Function

• Climbing stands consist of two sections that work on the principle of opposing forces. The upper section consists of a seat, and the lower section a foot platform. Each section has two fastening devices that wrap around the tree on opposite sides and grip the trunk when any downward force, or weight, is applied. This feature makes it virtually impossible for a climbing stand to slip or fall while you are in it.
  
  

Options

• An import consideration in climbing-stand safety is adding optional safety features. Climbing stands with arm rails are one of the safest types and some have bars that wrap completely around your upper body, which will greatly reduce your chance of falling. Climbing tree stands with added safety features will cost a little more than the standard models but are worth the expense for the added safety.
  
  

Improvements

• Many of the earlier models of climbing stands were prone to accidents due to the design of the metal bars used to secure the stand to the tree. The bars would sometimes lose their grip and the stand would abruptly slide down the tree. Newer climbing stands have been redesigned with a system of cables or chains that securely lock the stand to the tree. This improvement virtually eliminates the possibility of the stand slipping and falling.
  
  

Risks

• In discussing climbing-stand safety, aside from human error, the biggest risk is mechanical failure. Malfunction can happen if you overload the stand past the manufacturer's weight limits or fail to check for wear and damage. Gear getting hung up in the mechanism as you are climbing can cause the stand to slip, triggering a fall. Attempting to climb a dead or diseased tree can cause the stand, or the tree itself, to fall.
  
  

Education

• For safety's sake, if you do not have experience with climbing tree stands, you should receive qualified instruction before you actually attempt to use a climbing stand on a tree. Most states offer hunter safety courses covering climbing-stand safety, and some states have courses available online. You can also view a video on climbing-stand safety at "Today's Bowhunter."