Climbing sticks are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of hunting applications. Whether you are a bowhunter, rifle hunter, or wildlife photographer, climbing sticks can help you get the upper hand on your prey.

There are various types of climbing sticks, each with its benefits and drawbacks depending on your preferences and the hunting location. Contrary to the old proverb “Hunters cannot get rich,” today, with the advent of new hunting products, you can achieve your hunting goals easily.

Overview of 5 Climbing Sticks For Saddle Hunting

1. Hawk Helium Climbing Sticks

2. Muddy Pro Climbing Sticks

3. XOP Short Climbing Sticks

4. Rivers Edge Climbing Sticks

5. Lone Wolf Climbing Sticks

A Comprehensive Testing Approach For Climbing Sticks

Saddle-hunting enthusiasts understand the significance of reliable climbing sticks in their pursuit of elusive games. As the demand for high-quality gear continues to rise, it’s essential to conduct thorough testing to ensure optimal performance in the field.

Testing Methodology:

1. Location Selection:

Choose diverse hunting grounds like southwest Wisconsin’s Driftless Area for realistic testing. Varied terrain and tree species replicate real-world hunting scenarios.

2. Criteria Identification:

Establish clear evaluation criteria before testing begins. Criteria include weight, stackability, attachment method, material, noise, and climbing comfort.

3. Weight and Length Measurement:

Use a kitchen scale to weigh each climbing stick accurately. Measure length from step to step to assess portability and maneuverability.

4. Stackability Assessment:

Score climbing sticks based on packed dimensions and ease of packing. Evaluate noise level when stacked to minimize sound disturbance during transport.

5. Noise Evaluation:

Rate perceived sound level during setup on a scale of one to five. Minimize noise to avoid spooking game animals during hunting expeditions.

6. Climbing Comfort Testing:

Ascend various trees to evaluate grip, stability, and comfort.
Use a one-to-five scale to assess climbing comfort, prioritizing stability and minimal slipping.

Key Considerations for Purchasing Climbing Sticks:

1. Weight and Portability:

Opt for lightweight climbing sticks for easy transportation and maneuverability. Ensure portability, especially when navigating challenging terrain during hunting expeditions.

2. Stackability and Packing Ease:

Choose climbing sticks that stack neatly and securely for efficient packing. Minimize noise and bulk during transport to maintain stealth in the field.

3. Attachment Method:

Consider strap-on or screw-in attachment methods based on personal preference and hunting style. Ensure a secure attachment to trees for safety and stability during use.

4. Material Quality:

Invest in climbing sticks made from durable materials like aluminum or steel. Prioritize longevity and reliability to withstand rugged outdoor conditions.

5. Noise Level:

Select climbing sticks with minimal noise output during setup and use. Avoid startling game animals by maintaining stealth and quietness in the field.

6. Climbing Comfort:

Test climbing sticks for comfort and stability during ascent. Prioritize a secure grip and minimal slipping or twisting for enhanced safety and ease of use.

1. Hawk Helium Climbing Sticks

★Why You Choose This Climbing Stick

• 2-Step Configuration:- Easy to place extra sticks or the stand as your feet are both on a similar level. The steps can snap together with the new suction cup design.
• Strap Extension:- This strap is much quieter and smoother when compared to the buckled ones. But it might be noisy occasionally from the buckle striking the stand. Hold up to 320 lbs and provide more support to climbing sticks.

• Suction Cup Nesting:- I like to be very mobile as I carry two or more sticks with me. The stackability of the suction cups is a feature to consider. Makes it easier when fastening steps together.
• Tree Digger Bracket:- The bracket teeth can bite into bark for extra stability.

• Aluminum Body:- They will last longer than other steep climbing sticks or steps. You can paint on weld joints and end caps when needed. Build with aircraft-grade aluminum.

✔ Pros

• Most portable
• Dual-side traction delivers unmatched stability
• Suction cups for great holding
• Reasonably priced

❌ Cons

• Noisy straps 
• Inefficient packaging

Hawk is quickly becoming one of the most popular manufacturers of hunting products. They are known for their strong and easy-to-use climbing sticks. One of the key features that make these the best hunting climbing sticks is their ease of stacking and carrying. They come with a hard case with a suction cup for stacking each stick, and they also include 6 extra plunger buttons.

