You guys are doing the saddle community a great service by teaching sound techniques. Thank you so much for your efforts, our families appreciate, and thank you too.
My first time practicing going up a tree with my saddle I clipped on the the tail of my bridge instead of the bridge itself when I transitioned! Luckily I noticed before I put my full weight on it. I would have fallen about 12'. Scared the crap out of me. I check, check, and tripple check everything to this day. I think that mishap was a blessing in disguise. I am looking to SRT this year as I am still finding spots with the best trees not being suitable for stick climbing.
Yikes Close call. Have to be constantly vigilant !!! Reach out anytime. Getting some Gri Gri + in soon or if you prefer Madrock have kits ready to go ! Hit me up anytime with questions. Safe climbs !!!
I almost had a accident, I put my tether on without looking just feeling. What I didn't know was the carabiner was just hung on my bridge. It slipped before I took my linesmen line off. That 6 inches I fell back almost gave me a stroke. Taught me a valuable lesson. It was easy to make that mistake. Check, check and recheck.
As a rock climber I have taken two falls on rope over twenty feet. The second fall I stopped less than three feet from ground. Believe me if you're not safe it could ruin your day or life.
great content..ive been an tree climber for 20yrs so climbing trees up to and above 50ft at times is nothing to me cause i do it everyday but i will say when i saddle hunt which i do most of the time i wanna mention 2 things that rarely if ever hear from other videos..i always keep my lanyard on! first thing your taught in my line of work is always have 2 points of contact to your tree! all i do to prevent my lanyard from sliding down the tree is to put a ezy step above it on the far side of the tree..i like to feel both points of contact just as i would in a tree im cutting down with a power saw..second thing is i will always always always try to avoid a single tree...i always want to hopefully find a double especially when both trunks are close together or getting above branches that are thick as or thicker than my wrist size...its def safer in my opinion and especially to a new saddle hunter..it took me 6months to really get used to trusting my body to be held by just ropes i my profession especially when your hanging 50 ft above the ground..i cant recall not being able to pull a shot off with my lanyard still attached to the tree and for whatever reason because of being tied in with both ropes if i cant pull off a shot then so be it..its not the end of the world..
I can’t tell you guys how much I appreciate all of the videos you take the time to make. Heights don’t scare me, but as a newbie saddle hunter, your videos educate me on everything from DRT to tying knots to useful mods and even hunting techniques. I think the most important ones have addressed safety. Many more seasoned saddle hunters might find some of this really elementary, but for us new guys, being able to test our knots and equipment and even how to transition to the platform is really helpful.
I’ve ordered my first saddle set after fixed Treestand hunting for 20 years I’ve been a bit nervous about it I wish we had a go to person here in Canada they could walk us through it in person but it’s not popular up here in fact hardly heard of
Whether you decide to go the stick route or ropes for your access . Practice constantly ! I tell people if your new to this concept, practice a foot off the ground and get real comfortable with positioning yourself 360 around the tree . You should be able to hang your platform blindfolded. Seriously it should be that easy for you before you actually hunt for the first time. Go through all the motions you would for a actual hunt and become very proficient at it. You can even do a mock hunt in your own yard if available. Go out at night to simulate an early morning hunt . And no matter what you choose to climb with always have a lifeline for a safe path to ground . Welcome to the World of Saddle Hunting . It’s a extremely effective, safe, and fun way to hunt . Not to mention extremely lightweight and compact. Good luck with you new venture ! We’re here to answer any questions you may have to help you get started. Good luck and Climb Safe !!! www.newyorksaddlehunter.com/
I am a structural steel iron worker Always 100% tie off always be connected to the tree no matter what Always be sure your carabiner locks into your ropes Don't lean back and hear your carabiner lock in by itself He right slow down
Paraphrasing Superman, "I hope this hasn’t put you off of climbing (DRT, SRT, ). Statistically speaking, it’s still the safest way to climb a tree." (When done correctly!) :-)
DRT is just one of the many ways we climb a tree. I always say the only thing that limits you getting into a tree is your imagination and the tree itself. We are not selling saddles, we sell what you can do with saddles, and that my friend is limitless the best part is its fee😀
Could you still use your regular safety harness in addition with this system or would that be to much? I’m just thinking as a beginner until I get fully confident with the saddle.
You probably could but its a bit much. I understand the feeling . It takes a little time getting confident and comfortable in the saddle. In a tree stand your primary safety is your balance and the stand itself , the safety harness is a back up. In a saddle the saddle acts as your stand and theres no balance required for safety. What I like to do is back up all my single points of failure with redundency , that acts as my safety harness , however theres nothing day you cant use the safety harness as well . You need to do what makes YOU comfortable but I would say practice low to the ground and if you have good quality equipment and you know everything is done right you should be fine
The one in this video is a Ridge Runner by Out On A Limb. We also use the Predator platform by Tethrd. There both good Platforms. The Predator is more streamlined and will fit in most packs from 1500 Cubic inches on up , Thanks Jim
Great advice, guys. Back in the 80's, as a Hunter Safety Instructor for the state of New Jersey while stationed at Fort Dix, we were taught that most tree stand accidents happened when transitioning onto /off from the platform. The recommendation was to always step down onto the platform, and to step up from the platform, and to attach yourself to the tree. Lineman's lanyards soon arrived on the scene, and all sorts of safety equipment soon followed. I appreciate your sound advice. Hunt safely, my Friends!
Good stuff. One minor comment. Personally, I would connect the bridge to the tether before stepping one foot onto the platform where possible depending on tree size. I know he's got the linemans belt connected, but suppose the platform gives way completely. I could see falling sideways with just a linesman belt being rough.
One thing I would add is to plan out your climb and position setup when you reach the tree. Get all your stuff organized to support that--i.e. the stuff you need first should be on top and the last stuff on the bottom. That will help keep you from making bad decisions when you're up in the air. My bow and release are the last things I haul up and everything else is set before that happens. That keeps me from shifting into "hunting mode" before I'm ready.
