Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand Review

First Thoughts on the Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand

The Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand promises comfort and stability for the serious hunter. Primal Treestands aims to deliver a reliable and spacious platform at an accessible price point, and the “Xtra Wide” designation immediately caught my attention, suggesting a significant upgrade in roominess.

Having spent countless hours perched in cramped, uncomfortable stands, the appeal of a deluxe, extra-wide platform is undeniable. My aging knees and back have started to complain about long sits in the woods, and I’m always on the lookout for gear that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing safety or functionality. This stand looked like it could be the answer to my prayers for a more comfortable and productive hunting season.

The stand arrived well-packaged, and upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the apparent sturdiness of the steel construction. The powder-coated finish looked durable, and the included hardware seemed robust enough to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. The seat, while appearing somewhat basic, did seem adequately padded for extended sits.

Compared to my old Summit climber and a cheaper, smaller ladder stand I borrowed last year, the Primal Treestands model seemed to strike a good balance between size and portability. I had been considering the Millennium L110, known for its comfort, and the Hawk Helium Pro, known for its lightweight design; however, the Primal Treestands offering, with its appealing price, seemed to be a reasonable compromise.

Initially, I was excited by the potential for increased comfort and stability offered by the Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand. However, the relatively basic seat design left me with a hint of skepticism that only real-world testing could resolve.

Real-World Testing: Putting Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand on a pre-season scouting trip in the hardwood bottoms of my hunting property. Setting up the stand required two people, as expected, but the process was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and well-labeled parts. I hunted from it two separate mornings during that trip.

The stand felt surprisingly stable once secured to the tree, even on slightly uneven terrain. The “Xtra Wide” platform lived up to its name, providing ample room to maneuver and adjust my position, a welcome change from my previous cramped experiences. The seat, while not luxurious, was adequately comfortable for the 4-hour sits I subjected it to.

However, the included ratchet straps felt a bit flimsy, and I decided to replace them with heavier-duty straps before the actual hunting season began, for extra piece of mind. Otherwise, I did not encounter any unpleasant surprises during that first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use throughout the hunting season, the Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches in the powder coating from branches during transport, but no signs of significant wear or corrosion.

The seat padding has compressed slightly over time, but remains reasonably comfortable. Routine maintenance involves simply wiping down the stand with a damp cloth after each use to remove mud and debris. It continues to feel more comfortable and more stable than my previous ladder stands.

Compared to the flimsy stand I borrowed last season, the Primal Treestands model is a significant upgrade in terms of both comfort and stability. It hasn’t reached the supreme comfort level of the Millennium, but offers solid performance at a much better price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand

Specifications

• This is a 17-foot ladder stand, providing a good vantage point for hunting. The height is beneficial for seeing further and keeping scent above ground level.
• The “Deluxe Xtra Wide” platform offers increased roominess. This allows for more comfortable and versatile hunting positions.
• Its construction consists of durable steel with a powder-coated finish. This enhances weather resistance and durability.
• It has a single-person capacity. It’s designed specifically for one hunter, ensuring a safe weight limit.
• The seat includes basic padding for comfort. It provides some cushioning for extended sits.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the hunter’s safety, comfort, and overall hunting experience. A sturdy, wide platform at a good height increases the odds of a successful and enjoyable hunt.

Performance & Functionality

The Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand performs its core function admirably: providing a safe and stable elevated hunting platform. Its large platform allows for easy target acquisition and a wide field of view.

The stand’s strengths lie in its spaciousness and relative stability. Its weakness is the somewhat basic seat; an upgrade in seating comfort would be greatly appreciated.

Ultimately, it meets my expectations for a mid-range ladder stand, providing a comfortable and safe hunting experience without breaking the bank.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand is solid, utilizing durable steel and a weather-resistant powder coating. Its weight is manageable for two people during setup, though one person will likely struggle.

The design is user-friendly, with a straightforward ladder system and a simple platform design. There is a slight learning curve in assembling the stand, but the included instructions are clear and easy to follow.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction of the Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand suggests it should last for many seasons with proper care. Regular cleaning and inspection for rust are essential for prolonging its lifespan.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and cleaning supplies. The powder-coated finish should resist corrosion, but any scratches should be touched up to prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand comes standard with ratchet straps and safety harnesses. There are no included customization options.

However, it is compatible with aftermarket seating upgrades and accessory hooks for holding gear. Most universal tree stand accessories, such as drink holders and bow hangers, will work with this stand.

Pros and Cons of Primal Treestands 17′ Single Vantage Deluxe Xtra Wide Ladderstand