GameTamers Tree Stand Review
(Model TS-30 with TL-4 Ladder)

Location: Mescalero Apache Reservation, New Mexico

Time Used: Approximately five days

Game Hunted: Black bear

PROS

Portability:

With the ladder sections each weighing only five pounds and the actual stand base and seat weighing a little more, the entire setup was easily carried almost a mile into the forest. The GameTamers stand seems much lighter than most other climbing stands, and the breakdown component allows for the stand to be easily carried long distances in two trips or strapped to an aluminum framed backpack for one-trip carrying. (The GameTamers Company may want to market some type of carrying pack for the TS-30 and TS-24).

Durability:

The ladder and stand appeared to be built quite well with satisfactory welds upon inspection, thick graded steel, etc.

Quietness:

Excellent. The stand made minimal noise when turning in the seat; even after several days of showers.

Field Construction of Stand:

The stand and ladder went up in a matter of minutes with no significant problems. The construction process is easiest with two people, but can certainly be achieved with one person in a pinch.

CONS

Portability:

I wish the seat and bracket somehow folded down a little flatter. I also think it would be convenient if some hand grab handles were welded onto the bottom or sides of the stand base.

Durability:

The stand has some minor rust spots in the expanded metal. A powder coat finish rather than paint would be a good investment. The adhesive on the ladder rung grip tape is unreliable. Several of the grip tape strips are already peeling badly.

Field Construction of Stand:

The seat should have a pin that can be placed through the seat’s shaft so it doesn’t spin. This way, you can use the seat as support when getting in and out of the stand, and you don’t have to worry about it spinning on you and throwing you to a gruesome death as it almost did me. Also, the chain links should be a couple of millimeters (mm) larger in diameter, so the J-hook fits in a little easier.

Comfort:

The GameTamers stand is tolerable – but not comfortable after the first hour minutes. I highly recommend a hammock-style seat such as used with some other manufacturers.

OTHER

Overall, the stand exceeded many of my expectations and met most of the important details. I definitely recommend GameTamers stands (more so than most other brands I’ve used) and will be using the stand for years to come. I think I may carry a few extra ratchet straps with me into the field to give some added support.

Although I didn’t shoot a bear out of the stand, myself and the other hunters saw a lot of teeming wildlife including approximately 30 bull, cow, and calf elk, coyotes, porcupines, etc. – all within 20-75 yards from the stand base.

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Contact by Mail:
GameTamers
2802 Cullen Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76107

Contact by Phone:
(817) 877-GAME
Monday - Friday
8:30 - 5:00 CST

Website:
www.GameTamers.com

Images and Files: View all 7 photos / videos here.