Let’s Talk About Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand is a standout product designed for hunters who value both stealth and comfort. Rivers Edge Treestands has created a lightweight, cast aluminum stand featuring a flip-up padded seat and a unique lever-action mounting system.
My years in the field have taught me the importance of a reliable, quiet, and comfortable treestand. I was searching for a stand that combined lightweight portability with a secure, silent attachment to the tree, addressing common issues I’ve experienced with heavier, noisier stands. The primary selling point for me was the promise of a quiet, lightweight platform and a silent mounting system.
Upon unboxing, the Big Foot Lite Foot Stand impressed me with its sturdy cast aluminum construction. The weight, at 15 lbs, felt remarkably light compared to the steel stands I’m accustomed to, promising easier transport and setup. The padded seat appeared comfortable, and the lever-action mounting system looked ingenious and straightforward.
I considered the Millennium M100U Ultralite hang-on stand, known for its comfort, and the Hawk Helium Pro, praised for its packability. However, the Big Foot Lite Foot Stand’s unique blend of lightweight design and quiet mounting system swayed me, especially the prospect of silent attachment. My initial impression was one of excitement. If this stand lives up to its promises of quietness and easy setup, it could revolutionize my hunting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand on a recent deer hunting trip in the dense woods of Northern Wisconsin. The weather was damp and cold, with temperatures hovering around freezing, creating challenging conditions for both hunter and equipment.
The stand performed admirably, even in the less-than-ideal weather. The cast aluminum platform provided solid footing, and the seat remained comfortable despite the cold. The lever-action system allowed for a surprisingly quick and quiet installation, even with gloved hands. No metallic clangs or scraping noises to alert nearby deer.
The only slight issue I encountered was getting used to the lever-action system initially; I needed to adjust the strap tension to achieve optimal grip. However, after a few adjustments, the stand felt remarkably secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Big Foot Lite Foot Stand for several weeks, I can attest to its durability. The cast aluminum shows no signs of bending or weakening, even after repeated use and transport.
There are some minor scratches on the platform from my boots, but these are purely cosmetic. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any mud or debris. It outperforms other lightweight stands I’ve used in terms of stability and quietness.
Breaking Down the Features of Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rivers Edge Treestands
- Color: Black
- Seat Dimensions: 16″ (W) x 9″ (D) x 22.5″ (H) – These dimensions are crucial for all-day comfort in the stand.
- Seat Type: Padded Seat – A padded seat is essential for extended hunts.
- Fabric/Material: Cast Aluminum – The cast aluminum construction strikes an excellent balance between lightweight design and robust durability.
- Weight: 15 lb – The lightweight design makes transport easy.
- Quiet, lightweight cast aluminum platform: This ensures both silent operation and ease of carry to and from your hunting location.
- Flip-up, padded seat for standing shots: This allows the hunter to have an unobstructed view, and room to get into position to take a shot.
- Lever action system secures stand aggressively to the tree: This enhances safety and stability, giving the hunter piece of mind.
- Noiseless strap attachment eliminates metal-on-metal contact: This is a critical factor for stealth hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand performs its primary function exceptionally well: providing a secure, quiet, and comfortable platform for hunting. The lever-action system is a standout feature, allowing for a tight, wobble-free attachment to the tree with minimal noise.
The stand excels in silent operation, thanks to the noiseless strap attachment, although the learning curve for the lever action system could be improved. The padded seat is comfortable enough for several hours of sitting, however more padding would be welcome. It certainly meets expectations for a lightweight, portable stand, and exceeds them in terms of quietness.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with robust cast aluminum construction that feels solid and reliable. The seat is adequately comfortable, and the overall design is well-thought-out for ease of use and portability.
The stand is relatively user-friendly, although the lever-action system requires a little practice to master. Once familiar, it’s quick and easy to set up and take down.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand is built to last. The cast aluminum is resistant to rust and corrosion, and the overall construction is robust enough to withstand years of use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Big Foot Lite Foot Stand comes with the necessary straps for tree attachment. Additional accessories, such as a footrest or shooting rail, can be added for enhanced comfort and functionality.
The stand is compatible with universal treestand accessories from other brands, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences. The compatibility with aftermarket accessories enhances its adaptability.
Pros and Cons of Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand
Pros
- Extremely quiet operation, thanks to the noiseless strap attachment.
- Lightweight and easy to transport (only 15 lbs).
- Lever-action system provides a secure and stable attachment to the tree.
- Durable cast aluminum construction.
- Comfortable padded seat for extended hunts.
Cons
- Learning curve for the lever-action mounting system.
- Seat padding could be thicker for enhanced comfort.
Who Should Buy Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand?
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand is perfect for hunters who prioritize stealth, portability, and ease of use. This stand is ideal for those who hunt in areas that require frequent movement or have restrictions on stand weight.
Hunters who prefer maximum comfort and don’t mind a heavier stand might want to consider other options with more substantial seat padding. A safety harness is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Lite Foot Stand is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed product that delivers on its promises of quietness, portability, and secure attachment. The price is justified, considering the quality of materials and construction, as well as the innovative lever-action mounting system.
I would highly recommend this stand to any hunter seeking a lightweight, stealthy, and reliable platform for their hunting adventures. If you value a stand that won’t break your back on the way to the woods and won’t spook game with noisy setup, the Big Foot Lite Foot Stand is an excellent choice. Invest in your hunt, and you won’t be disappointed!