I suggest buying the adjustable bridge from aerohunter. we like to tie off the excess of your tether to the second bridge. This backs up the carabiner and the main bridge
please make vid showing how once at hunting height you set your platform and get linemans rope above it- newbie question but i plan on using spurrs or hawk stiks and I remember back when I was younger that I used to get my stand trapped on my linemans rope when i was in a hurry
Robert when I use climbing sticks I tie in with my tether first then install the platform . After I step onto it I readjust . I usually like to leave my lineman in place too , so that I can keep my body away from the tree and work hands free. But we can try to make a video on how we do it
@@NYSaddleHunter hey thanks for the reply-i just got a saddle but have not used it yet as I have no trees on my property (10 blocks from beach)nj...haven't used my tree gaffs since 2006 so a little nervous about getting on them again, 55 now so I don't want to get hurt
I want to get into saddle hunting next year and want to know in your opinion and keeping in mind that money and safety are my 2 biggest concerns what is the top 3 saddles I should take the closet look at when considering one
Great video! I'm pretty new to saddle hunting, I still wear a rock harness for an added tie in. This lets me hange from my bridge and have the rock harness for my emergency back up.
I am an old rock climber and I have carried over my gear to tree climbing. I use my harness and made a platform to sit on at hunt height that relieves pressure of harness but never disconnect from the harness. I have no saddle.
Agree with this safety element, I spliced a double eye Amsteel bridge, use a carabiner on each side, run it thru the carabiner on the tether and connect to the bridge loops, in addition, I use the tag end of my tether to tie a bowline around the 2 Amsteel bridges in case the hardware (carabiner, Ropeman 1) fail. Only then do I disconnect the Lineman's line from the saddle. Feel that I have made a lot of progress, In January, I was nervous about changing a lightbulb in the house, now I am climbing 20 feet in the air on trees in the woods trying to find some pigs. All of this is in preparation for fall deer season, appreciate the video!!! BTW, I still fear getting into the tree, I welcome the fear, it causes me to be extra careful
your right about the fear. If we keep it it makes us more careful. Knowing we've got fear doesn't make us weak or sissies. It keeps us alive to get back home to loved ones.
Love the videos you guys! I’m climbing using predator line and after about 10 climbs the tail end of my rope is fuzzy where the Blake’s hitch bites. Can you make a video showing your rope and when to retire it?
I never detach my lineman’s rope “lanyard”. So once I get up to height I fix my tether, get on the platform or steps, then I just loosen my lineman’s rope. That way I’ve got my back up and nothing extra to deal with.
NY Saddle Hunter my linesman is about 8’ long so it’s never in my way when I let all the slack out, even on a pretty huge tree. Just a little more security, without the extra bulk.
Drt question if you don't mind. I was wondering since I mostly hunt small diameter trees without any good limbs I'm forced to tether the main trunk. Was wondering would it be ok in your opinon to go around making set ups by climbing a tree with sticks putting a heavy duty tether in the tree with a loop knot at the bottom of it like a figure 8 or overland. Then ratchet strap it to the tree. Then run your paracord loop through the loop of the pre set tether then around th girth of the main stem then back to the ground. So you get to the tree when ready to hunt you send your drt ropes up through that permanent loop tether which also girths the tree instead of the conventional around a branch or crotch ed in? Or maybe just a ratchet strap around the tree with a metal ring? Or maybe ratchet strap a carabiner to a tree? Just now thinking also ratchet strap two d rings or 2 carabiner one on each side of the tree. Run the pre set paracord loop through both rings plus girthed around the tree. Sorry for the weird question just brain storming.
What you want to do is similar to whats called a cambium friction saver. You could do that however since your life is riding on it I would learn about what a friction saver is , buy a approved one and install that . You dont want to trust your life and safety to anything thats not a arborist climbing approved device if your climbing on it . You may be able to make some DIY friction savers possibly however it needs to be well thought out, with material thats approved for climbing to ensure its safe.
@@jhuntley575 I was thinking one way that might work for what you want to do is if you buy some quality climbing rope and make a tether to just as you would use on your saddle with a good climbing carabiner 25 kn or more . Tether it to the tree just as if you climbed with sticks and leave that in place with a paracord loop through the carabine or a steel ring that would probably work. The only thing Id worry about is pulling the knot on my climbing line up through the carabiner. Needs to be a bigger ring or caribiner that will allow you to fish the knot and climbing line through. Once its through your good.
@@NYSaddleHunter I appreciate you thinking on that and coming up with something. Good to know about the knot and size of carabiner. I'm going to go to the local climbing shop today on my lunch break to get my drt ropes and some supplies to try that and possibly a few other ideas. I was also wondering how long the pre set tethers would hold up staying out in the weather for the next 6 weeks the season here is open. I'm getting tired of carrying sticks and steps plus the repelling down at the end of the hunt with minimal pack up time I just dont want to wait another season to get started. I know its kind of late but still worth it. Thanks
@@jhuntley575 if its good quality climbing line that you are leaving in the tree for 6 weeks , I wouldnt think thats a problem at all . I would however retrieve them at the end of the season . I probably wouldnt leave it out all year and trust that its still safe the following year. Not that I believe it wouldnt be however Id be concernend about squirells nibbling on it if its out that long. As it is I would inspect it from the ground with binoculars to make sure the tether looks good and un tampered with by any critter before you climb each time. Also any knots make sure you know a good safe climbing knots and how to make and test them before climb. You need to be sure its all right and safe before you climb. You cant afford to learn by a mistake. Climb safe! Good luck and I hope it works out well for you!
Thanks for the safety reminders. When climbing and setting sticks it seems safer to use the tether. Or is it to much in the way when putting the sticks on.
