5 Best Saddle Hunting Platforms: A Comprehensive Roundup

Saddle hunting has become increasingly popular among hunters for its lightweight and mobile advantages. One essential component of saddle hunting is the platform, which provides a solid base for standing and maneuvering during the hunt. 

With new options popping up on the market seemingly every month, it can be challenging to decide the best choice for your needs. In this comprehensive roundup, we look at the top five saddle hunting platforms, evaluating their features, performance, and user experiences.

Here’s our top picks for 2023.

• Our Top Pick: Tethrd Predator
• Lightest: Latitude Rebel SS
• Great Value: XOP Edge
• Best Budget Option: Hawk Hammock Apex
• Most Foot Room: Trophyline Mission

Best Saddle Hunting Platforms for 2023

What We Like

The Tethrd Predator is the O.G. of modern commercial saddle hunting platforms. And despite the influx of other options on the market today, the Predator remains one of the best.

We chose it as our favorite due to it’s lightweight design that is rock solid in the tree. It feels big enough for most hunters, but still packs a relatively small profile for easy packing. The ZipCam strap allows quick and quiet setup.

Best of all, the Predator has a decent price point for all those great features.

If you prefer a larger platform and don’t mind a little additional weight, Tethrd offers an XL version of the Predator, as well.

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What We Like

Latitude has really stepped up their game in saddle hunting gear lately, with the release of their Carbon SS climbing sticks, and now the Rebel SS platform.

The Rebel is the lightest platform on our list, yet still provides ample foot room to stand up when needed. The unique pentagon shape makes it easy to rotate your feet around the platform to handle most any shot angle.

The Rebel features a raised leveling knob so you can quickly adjust the angle of your platform to the tree. It also has a unique guide slot on the support post that makes it possible to attach a ring of steps to the platform that allows you 360 degrees of rotation around the tree.

Honestly, the Latitude would be our top choice if it weren’t for two things: it’s $100 more expensive than the Predator, and at the time of this writing, it’s not available.

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What We Like

XOP manufacturers some great products at decent price points, and their Ultra Series Edge saddle stand is no exception.

It has a fairly spacious platform at 13.75 x 11 inches, but weighs in at twice the weight of the Rebel. I guess you can’t have everything at a $150 price point.

If you can get past the weight, though, the XOP packs in a lot of great features. The cast aluminum platform has a durable powder-coated finish, EVO TRAC grips to provide maximum traction, and a wide tooth profile for increased stability on the tree.

The Edge platform has a leveling system and unique integrated gear attachments. It’s made in China.

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What We Like

The Trophyline Mission has the largest platform of any on our list at 19.7 x 13.8 inches. Due to its large size, the cast aluminum platform tips the scales at 5.4 pounds. It has a weight rating of 300 pounds.

The unique shape of the Mission allows for a variety of foot placements for various shot angles. Like other platforms on the list, it features an adjustable leveling system.

The Mission folds flat and features integrated grooves to mount Trophyline mini sticks for stacking while transporting.

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What We Like

Hawk products catch a lot of flack from serious saddle hunters, but most are decent products for the price. The Hawk Hammock Apex platform is definitely a viable option for someone dipping their toes into saddle hunting.

It’s a decent sized platform at 12 x 11.75 inches, and surprisingly light at 3.6 pounds. Unlike most options on our list, the Apex is not cast aluminum, but rather welded aluminum tube.

One of the things I like least about the Apex is the slick aluminum finish. Under most circumstances it won’t be an issue, but if you get a little mud on your boots, things can get a slippery quick.

For most folks, I would recommend saving a little more money and choosing one of the other options above. But if you’re on a strict budget and just can’t swing a better platform, the Hawk will get the job done.

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Key Features to Consider

When selecting the ideal saddle hunting platform for your needs, it is crucial to consider various features that impact comfort, functionality, and performance. Below is a detailed guide to help you evaluate these features when choosing your saddle hunting platform.

Platform Size

The size of the platform directly affects the standing area and comfort during a hunt. Larger platforms provide more room to maneuver and shift positions, which can be crucial during long hours in the field. However, larger platforms tend to be heavier and bulkier, potentially impacting mobility and transportation. Consider your preferences and the type of hunting you’ll be doing when determining the best platform size for your needs.

Platform Weight

A lightweight platform is easier to carry and transport, making it ideal for hunters who need to move frequently or cover long distances. Lighter platforms are typically constructed from aluminum, which also provides strength and durability. However, lightweight platforms may sometimes compromise on size or stability. Strike a balance between weight and performance based on your hunting style and preferences.

Construction Material

The choice of construction material impacts platform durability, weight, and weather resistance. Aluminum is a popular choice for its strength, lightweight properties, and resistance to corrosion. Steel platforms tend to be heavier but offer increased durability and weight capacity. Consider your hunting environment and the importance of weight versus durability when choosing the construction material.

Leveling and Adjustment System

A user-friendly leveling and adjustment system makes it easier to set up your platform on uneven or irregularly shaped trees. Platforms with adjustable leveling systems offer improved stability and comfort during a hunt. Some platforms may require additional leveling accessories or shims to accommodate uneven trees. Consider the types of trees you’ll be hunting from and the importance of a seamless leveling process when making your decision.

Traction and Grip

A platform with good traction and grip is essential for maintaining stability and safety while in the tree. Look for platforms with textured surfaces or slip-resistant coatings to minimize the risk of slipping or losing your footing during a hunt.

Setup and Attachment System

The platform’s attachment system affects the ease and speed of setup, which can be critical in the field. User-friendly attachment systems, such as cam straps or integrated T-bolt mechanisms, simplify the setup process and reduce the likelihood of noise or movement that could scare away game. Evaluate the simplicity and efficiency of each platform’s attachment system based on your hunting style and patience for setting up equipment.

Price

Budget plays a role in choosing the best saddle hunting platform for your needs. While more expensive platforms may offer advanced features or better materials, more affordable options can still provide a satisfactory hunting experience. Determine your budget and weigh the benefits of spending more on a platform versus other hunting gear investments.

By considering each of these features and how they align with your personal preferences, hunting style, and environment, you can make an informed decision about the best saddle hunting platform for your needs.

Final Thoughts

The platform is a critical component of your saddle hunting setup. Before you drop your hard earned money on one, be sure to factor in all the features discussed above with your personal needs to choose the option that works best for you.