Saddle Hunting Gear Basics: What Do I Really Need?

Diving in headfirst to something new can be challenging, especially something as complex as saddle hunting. With all the different gear options, gadgets, and accessories, it can be extremely overwhelming. It can be hard to know where to start—and depending on which salesman trying to hit their sales goal you talk to—it can be even more difficult to determine what items you actually need, and which are just extras that won’t really help you get started saddle hunting.

In this article, we’ll break down the basic gear you REALLY need to get into saddle hunting, as well as the accessories that, while technically optional, are practically required to saddle hunt successfully and comfortably.

THE MEAT AND POTATOES

A saddle hunting “system” is made up of four essential, pretty much non-negotiable pieces of gear: the sticks to get you up the tree, the platform to stand on, the saddle itself, and the ropes that attach you to the tree. While the basics are easy to list, there’s a bit more to it than just checking off four items.

Climbing Method

You might assume the saddle is the obvious place to start, but the truth is—if you can’t get up the tree, the saddle isn’t going to do much good. The first part of the saddle system is the climbing method.

Now, the type of climbing method you’ll need depends entirely on your hunting situation. If you’re hunting private land where your saddle is simply replacing a traditional hang-on stand, you might already have ladders in place at each tree. In that case, there’s no need to purchase mobile hunting climbing gear.

However, if you're planning to be mobile—on public land, new leases, or unfamiliar properties—you’ll need a set of climbing sticks. These generally come in packs of three or four, and are designed to be light, packable, and easy to strap to your pack and the tree as you ascend. While different brands offer varying features like double steps or attachment mechanisms, every set of climbing sticks serves the same core function: getting you safely and efficiently up the tree.

Platform

The platform is exactly what it sounds like—it’s what you stand on once you’ve reached hunting height. Platforms come in all shapes and sizes depending on your personal preferences and needs.

Most new saddle hunters gravitate toward larger platforms like the Arsenal RZR™ MAG 2.0, especially those transitioning from traditional tree stands. These larger platforms provide a sense of stability and familiarity, giving new saddle hunters more confidence during their first few sits. As you gain more experience, you may lean toward smaller, more minimalist platforms like the Arsenal RZR™ SUB2, which are more compact and easier to pack.

Generally speaking, entry-level platforms tend to be a bit heavier but are plenty sturdy. As you move up in price and features, the platforms get lighter and more refined. At the end of the day, as long as you have a solid, dependable surface to stand on at the top of your climb, you’re in business.

Saddle

Now we get to the most important piece when it comes to your comfort: the saddle itself. This is what you wear and sit in while hunting, and it will absolutely make or break your experience in the tree.

There are a ton of options on the market today—different shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. Some are bare-bones, while others come with built-in features meant to streamline your setup. The most important thing to remember is that saddles fit everyone differently. It is absolutely worth trying multiple saddles before making a decision. One that works great for your buddy might be a terrible fit for you.

In general, saddles that offer more adjustability, like the Cloud™ Infinity from Arsenal, will serve you better in the long run. The ability to fine-tune how the saddle fits your body and distributes pressure is far more important than any particular feature or brand name. Comfort equals confidence, and confidence keeps you in the tree longer.

Ropes

This is one of the most commonly overlooked pieces of the saddle system, but it’s also one of the most important. Without proper ropes, your setup isn’t just ineffective—it’s unsafe.

A saddle hunter should be attached to the tree from the moment they leave the ground until the moment their boots hit the dirt at the end of the hunt. That means having two key ropes: the lineman’s belt and the tether.

The lineman’s belt attaches to your saddle at the lineman loops located on each hip. As you climb, the belt wraps around the tree and secures you to both sides of the saddle. This keeps you connected in case of a slip or fall while also freeing up both of your hands for attaching climbing sticks or handling gear. Once you reach hunting height, you switch over to the tether, which connects to the tree and clips into the bridge of your saddle. This allows for a wide range of motion while keeping you safely secured.

Different rope setups offer various features, like mechanical adjusters or friction knots, but the most important thing is that they’re compatible with your system and rated for your weight. No hunt is ever worth risking your life. Always wear your lineman’s belt and make sure your ropes are in good condition.

Accessories

There are a few accessories that aren’t technically “required” but are extremely difficult to saddle hunt without. These are the extras that will make or break the practicality and effectiveness of your hunts.

Pack

Having a solid pack to carry your saddle hunting gear is a game-changer, especially for long walks. Most mobile hunting gear is designed to pack neatly, and a good hunting pack helps keep everything organized and accessible. When choosing the right pack, think about how much gear you plan to carry and how much room you’ll realistically need. The right pack saves time and hassle and helps prevent you from forgetting or misplacing key items.

Bow Rope/Hoist

It’s not just inconvenient—it’s flat-out unsafe to try climbing the tree with your bow or firearm in your hands. A bow rope or gear hoist is the simplest and safest way to bring your weapon into the tree after you’ve secured yourself.

Attach one end of the rope to your saddle or pack, leave the other end tied to your bow on the ground, and pull it up once you’re settled. Just make sure your rope is long enough to match your hunting height so you’re not yanking it up halfway through your climb.

Gear Hanger

A reliable gear hanger is one of the most underappreciated tools in saddle hunting. Holding your bow for the entire hunt is not only exhausting—it’s unnecessary.

Depending on where you hunt, the right hanger will vary. On private land, screw-in gear hooks can be left in trees for the entire season. On public land, where screw-ins are usually illegal, strap-on gear hangers are the way to go. There are a wide range of strap options available, from simple hook systems to extendable arms. Choose one that fits your style of hunting and the gear you carry.

On the surface, getting into saddle hunting can feel overwhelming—and it’s easy to get lost in all the options and gear marketing. But simplifying your system down into these key components will help you cut through the noise and get into the woods faster and more confidently. Focus on the essentials, find the gear that works for your situation, and give saddle hunting a real shot this fall.