Voted by many as the “sweet spot” between solo stands and two-man platforms, 1.5‑man ladder stands combine spacious comfort with manageable weight. This in-depth guide explores the top models—examining build quality, comfort, setup, real-user opinions, and buying tips to help you pick your perfect hunting companion.
What Makes a 1.5‑Man Ladder Stand Ideal?
- Platform Width: Bigger than a solo stand, offering room to shift, store gear, or accommodate a partner.
- Manageable Weight: Typically 70–85 lb—heavy enough to feel stable, light enough for one person (usually).
- Bowhunter-Friendly: Many come with flip-up seats, footrests, and bow rests—perfect for drawing safely.
- Semi-Permanent Comfort: Lower platform stress than solo stands, yet comparatively easy to take down.
Top 1.5‑Man Ladder Stands Reviewed
1. Hawk BigHorn 20′ 1.5‑Man Ladder Stand
- Height: Approximately 20 ft
- Weight: ~82 lb
- Capacity: 300 lb
Why it stands out: Built-rugged with steel tubing, a roomy mesh seat, and a large platform—as described on the Hawk site: “built with durability and comfort” :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. Tractor Supply buyers call it “very comfortable and roomy” and “definitely the best stand I’ve ever owned” :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Community praise: On ArcheryTalk, users say it’s “rock solid and very well made” :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. YouTube reviews highlight the strong construction :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
Best for: Hunters wanting a comfortable, stable platform—especially those who often sit and shoot from seated position.
2. Big Game Hunter HD 18.5′ 1.5‑Man Ladder Stand
- Height: 18.5 ft
- Weight: ~70 lb
- Capacity: 350 lb
Why it shines: A favorite on TNDeer forums, one user said: “I am impressed with the size and quality… no missing parts” and “assembly took about two hours” :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}. Reddit’s r/bowhunting labels it among “the most comfortable for long sits” :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}, and Michigan Sportsman confirms its comfort :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Community modifications: Hunters bolt ladder sections (instead of using clips) and wrap joints with tape to reduce noise and improve firmness :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
Best for: Bow and rifle hunters seeking comfort, value, and a solid platform—even at a fair price point.
3. Hawk Big Denali/Sasquatch 1.5‑Man Ladder Stand
- Height: Around 20–21 ft
- Weight: ~80 lb
- Capacity: ~300 lb
Why bowhunters like it: Archery Talk and Crossbow Nation both recommend it for comfort and capacity—users highlight roomy mesh seats and superior build :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
Build review: NJWoodsAndWater praises “insane durability and construction… safety first” :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. Despite some complaints about polyethylene washers, most reviews are glowing :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
Best for: Bowlhunters who want high comfort, quiet operation, and enough room to draw while seated or standing.
In-Depth Comparison Table
| Stand | Height | Weight | Capacity | Platform | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawk BigHorn | ~20 ft | 82 lb | 300 lb | Large, mesh seat | Solid build, comfy, flip-up seat |
| Big Game Hunter HD | 18.5 ft | 70 lb | 350 lb | Full-width | Affordable, padded rail, popular modding |
| Hawk Big Denali/Sasquatch | 20–21 ft | ~80 lb | ~300 lb | Mesh seat & platform | Premium comfort, durable |
Style & Use Case Breakdown
- Seated Bow Hunting Comfort: Hawk BigHorn is top-tier—roomy seat and platform, stable for draws.
- Budget-Conscious Hunters: Big Game Hunter HD offers comfort, quiet, and proven mods at lower cost.
- Premium Build Seekers: Hawk Big Denali offers strong frame, reliability, and long-term durability.
Community Voices on Performance
“Definitely check out the Hawk Big Horn … rock solid and very well made.” :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
“Large platform … roomy mesh seat … kick‑out footrest.” (Hawk BigHorn) :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
“Assembly took about two hours… impressed with the size and quality” (Big Game Hunter HD) :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
“They’re among the most comfortable for long sits I’ve ever used.” (Big Game Hunter HD) :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Buying Considerations
1. Weight & Solo Setup
Stands ≈ 70–80 lb can be lifted by most hunters with the aid of pulley systems or UTVs. Big Game Hunter HD is the lightest, offering easier solo installation. For heavier stands like Hawk BigHorn, carry straps and a second pair of hands are beneficial.
2. Noise & Squeak Prevention
Community tips: bolt the ladder pieces tight, apply electrical tape or felt to joints, and add bar soap to create silent metal contact—especially vital during quiet bow hunts.
3. Comfort & Platform Specs
- Flip-up seats & footrests: All stands here include these, allowing you to draw safely while standing near the tree.
- Platform depth: Hawk stands offer greater depth for flexibility; Big Game Hunter’s full-width design allows full-foot placement and movement.
4. Hunting Height Advantage
Every stand gives good vantage and scent control at 18–21 ft. Choose based on your stand strategy—higher for scent dispersion, lower for quick access.
Setup & Safety Best Practices
- Pre-Install Inspection: Tighten bolts, verify welds, check ladder stability, protect finish.
- Rigging: Use a haul line, wear a full-body harness, and secure with dual ratchet straps—plus tree stabilizers.
- Silence Tactics: Wrap joints and friction points with tape or silicone; oil moving parts to reduce noise.
- Climbing & Shooting: Stay attached to harness while climbing. Stand near the tree for arrow draw with flip-up seat raised.
- Post-Season Maintenance: Disassemble to clean, store indoors, replace straps and hardware each year.
Accessories You’ll Want
- Pulley / Haul System: Makes single-person setup easier.
- Extended Ratchet Straps: For stabilizing wide platforms.
- Tree Saddle/Anchor: Minimize ladder flex; wrap tree integrally.
- Camo Rub-On & Hunting Gear Organizer: Blend in and stay organized.
- Quiet Boots: Soft-soled footwear cuts noise while climbing.
Final Verdict & Recommendations
- Best Overall: Hawk BigHorn —Combines comfort, build strength, and platform room.
- Lowest Weight & Price: Big Game Hunter HD —Affordable, comfortable, widely used and modded by the bowhunting community.
- Premium Build: Hawk Big Denali/Sasquatch —For those wanting long-term durability and comfort comparable to high-end two-man stands.
Conclusion
When choosing your 1.5‑man ladder stand, consider weight, platform size, noise control, and how often you’ll move or participate solo. The Hawk BigHorn offers premium comfort and stability, while the Big Game Hunter HD gives exceptional value and modding capacity. And for hunters who want extra durability and a premium feel, the Hawk Big Denali/Sasquatch delivers.
Next steps: Choose your priority—comfort, portability, or price—then match it to the stand that checks most boxes. If you’d like help picking accessories or finding sales, I’ve got you covered!