Id say the tether is definitly safer than just a lineman / lanyard its just that you would be relying on your lanyard until you get to hunting height and set your tether , then clip in. It wouldnt be in the way if theres no limbs going up and if there was limbs , youd want to tie in the tether abov the limb before removing the lanyard
Tether is much safer. See my remarks above. You can still use your Lineman's lanyard when standing on the top of your current stick for repositioning your tether to go around limbs. This is where a lineman's lanyard shines. It keeps you close to the tree and allows you to relax and use both hands to reposition your tether. It's a bit slower than the opposite were you use a tether as a second Lineman's lanyard because you have to un-girth hitch the tether from around the tree and re-girth hitch it which takes longer than unattaching carabiner on Lineman's and throwing it over a limb and around the tree and reconnecting to your harness. But if you fall with a tether you will suffer much less trauma compared to a fall with a Lanyard. The tether will never get below your head let alone all the way down to your feet, as sometimes and even often happens with a lanyard. I find when I use a Lineman's Lanyard while climbing with sticks or bolts, that I have to have the belt really loose (a lot of slack) in order to be far back enough to allow me to get my foot up to the next step. When I do step up the lanyard is stuck way below my knee and I have to reach around to work it up before I can fully stand up on the next step. It's dangerous and it's taxing on the leg muscles and it makes you sweat and noisy. If I want to use a lanyard and avoid having to use a tether for climbing, I need my steps to be small, less spacing between steps. That way I can keep my lanyard from getting slack and still move my feet from step to step. On presets, I install bolts and I space them close so I can climb safely and in less time using a lanyard. In fact, I'm building new sticks right now for that very reason. They are easy to climb with no lanyard, but with a lanyard they are a workout and it ends up being noisy because of the struggle with the lanyard. Hope that helps.
Thanks for making videos on saddle hunting! I find the information extremely helpful considering I'm looking into getting into saddle hunting. Maybe you already covered this and I missed the video but could you show how to hang a platform when climbing drt?
Hope you can see how I attach the platform. I apologize for all the limbs in the way. I’m attaching a Predator platform from Tether. I also have the Ridge Runner from Out On A Limb. Both good platforms but we like the Predator more due to ease of setting up and packability . Thanks Robert
First thanks for the information on these videos. I just received my kestrel flex yesterday and it has a fixed bridge. What would be the best way of adding a second bridge? Keep up the great work guys! Thank you
Fixed bridge? I thought they come with an adjustable bridge? I recomend simply buying another bridge from aero hunter and installing it. This is how I installed mine but I recomend a factory bridge from aerohunter. its safer and adjustable ruclips.net/video/DIz9o0ug0LA/видео.html
Good video guys. We are so lucky to have Scott who is a seasoned veteran Arobist. Listen closely to these guys because they know what they are doing. Pre loading your secondary or primary POINT OF LIFE SUPPORT CONTACT IS CRUCIAL. Slow smooth fluid movements keep your eyes peeled on hardware and knots. I put the high visibility para cord with light reflective Tracer on all of my ascender release mechanisms. All life support connecting points have this. As far as Pauls comments I dont know what to say other than maybe paul could show us how he moves in the tree. Anyways im going back to the Srt site where common sense prevails and people are begging to learn the safe way to climb. Rock on ScottyO and Joe.
When you climb DRT do you even use a tether, or could you just stay attached to your climbing rope? I don't really even want to use a tether...... Ok, just got to the point where Scott described staying on his rope with no tether....lol. Question answered! Thanks guys!! Keep em coming!
Scott doesnt even own a tether he saddle hunts DRT all the time. You must realize he is a tree guy by trade so hes very comfortable this way. I ( Joe) usually transition to my tether, Im more comfortable that way so its personal prefrance on whats best for the i individual
It’s the Kestrel Flex from Aero Hunter. Joe runs the Tethered Mantis . The Flex caters more to my style of DRT. ( Not that I’m showing it in this Video ). I’m more of a sitter than a leaner. I almost never use a tether with my saddle . Once on my rope I never come off of it. Thanks Doug !!!
@@NYSaddleHunter Awesome!!! Thanks for the reply. I haven't got into saddle hunting (!!!...YET...!!!), but plan on it for the next hunting season. I always thought that the DRT method would be the best way to access hang-on stands. Definitely make them virtually inaccessible to most anyone else, that shouldn't be there anyway. Then one day, I ran across you guys, and have been hooked every sense. If you wouldn't mind me asking one more question. Cost wise for all gear needed, what kinda money would the full setup cost, to get you hunting using this method...? Thank you!!
👍thank you. I definitely better start now, for next year. I did notice that the predator rope was currently unavailable. Is that due to the time of year, and everyone trying to order it..., and what would be your second go to if you were unable to get the predator climbing line...?
Hey guys loved the videos I’ve been watching you for 3 days now and have watched all your videos! But my question for you guys is concerning the predator platform and how big of a tree it can go around. Because in one of your videos you go on this giant oak and I was curious how would you plan on hunting a tree that big in concerns of where to put your feet for bow hunting ?
That’s the beauty of this system Nick.. had Dozens of times where a large diameter tree was the killing tree but could never access it due to a stands 20” capability. This is where DRT shines. As far as a platform goes the large diameter limbs will serve you and hide you well. Good luck Nick !!!
@@nicksmith8607 Yes, however you could always buy webing to increase the strap length on a predator platform to go around large trunks, but in the real big oaks like in the mock hunt video we use limbs
About 22.5' if you use 5' for your blakes hitch . Definitly better with 75' . If you buy 50' might want to use a split tail , that will let you use every bit of your rope and get you 25'
Out of all the guys who I have talked to and watched videos when I ask myself who I would like to work with, It is Joe, Scott and Jamie Cline. Because you know what friends, these guys make sense, these guys are not promoting a sales pitch, safety is number one concern and these 3 guys I am guessing are contractors, tree guys or somebody who has a solid background in trades safety and have unselfish traits.
two bridges and two prussic knots? Did you use two prussic knots and two lifelines when you hunted out of a hang on stand? Do you use two knots when climbing DRT? Do you put two ropes on your climbing sticks? I think rather than worrying about having two of everything, the emphasis on being connected to the tether before getting onto the platform is the key. Has anyone said they fell because they didn't have a second bridge or prussic knot? Did the tether or the prussic fail. I highly doubt it. That's not where the failures are happening. It's not in the ropes, it's in not having the ropes in use so they hold or catch your weight. To me, having double of everything makes a mess and perhaps more slips from fumbling around with the mess.
