zak123

There is a tree in my backyard that I practice climbing. When I get up it my stand platform leans downward. Is this because the tree is too small? Could someone give me the formula for finding the diameter of a tree. I can't shoot my bow with my stand being uneven like that. Thanks

comndr45

If this is a climber, start with the platform angled up slightly. The more the difference between the diameters at the bottom and where you want to be, the more angle to put on the platform. If it is a fixed stand, just tighten the chain/strap. If it is a fixed, chain-on stand, this sounds dangerous, because if the platform is angled down, that means the gripping teeth are not up against the tree very well.

As for a formula, put a tape around the tree at the height you want to be and divide that by 3.14 to get the diameter. Most stands aren't made for trees less than an 8" diameter. The angle of the gripping teeth won't allow enough contact for a solid hold.

ampahunter

This usually happens when the tree leans towards the platform. Today they are stands out there that corrects this problem due to the ability of being able to adjust the platform itself.
It would be better to find yourself a tree that is more straight, with at least 8" in diameter and this would/should solve your problem. If it's the only tree around, nail a 10" piece (or two) of 2 X 6 bewteen the area where the 'platform' makes contact with the tree, this will adjust the platform up, but like I've said, because the tree is already leaning towards the platform ( of course, I'm assuming you've snoged the seat as close and secure to the tree at the beginning) your position may not be quite comfortable, because the angle of the tree tends to push your back away from the tree making for some discomfort.
Be careful--and remember to USE your safety harness when engaged in this exercise!!!

Techy

Ditto, This is the same thing I always do.

devillfishvoice

yep I always start with my climber at an upward angle. it allows for compensation.

RIStrutStopper

Gotta start with the platform angled up. The higher up you go, as the diameter gets smaller, the platform levels off. If you dont have enough adjustment room to start with an up angle, the tree may be too small.

round ball

Everyone is right on when looking at a tree you need to figure outwhere the platform will be at your desired hight. Some trees are bent a little also if that is the case just move your stand around the tree on the way up. This should solve your problem also be sure to wear your body harness it can save your life. A friend of mine fell out of a tree several ytears back and is lucky to be alive. He is messed up enough that he can't hunt anymore so practice Practice Practice and most of all be SAFE!!!!!!

3 Step

Some trees, tall oaks in my area, taper a lot in a 12 foot climb so you may have to put your stand at a pretty dramatic angle at the base of the tree. It takes a few trys to get it right.

Selecting trees to climb is the tricky part. I made a short rope with some knots tied at several distances. I can put it around a tree and tell if it's to big or small to climb and about where to set cogs on the stands cable.
I like to climb pines best because my stand grabs them real well. But the flakey bark can be kind of noisy. Oaks are ok, if they didn't taper so fast.
Good luck

comndr45

I agree 3 step. Where I hunt are a lot of water oaks with huge bases that taper sharply then pretty much even out. I have to set the stand at shoulder height to be able to get it around the tree then pull my self up by seat portion to get on the platform.

Bob H in NH

I use hang ons and will NEVER sit in one when its angling forward. that would be VERY uncomfortable AND unsafe. hang-ons usually stay by sort of camming to the tree with the bottom of the stand firmly in the tree. If not, they could come off teh tree and you are in for a fun filled ride down.

--Bob