Want to hunt with a partner, shield against wind, rain, and deer sightlines? A two-person ladder stand with an enclosure is your answer. These hunting platforms offer shared comfort, height advantage, and weather protection—all-season ready. This guide examines top models in-depth, compares specs, includes real-user thoughts, setup tips, and key accessories.
Why Choose a Two-Person Ladder Stand With Enclosure?
- Space for Two: Generous seating allows partners to sit or stand side by side—good for extended sits or teaching newcomers.
- Concealment & Weather Shielding: Enclosures block wind, rain, and sun, and prevent deer from spotting movement.
- Height Advantage: At ~18–21 ft tall, these stands keep you out of deer detection zones and improve visibility.
- Gear and Comfort: Deck space fits bows, boots, coolers, and gear. Enclosures offer stealthy access windows.
- Durability: Built with heavy-duty steel, high-capacity ratings, and long-lasting finishes for season-after-season use.
Top 2‑Person Ladder Stands with Enclosures
1. Rivers Edge Lockdown 2‑Man Ladder Stand
- Height: 20.5 ft
- Weight: ~129 lb
- Capacity: 500 lb
- Platform: 42″ × 32.5″
- Enclosure: Replaceable blind with zip-open panels and ground-level ratchet tightening
The Rivers Edge Lockdown stands out with its 20.5 ft height and **Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology**, allowing you to strap the stand tightly without climbing—major safety plus :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. The tear-resistant bench seat fits two comfortably, and the adjustable shooting rail lets you shoot through the blind’s window :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Pros:
- Tallest option hides hunters above the deer’s natural sightline.
- Secure from ground—no climbing needed to tighten straps.
- Oversized seat and sturdy steel build reduce noise and flex.
Cons: Heavy, bulky, and around $500—best if you hunt with a buddy or can hoist it.
2. Guide Gear 20‑ft Double Rail Ladder Stand with Blind
- Height: 20 ft
- Weight: ~100 lb
- Capacity: ~500 lb
- Platform: 55″ extra-wide × 14″ deep
- Enclosure: Built-in wrap-around blind with padded shooting rail
This stand stands out for its extra-wide platform and built-in enclosure. The padded shooting rail folds into a blind that wraps around you with zipped openings—a real plus in cold or wind conditions :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. It’s strong, stable, and praised for ease of use :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
Pros:
- Widest platform—room for two or lots of gear.
- Enclosure included, quiet padded rail.
- Excellent value at ~$250–300.
Cons: Heavier stand and enclosure, weld quality slightly less robust than premium offerings.
3. Hawk Big Denali 2‑Man Ladder Stand + Optional Blind Kit
- Height: 18 ft
- Weight: ~108 lb
- Capacity: 500 lb
- Platform: 51″ × 17″
- Enclosure: Optional camo blind kits available
Field & Stream applauded the Big Denali for comfort and optional enclosure, calling it “Best Overall” for utility with two hunters and gear :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}. It features a roomy, mesh-seat platform with padded armrests—ideal comfort without the weight of full-height stands.
Pros:
- Wide deck and padded seating provide comfort like a recliner.
- Blind kit adds weather protection without adding height.
- Heavy-duty, top-brand reliability.
Cons: Requires purchase of blind separately; 108 lb makes it a two-person setup.
Comparison Table
| Model | Height | Weight | Capacity | Platform | Enclosure | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rivers Edge Lockdown | 20.5 ft | ~129 lb | 500 lb | 42″×32.5″ | Included, ground ratchet | Pressure-free strap tighteners, tall & concealed sits |
| Guide Gear 20‑ft Double Rail | 20 ft | ~100 lb | ~500 lb | 55″×14″ | Built-in blind | Extra space, wrap-around concealment, value buy |
| Hawk Big Denali | 18 ft | ~108 lb | 500 lb | 51″×17″ | Optional blind kit | Seating comfort, optional concealment |
Choosing the Stand that Fits You
- Height Matters: Each foot above deer increases concealment. Lockdown and Guide Gear offer 20 ft; Denali is slightly lower.
- Weight to Handle: Lockdown is heavy—haul with buddies or use ATVs. Guide Gear is lighter; Denali sits in between.
- Space and Gear Needs: Guide Gear’s wide deck is best for gear or recap time; Denali offers comfort with cushion, Lockdown balances luxury with light comfort.
- Enclosure Integration: Lockdown locks from the ground, ideal alone. Guide Gear’s blind is ready from the start. Denali needs a field-installed blind.
- Budget: Lockdown ~ $500, Hawk Denali slightly less, Guide Gear ~$300—great value.
User Reviews & Field Notes
“Ground-level tightening on Lockdown is a game changer!” :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
“Lockdown stand is extremely sturdy and well built…” :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
“Guide Gear’s wrap‑around blind adds real comfort in wind.” :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Setup & Safety Tips
- Pre-build your deck: Assemble shooting rail, seat, and ladder at home to simplify field setup.
- Partner lifting required: These stands weigh over 100 lb—plan accordingly.
- Strapping strategy: Lockdown lets you ratchet from the ground; for others, secure straps from tree base and top.
- Quiet upgrades: Wrap hinges with silicone, add silent washers, and tape moving parts.
- Clip in, always: Attach harness before first climb and remain clipped until safely on ground.
- Seasonal inspections: Check welds, tighten bolts, and reapply camo paint annually.
Accessories & Enhancements
- Pulley or Hoist Kit: Essential for heavy stand solo setup or precision placement.
- Blind Upgrades: Add shooting windows, floor mats, or insulation for cold climates.
- Quiet Foot Covers: Use soft socks on rungs to reduce climbing noise.
- Gear Hooks: Keep bows, drinks, and range finders organized and off the deck.
- Strap Stabilizers: Extra cross-straps curb stand flex in wind.
- Seat Cushions: Provide extra warmth and comfort on long sits.
- Camouflage Wrap: Add brush or wrap to break up silhouette from a distance.
Post-Hunt Maintenance
- Winter Storage: Disassemble partially—fold rails and seats—and dry indoors.
- Rust Care: Touch up chips with camo spray; use silicone lubricant around hinges and bolts.
- Hardware Review: Inspect ladder bolts and straps yearly before hunting season.
- Blind Care: Replace weathered panels and reseal zippers to keep blinds functional.
Final Verdict
Each stand excels for specific needs: the Rivers Edge Lockdown is top-tier for solo installation and maximum height. The Guide Gear 20‑Ft Double delivers unmatched platform size and affordability. The Hawk Big Denali offers premium comfort with customizable concealment. Your ideal pick hinges on how much gear and height you want, who’s installing the stand, and your weather/climate priorities.
Conclusion
Two-person ladder stands with enclosures provide elevated comfort, protection, and stealth for shared hunts. Whether you need ground-level safety features, extra space, or cushioned seating, these three models are among the best. Let me know your terrain, climate, and group size—I can help you choose the perfect package with stand, blind, and accessories.