Let’s Talk About Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick
As an avid outdoorsman and tactical gear enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless treestand accessories come and go. The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick caught my attention with its promise of a quick, easy, and stable climbing solution for hunters looking to reach their stand with minimal fuss. Rivers Edge Treestands aims to deliver a safe and efficient climbing experience.
My old climbing sticks were heavy, cumbersome, and frankly, a pain to attach to the tree. I needed a system that was lightweight, easy to use in the dark, and provided a secure climbing experience, especially during those pre-dawn hunts when visibility is limited. The Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick seemed to address these needs with its connected sections and alternate step design.
Unboxing the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick revealed four 60-inch sections of powder-coated steel. My initial impression was that these were surprisingly lightweight, yet felt sturdy enough to handle the rigors of the hunt. The black powder coat gave them a low-profile appearance, perfect for remaining concealed in the woods.
Compared to my old screw-in steps and even some ladder sticks I’ve used, the Big Foot Connected Stick seemed significantly easier to deploy and reposition. Other climbing sticks often felt flimsy and required excessive adjustments, but the connected sections of this design looked like they would offer a more stable and efficient ascent. The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick offered a more streamlined approach to treestand setup than screw-in steps, which can damage trees and are often prohibited on public lands.
My first impression was definitely excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. While the design seemed promising, the real test would be in the field, under the pressure of a real hunt. I hoped this climbing stick system would live up to the hype and provide the secure and efficient access I desperately needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick during a pre-season scouting trip in a heavily wooded area with a mix of oak and maple trees. The early morning was damp, with a light drizzle making the tree bark slick.
Despite the wet conditions, the Big Foot Connected Stick performed admirably. The alternate step design provided a stable and comfortable climbing experience, even with muddy boots. I found the sections connected easily and securely, creating a solid ladder system that instilled confidence with each step.
It took me a few minutes to get used to the cam straps and how to best tighten them for maximum grip, but after that initial learning curve, the system was incredibly quick to deploy. There were no major issues during the first use, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easily I could reposition the sticks as I climbed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use during the hunting season, the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches in the powder coat from rubbing against the tree, but overall, the system shows no signs of significant wear and tear.
The steel construction feels as solid as it did on day one, and the cam straps still provide a secure and reliable grip. Maintaining the sticks is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all it takes to remove mud and debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with other climbing methods, the Big Foot Connected Stick is a clear winner. It’s faster, more stable, and less fatiguing to use, allowing me to focus on the hunt rather than the climb. It has outperformed my expectations, providing a safe and efficient way to access my treestand.
Breaking Down the Features of Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick
Specifications
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick is designed for ease of use and durability. It reaches a height of 20 feet and weighs 19 pounds. Each stick consists of four 60-inch sections.
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick is constructed from powder-coated steel. This provides strength, weather resistance, and a non-reflective surface for concealment. Adjustable cam straps are included for secure attachment to trees.
Performance & Functionality
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick excels at providing a safe, quick, and quiet way to ascend to a treestand. Its alternate step design makes climbing feel more natural and less strenuous than traditional ladder sticks. The connecting sections ensure stability, minimizing swaying and wobbling during the climb.
One minor weakness is the cam straps can be a bit finicky to adjust, especially with gloved hands in cold weather. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for ease of use and stability in a climbing stick system.
Design & Ergonomics
The powder-coated steel construction of the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick feels robust and well-made. At 19 pounds, it’s reasonably lightweight and easy to carry, especially when broken down into its four sections. The steps are adequately spaced and provide a comfortable foothold, even for larger boots.
The system is relatively user-friendly, though new users may need to practice adjusting the cam straps before heading into the field. The alternate step design reduces the learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick is built to last, with its powder-coated steel construction resisting rust and corrosion. With proper care, it should provide many seasons of reliable use.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean the sticks after each use to remove dirt and debris, and inspect the cam straps for any signs of wear or damage. Repairing the system is also relatively easy, as replacement straps are readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick comes standard with adjustable cam straps for attaching the sections to the tree. There are not many additional customization options beyond replacing the straps with aftermarket versions for enhanced grip or durability.
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick is designed to work with most standard treestands. It is compatible with safety harnesses from various brands, but always test for compatibility before use.
Pros and Cons of Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick
Pros
- Lightweight and portable: The four 60-inch sections make it easy to transport and set up in the field.
- Stable climbing: The connected sections and alternate step design provide a secure and comfortable ascent.
- Durable construction: The powder-coated steel is built to withstand the elements and provide years of reliable use.
- Easy to use: Once the cam straps are adjusted properly, the system is quick and simple to deploy.
- Affordable Price: At $99.79, the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick provides excellent value for money.
Cons
- Cam straps can be tricky to adjust with gloves.
- Powder coat can scratch over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick?
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick is perfect for hunters of all experience levels who prioritize safety, stability, and ease of use when accessing their treestand. It’s also a great option for those who hunt on public lands where screw-in steps are prohibited. If you value a lightweight, durable, and affordable climbing system, then this product is an excellent choice.
Hunters who prioritize extreme lightweight setups, or those requiring extended heights beyond 20 feet, might want to consider alternative climbing methods or longer climbing sticks. Also, anyone with physical limitations that make climbing difficult should explore other options.
A must-have accessory is a quality safety harness and lineman’s rope for secure attachment to the tree while climbing. Consider upgrading the cam straps with aftermarket versions for enhanced grip, particularly if you frequently hunt in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and affordability. It simplifies the process of accessing your treestand, allowing you to focus on the hunt rather than the climb. The connected sections and alternate step design provide a stable and comfortable climbing experience, while the powder-coated steel construction ensures long-lasting durability.
The price of $99.79 is more than justified given the quality and functionality of the Big Foot Connected Stick. It’s a worthwhile investment for any hunter looking to improve their treestand setup.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot 20 ft Connected Stick to any hunter seeking a safe, reliable, and efficient climbing solution. Upgrade your hunting experience today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a secure and stable ascent to your treestand!