I never used two prussic knots when i used a hunter safety system but that was a fall arrest system . When hunting in a stand your primary fall restraint is your stand and your balance. In most cases the safey harness never is actually coming into play , uts there in case of a fall to arrest the fall. In a saddle you are in a fall restraint system and you dont have a back up safety harness so by adding redundency it serves a similar function to a hunter safety system when in a tree stand. So the point is anythi g you can back up and add some redundency might help in the event of a mistake or gear failure.
@@NYSaddleHunter I hear what you are saying, I just disagree. As you said, a life line or tree strap doesn't even get tested until you fall. With a saddle, everything has to be right to even start the climb if you are using your ropes correctly. I just think all the redundancy in the tree saddle is unnecessary and cumbersome, which causes confusion and mistakes. The focus needs to be on CONNECTING TO THE TETHER ASAP and ESPECIALLY BEFORE climbing from sticks to platform. The sooner you are connected to the Tether, the better. The safest way to climb too, is with the tether attached as you go rather than a lineman's lanyard, but everyone uses a linesman's lanyard because it's convenient. But we put ourself at risk of injury every time that lanyard gets slack in it. The lineman's lanyard is most beneficial at allowing hands free hanging and positioning of sticks and platform when standing up straight. For climbing its generally more in the way and makes moving from step to step more difficult. How many times do you find yourself (other than DRT) climbing and instead of standing up nice and straight and comfortable on the next step, you have to stand with knee half bent because your lineman's lanyard is stuck on the bark on the back of the tree below your knees and you have to reach around and reposition it so you can stand up again. That's a very vulnerable position to be in. I don't disagree with anything else in the video, only that two prussic and two carabiners and two bridges is going to make a difference in why guys are having accidents. If you feel comfortable that way, by all means do it. I just think the point of the video was to show how to avoid having accidents a couple guys have had. It wasn't because they didn't have double of everything. It was because they probably didn't use their ropes correctly and didn't transition from Lineman's lanyard to tether properly before transitioning from climbing method to platform. Scott showed that perfectly in his demonstration. If you don't do that correctly, as Scott showed, it won't matter how many prussic knots or carabiners you carry into the field.
@@paulcrave9149 This is a great discussion, I learned things just from reading the comments. I personally have been using my lanyard after connecting to the tether, as a second bridge- makes me feel safer, the 1/4 inch amsteel bridge on my Mantis makes me nervous although I realize it's strong.
@@underdogoutdoors I use a second bridge of webbing on my mantis for comfort. The amstel isn't long enough for resting my head on the bridge and has less hip pinch so bc of that I do hook both up. I keep the amsteel a little slack.
@@paulcrave9149 relax man it's not cumbersome or confusing, why do you care so much if they want some extra insurance that they will make it home safely. If you want to hang off just a rope men like the thp then great no ones gonna give you a hard time. One thing for sure is that guy has been hanging out of trees professional for years. I guess when you have seen what he's seen then doing a little more than required safety wise gives him peace of mind.
Great information guys. I have always liked the single rope method over the tether/linesman rope. The main reason for me was always the transitions from tree to platform to climbing sticks etc. Moving from rope to rope from carabiner to carabiner or prusik knot, in the back of my mind that always had me thinking (WHAT IF). Because for me, there was too much going on where something could go wrong. "IMO" a single rope method just made things simple and in someway safer for me, because there was less things involved (if that makes sense). Once again thank you guys and great video. One of the best words you guys used here was "SLOW DOWN".
It would be nice to hear the stories of the people who got hurt to see what they did wrong. People watch a lot of how to videos and learn a lot from them but sometimes hearing the errors people have made would reinforce the moment of truth incidents when they made the mistake that cost them. Obviously they made a critical mistake. i would like to hear their stories so it would reinforce the way to do it right.
Could you still use your regular safety harness in addition with this system or would that be to much? I’m just thinking as a beginner until I get fully confident with the saddle.
Great Video. Thanks
You guys are doing the saddle community a great service by teaching sound techniques. Thank you so much for your efforts, our families appreciate, and thank you too.
Thanks for the positive feedback , we appreciate it!
Good video and advice. This is why I prefer 2TC. There's no transition, and always double connection.
My first time practicing going up a tree with my saddle I clipped on the the tail of my bridge instead of the bridge itself when I transitioned! Luckily I noticed before I put my full weight on it. I would have fallen about 12'. Scared the crap out of me. I check, check, and tripple check everything to this day. I think that mishap was a blessing in disguise. I am looking to SRT this year as I am still finding spots with the best trees not being suitable for stick climbing.
Yikes Close call. Have to be constantly vigilant !!!
Reach out anytime. Getting some Gri Gri + in soon or if you prefer Madrock have kits ready to go ! Hit me up anytime with questions.
Safe climbs !!!
Scott how long is your bridge on that Aero Hunter?
I almost had a accident, I put my tether on without looking just feeling. What I didn't know was the carabiner was just hung on my bridge. It slipped before I took my linesmen line off. That 6 inches I fell back almost gave me a stroke. Taught me a valuable lesson. It was easy to make that mistake. Check, check and recheck.
As a rock climber I have taken two falls on rope over twenty feet. The second fall I stopped less than three feet from ground. Believe me if you're not safe it could ruin your day or life.
great content..ive been an tree climber for 20yrs so climbing trees up to and above 50ft at times is nothing to me cause i do it everyday but i will say when i saddle hunt which i do most of the time i wanna mention 2 things that rarely if ever hear from other videos..i always keep my lanyard on! first thing your taught in my line of work is always have 2 points of contact to your tree! all i do to prevent my lanyard from sliding down the tree is to put a ezy step above it on the far side of the tree..i like to feel both points of contact just as i would in a tree im cutting down with a power saw..second thing is i will always always always try to avoid a single tree...i always want to hopefully find a double especially when both trunks are close together or getting above branches that are thick as or thicker than my wrist size...its def safer in my opinion and especially to a new saddle hunter..it took me 6months to really get used to trusting my body to be held by just ropes i my profession especially when your hanging 50 ft above the ground..i cant recall not being able to pull a shot off with my lanyard still attached to the tree and for whatever reason because of being tied in with both ropes if i cant pull off a shot then so be it..its not the end of the world..
slow is smooth, smooth is fast
I can’t tell you guys how much I appreciate all of the videos you take the time to make. Heights don’t scare me, but as a newbie saddle hunter, your videos educate me on everything from DRT to tying knots to useful mods and even hunting techniques. I think the most important ones have addressed safety. Many more seasoned saddle hunters might find some of this really elementary, but for us new guys, being able to test our knots and equipment and even how to transition to the platform is really helpful.
