going to be hunting in inclement weather, you should consider using a tree stand umbrella for even more comfort.
RELATED: Best Ground Blind For Bowhunting
Q: Do Hang On Stands Damage Trees?
A: Fortunately, no! While some hang on tree stands use teeth to fasten to the tree securely, these teeth only rough up the tree bark and do not damage the tree itself.
Q: Are Ratchet Straps Noisy?
A: Ratchet straps are a safe, secure way to attach any hang on stand to the tree of your choice. They are only making noise when you are attaching the tree stand to the tree. After that they are completely silent as long as they are kept tight and provide the extra security to make you feel safe.
Q: Are Backrests Necessary?
A: For longer hunts, we definitely recommend getting a tree stand with a backrest, armrest, and a footrest, if possible. These important features make sitting for longer periods and other aspects of tree hunting far more comfortable.
Q: What do hang on stands require?
A: Hang on stands require climbing sticks, tree steps or the best ladder in order to hang and access the stand.
Final Thoughts
We have provided you with in depth reviews of the best hang on tree stand in each category. We have also provided you with all of the various features and an in depth buying guide that should answer all of your questions when you are looking to purchase your tree stand.
You may not need a tree stand to hunt, but having one does offer unique advantages over ground-level hunting—even more so if you have the right stand. A comfortable tree stand with an ample platform and safety harness will offer better visibility without added risks.
While the best hang-on tree stand for your needs will vary based on your size, hunting style, and budget, we hope this article provided all the information you need to find the right one for you.
Happy hunting!
