coues7 Report post Posted August 23, 2005 So what is everyone using this year to get in their tree stands? I bought a pair of climbing gaffs (like the guys use to climb poles or arborist's use). I wonder if using spikes might not be easier. They work great though. USE A BODY HARNESS. YOU DON'T WANT TO GET HURT AND BE ALONE!!! Is anyone making their own screw in spikes and if so how? What works best? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BASS Report post Posted August 23, 2005 So what is everyone using this year to get in their tree stands? I bought a pair of climbing gaffs (like the guys use to climb poles or arborist's use). I wonder if using spikes might not be easier. They work great though. USE A BODY HARNESS. YOU DON'T WANT TO GET HURT AND BE ALONE!!! Is anyone making their own screw in spikes and if so how? What works best? <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I don't use a stand. But I have made a few screw in spikes for others. I used 1/2" round stock. I then heated them up with an Oxy/Act. torch to make the two bends. After the bend was made, I then used a threading die to put the "screw" on it. I have also tapered the end, and made it sqaure. Then put a slow twist on it. For this you would need a forge, but they work. But is it worth making your own? I don't think so. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bowhuntinmaniac Report post Posted August 24, 2005 I bought a ladder last year. It makes it nice, so easy and take it with you when u leave so paople have to work to steal yer stand. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dodger2 Report post Posted August 24, 2005 Just curious, but I thought it was illegal to use screw in steps on National Forest Lands... I might be wrong..."it may be unlawful to pound climbing spikes or attach anything that penetrates the surface of a tree causing permanent injury or scarring" pg. 72 AZGFD 2005 regs. Please don't think that I'm an environut or tree hugger, I'm just trying to give a heads up... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Azlongears Report post Posted August 24, 2005 I didn't know you couldn't use the screw in steps? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DCMHunter Report post Posted August 24, 2005 Its a little bulky but I use 5" pieces of 2X4 and parachute cord. Drill a hole cross ways about 1" from the top and tie a 5 foot piece of cord through the hole. Rap the cord around the tree and daly it around the block, pulling it down behind the block to the string. If your cord is long enough you can go back around the tree and tie it to the block again. You need about 6 or 8 blocks depending on how hi you set your stand, maybe more. The blocks can be removed easy and limit axcess to your stand. Carry them in a small bag and they can be stashed near your stand when your not using them. DCM Good luck on your hunts. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
donniedent Report post Posted August 24, 2005 I bought climbing sticks this year because I found out that Prescott National Forest guys will fine you $75 per spike. The cool thing about the sticks is that you can pull them down and take em with you when you leave. I figure 10 spikes at $75 a piece ain't worth it. Instead I paid $39.99 for sticks. The peace of mind is worth it. The Forest Service guy told me it wasn't because of tree damage, it was because guys leave them in the tree then the forset service comes to thin the forest a bit and the spikes cause severe damage to equipment and service workers. I would call the office for the forest you're hunting in and get someone to tell you its OK, then take there name and badge number to the feild with you, then the guy that trys to give you a ticket can't say zip. Good luck to everyone!!! Donnie Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