Thanks Trey appreciate that !
Thanks for this video. Saddle hunting is growing quickly, glad you guys are giving these critical details. “Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.”
I knew it was somthing like that lol
I’ve ordered my first saddle set after fixed Treestand hunting for 20 years I’ve been a bit nervous about it I wish we had a go to person here in Canada they could walk us through it in person but it’s not popular up here in fact hardly heard of
Whether you decide to go the stick route or ropes for your access . Practice constantly !
I tell people if your new to this concept, practice a foot off the ground and get real comfortable with positioning yourself 360 around the tree . You should be able to hang your platform blindfolded. Seriously it should be that easy for you before you actually hunt for the first time. Go through all the motions you would for a actual hunt and become very proficient at it. You can even do a mock hunt in your own yard if available. Go out at night to simulate an early morning hunt . And no matter what you choose to climb with always have a lifeline for a safe path to ground .
Welcome to the World of Saddle Hunting . It’s a extremely effective, safe, and fun way to hunt . Not to mention extremely lightweight and compact.
Good luck with you new venture ! We’re here to answer any questions you may have to help you get started. Good luck and Climb Safe !!!
www.newyorksaddlehunter.com/
13 weeks and it shipped today ,can't wait . Thanks for your videos, I'm soon to be 65 and will be using drt to get up the tree.saddle
key statement is "SLOW DOWN" take your time, think about what youre doing, double check, then check again
👍👍👍
I fell 22 feet January 9th, 2020. Listen to these dudes folks. Thanks for the vid!!!
I am a structural steel iron worker
Always 100% tie off always be connected to the tree no matter what
Always be sure your carabiner locks into your ropes
Don't lean back and hear your carabiner lock in by itself
He right slow down
Paraphrasing Superman, "I hope this hasn’t put you off of climbing (DRT, SRT, ). Statistically speaking, it’s still the safest way to climb a tree." (When done correctly!) :-)
DRT is just one of the many ways we climb a tree. I always say the only thing that limits you getting into a tree is your imagination and the tree itself. We are not selling saddles, we sell what you can do with saddles, and that my friend is limitless the best part is its fee😀
I'm going to be running the drt method. I will stay tied into my climbing line and use the tether for a back up on a second bridge.
Best of luck Derrick I hope its a good tool that helps up your game !
Could you still use your regular safety harness in addition with this system or would that be to much? I’m just thinking as a beginner until I get fully confident with the saddle.
You probably could but its a bit much. I understand the feeling . It takes a little time getting confident and comfortable in the saddle. In a tree stand your primary safety is your balance and the stand itself , the safety harness is a back up. In a saddle the saddle acts as your stand and theres no balance required for safety. What I like to do is back up all my single points of failure with redundency , that acts as my safety harness , however theres nothing day you cant use the safety harness as well . You need to do what makes YOU comfortable but I would say practice low to the ground and if you have good quality equipment and you know everything is done right you should be fine
I tried looking thru most of the comments before asking this, but what platform are you using there? It looks compact and secure
The one in this video is a Ridge Runner by Out On A Limb. We also use the Predator platform by Tethrd.
There both good Platforms. The Predator is more streamlined and will fit in most packs from 1500 Cubic inches on up , Thanks Jim
Have you ever heard of anyone using there regular safety harness as a backup or would that be in the way?
Great advice, guys. Back in the 80's, as a Hunter Safety Instructor for the state of New Jersey while stationed at Fort Dix, we were taught that most tree stand accidents happened when transitioning onto /off from the platform. The recommendation was to always step down onto the platform, and to step up from the platform, and to attach yourself to the tree. Lineman's lanyards soon arrived on the scene, and all sorts of safety equipment soon followed. I appreciate your sound advice. Hunt safely, my Friends!
Good stuff. One minor comment. Personally, I would connect the bridge to the tether before stepping one foot onto the platform where possible depending on tree size. I know he's got the linemans belt connected, but suppose the platform gives way completely. I could see falling sideways with just a linesman belt being rough.
Awesome video . Thank you
thanks for this great video and sharing your expertise in this saddle hunting & safety.
One thing I would add is to plan out your climb and position setup when you reach the tree. Get all your stuff organized to support that--i.e. the stuff you need first should be on top and the last stuff on the bottom. That will help keep you from making bad decisions when you're up in the air. My bow and release are the last things I haul up and everything else is set before that happens. That keeps me from shifting into "hunting mode" before I'm ready.
Where can you purchase a second bridge? If you have a second bridge can you use the existing carabiner on the tethr for both bridges?
I suggest buying the adjustable bridge from aerohunter.
we like to tie off the excess of your tether to the second bridge. This backs up the carabiner and the main bridge
please make vid showing how once at hunting height you set your platform and get linemans rope above it- newbie question but i plan on using spurrs or hawk stiks and I remember back when I was younger that I used to get my stand trapped on my linemans rope when i was in a hurry
Robert when I use climbing sticks I tie in with my tether first then install the platform . After I step onto it I readjust . I usually like to leave my lineman in place too , so that I can keep my body away from the tree and work hands free.
But we can try to make a video on how we do it
@@NYSaddleHunter hey thanks for the reply-i just got a saddle but have not used it yet as I have no trees on my property (10 blocks from beach)nj...haven't used my tree gaffs since 2006 so a little nervous about getting on them again, 55 now so I don't want to get hurt
Robert Ahlholm probably a good idea. Very easy to gaff out.