Another improvement I appreciate is the way the steps can be secured to the tree. The sticks use versa buttons and snap cups, which are much faster and quieter to use than traditional methods. The climbing sticks also have 3-step levels with 2 fold-out steps at each location on the support post. This provides a more secure platform when climbing and hanging into a stand.

Finally, I like the gripping teeth on the brackets. The smaller teeth found on many competitors’ sticks allow for tight stacking, but they can wobble when you stand on them. The Hawk sticks have larger teeth that provide a more secure grip. When you secure a step and pull down, the teeth bite into the tree. The stick tightens further when you place your foot on it, which eliminates any side movement.

Overall, the Hawk Helium climbing sticks are a great option for hunters who are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use set of sticks. They are strong, lightweight, and easy to stack and carry. The steps are secure and the gripping teeth provide a good grip. If you are looking for a new set of climbing sticks, I highly recommend the Hawk Helium sticks.

2. Muddy Pro Climbing Sticks

★Why You Choose This Climbing Stick

• Easy To Use Rope:- The muddy pro climbing sticks include steps on both sides for easy climbing and are super light to use.

• Built-in Silencers:- The silent shaft can eliminate excessive sound from metal-to-metal contact. 
• Steps:- Comes with double steps and is held with a diameter of 9”. You can climb up to 20 feet off the ground.
• Teeth Biters:- Includes aluminum teeth biters with silent cam bucket straps which can be used for all kinds of trees.

• Peg Pack Series:- The sticks come with various compatible muddy fixed-position treestand. You can use them in all kinds of trees and the rope cam system allows calm operation.

✔ Pros

• Works on both crooked and straight trees
• Amazing durability
• Well-made solid steps
• Easy setup

❌ Cons

• Could be lighter
• Overpriced

The Muddy Pro sticks are a great option for mobile hunters looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use, and reliable set of climbing sticks. They come with an easy-to-use rope cam system and include steps on both sides of the stick, making them perfect for climbing trees quickly and easily. The sticks are also super light in weight and packable, making them easy to transport.

The Muddy Pro sticks are also designed to attach to Muddy treestands without extra accessories. The aluminum teeth biters and silent cam-buckle straps provide a secure grip on any type of tree, and the built-in silencers help to reduce noise when climbing.

I liked the quick-stick XL size and built-in silencers, which can eliminate excessive sound from metal contact. The double steps are held to a diameter of 9” or taller tree through five 1” cam-buckle straps, which gives me peace of mind when climbing 20 feet off the ground.

However, I did experience a squeaking sound when the sticks were not set up properly. Additionally, the sticks are a bit more expensive than some other brands. However, I still feel that they are a decent climbing stick overall.

I recommend checking for seller reviews and details before buying, as there are loads of fake-ups on this brand. I suggest you follow the link I have provided.

3. XOP Short Climbing Sticks

★Why You Choose This Climbing Stick

Steps:- The patented arch step tech allows up to 350 lb weight.

Quick Strap:-The heat-treated steel fast strap buttons are easy to use and suitable for hanging.

Patterns:-Available in Mossy Oak and Strom Gray patterns.

Pivoting V Brackets:- You can adjust them to blend with the color of the tree.

Easy To Use:- It weighs light and is easy to install.

Patented Lock:- You don’t need a strap as it comes with a patented locking feature.

✔ Pros

• Exceptionally lightweight 
• Ultimate portability 
• Amazing price point
• Comes with buckle silencers and stealth strip

❌ Cons

• Unnecessarily hard forks to tighten

The XOP Short Climbing Stick is a sturdy and stylish option for hunters who are looking for a set of climbing sticks that offer a lot of space for large feet and tall bodies. It is available in sets of 3 to 4, but I would suggest going for the 4-pack. The sticks are silent and mobile to use, making them perfect for hunters who need to be able to set up quickly and quietly.

