Deer hunters sometimes ask this question: “How to Build a Treestand for Deer Hunting?” Others would wonder, “Are tree stands hard to set up?” Well, tree stands aren’t that difficult to build, and I’ll show you how in this article. But let’s first understand what a treestand is.
What is a Treestand
A treestand is also called “deer stand,” or “ladder stand”. It is a platform that helps deer hunters get a better view of deer in an area. A tree stand can be open or enclosed, depending on the preference of the hunter. Most treestands are made of wood. They provide an excellent vantage point for professional and newbie hunters.
Tree stands have three different types:
- Ladder stands
- Climbing stands
- Hanging stands
Ladder and hanging stands have seats that you’ll see up in the tree. Meanwhile, hanging stands use cables and chains connected to the tree. Among these three tree stands, I’ll show you how to build a ladder stand (the most popular treestand for hunters).
Are you ready? Let‘s start.
How to Build a Treestand for Deer Hunting
Material
- 2×4 lumber (to build the stand platform, seat base, braces, rails, uprights, and steps).
- 2x4x14 treated lumber (to build the stand’s legs).
- 14 to 5/16 x 4 bolts with washers and nuts (you need this to assemble the stand).
- 1×6 bolts (used for the deck).
- 2-1/2 x6 lag bolts.
- 2-6 inch eyebolts (this is where you’ll attach the ratchet strap).
- 2.5-inch deck screws (essential for the steps and deck).
Tools
- Electric Drill
- Drill Bolts
- Crosscut Saw
- Square
- Tape Measure
Before we proceed further, keep in mind that safety comes first. If you doubt your carpentry skills, ask a carpenter for help.
Step By Step Instructions
- Measure top to bottom of the 2×4 lumber. Do this once you know the height of the stand platform. Drill a hole in the 2×4 lumber. Note: The treated lumber would determine the treestand’s height.
- Next, we’re ready to build the base of the platform. For example, your stand is 32 inches in width. So, the floor frame should be 29 inches wide and 42 inches deep. Support your floorboards by installing 2×4 joists in the platform’s center.
Then, drill two holes for the lag screws. This is important once you need to mount the stand up the tree.
- Cut 1×6 decks then attach to the stand’s platform using screws. Now, bolt the stand platform to the legs. Cut 2×4 lumbers (32 inches) or more until you reach the platform’s base.
Ladder
- Lay 2×4 beams (20 foot) side by side and 2-inch side is facing up.
- Next, cut 2×4 beams to 2 feet. You need 14 pieces to make the rungs for this step.
- At 18 inch intervals, place the rungs at 20 feet of the 2×4 lumber.
- Secure the rungs by using screws or nails.
- Now lean the “newly-made” ladder against a tree and tie the ladder’s top on the tree using a rope.
Seats
- To build the seat, you need two 42 inch rails (2×4) that run in the platform’s length. Then, 2×4’s measuring 32inch between the platform. Bolt the front seat base towards the ladder, depending on your preferred height.
- Next, cut two of 42-inch rails that would tie connect the ladder to the rear uprights. Cut the two rear uprights. Take note: The treated uprights should level with the top 2×4. Then, bolt the uprights both to the top rail and platform.
- Using an eyebolt, you bolt the seat base with the upright. Remember: The eyebolts are essential in tightening the ratchet strap for extra support.
- Position the stand and insert the braces between the platform base (at the back) and the braces.
Pro Tips:
- Ask someone to help you make a stand standing. Reposition the stand by leaving the bolts (holding the stand) a little loose.
- Use a ladder or climbing sticks to place the bolts on the platform. Secure first the stand of the tree. Then you screw the floorboards.
- Use two eye bolts to string your ratchet strap around the tree. The eye bolts make your treestand safer.
Make sure the placement of the tree stand looks perfect. Then, you can retighten the bolts holding the stand in place. The ratchet strap should be in the right place. Then you’re ready for your first or next deer hunt.
Improving Your Treestand
Once your treestand is complete, you can improvise it by adding a personal touch to your creation. Hunters staple a camouflage fabric to the stand’s frame to add more “secrecy” to the stand. Deer wouldn’t see or notice you if they happen to enter the tree stand.
The extra concealment gives you the advantage of observing while hunting deer. Feel free to place any hunting tools and equipment such as trail cameras, deer calls, etc.
A treestand not only gives you an excellent vantage point but also allows you to be comfortable while hunting. Once you build a deer stand, you can start using Topo maps to see the deer on the hunting site.
But before using a map, don’t forget to learn How to Read Topo Maps for Deer Hunting. Reading Topo maps gives you a great chance of hunting deer.
Conclusion
If it’s your first time building a stand, the whole process might be exhausting for you. The good news is your efforts are worth it! Most deer hunters build a deer stand only once. Another awesome thing about the treestand is it doesn’t need much repair or maintenance.
So, are you ready to ground build or set up your ladder stand? Start building your deer stand today for a happy and enjoyable deer hunting experience.
Last Updated on January 4, 2024 by Marty Prokop
