Let’s Talk About Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand promises a secure and comfortable hunting experience for two, combining innovative safety features with a spacious platform. This treestand from Rivers Edge Treestands aims to eliminate common concerns about ladder stand stability and comfort, allowing hunters to focus on the hunt.
As an avid deer hunter with over a decade of experience in the field, I’ve used my fair share of treestands, from simple hang-ons to elaborate ladder stands. I needed a reliable two-person stand that prioritized safety and offered enough room for comfortable all-day sits with a hunting buddy or my son.
Unboxing the Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand was an immediate testament to its robust construction; the octagonal steel tubing felt incredibly sturdy, and the ground-level ratcheting system looked genuinely innovative. The weight, a hefty 113 lbs, initially raised an eyebrow, but the promise of unwavering stability seemed worth the effort.
I considered the Millennium L220 2-Man Ladder Stand and the Muddy Vantage Point 2-Man, both reputable options, but the Lockdown’s unique ground-level ratcheting system ultimately swayed my decision. The Rivers Edge Treestands seemed to address my biggest concern – a rock-solid setup, even on less-than-perfectly straight trees.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the stand looked incredibly well-built, but the real test would be in the field. The promise of easy installation and a secure hunting platform definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand on a recent deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was typical for late fall – damp, with temperatures hovering around freezing.
The standout feature was undoubtedly the Lockdown Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology; it allowed me to securely anchor the stand to a slightly leaning tree, something I wouldn’t have attempted with a traditional ladder stand. Even in the wet conditions, the vinyl-dipped parts ensured a quiet ascent and minimal noise while adjusting my position.
Initially, getting the hang of the ratcheting system took a little practice, but after a few adjustments, the stand felt incredibly stable. We spent 6 hours in the stand on that first hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand has proven to be a reliable and durable hunting platform. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.
The powder-coated steel frame has held up well against rust, and the mesh seat shows no signs of sagging or tearing. Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes.
Compared to my previous ladder stand, a cheaper model from a big-box retailer, the Rivers Edge Treestands is a night-and-day difference. The Lockdown system provides far superior stability, and the overall build quality inspires confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand
Specifications
- The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand boasts a height of 17 feet to the shooting rail, providing excellent visibility over surrounding cover. The height is essential for providing a good vantage point to hunt from, giving you a better field of view.
- The stand’s width is 41.5 inches, offering ample room for two hunters to sit comfortably. The extra width keeps you from bumping into your hunting partner, an important consideration for all-day sits.
- The seat dimensions are 41.5 x 16 x 17 inches (W x D x H), providing a spacious and comfortable seating area. The TearTuff mesh seat doesn’t hold water, so you won’t have a wet bottom if it rains before you get to the stand.
- Weighing in at 113 lbs, the Rivers Edge Treestands Lockdown 2-Man Treestand is not the lightest stand on the market, but this reflects its robust steel construction. The stand is built using durable materials and components that provide a safe hunting platform for you and a partner.
- The stand is finished in black for optimal concealment. The dark color blends well with most wooded hunting environments, keeping you hidden from the watchful eyes of game animals.
- Key features include the Lockdown Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology, octagonal ladder rails, LadderLock connections, and a removable shooting rail. These features are not just marketing buzzwords; they translate into a safer, more stable, and more comfortable hunting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand performs exceptionally well in its intended role – providing a safe and stable elevated hunting platform. The Lockdown system truly shines, allowing for secure attachment to trees that aren’t perfectly straight.
The mesh seat is comfortable enough for extended sits, and the flip-out footrest provides a welcome relief for your legs. The adjustable shooting rail offers a steady rest for your firearm, increasing your accuracy and confidence.
While the weight can make initial setup a bit challenging, the added stability and security are well worth the effort. The stand meets and exceeds expectations for a two-person ladder stand in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both safety and comfort. The octagonal ladder rails provide exceptional rigidity, minimizing flex and sway during ascent and descent.
The vinyl-dipped parts are a nice touch, reducing noise and preventing spooking game. There is a moderate learning curve to setting up the ratcheting system, but the manual provides clear instructions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand is built to last, using high-quality steel and durable components. With proper care and maintenance, this stand should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down after each use is usually sufficient. Periodically checking and tightening bolts and straps will ensure optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand comes with all the necessary components for safe and secure installation, including ratchet straps and tree blades. While no additional accessories are included, the shooting rail is removable and adjustable, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences.
Although no direct accessories from Rivers Edge Treestands are listed, the universal design of ladder stands means you could potentially add aftermarket seating or padding if desired. I did not test other accessories for compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand
Pros
- Lockdown Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology: Provides unparalleled stability and security, even on leaning trees.
- Spacious Platform: Offers ample room for two hunters to sit comfortably.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality steel and durable components for long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Mesh Seat: Allows for extended sits without discomfort.
- Adjustable Shooting Rail: Provides a steady rest for your firearm, improving accuracy.
Cons
- Weight: At 113 lbs, the stand can be challenging to transport and set up alone.
- Initial Setup: The ratcheting system requires some practice to master.
Who Should Buy Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand?
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand is perfect for hunters who prioritize safety and stability, especially those hunting with a partner. It’s also a great choice for hunters who hunt in areas with less-than-perfectly straight trees.
Hunters on public land could use this stand to securely hunt areas away from the masses.
This product is not ideal for hunters who primarily hunt alone and prioritize lightweight mobility. If you are a run-and-gun hunter who moves to a new stand every day, then the Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand might not be your first choice.
Must-have accessories include a good quality safety harness and potentially a winch system to aid in raising and lowering the stand.
Conclusion on Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand
The Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand is an excellent investment for hunters seeking a safe, stable, and comfortable two-person hunting platform. The Lockdown Ground-Level Ratcheting Technology is a game-changer, providing unparalleled security and peace of mind.
The price of $389.49 is justified by the stand’s robust construction, innovative features, and overall performance. Compared to other ladder stands in its class, the Rivers Edge Treestands offers exceptional value.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rivers Edge Treestands 17 ft Lockdown 2-Man Treestand to any hunter looking to upgrade their hunting experience. Invest in your safety and comfort, and you’ll spend more time focusing on the hunt and less time worrying about your stand.