When it comes to tree stands a comfy seat and a decent size platform makes all the difference when it comes to an all-day sit. The best tree stands for big guys generally offer that extra space and have a bit of extra weight capacity, too.
So whether you’re looking for a heavy duty hang on stand, a bigger ladder stand or a climbing tree stand with a little bit of extra space, we’ve got you covered in this article.
We’ve scoured the interwebs for the best big man tree stands and this is what we’ve found:
- with a platform of more than 6sq feet and a seat that’s 24″ wide, the best hang on stand for big guys has to be the Millenium M150 Monster (available at Amazon and Cabelas)
- with a weight capacity of 350lbs, the best climbing tree stand for big guys is almost certainly either the Summit Titan or the Summit Goliath
- the best ladder stand for big guys is the Hawk Big Denali 1.5
Best Hang-On Stands for Big Guys
Hang-on tree stands are a tried and true classic. You can secure this type of tree stand with belts, chains, or straps. Make sure you also have a climbing aid, such as a segmented ladder or climbing stick.
Millennium M150 Monster
Specs
Millennium’s M150 Monster tree stand is made out of lightweight aluminum. The weight capacity reaches 300 lbs, and the stand weighs 19.5 lbs. The platform measures 24” by 27,” and the seat size is 20” by 17”. You can also adjust the seat between 16”-20”.
Verdict
The M150 is the biggest hang on tree stand we could find that is commonly available. In addition to the solid design and quality materials, the adjustable seat is a great feature. The adjustable seat is handy if multiple friends or family members will be using this tree stand.
This tree stand has an entire backrest, side straps, and a large platform makes this a comfortable tree stand for even the biggest people. The M150 is an excellent tree stand for committed hunters who spend the entire day waiting for the perfect shot.
This tree stand is easy to hang and sturdy. Once you have strapped the receiver to the tree, it is easy to hang and lock the M150 in place.
It is easy to take down this tree stand when you are finished hunting. Most importantly, it’s quiet to set up and take down so you won’t scare away your prey.
You can purchase an optional M101 shooting rail to rest your rifle. Additionally, you can adjust this tree stand to sit even with the tree or lean as much as 15 degrees!
Availability
The Millenium M150 should be available from the following stores:
- Check prices on Amazon >>
- Check prices at Cabelas >>
- Check prices at Scheels >>
In Summary
If you are looking for a flexible tree stand that different people will use, this is the tree stand for you.
Rivers Edge Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger
Specs
The Rivers Edge Big Foot TearTuff Xl Lounger uses a steel frame. It weighs 26lbs, and the weight capacity reaches 300 lbs. The platform is 37.5” by 24,” and the seat measures 20.5” by 13”. The seat height is 22”.
Verdict
The Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger is larger than life. In addition to its steel construction, it features a huge platform. The extra-large platform provides room for standing shots and provides the space needed for the built-in footrest.
The built-in footrest dramatically increases the comfort of this tree stand and is an excellent feature. In addition to the footrest, this tree stand has padded armrests for maximum comfort. The cherry on top is the padded backrest. You can comfortably use this tree stand for 12+ hours.
The XL lounger comes with a noiseless strap attachment so you can set it up in silence. Rivers Edge eliminated metal on metal contact in this design. As a result, it is one of the quietest stands on this list.
The Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger is quiet, but it doesn’t sacrifice safety. It features an aggressive lever-action that eliminates the need for a second strap. The lever-action provides unprecedented stability at any height.
This tree stand is easy to pack in and out. It folds flat and attaches easily to a backpack. It also comes with a safety harness and bolts.
Availability
The Big Foot TearTuff should be available from the following stores:
- Check prices at Optics Planet >>
- Check prices on Amazon >>
- Check prices at Sportsman’s Guide >>
- Check prices at Scheels >>
In Summary
If you spend long hours in your tree stand, this is the stand for you. The extra-large platform, padding on the seat, and the footrest make this the most comfortable tree stand on this list.
Best Ladder Stands for Big Guys
Ladder stands provide a platform about 10-20 feet above the ground and connect to a built-in ladder that allows hunters to use this type of stand with a wide variety of trees. However, you’ll need to take some friends with you since three to five people must work together to erect or take down a ladder stand.
Hawk Big Denali (1.5)
Specs
The Hawk Big Denali 1.5 has a ladder that reaches up to 20’. The platform is 26” by 14,” and the seat is 26” by 18”. The seat height is 28”. This ladder stand weighs 65 lbs and is rated to carry 300 lbs.
Verdict
Hawk is known for its innovative, experience-driven treestand designs and the Big Denali lives up to this reputation. The Hawk Big Denali has the largest and most comfortable seat ever offered on a one-person ladder stand.
The Big Denali features Hawk’s XXL MeshComfort Seat as large as a patio chair, 30-40% larger than most other treestand seats. The platform has a built-in footrest and an adjustable shooting rail. There is also an integrated bow/gun holder.
Hawk emphasizes more than just comfort. The Big Denali uses Hawk’s Stacking Ladder System (SLS) that allows the ladder sections to stack neatly, making it easy to transport the Big Denali.
