First Impressions of Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield
The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield enters a crowded market of treestand safety devices, promising both comfort and crucial fall protection. From Hunter Safety System, a brand known for its commitment to hunter safety, this harness aims to provide a lightweight and scent-controlled solution for all-day sits. The inclusion of ElimiShield Hunt Scent Control Technology piqued my interest, as minimizing scent is paramount for successful hunts.
As an avid whitetail hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve used my fair share of safety harnesses. My biggest gripe with previous harnesses has always been bulkiness and discomfort, especially during longer sits in the stand. I was looking for a harness that would feel less restrictive while still providing reliable fall arrest, and the Treestalker seemed to address these concerns.
Upon unboxing, the harness felt surprisingly lightweight. The Realtree Edge camo pattern is well-executed, and the material felt soft and pliable. The Right Fit zones seemed promising for eliminating excess bulk.
Compared to my old, bulky harness from a competitor and a cheaper, minimalist harness I tried last season, the Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield immediately stood out. It felt more like wearing a vest than a restrictive harness. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the comfort translated into performance in the field.
My initial excitement was high. The lightweight design, coupled with the promise of scent control and comfortable fit, suggested the Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield could be a game-changer for my hunting setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield was during a pre-rut whitetail hunt in central Wisconsin. The conditions were typical for late October: cool mornings and mild afternoons. I spent roughly six hours in the stand, a mix of sitting and standing, glassing for deer movement.
The Smart Fabrics lived up to their name, keeping me cool and dry throughout the day. I didn’t experience any excessive sweating or overheating, even during the warmer afternoon hours. The harness was easy to move in, and didn’t restrict my range of motion when drawing my bow for practice shots.
Putting the harness on was a bit tricky the first time; however, after watching a quick video and adjusting the straps, I was able to get a snug and comfortable fit. After the initial adjustment, I had no other issues. No surprises to report, other than relief that a harness could actually be this comfortable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, spanning roughly 40 sits in the treestand, the Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. All stitching remains intact, and the buckles function flawlessly.
The harness cleans easily with a damp cloth, removing any mud or debris accumulated during hunts. I store it in a scent-proof bag between hunts to preserve the ElimiShield Scent Control Technology. Compared to my previous harnesses, the Treestalker far surpasses in comfort and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield
Specifications
The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield is designed with the hunter in mind. It utilizes Smart Fabrics designed to keep the hunter cool and dry throughout the season. The harness features Right Fit zones which keep the vest snug and eliminate any unnecessary bulk, increasing comfort and mobility.
The tether is 1.25 inches thin, designed to absorb more shock than traditional tethers in the event of a fall. Crucially, the ElimiShield Hunt Scent Control Technology is heat-fused into the fabric, ensuring it lasts the lifetime of the harness. The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield is available in Realtree Edge camo and is a unisex design.
These specifications are vital for several reasons. The Smart Fabrics enhance comfort during long sits. The thinner tether improves mobility without sacrificing safety. The ElimiShield technology provides a significant advantage by minimizing scent, and the overall design ensures a snug and comfortable fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield excels at its primary function: providing reliable fall protection while remaining comfortable. The Right Fit zones work as intended, eliminating excess bulk and allowing for a full range of motion. The harness is easy to put on and adjust, even with bulky hunting clothes.
The primary strength lies in its comfort and scent control. A minor improvement would be including a small pocket for a rangefinder or other small accessories. Overall, it far exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used are durable yet lightweight. The Realtree Edge camo pattern blends seamlessly into most wooded environments.
The harness is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment after the initial setup. There is virtually no learning curve, especially for experienced harness users.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on a full season of use, the Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield appears built to last several seasons. The materials are resistant to wear and tear. Basic cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield comes with a tree strap, tether, and suspension relief strap. While no additional accessories are included, the harness is compatible with most standard treestand accessories, such as lineman’s climbing ropes.
The Hunter Safety System line of accessories such as the HSS Utility Pouch would work nicely. A hunter could use third party pouches/accessories without issue.
Pros and Cons of Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield
Pros
- Exceptional Comfort: The Smart Fabrics and Right Fit zones provide all-day comfort, even during long sits.
- Effective Scent Control: The ElimiShield Hunt Scent Control Technology minimizes scent, giving hunters an edge.
- Lightweight Design: The harness is remarkably lightweight, reducing fatigue.
- Easy to Use: The harness is easy to put on, adjust, and move in.
- Durable Construction: The materials and stitching are high-quality, ensuring long-term reliability.
Cons
- No Integrated Pockets: The harness lacks integrated pockets for small accessories.
- Initial Adjustment Required: Some initial adjustment is needed to achieve the perfect fit.
Who Should Buy Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield?
The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield is perfect for avid whitetail hunters and other treestand hunters who prioritize comfort, safety, and scent control. It’s also well-suited for hunters who spend long hours in the stand. This harness is a great fit for mobile hunters who prioritize lightweight gear.
Hunters who prefer harnesses with built-in pockets or those on a very tight budget might want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a reliable lineman’s climbing rope for safe ascent and descent of the tree.
Conclusion on Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield
The Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield is a top-tier treestand safety harness that delivers on its promises. The comfort, scent control, and lightweight design make it a standout in a crowded market. The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the added benefit of ElimiShield scent control.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hunter Safety System Treestalker Harness w/Elimishield to any serious treestand hunter seeking a comfortable, safe, and scent-controlled hunting experience. Upgrade your safety and your hunt – you won’t regret it!