Saddle hunting has gained immense popularity among hunters in recent years due to its versatility and mobility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting, having the right saddle hunting platform can make a world of difference in your hunting experience. In this article, we'll explore the 5 best saddle hunting platforms, with a special focus on one that stands out for its exceptional features and performance.
1. UIIHUNT Tree Saddle Platform
Our first pick, the UIIHUNT Tree Saddle Platform, immediately grabs your attention with its lightweight cast aluminum design. It's engineered for stability, boasting a claw-like structure that ensures you stay secure while in the tree. What sets it apart is its remarkable weight-to-capacity ratio—weighing only 5.4 pounds while accommodating up to 300 pounds. This makes it an excellent choice for mobile saddle hunts where every pound counts.
Moreover, the UIIHUNT platform offers unbeatable flexibility. You can enjoy 360-degree shooting around any tree, thanks to its 16"x12" standing area. This platform complements your saddle hunting setup, providing not only efficiency but also unmatched comfort.
Safety is paramount in hunting, and the UIIHUNT platform doesn't disappoint. Its angled perimeter with non-slip ridges ensures secure footing, even during challenging maneuvers or weak-side shots. Plus, installation is a breeze with the Cinch Belt and button system. The cast aluminum construction minimizes noise, ensuring a silent hunting experience that won't spook your prey.
In addition, the UIIHUNT Tree Saddle Platform features a built-in Platform Leveling System, offering 35 degrees of adjustability. This means you can adapt to leaning trees and different foot positions, ensuring a comfortable and secure stance in any hunting scenario. With a 100% money-back guarantee, UIIHUNT stands by the quality of its product, making your satisfaction its top priority.
2. Trophyline Tree Saddle Platform
The Trophyline Mission has the largest platform of any on our list at 19.7 x 13.8 inches. Due to its large size, the cast aluminum platform tips the scales at 5.4 pounds. It has a weight rating of 300 pounds.
The unique shape of the Mission allows for a variety of foot placements for various shot angles. Like other platforms on the list, it features an adjustable leveling system.
The Mission folds flat and features integrated grooves to mount Trophyline mini sticks for stacking while transporting.
3. Hawk Tree Saddle Platform
Hawk products catch a lot of flack from serious saddle hunters, but most are decent products for the price. The Hawk Hammock Apex platform is definitely a viable option for someone dipping their toes into saddle hunting.
It’s a decent sized platform at 12 x 11.75 inches, and surprisingly light at 3.6 pounds. Unlike most options on our list, the Apex is not cast aluminum, but rather welded aluminum tube.
One of the things I like least about the Apex is the slick aluminum finish. Under most circumstances it won’t be an issue, but if you get a little mud on your boots, things can get a slippery quick.
For most folks, I would recommend saving a little more money and choosing one of the other options above. But if you’re on a strict budget and just can’t swing a better platform, the Hawk will get the job done.
4. XOP Tree Saddle Platform
XOP manufacturers some great products at decent price points, and their Ultra Series Edge saddle stand is no exception.
It has a fairly spacious platform at 13.75 x 11 inches, but weighs in at twice the weight of the Rebel. I guess you can’t have everything at a $150 price point.
If you can get past the weight, though, the XOP packs in a lot of great features. The cast aluminum platform has a durable powder-coated finish, EVO TRAC grips to provide maximum traction, and a wide tooth profile for increased stability on the tree.
The Edge platform has a leveling system and unique integrated gear attachments. It’s made in China.
5. Latitude Tree Saddle Platform
Latitude has really stepped up their game in saddle hunting gear lately, with the release of their Carbon SS climbing sticks, and now the Rebel SS platform.
The Rebel is the lightest platform on our list, yet still provides ample foot room to stand up when needed. The unique pentagon shape makes it easy to rotate your feet around the platform to handle most any shot angle.
The Rebel features a raised leveling knob so you can quickly adjust the angle of your platform to the tree. It also has a unique guide slot on the support post that makes it possible to attach a ring of steps to the platform that allows you 360 degrees of rotation around the tree.
Honestly, the Latitude would be our top choice if it weren’t for two things: it’s $100 more expensive than the Predator, and at the time of this writing, it’s not available.