The SLS also creates a broad base which provides a stable foundation for the Big Denali. Hawk used heavy-duty tubing, bolted sections, and a tension system to ensure the safety and stability of this tree stand.
The Big Denali doesn’t miss any of the small details, which is why it makes our list of the best heavy-duty tree stands. The hawk also has Tree Digger teeth that anchor the stand to the tree, silent washers for quiet assembly and set up, and built-in grab-handles.
Availability
The Hawk Big Denali 1.5 should be available from the following stores:
- Check prices at Sportsman’s Guide >>
- Check prices at Cabelas >>
- Check prices on Amazon >>
- Check prices at Field & Stream >>
- Check prices at Dick’s Sporting Goods >>
In Summary
As big man ladder tree stands go, the Hawk Big Denali is outstanding! Light, spacious and comfortable.
Muddy Stronghold 2.5
Specs
The Muddy Stronghold 2.5 is an 18’, heavy duty ladder stand. The platform measures a whopping 50” x 17” while each seat is a very spacious 24” x 17” (the seat height is 27”). It weighs 106 lbs and is a 500 lb capacity tree stand.
Verdict
The Muddy Stronghold 2.5 makes our list of best tree stands for big guys because you can use it to hunt with a buddy, or you can stretch out solo.
In addition to reaching an impressive height, the Muddy Stronghold 2.5 puts a premium on safety. It features the Hercules Cross Grip Safety Systems, which secures the tree stand and prevents sliding. You can confidently climb to great heights using Hercules Cross Grip System.
There are two seats which means you and your hunting partner can hang out during your hunt.
Muddy did not compromise with comfort either. The Stronghold 2.5’s seat uses comfortable flex-tek technology and has a built-in backrest. Additionally, the chair comes with padded armrests and a wide foot platform with a footrest.
This stand also has a padded shooting rail to rest your firearm on long days in the stand. Two excellent features of this tree stand are the two interchangeable cup holders and the two accessory hooks. The Stronghold 2.5 is one of the most comfortable tree stands on this list.
Availablity
The Muddy Stronghold 2.5 should be available from the following stores:
- Check prices at Optics Planet >>
- Check prices at Cabelas >>
- Check prices on Amazon >>
In Summary
The Stronghold 2.5 makes our list of best tree stands for big guys because of its high vantage point and its impressive features. Additionally, the second seat means you can hunt with your buddy. This tree stand will allow you to wait out your prey in confidence and comfort.
Best Climbing Stands for Big Guys
Climbing stands are a great option if you like to hunt alone. Just slowly position your hands on the top section and your feet on the bottom portion, and you’ll be set!
Summit Titan
Specs
The Summit Titan is a closed-front climber. The platform is 38.5” by 21,” and the seat is 18” by 12”. The seat height is adjustable. This ladder stand weighs 25 lbs and is rated to carry 350 lbs. It can fit on trees with a diameter of 8’-20’.
Verdict
The Summit Titan is unmatched in comfort, quality, concealment, and safety. This heavy-duty tree stand can support up to 350 pounds but is still easy to transport and set up quietly. The Titan uses high-quality aluminum with welded joints for maximum rigidity and strength.
The Titan is Summit’s largest climbing stand. It features a larger top and an extended platform in comparison to Summit’s other tree stands. Despite its size, it is easy to use and set up.
Summit’s engineers designed an outstanding tree stand. The Titan is almost silent due to Summit’s Dead Metal Sound Deadening Technology. Summit filled the aluminum tubing of the Titan with custom-designed foam that drastically reduces the amount of noise made by this tree stand.
The Titan also features Summit’s QuickDraw cable retention system, the fastest and quietest attachment system on the market. The QuickDraw will quickly lock the tree stand into place without pins, knobs, nuts, or bolts.
Finally, the Titan comes with RapidClimb Stirrups, engineered for comfort and security. It will keep your boots attached to the platform and allow you to reach your designed height easily.
Availability
The Summit Titan SD should be available from the following stores:
- Check prices at Optics Planet >>
- Check prices at Cabelas >>
- Check prices on Amazon >>
- Check prices at Scheels >>
- Check prices at Field & Stream >>
In Summary
The Summit Titan is a great climbing tree stand for larger hunters who want plenty of room, comfort, and capacity.
Summit Goliath
Specs
The Summit Goliath is also a closed-front climber. The platform is 36’” by 20,” and the seat is 18” by 12”. The seat height is adjustable. This ladder stand weighs just 21 lbs and is rated to carry 350 lbs. It can fit on trees with a diameter of 8’-20’.
Verdict
The Summit Goliath is the original big man climbing tree stand, and it remains a favorite among hunters with good reason. The extra-large Goliath offers extra space and an ample weight limit. It is the perfect stand for bigger hunters who want to have the room to maneuver to set up the perfect shot.
This tree stand uses similar technology as Summit’s other outstanding tree stands but increased in size, making it one of the best tree stands for big guys. At 21 lbs, the Goliath is lightweight and portable enough to go anywhere without sacrificing comfort.
Summit’s Dead Metal Sound Deadening Technology makes the Goliath almost silent. Summit filled the aluminum tubing of the Goliath with custom-designed foam that drastically reduces the amount of noise created by this tree stand.
