Choosing the right ladder stand for bow hunting combines height, comfort, silence, and convenience. This guide dives deep into top models, real-world feedback, and expert tips to help you hunt smarter, stay stealthy, and enjoy every sit.
Why Ladder Stands Are Ideal for Bow Hunting
- Stability: A ladder anchored to the ground eliminates wobble when drawing your bow.
- Stealth: Elevated positioning helps with scent control and minimizes disturbance.
- Comfort: Features like flip‑back seats and footrests add comfort during long sits.
- Permanent setup: Semi-permanent use keeps deer from being spooked by new installations.
Top Ladder Stands for Bow Hunting
1. Muddy Skybox Deluxe – The Ultimate Bow Hunter’s Stand
- Height: 21 ft
- Weight: 82 lb
- Capacity: 350 lb
Why it shines:
Field & Stream and GearJunkie consistently choose it for its quiet flip-back seat and robust steel frame :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. Featuring a two‑way adjustable shooting rail, plush Flex‑Tek seat, footrest, and double‑rail ladder, it’s built for quiet, comfortable hunting :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Buyer feedback:
Amazon reviewers call it “well‑constructed, super stable,” though some note heft during set‑up :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Sportsman’s Warehouse users highlight its roomy flip‑up seat and solid platform :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
Considerations:
At 82 lb, setting up solo is challenging—using a hoist or partner is recommended. Assembly takes time, but once secured, notice and movement are minimal :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
2. Hawk BigHorn 1.5‑Man – Budget-Friendly Champion
- Height: Approximately 20 ft
- Weight: 82 lb
- Capacity: 300 lb
What makes it great:
Outdoor Life named it top budget bow stand under $350. It includes a roomy mesh seat, adjustable gun/bow rest, kick-out footrest, and a sizable platform :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
User impressions:
Despite complex assembly, hunters appreciate its spaciousness and comfort: “large platform … roomy mesh seat … kick‑out footrest” :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Trade-offs:
Instruction clarity and bolt sorting can be challenging, and the seat/footrest make minor noise when moving :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
3. Millennium L110 – Comfort Padded Excellence
- Height: 21 ft
- Weight: 92 lb
- Capacity: 300 lb
Standout features:
Field & Stream calls it the most comfortable—featuring padded shooting rail, armrests, contoured sling seat, and folding footrest for ergonomic long sits :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
Best use:
Ideal for those who prize comfort over portability. Steel frame and SafeLink harness system offer security even solo, though 92 lb is heavier than average.
4. Rivers Edge TwoPlex – Spacious Dual-Use Stand
- Height: 16 ft
- Weight: 86 lb
- Capacity: 500 lb
Why consider it:
Field & Stream endorses it for larger hunters or those who want to stand or sit when shooting :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. Includes flip-up seat, quiet operations, and adjustable rail.
Advantages:
Lower height improves accessibility; two-ratchet strap and cross-stabilizers boost stationary stability.
5. Primal Mac Daddy Xtra Wide Deluxe – The High & Heavyweight
- Height: 22 ft
- Weight: Approximately 100+ lb
- Capacity: 500 lb
Editor’s pick:
Sharpshaft lists it as the top overall ladder stand—its 22 ft height and extra-wide frame add stability and visibility :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. Jaw-and-truss system enhances steadiness.
Considerations:
Heavy and bulky; likely requires at least two people or equipment to install.
6. Rivers Edge RE647 Deluxe 1‑Man – Ultra-Light Mobile Option
- Height: ~17 ft
- Weight: Light, ideal for frequent moves
- Capacity: 300–350 lb
Why it stands out:
Targeting mobility, it’s featured in 2025 reviews for combining light weight and comfort with a flip-up mesh seat :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
Good for:
Hunters who relocate often or carry in on foot.
Bow Stand Comparison Table
| Stand | Height | Weight | Capacity | Ideal Use | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muddy Skybox Deluxe | 21 ft | 82 lb | 350 lb | Stealth + comfort | Flip‑back seat, shooting rail |
| Hawk BigHorn | 20 ft | 82 lb | 300 lb | Budget bow hunting | Mesh seat, footrest |
| Millennium L110 | 21 ft | 92 lb | 300 lb | Comfort-focused | Padded rails, sling seat |
| Rivers Edge TwoPlex | 16 ft | 86 lb | 500 lb | Big/stand shots | Flip-up seat, quiet |
| Primal Mac Daddy Deluxe | 22 ft | 100+ lb | 500 lb | High elevation | Wide frame, stability |
| Rivers Edge RE647 | ~17 ft | Light | 300–350 lb | Mobile stand | Flip‑up mesh seat |
Hunter Insights & Feedback
“Best ladder stands have … seat flips up so you can easily stand and remain close to the tree.” :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
“Muddy Skybox Deluxe … comfortable seat and quiet operation.” :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
“Large platform … roomy mesh seat … kick‑out footrest.” (Hawk BigHorn) :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
How to Choose the Right Bow Ladder Stand
- Height & Stealth: Elevate 18–21 ft to stay above deer scent lines.
- Weight & Deployment: Under 82 lb is manageable solo; consider hoists or UTV for heavier setups.
- Comfort Features: Flip‑back seat, footrest, padded rails = longer, quieter sits.
- Platform Size: Need room to draw or stand? TwoPlex and Mac Daddy offer extra space.
- Weight Capacity: Choose 300–500 lb to accommodate hunter + gear + any extra load.
- Durability: Steel frames and quality powder‑coat finishes ensure multi-season use.
Setup & Safety Recommendations
- Harness & Haul Line: Climb with your harness attached and use a rope for tools.
- Secure Strapping: Use ratchet and criss-cross straps for firm attachment.
- Silencing Tactics: Apply silicone or bar soap to metal-to-metal contact points.
- Shooting Position: Use flip‑back seat to draw while maintaining posture.
- Seasonal Maintenance: Inspect bolts, welds, straps; remove or camouflage in off-season.
Final Recommendations
- Muddy Skybox Deluxe: Top-tier height, comfort, and stealth — best overall if you can manage the weight.
- Hawk BigHorn: Affordable with bow-focused features, offering comfort without extra cost.
- Millennium L110: Premium comfort via padded rails — great for long sits.
- Rivers Edge TwoPlex: Stand or sit, ideal for larger hunters or hunters shooting from standing position.
- Primal Mac Daddy Deluxe: Bonus height and stability — choose if you need utmost visibility.
- Rivers Edge RE647: Ideal lightweight option for movers and pack-in hunters.
Conclusion
When selecting a ladder stand for bow hunting, focus on height (18–21 ft), comfort upgrades like flip-back seats and footrests, and manageability of weight. The stands covered here suit a wide range of hunting scenarios—from premium semi-permanent setups to nimble mobile solutions. Each offers distinct benefits, so match your hunting strategy, physical ability, and setup preferences to find your perfect fit.
Ready to commit? Let me know your priorities—whether it’s comfort, portability, or stealth—and I can help narrow your top pick and suggest essential accessories.