The 7 Best Deer Stands Available Today

It’s the hunting season in your state, and you’re more than excited to go into the wilderness as a licensed hunter. Before anything else, you do a quick check of your hunting gear. Clothing, boots, backpack, calls, rope, trail camera, weapons, deer stand, and more. All checked off!

A deer stand, also called a tree stand, derives its name from being used for whitetail deer hunting. However, it is not to say you cannot hunt other animals with a deer stand.

As an experienced hunter, you know the list won’t be complete without a deer stand. Using a deer stand gives you a better view of the surroundings and the chance to spot a target from a distance. In addition, the approaching wildlife won’t be able to detect human scent because the deer stand keeps you away from its vision.

Safety has always been a concern for many hunters. However, there’s been tremendous improvement in the manufacturing of deer stands. From the days of 2X4 and plywood deer stands to modern, sturdy, and comfortable ones. Some even come with body harnesses for maximum protection.

Various types of deer stands have varying degrees of design, weight, durability, and price. They include the climber, ladder, box, and hanging deer stands. Your choice depends on factors such as the landscape type, ease of movement, and budget (more on this later).

Based on extensive research, we’ve reviewed and compiled a list of the best deer stands you should buy.

Best Overall: Summit Viper SD Tree Stand

Best Overall

Summit Treestands 81120 Viper SD Climbing Treestand, Mossy Oak

• Includes a closed front that restricts movement.
• Lightweight and strong aluminum build.
• Covered by a limited five-year warranty.

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The Summit Viper SD Tree Stand is our number-one choice for the best deer stands. Summit thinks you should have no worries when trying to get your share of big bucks in the woods. So, they manufactured the most versatile tree stand to meet your hunting needs.

With its closed front that restricts movement, this climber stand is perfect for bowhunting and firearm hunting. It also improves overall safety and stability. 

The Viper SD has padded armrests, an adjustable 12x 18×2 seat, and a cushioned backrest. It is made of high-quality welded aluminum and includes a full-body safety harness for safety. 

What more? The aluminum build does not bang as you climb the tree, thanks to the innovative sound-deadening technology. 

Although it weighs only 20 lbs, this tree stand has a maximum weight capacity of 300lbs. However, its small size may make it uncomfortable for large hunters. 

A user who participated in the last deer hunting season in Alaska describes the Summit Viper SD tree stand as better than most. “‘I was at ease while  I sat in it for 12 uninterrupted hours,’ he adds. 

Pros and Cons of the Summit Viper SD Tree Stand

Best Hanging Stand: Millennium M150 Monster Hang-On Tree

Best Hanging Stand

Millennium Treestands Monster Hang-on Treestand

• Features a height-adjustable seat with backrest.
• Made with aluminum.
• Holds up to 300 pounds.

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One thing about the Millennium M150 Monster? Its seat is really comfortable. The ComfortMAX seat on the M150 Monster tree stand measures 17 inches deep and is height-adjustable from 16 to 20 inches. In addition, it includes an entire backrest and side straps for added comfort.

It’s possible to adjust the tree stand even on trees that tilt up to 15 degrees off vertical. It enables you to take the most accurate shots, whether gun hunting or bow hunting. It also gives you more room to hunt in ways that suit you best. 

The M150 Tree Stand comes with a Millennium SafeLink. It is a 35-foot safety rope with a prusik knot and carabiner that protects you from falling.

Are you wondering why it’s called a monster tree stand? It is because of the 24 inches width and 37 inches depth. It can support weights up to 300 pounds. 

The Millennium M150 Monster is built with aluminum, making it both light and sturdy. In addition, it is powder coated for a durable finish. 

Its weight is a manageable 19.5 pounds due to its aluminum build. Of course, 19.5 pounds isn’t exactly light for a tree stand, but the size and comfort make up for it.

According to a Millennium brand loyalist, the M150 is a must-have and does better than the M100U.

Pros and Cons of the Millennium M150 Monster Hang-On Tree

Best for Mobile Hunting: Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II

Best for Mobile Hunting

Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II Treestand

• Has a self-leveling seat and platform.
• Seat is made with a foam pad for comfort.
• Weighs a mere 14 pounds.

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The Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II checks many boxes for mobile hunters. It is your go-to deer stand if you mainly do hang and hunts. Lightweight, portability, and ease of use are all rolled into one product.

It features a self-leveling, foam-padded 14″ x 12″ x 21″ seat and platform that support the E-Z Hang Hook accessory. The accessory enables users to set up multiple stand places for quick hanging. However, the Versa Button fastening technology makes installation incredibly simple.

This deer stand is also known for its versatility. It clings to trees regardless of their size, shape, or peculiarity. It weighs only 14 pounds but has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. How incredible is that?

The Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II “has a safe-feeling platform, and the size is just right for me,” a user stated.

Pros and Cons of the Lone Wolf Alpha Hang On II

Best for Large Hunters: Summit Goliath Climbing Tree Stand

Best for Large Hunters

Summit Treestands Goliath SD Climbing Treestand, Mossy Oak & Footrest Kit for 4 and 5 Channel Platforms

• A climbing tree stand with footrest kit included.
• Stand holds up to 350 pounds.
• Included footrest kit fits Summit four- and five-channel aluminum platforms.