I want to get into saddle hunting next year and want to know in your opinion and keeping in mind that money and safety are my 2 biggest concerns what is the top 3 saddles I should take the closet look at when considering one
Tethrd Mantis
Aerohunter Kestral Flex
Guidos web JX3 hybrid
Are my top 3 favorites.. Scott owns the Kestral flex , Joe owns the Tetherd Mantis
@@NYSaddleHunter thank you
Great video! I'm pretty new to saddle hunting, I still wear a rock harness for an added tie in. This lets me hange from my bridge and have the rock harness for my emergency back up.
I am an old rock climber and I have carried over my gear to tree climbing. I use my harness and made a platform to sit on at hunt height that relieves pressure of harness but never disconnect from the harness. I have no saddle.
Keep up the great work you guys
educating people on being safe. 👍🏼
Thanks William!!
Agree with this safety element, I spliced a double eye Amsteel bridge, use a carabiner on each side, run it thru the carabiner on the tether and connect to the bridge loops, in addition, I use the tag end of my tether to tie a bowline around the 2 Amsteel bridges in case the hardware (carabiner, Ropeman 1) fail. Only then do I disconnect the Lineman's line from the saddle. Feel that I have made a lot of progress, In January, I was nervous about changing a lightbulb in the house, now I am climbing 20 feet in the air on trees in the woods trying to find some pigs. All of this is in preparation for fall deer season, appreciate the video!!!
BTW, I still fear getting into the tree, I welcome the fear, it causes me to be extra careful
your right about the fear. If we keep it it makes us more careful. Knowing we've got fear doesn't make us weak or sissies. It keeps us alive to get back home to loved ones.
Love the videos you guys! I’m climbing using predator line and after about 10 climbs the tail end of my rope is fuzzy where the Blake’s hitch bites. Can you make a video showing your rope and when to retire it?
I never detach my lineman’s rope “lanyard”. So once I get up to height I fix my tether, get on the platform or steps, then I just loosen my lineman’s rope. That way I’ve got my back up and nothing extra to deal with.
Nothing wrong with that. If its not in your way or hindering you why not?
NY Saddle Hunter my linesman is about 8’ long so it’s never in my way when I let all the slack out, even on a pretty huge tree. Just a little more security, without the extra bulk.
Drt question if you don't mind. I was wondering since I mostly hunt small diameter trees without any good limbs I'm forced to tether the main trunk. Was wondering would it be ok in your opinon to go around making set ups by climbing a tree with sticks putting a heavy duty tether in the tree with a loop knot at the bottom of it like a figure 8 or overland. Then ratchet strap it to the tree. Then run your paracord loop through the loop of the pre set tether then around th girth of the main stem then back to the ground. So you get to the tree when ready to hunt you send your drt ropes up through that permanent loop tether which also girths the tree instead of the conventional around a branch or crotch ed in? Or maybe just a ratchet strap around the tree with a metal ring? Or maybe ratchet strap a carabiner to a tree? Just now thinking also ratchet strap two d rings or 2 carabiner one on each side of the tree. Run the pre set paracord loop through both rings plus girthed around the tree. Sorry for the weird question just brain storming.
What you want to do is similar to whats called a cambium friction saver. You could do that however since your life is riding on it I would learn about what a friction saver is , buy a approved one and install that . You dont want to trust your life and safety to anything thats not a arborist climbing approved device if your climbing on it . You may be able to make some DIY friction savers possibly however it needs to be well thought out, with material thats approved for climbing to ensure its safe.
@@NYSaddleHunter ok I will research that I appreciate the info and advice
@@jhuntley575 I was thinking one way that might work for what you want to do is if you buy some quality climbing rope and make a tether to just as you would use on your saddle with a good climbing carabiner 25 kn or more . Tether it to the tree just as if you climbed with sticks and leave that in place with a paracord loop through the carabine or a steel ring that would probably work. The only thing Id worry about is pulling the knot on my climbing line up through the carabiner. Needs to be a bigger ring or caribiner that will allow you to fish the knot and climbing line through. Once its through your good.
@@NYSaddleHunter I appreciate you thinking on that and coming up with something. Good to know about the knot and size of carabiner. I'm going to go to the local climbing shop today on my lunch break to get my drt ropes and some supplies to try that and possibly a few other ideas. I was also wondering how long the pre set tethers would hold up staying out in the weather for the next 6 weeks the season here is open. I'm getting tired of carrying sticks and steps plus the repelling down at the end of the hunt with minimal pack up time I just dont want to wait another season to get started. I know its kind of late but still worth it. Thanks
@@jhuntley575 if its good quality climbing line that you are leaving in the tree for 6 weeks , I wouldnt think thats a problem at all . I would however retrieve them at the end of the season . I probably wouldnt leave it out all year and trust that its still safe the following year. Not that I believe it wouldnt be however Id be concernend about squirells nibbling on it if its out that long. As it is I would inspect it from the ground with binoculars to make sure the tether looks good and un tampered with by any critter before you climb each time. Also any knots make sure you know a good safe climbing knots and how to make and test them before climb. You need to be sure its all right and safe before you climb. You cant afford to learn by a mistake. Climb safe!
Good luck and I hope it works out well for you!
Thanks for the safety reminders. When climbing and setting sticks it seems safer to use the tether. Or is it to much in the way when putting the sticks on.
Id say the tether is definitly safer than just a lineman / lanyard its just that you would be relying on your lanyard until you get to hunting height and set your tether , then clip in.