Mounting a tree stand can be a challenge in itself. Summit’s QuickDraw cable retention system makes raising the Goliath a walk in the park. The QuickDraw is the fastest and quietest attachment system available, quickly locking the tree stand into place without pins, knobs, nuts, or bolts.
Finally, the Goliath comes with RapidClimb Stirrups meant for comfort and security. It will keep your boots attached to the platform and allow you to reach your designed height easily.
Availability
The Summit Goliath SD should be available from the following stores:
- Check prices at Optics Planet >>
- Check prices at Sportsman’s Warehouse >>
- Check prices on Amazon >>
- Check prices at Cabelas >>
In Summary
The Summit Goliath is one of the biggest climbing tree stands out there; offering incredible space, comfort, and portability.
Selecting the Best Tree Stands for Big Guys
The best tree stands for big guys tend to have several vital features in common, including weight capacity, size of the platform, and comfort.
Weight Capacity
Falling injuries are the most common injury sustained by hunters. A fall from a tree stand in a remote location could be potentially fatal. Most single-seat tree stands can hold up to 300 lbs, while two-seat tree stands support up to 500 lbs.
In addition to knowing your weight and the weight capacity of your tree stand, it is essential to know the weight capacity of your safety harness. If your safety harness is not strong enough, it does not matter the weight capacity of your tree stand. You could still potentially harm yourself.
Heavy-Duty Hang-on Stands
The weight capacity of most heavy-duty hang-on stands is 300 lbs, unless you’re getting a two-person hang-on stands. Those often hold up to 500 lbs.
Heavy-Duty Climbing Stands
The weight capacity of most heavy-duty climbing stands is 300-350 lbs (i.e. Summit Titan is arguably the best climbing stand for big guys and is rated for 350lbs).
Heavy-Duty Ladder Stands
The weight capacity of most heavy-duty ladder stands is 300 lbs (i.e., Big Hawk Denali). Two-person ladder stands can often hold up to 500 lbs – like the Muddy Stronghold 2.5.
Size
The best tree stand for big guys seats will usually have larger platforms and seats. A larger platform provides the benefits of more space to maneuver and greater comfort. However, this comes at the cost of weight. The heavier the tree stand, the more difficult it is to set up and carry to the location.
The same considerations are valid for the size of a seat. A larger seat will be more comfortable to sit in during a long day. However, the larger the seat, the heavier the stand.
The size of the seat is one of the most important considerations on a tree stand. If you cannot sit comfortably in the tree stand, it will be challenging to focus on the hunt.
A comfortable seat is definitely worth the added weight. A suitable method of evaluating seat size is measuring your favorite patio chair at home.
Oversize Hang-On Stands: Dimensions for Seat and Platform
The platform size of most oversize hang-on stands is around 37.5’ by 24,” and the seat measures approximately 20” by 13”. Some examples include the Rivers Edge Big Foot TearTuff XL Lounger.
Oversize Climbing Stands: Dimensions for Seat and Platform
The platform size of most oversize climbing stands is around 37.’ by 20,” and the seat size is approximately 18” by 12” (i.e., Summit Goliath).
Oversize Ladder Stands: Dimensions for Seat and Platform
The platform size of most oversize climbing stands is around 26.’ by 14,” and the seat size is around 26” by 18” (i.e., Hawk Big Denali 1.5). The dimensions are much more significant for two-person ladder stands.
Comfort
The comfort of your tree stand is essential. If you cannot comfortably sit in your tree stand for 8+ hours, you might need to get a new stand. There are two critical considerations for comfort, the type and material of the seat.
Type of Seat You Get
Tree stands come with a variety of seats. Some have stools, while others have a full seat complete with full back support and armrests. The type of seat that you select depends on your individual preferences and needs.
For example, if you have back pain, getting a seat with back support is highly recommended. Additionally, armrests go a long way in making long hunts more comfortable.
If you are purchasing a two-person or double tree stand, select a tree stand that has no bar between the seats, which would make it uncomfortable.
Materials
There are a variety of materials used to make a tree stand chair. The most common are mesh and padded materials. Mesh chairs are recommended and considered better because they are more comfortable than padded materials, and squirrels won’t eat them.
Padded chairs are ok, but if you plan on leaving your stand up for long periods, you have to remove the padding. Squirrels and other animals will tear apart padded chairs.
Conclusion
We have to say, the best tree stands for big guys is the Summit Goliath. It has a large seat and platform and weighs only 21 lbs – yet its weight capacity reaches 350 lbs. Additionally, Summit did an excellent job engineering this safe and sturdy tree stand.
The runner-up is the Hawk Big Denali. The Big Denali is an outstanding ladder stand that features a large comfortable seat and a large platform for maneuverability. Additionally, despite the added weight of a ladder, it still only weighs 65 lbs.
Happy hunting!
FAQs
How Much Weight Can a Tree Stand Hold?
Most tree stands can hold between 250lbs and 500lbs of weight, but it entirely comes down to the type of treestand (hang on, climber, ladder) and the make/model.