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If you often feel cramped or uncomfortable in deer stands, you have probably been using the wrong stand. The Summit Goliath, though, is here to save the day with its 350-pound weight limit.

The backrest and seat have foam padding for increased comfort. Some climbing tree stands lack backrests, but this product proves to be an exception. Its backrest makes a world of difference.

It also features a 30.75 x 21 platform and an 18 x 12 foam-padded seat. Furthermore, the full-body harness and the fall arrest system are safety measures.

An enthusiastic big hunter expresses delight in this product. In their words, “even though I am terrified of heights, this product makes me feel safe. I was skeptical about getting it, but it is the most comfortable stand I have ever used.”

Pros and Cons of the Summit Goliath Climbing Tree Stand

Best for Affordability: Rivers Edge RE556 Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger

Best for Affordability

Rivers Edge RE556, Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger, Lever-Action Hang-On Tree Stand with TearTuff Flip-up Mesh Seat

• Oversized platform includes extra room for standing.
• Includes a noiseless strap attachment.
• Lever action is used for tree attachment, eliminating the need for a second strap.

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Has money been holding back your love for hunting? You don’t need the most expensive items to start. Instead, go for modestly priced and functional products such as the Rivers Edge RE556.

This hang-on deer stand puts the C in comfort, thanks to its flip-up seat with padded armrests and a footrest. In addition, it has a 37x 24 wide platform, which makes it possible to shoot while standing.

The TearTuff XL offers unmatched stability at every height, whether seated at eye level or very high.

After testing the Rivers Edge RE556, we realized it is a highly reliable tree stand that you would not be dissatisfied with, especially if you required numerous stands or were working with a smaller budget.

Furthermore, the Rivers Edge RE556 Big Foot Tear Tuff XL Lounger is at the intersection of price and value. A user expresses their satisfaction. “The pricing is unbelievable, given how fantastic it is. In addition, the footrest and arm rests are amazing. I’m about 5’10” and 230 pounds, and I love using this tree stand.”

Pros and Cons of the Rivers Edge RE556 Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger

Best for Two People: X-Stand Jayhawk

Best for Two People

X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk 20' Two Man Ladderstand

• Allows for the seating of two people.
• Holds up to 500 pounds, weighing 122 pounds.
• Made from steel.

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Everything is better in twos. So, here is a deer stand safely built to support two people. The Jayhawk weighs 122 pounds, about as heavy as you might imagine. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds, though. Also, it’s 20 feet tall to the top of the shooting rail.

The 39-inch-wide by-17-inch-deep ComfortFlex mesh sling seat has a comfy backrest. In addition, it has padded armrests and a footrest for extra comfort. Moreover, the platform is quite large measuring 42 inches in width by 34 inches in depth. Two drink holders and accessory hooks are also in the mix.

This ladder deer stand features self-lubricating nylon washers, and the X-Force expanded metal to prevent metal-on-metal contact. They also improve durability, traction, silencing, and traction.

It uses Weather Defender powder coating for weather resistance and sound reduction. 

“My experience assembling a ladder stand has never been better than when I did this. X-stand deserves praise for producing such a fantastic deer stand. The drink holders are quite useful; you can keep your phones in them,” a user said of the X-Stand Jayhawk. 

Pros and Cons of the X-Stand Jayhawk

Best Lightweight: Millennium M7 Microlite Tree Stand

Best Lightweight

Millennium Treestands M7 Microlite Treestand, black

• Weighs a mere 8.5 pounds.
• Quiet and easy to set up.
• Made from aluminum with a durable powder coat finish.

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If you are looking for a deer stand that is light enough to be carried around, look no further than the 8.5-pound Millennium M7 Microlite. 

In the usual Millennium fashion, this stand comes with Safelink, a 35-foot rope with a Prusik knot, and a carabiner. In addition, it’s equipped with a unique, trademarked comfortMAX contoured, tight sling seat.

Both platform and the seat fold flat for easy backpacking and provide adequate space for stand-up shots. The platform is 26 inches deep and 20.5 inches wide. The seat is 20 inches higher than the platform.

The M7 Microlite is compatible with the Millennium CamLock Receiver system that slides into the tree after being fastened to it by a stand.

“I like to run and gun on public land. The lightweight and easy setup make it my go-to stand,” an avid user said of the Millennium M7 Microlite.

Pros and Cons of the Millennium M7 Microlite Tree Stand

Choosing The Best: What To Look For

Safety features

Your safety is a primary concern when you go hunting. Be sure to choose deer stands with a safety harness and strap. Additional safety features, such as the fall arrest system, are also great. 

Comfort

It’s important to prioritize comfort because of the extended time spent in a deer stand. Consider whether or not the seatback is cushioned or made of woven mesh. Also, look out for products with bow holders, footrests, and armrests. The presence or lack of these can impact your stand-hunting experience.

Budget

You don’t have to sacrifice functionality and comfort for pricing. Instead, go for affordable products that make hunting worthwhile without breaking the bank.

Up Next…

• Discover The Largest Whitetail Deer Ever Recorded – Check out how massive this deer is!
• How and Where Do Deer Sleep? Patterns and Habitats – You can finally know where deer sleep at night.
• Deer in Texas: Types, Populations, and Where they Live – They seem to be everywhere, but here is some information about the deer in Texas.