The stockier design of the XOP Short Climbing Stick adds comfort and security while climbing. The extra space between the steps and the tree also makes it easier to climb, especially for hunters who are carrying a lot of gear. The deep standoff bracket is suitable for heavy hunters, and the reversible steps make it easy to find a comfortable position.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks. First, the sticks are shorter than some other models, so you may need extra sticks for higher trees. Second, the steps are spaced at larger gaps than some other models, which may be uncomfortable for some hunters.

Overall, it is a great option for hunters who are looking for a sturdy, comfortable, and secure set of climbing sticks. It is easy to use and suitable for all-size hunters.

4. Rivers Edge Climbing Sticks

★Why You Choose This Climbing Stick

Double-Step Design: The two-step design makes it easier to climb in and out. 

Grip Coating:-The steps are coated with a non-slip coating for grip and extra safety.

Noiseless:- The straps are attached to the top to reduce metal contact.

Portable:- The sections nest together well for easy and compact transport.

Steps:- The step width is 11”, distance is 1.5”, height-32”, and capacity is 300 lb. 

✔ Pros

• Wide grip rail accommodates two feet 
• Fully-welded unit 
• Sturdy and simple design
• Exceptional quality

❌ Cons

• Bulky 
• Very loud 

Rivers Edge climbing sticks are a great option for hunters who want a secure and portable way to climb trees. The XL rungs allow you to place both feet on the same level, like a ladder, and the traction of its anti-slip coating provides excellent grip. The cam straps secure the sticks to the tree, and the noiseless strap attachment helps you stay concealed.

The Grip Stick and Rail styles offer different configurations, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. The Grip Stick is a single stick that can be used to climb up to 20 feet, while the Rail is a two-stick system that can reach up to 30 feet.

Both styles of Rivers Edge climbing sticks are made from durable materials and are completely welded for long-lasting performance. They are a great choice for hunters who want a reliable and safe way to reach their hunting spots.

5. Lone Wolf Climbing Sticks

★Why You Choose This Climbing Stick

Easy To Use:- Easy, quiet, and quick to install. It is designed to nest and mount directly on Alpha Hang-on and Assault treestand.

Pivoting V-Brackets:- It features a patented pivoting step and V-Brackets blend well with the natural contour of the tree.

Tube Design:- Light in weight due to its single tube design and also used as reversible steps for extra comfort. You can also use it with your boots.

Strap Extension:- It also includes a strap that fits 4″ to 22″tree diameter and holds up to a 350-pound weight rating.

Dual Usage:- You can also use this as an attachment with Assault treestand and Alpha hang-on treestand.

✔ Pros

• Lightweight 
• Self-leveling platform and seat 
• Quick and quiet installation 
• Comes with reversible steps for more convenience

❌ Cons

• Doesn’t come with a backpack strap
• Misleading information 

If you are looking for a better alternative to your current hunting climbing stick. Then Lone Wolf offers a solid option with patented pivoting steps and a V-bracket. The manufacturer has been offering hunters and wildlife photographers an ultimate choice of climbing sticks and other accessories. All their products are said to provide strength, mobility, and silence. They are assembled and shipped in the USA.

This climbing stick is designed to nest together and mount directly on the tree. They also feature reversible steps for added comfort. This is super light to carry and comes in packs of 4 or 3 stacked along with each other. You can hand them with a carrying strap (Which might not be included) and sling them over the shoulder. These sticks can be mounted easily with tree straps.

All you have to do is just put the strap around the tree’s neck, connect the loose end to the stick, and pull the rope. The sticks need not have to be connected at the ends. With the help of pivoting V brackets, you can easily follow the tree’s contour. I prefer the Lone Wolf to be first on this guide as it is easy to set up and dismantle. Once you get to use it, you can install the climbing sticks in just under 10 minutes.

The side ridges on the steps are super strong and offer excellent foot grip. The steps are reversible and can be filled to either side which can be used in various circumstances. For instance, when there are branches in your way or you want to reach far to one side of the climbing stick. It’s a highly low profile on the tree and connects seamlessly when using them to nest together. You can also mount them directly in the Assault treestand or Alpha hang-on treestand