First Impressions of Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger is a simple, yet potentially game-changing piece of gear for any serious bowhunter. Crafted by Rinehart, a company known for its durable and realistic archery targets, this hanger promises a convenient and secure way to keep your bow accessible while in the stand. It’s a single-arm design constructed from cold-rolled steel, finished with a black powder coat.
For years, I’ve struggled with flimsy bow hangers that either broke under the weight of my compound bow or were a pain to install. I was looking for a durable, reliable solution that wouldn’t require a ton of finagling in the pre-dawn darkness. My previous attempts involved makeshift rope hangers and even balancing my bow precariously on branches, all of which were far from ideal.
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger arrives in minimal packaging, showcasing its straightforward design. Pulling it out of the box, I was immediately struck by the solid feel of the cold-rolled steel and the clean, even powder-coat finish. The 6″ length seemed adequate for holding my bow away from the tree trunk, preventing any accidental bumps or scrapes.
Compared to other hangers I’ve used – mostly generic screw-in models – the Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger stood out for its simplicity. There are no flimsy straps or complicated adjustments; it’s a solid piece of steel designed for one purpose. This minimalist approach and slat wall design (no screws needed) immediately set it apart from the competition.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked durable and easy to use, but the true test would be how it performs in the field, especially given its reliance on a slat wall for mounting. I was excited to see if it could live up to Rinehart’s reputation for quality and practicality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger occurred during a whitetail hunt in the dense forests of northern Wisconsin. I was using a new stand with a built-in slat wall system, eager to see how easily the hanger would integrate. Setting up in the pre-dawn chill, the hanger slid seamlessly into the slat wall, requiring no tools or extra hardware.
The hanger remained stable and secure, even when subjected to slight nudges from my movement in the stand. The powder-coat finish provided a solid grip, preventing my bow from slipping, even with light frost on the limbs. I was impressed with its immediate usability and lack of complicated setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting, the Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no signs of wear or tear on the steel, and the powder-coat finish remains intact, despite exposure to rain, snow, and the occasional accidental bump. It still mounts securely in the slat wall system.
Maintenance has been virtually non-existent; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous experiences with flimsy, unreliable hangers, the Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger has been a revelation. Its durability and ease of use have made my hunting experience significantly more enjoyable and stress-free.
Breaking Down the Features of Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger
Specifications
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger is constructed from cold-rolled steel, ensuring exceptional strength and durability. It features a black powder-coat finish, which provides both a protective layer against the elements and a non-slip surface for the bow. The hanger extends 6″ from the mounting point, providing ample clearance for most bow models.
These specifications are crucial for the hanger’s overall performance and user experience. The steel construction ensures that the hanger can withstand the weight of modern compound bows without bending or breaking. The powder-coat finish provides a secure grip, preventing the bow from accidentally slipping off the hanger, even in wet or cold conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger performs its job admirably, providing a secure and accessible place to store a bow while in a treestand. Its single-arm design allows for easy access to the bow, making it quick and convenient to grab when a shot opportunity presents itself. The simple yet effective design ensures that the bow is held securely and safely.
The hanger’s primary strength lies in its simplicity and durability. The lack of moving parts and robust construction means that there is little that can go wrong. Its main weakness, however, is its reliance on a slat wall for mounting; it won’t work on trees without this specific mounting system.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger boasts a minimalist design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The cold-rolled steel provides a solid and durable feel, inspiring confidence in its ability to hold a valuable bow. Its lightweight construction adds minimal weight to a treestand setup, making it easy to transport and install.
The hanger is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no tools or complicated installation procedures. Simply slide it into the slat wall, and it’s ready to go. The 6″ extension provides ample space for most bow models, preventing them from bumping against the tree trunk or other gear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger is built to last, thanks to its durable steel construction and powder-coat finish. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Its simple design also minimizes the risk of mechanical failure, further extending its lifespan.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime. The powder-coat finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring that the hanger maintains its appearance and functionality for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger comes with no additional accessories, as its design is inherently simple and self-contained. There are no customization options available, as the hanger is a single, solid piece of steel. However, its compatibility with standard slat wall systems means that it can be used with a wide variety of treestands and platforms.
Pros and Cons of Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger
Pros
- Durable cold-rolled steel construction for long-lasting reliability.
- Easy and secure slat wall mounting, eliminating the need for screws or tools.
- Protective powder-coat finish prevents slippage and protects against the elements.
- Simple, minimalist design for easy use and maintenance.
- Provides secure and accessible bow storage in the treestand.
Cons
- Reliance on a slat wall mounting system limits its use to specific treestands or platforms.
- Lack of adjustability may not accommodate all bow sizes or preferences.
Who Should Buy Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger?
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger is perfect for bowhunters who use treestands or platforms with a slat wall system. It offers a convenient and reliable way to store their bow while in the stand, keeping it accessible and safe from damage. It is ideal for hunters who value simplicity, durability, and ease of use.
This product might not be suitable for hunters who primarily hunt from the ground or use treestands without a slat wall mounting system. It’s also not ideal for hunters who require a highly adjustable or customizable bow hanger.
A must-have accessory for this product is a compatible treestand or platform with a slat wall system.
Conclusion on Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger
The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger is a well-designed and durable piece of equipment that excels at its intended purpose. Its simple yet effective design, combined with its robust construction, makes it a reliable choice for bowhunters who use treestands with slat wall systems. The Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger offers a clear solution.
At $45.99, the price is justified by the hanger’s quality construction, ease of use, and long-lasting durability. It’s a worthwhile investment for any serious bowhunter looking for a secure and convenient way to store their bow in the treestand.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rinehart BowTree Bow Hanger to any bowhunter who meets the criteria outlined above. If you’re tired of flimsy, unreliable bow hangers, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your hunting experience today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your bow is safe and accessible.