It wouldnt be in the way if theres no limbs going up and if there was limbs , youd want to tie in the tether abov the limb before removing the lanyard
Tether is much safer. See my remarks above. You can still use your Lineman's lanyard when standing on the top of your current stick for repositioning your tether to go around limbs. This is where a lineman's lanyard shines. It keeps you close to the tree and allows you to relax and use both hands to reposition your tether. It's a bit slower than the opposite were you use a tether as a second Lineman's lanyard because you have to un-girth hitch the tether from around the tree and re-girth hitch it which takes longer than unattaching carabiner on Lineman's and throwing it over a limb and around the tree and reconnecting to your harness. But if you fall with a tether you will suffer much less trauma compared to a fall with a Lanyard. The tether will never get below your head let alone all the way down to your feet, as sometimes and even often happens with a lanyard. I find when I use a Lineman's Lanyard while climbing with sticks or bolts, that I have to have the belt really loose (a lot of slack) in order to be far back enough to allow me to get my foot up to the next step. When I do step up the lanyard is stuck way below my knee and I have to reach around to work it up before I can fully stand up on the next step. It's dangerous and it's taxing on the leg muscles and it makes you sweat and noisy.
If I want to use a lanyard and avoid having to use a tether for climbing, I need my steps to be small, less spacing between steps. That way I can keep my lanyard from getting slack and still move my feet from step to step. On presets, I install bolts and I space them close so I can climb safely and in less time using a lanyard. In fact, I'm building new sticks right now for that very reason. They are easy to climb with no lanyard, but with a lanyard they are a workout and it ends up being noisy because of the struggle with the lanyard.
Hope that helps.
Thanks for Sharing guys👌
Thanks for making videos on saddle hunting! I find the information extremely helpful considering I'm looking into getting into saddle hunting. Maybe you already covered this and I missed the video but could you show how to hang a platform when climbing drt?
ruclips.net/video/sdR8Y9K2ACw/видео.html
Hope you can see how I attach the platform. I apologize for all the limbs in the way. I’m attaching a Predator platform from Tether. I also have the Ridge Runner from Out On A Limb. Both good platforms but we like the Predator more due to ease of setting up and packability . Thanks Robert
Thank you! Great info! Your channel is such a great resource for people looking to get in saddle hunting drt.
First thanks for the information on these videos. I just received my kestrel flex yesterday and it has a fixed bridge. What would be the best way of adding a second bridge? Keep up the great work guys! Thank you
Fixed bridge? I thought they come with an adjustable bridge? I recomend simply buying another bridge from aero hunter and installing it.
This is how I installed mine but I recomend a factory bridge from aerohunter. its safer and adjustable
ruclips.net/video/DIz9o0ug0LA/видео.html
You all should make an update after the season on how your plan of hunting based on last year's intel went. I'm interested to hear how it worked.
What saddle are you running?
Scott runs the aero hunter kestral flex , Joe runs the Tethrd mantis
Good video guys. We are so lucky to have Scott who is a seasoned veteran Arobist. Listen closely to these guys because they know what they are doing. Pre loading your secondary or primary POINT OF LIFE SUPPORT CONTACT IS CRUCIAL. Slow smooth fluid movements keep your eyes peeled on hardware and knots. I put the high visibility para cord with light reflective
Tracer on all of my ascender release mechanisms. All life support connecting points have this. As far as Pauls comments I dont know what to say other than maybe paul could show us how he moves in the tree. Anyways im going back to the Srt site where common sense prevails and people are begging to learn the safe way to climb. Rock on ScottyO and Joe.
See my comments above. That's how I climb.
When you climb DRT do you even use a tether, or could you just stay attached to your climbing rope? I don't really even want to use a tether...... Ok, just got to the point where Scott described staying on his rope with no tether....lol. Question answered! Thanks guys!! Keep em coming!
Scott doesnt even own a tether he saddle hunts DRT all the time. You must realize he is a tree guy by trade so hes very comfortable this way. I ( Joe) usually transition to my tether, Im more comfortable that way so its personal prefrance on whats best for the i individual
Scott likes to stay on his climbing rope to hunt. Joe likes to transition from DRT rope to a tether at hunting height.
Good job in presenting safety when climbing and transitioning.
Inspection and 2points of contact, forget about it. Lol, great video guys!
It's " Fa get about it" lol
@@NYSaddleHunter you guys ever make it to KY let me know, got some nice public tracks around here, throw some ropes, fa get about it!
Fur Fins & Feathers Outdoors Thankyou FFF. Joe and I are looking to do a couple road trip next season. Would love to chase some Kentucky bucks. !!!
@@NYSaddleHunter keep in touch
100% tie off 100% of the time, never less.
Hi gentlemen, thanks for the great informational videos. If you don't mind me asking, what saddle is Scott running in this video...? Thanks!!!
It’s the Kestrel Flex from Aero Hunter. Joe runs the Tethered Mantis . The Flex caters more to my style of DRT. ( Not that I’m showing it in this Video ). I’m more of a sitter than a leaner. I almost never use a tether with my saddle . Once on my rope I never come off of it. Thanks Doug !!!
@@NYSaddleHunter Awesome!!! Thanks for the reply. I haven't got into saddle hunting (!!!...YET...!!!), but plan on it for the next hunting season. I always thought that the DRT method would be the best way to access hang-on stands. Definitely make them virtually inaccessible to most anyone else, that shouldn't be there anyway. Then one day, I ran across you guys, and have been hooked every sense. If you wouldn't mind me asking one more question. Cost wise for all gear needed, what kinda money would the full setup cost, to get you hunting using this method...? Thank you!!
@@dougbiddle255
saddle $199-$250
Platform $130-$180
Rope for DRT 75' predator around $80
Sticks around $150
👍thank you. I definitely better start now, for next year. I did notice that the predator rope was currently unavailable. Is that due to the time of year, and everyone trying to order it..., and what would be your second go to if you were unable to get the predator climbing line...?
@@dougbiddle255 yale bandit is a good substitute. Yes its very popular so its hard to keep in stock. Theres other good ropes but Predator is camo
Hey guys loved the videos I’ve been watching you for 3 days now and have watched all your videos! But my question for you guys is concerning the predator platform and how big of a tree it can go around. Because in one of your videos you go on this giant oak and I was curious how would you plan on hunting a tree that big in concerns of where to put your feet for bow hunting ?
