The Big Game The Warrior Pro Made a Bold First Impression
The Big Game The Warrior Pro ladder stand promises a straightforward, lightweight solution for hunters seeking an elevated vantage point. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the tactical and outdoor gear world, I’m always on the lookout for reliable, no-frills equipment. This stand, manufactured by Big Game, caught my eye with its simplicity and price point.
I recently found myself needing a mobile, easily deployable stand for scouting new hunting grounds. My trusty old lock-on stands were becoming cumbersome for quick setup and relocation. The listed weight of 40 pounds and the 16-foot height of the Big Game The Warrior Pro seemed to strike a good balance.
Unboxing the Warrior Pro, I was immediately struck by its no-nonsense construction. The steel tubing felt sturdy, and the powder coat finish seemed durable enough to withstand the elements. Initial inspection revealed clean welds and a generally well-assembled product, considering the accessible price.
Compared to my existing Millenium M100U lock-on and a friend’s Muddy Outdoors Boss Hawg ladder stand, the Big Game The Warrior Pro prioritized portability and ease of setup over luxurious comfort. The Millenium is supremely comfortable but requires more effort to hang; the Muddy is heavier and bulkier. The Warrior Pro promised a faster in-and-out solution.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The stand felt solid, and the lightweight design was appealing. I was excited to put it to the test but also aware that at this price point, some compromises were likely.
Real-World Testing: Putting Big Game The Warrior Pro to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Big Game The Warrior Pro was on a scouting trip in early October in preparation for deer season. I set it up along a known deer trail bordering a thicket of pines and hardwoods. The weather was mild, around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight drizzle.
The stand went up relatively easily, though the ladder sections felt a bit wobbly during assembly. Once secured with the provided straps, however, it felt surprisingly stable. Climbing to the 16-foot platform was uneventful, and the seat, while basic, offered adequate support.
After about three hours in the stand, the small seat became noticeably uncomfortable, requiring frequent shifts in position. The drizzle didn’t affect the stand’s stability, and the foot platform provided ample space. There were no major issues, but the initial comfort level was lower than my more expensive lock-on stands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Big Game The Warrior Pro for several weeks throughout the hunting season, some issues became apparent. The powder coat finish showed minor scratches and wear marks from transporting and setting up the stand in brushy areas. One of the ladder sections developed a slight creak when climbing, despite ensuring the straps were tight.
Cleaning the stand was straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth was sufficient. However, the seat fabric retained moisture easily, requiring extra drying time to prevent mildew. Compared to my experience with higher-end stands, the Warrior Pro requires slightly more diligent maintenance to prevent rust and deterioration.
While it hasn’t failed me, the Big Game The Warrior Pro‘s long-term durability is questionable compared to stands with thicker steel and more robust construction. The value for the price remains good, but expectations should be tempered.
Breaking Down the Features of Big Game The Warrior Pro
Specifications
- The Big Game The Warrior Pro stands at 16 feet tall, providing a good vantage point for hunting. This is a standard height for ladder stands, offering a balance between concealment and visibility.
- It features a 19-inch wide by 10-inch deep foot platform, offering adequate space to stand and maneuver. This size platform is sufficient for most hunters, though larger individuals might find it somewhat cramped.
- The seat is 20 inches wide by 13 inches deep, providing a basic seating area. The seat’s limited depth compromises long sits.
- The stand weighs 40 pounds, making it relatively easy to transport and set up. This is a significant advantage for hunters who frequently move their stands.
- It has a weight rating of 300 pounds, accommodating a wide range of hunters and their gear. This rating is standard for most ladder stands in this price range.
- The Warrior Pro comes with one TMA-Certified full body harness for safety. Safety harnesses are an absolute must when using any elevated hunting stand.
Performance & Functionality
The Big Game The Warrior Pro performs adequately for its intended purpose of providing an elevated hunting platform. It is relatively stable once properly secured, and the height offers a good field of view.
The stand’s primary weakness is its basic comfort level. The seat is minimally padded, and the foot platform lacks any additional features like a shooting rail. This makes extended sits less enjoyable. However, for shorter hunts or scouting trips, it meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Big Game The Warrior Pro features a straightforward, no-frills design. The steel construction is functional, but the finish is prone to scratches and wear. The ladder sections connect securely, but there is some noticeable wobble during assembly.
The stand is easy to assemble and disassemble, and the lightweight design makes it manageable for one person to move. The lack of padding and ergonomic features, however, makes it less comfortable than higher-end stands.
Durability & Maintenance
The Big Game The Warrior Pro‘s durability is adequate for occasional use, but it may not hold up well under heavy use or harsh conditions. The steel construction is prone to rust if not properly maintained, and the powder coat finish is easily scratched.
Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and lubrication of moving parts is sufficient. However, the stand may require occasional repairs or replacement of worn components over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Big Game The Warrior Pro comes with a basic TMA-certified full body harness. No other accessories are included.
There are limited customization options for the Warrior Pro. The seat could be replaced with a more comfortable aftermarket option, and additional padding could be added to the foot platform. It should also be compatible with universal shooting rails. Aftermarket ratchet straps may be a good option to increase stability.
Pros and Cons of Big Game The Warrior Pro
Pros
- Affordable Price: It provides an entry-level option for hunters on a budget.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to transport and set up by one person.
- Adequate Stability: Stable enough once properly secured.
- Good Height: The 16-foot height provides a good vantage point.
- Includes Safety Harness: Comes with a TMA-Certified full body harness for safety.
Cons
- Minimal Comfort: The seat is basic and uncomfortable for extended sits.
- Questionable Durability: The steel construction is prone to rust and wear.
- Limited Customization Options: Very few aftermarket accessories are designed specifically for this model.
Who Should Buy Big Game The Warrior Pro?
The Big Game The Warrior Pro is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who need a lightweight, portable ladder stand for occasional use. It’s also suitable for hunters new to elevated hunting who want an affordable entry-level option. Those scouting new areas will find this stand very helpful.
This product is not recommended for hunters who prioritize comfort or require a stand for frequent, extended use. Hunters in harsh climates or those seeking a stand with maximum durability should also consider other options.
Must-have accessories include a comfortable seat cushion and additional ratchet straps for enhanced stability.
Conclusion on Big Game The Warrior Pro
The Big Game The Warrior Pro is a decent entry-level ladder stand that provides a functional and affordable hunting platform. Its lightweight design and ease of setup make it a practical choice for budget-conscious hunters.
While it lacks the comfort and durability of higher-end stands, its value proposition is strong. At around $100, the Big Game The Warrior Pro offers a cost-effective way to get off the ground and into the woods.
I would recommend the Big Game The Warrior Pro to hunters seeking an affordable, no-frills ladder stand for occasional use. It’s a solid choice for those just starting out or looking for a budget-friendly option for scouting new hunting locations. If you’re willing to sacrifice some comfort and durability for a low price, the Big Game The Warrior Pro is worth considering. Check it out and elevate your hunting game today!