That’s the beauty of this system Nick.. had Dozens of times where a large diameter tree was the killing tree but could never access it due to a stands 20” capability. This is where DRT shines. As far as a platform goes the large diameter limbs will serve you and hide you well. Good luck Nick !!!
NY Saddle Hunter so you instead of using the predator platform on a big tree you use the limbs to stand on?
@@nicksmith8607 Yes, however you could always buy webing to increase the strap length on a predator platform to go around large trunks, but in the real big oaks like in the mock hunt video we use limbs
or dont saddle hunt...
Slow is Smooth and Smooth is Fast.
Thats it !
Also how high can you get with 50 feet rope instead of 75 like you use? Thank you
About 22.5' if you use 5' for your blakes hitch . Definitly better with 75' . If you buy 50' might want to use a split tail , that will let you use every bit of your rope and get you 25'
@@NYSaddleHunter OR... SRT up 50'! (with a paracord line or your throw line to recover your climbing line)**WinK**. Hunt safely, my Friends !
hey Scott how do you lengthen your bridge when you are hanging
Yes it lessens hip pinch
so how do you go from the short bridge to long bridge
@@howardswayne4543
I explain in this video ruclips.net/video/z6zt4DwxXdc/видео.html
Out of all the guys who I have talked to and watched videos when I ask myself who I would like to work with, It is Joe, Scott and Jamie Cline. Because you know what friends, these guys make sense, these guys are not promoting a sales pitch, safety is number one concern and these 3 guys I am guessing are contractors, tree guys or somebody who has a solid background in trades safety and have unselfish traits.
Thanks Bob we really appreciate that !!
two bridges and two prussic knots? Did you use two prussic knots and two lifelines when you hunted out of a hang on stand? Do you use two knots when climbing DRT? Do you put two ropes on your climbing sticks?
I think rather than worrying about having two of everything, the emphasis on being connected to the tether before getting onto the platform is the key. Has anyone said they fell because they didn't have a second bridge or prussic knot? Did the tether or the prussic fail. I highly doubt it. That's not where the failures are happening. It's not in the ropes, it's in not having the ropes in use so they hold or catch your weight. To me, having double of everything makes a mess and perhaps more slips from fumbling around with the mess.
I never used two prussic knots when i used a hunter safety system but that was a fall arrest system . When hunting in a stand your primary fall restraint is your stand and your balance. In most cases the safey harness never is actually coming into play , uts there in case of a fall to arrest the fall.
In a saddle you are in a fall restraint system and you dont have a back up safety harness so by adding redundency it serves a similar function to a hunter safety system when in a tree stand.
So the point is anythi g you can back up and add some redundency might help in the event of a mistake or gear failure.
@@NYSaddleHunter I hear what you are saying, I just disagree. As you said, a life line or tree strap doesn't even get tested until you fall. With a saddle, everything has to be right to even start the climb if you are using your ropes correctly. I just think all the redundancy in the tree saddle is unnecessary and cumbersome, which causes confusion and mistakes. The focus needs to be on CONNECTING TO THE TETHER ASAP and ESPECIALLY BEFORE climbing from sticks to platform. The sooner you are connected to the Tether, the better. The safest way to climb too, is with the tether attached as you go rather than a lineman's lanyard, but everyone uses a linesman's lanyard because it's convenient. But we put ourself at risk of injury every time that lanyard gets slack in it. The lineman's lanyard is most beneficial at allowing hands free hanging and positioning of sticks and platform when standing up straight. For climbing its generally more in the way and makes moving from step to step more difficult. How many times do you find yourself (other than DRT) climbing and instead of standing up nice and straight and comfortable on the next step, you have to stand with knee half bent because your lineman's lanyard is stuck on the bark on the back of the tree below your knees and you have to reach around and reposition it so you can stand up again. That's a very vulnerable position to be in. I don't disagree with anything else in the video, only that two prussic and two carabiners and two bridges is going to make a difference in why guys are having accidents. If you feel comfortable that way, by all means do it. I just think the point of the video was to show how to avoid having accidents a couple guys have had. It wasn't because they didn't have double of everything. It was because they probably didn't use their ropes correctly and didn't transition from Lineman's lanyard to tether properly before transitioning from climbing method to platform. Scott showed that perfectly in his demonstration. If you don't do that correctly, as Scott showed, it won't matter how many prussic knots or carabiners you carry into the field.
@@paulcrave9149 This is a great discussion, I learned things just from reading the comments. I personally have been using my lanyard after connecting to the tether, as a second bridge- makes me feel safer, the 1/4 inch amsteel bridge on my Mantis makes me nervous although I realize it's strong.
@@underdogoutdoors I use a second bridge of webbing on my mantis for comfort. The amstel isn't long enough for resting my head on the bridge and has less hip pinch so bc of that I do hook both up. I keep the amsteel a little slack.
@@paulcrave9149 relax man it's not cumbersome or confusing, why do you care so much if they want some extra insurance that they will make it home safely. If you want to hang off just a rope men like the thp then great no ones gonna give you a hard time. One thing for sure is that guy has been hanging out of trees professional for years. I guess when you have seen what he's seen then doing a little more than required safety wise gives him peace of mind.
Great information guys. I have always liked the single rope method over the tether/linesman rope. The main reason for me was always the transitions from tree to platform to climbing sticks etc. Moving from rope to rope from carabiner to carabiner or prusik knot, in the back of my mind that always had me thinking (WHAT IF). Because for me, there was too much going on where something could go wrong. "IMO" a single rope method just made things simple and in someway safer for me, because there was less things involved (if that makes sense). Once again thank you guys and great video. One of the best words you guys used here was "SLOW DOWN".
It would be nice to hear the stories of the people who got hurt to see what they did wrong. People watch a lot of how to videos and learn a lot from them but sometimes hearing the errors people have made would reinforce the moment of truth incidents when they made the mistake that cost them. Obviously they made a critical mistake. i would like to hear their stories so it would reinforce the way to do it right.
Agree me too !
Could you still use your regular safety harness in addition with this system or would that be to much? I’m just thinking as a beginner until I get fully confident with the saddle.