HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON Review

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of treestands. The market is flooded with options, ranging from flimsy and unsafe to overly bulky and expensive. So, when the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON crossed my path, I was cautiously optimistic, drawn in by Hawk’s reputation for quality and the promise of a lightweight, yet spacious, hunting platform.

My quest for the ideal hang-on stand stemmed from a desire for versatility. I needed a stand that could handle the dense forests of the East Coast and the wide-open spaces of the Midwest, without breaking my back during setup and takedown. The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON seemed to strike a perfect balance.

The unboxing experience was immediately positive. The stand arrived well-packaged, and my initial impression was one of ruggedness. The platform felt solid under my hands, and the welds appeared clean and robust. It defied my expectation that lightweight meant flimsy. The advertised weight felt accurate, a huge plus for someone who often hikes miles into the woods.

Compared to my old, clunky steel stand, the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON was a breath of fresh air. I also considered the Muddy Bloodsport and the Lone Wolf Alpha II, but ultimately chose the HAWK due to its perceived balance of price, weight, and platform size. The Muddy felt a bit too heavy, and the Lone Wolf, while lauded for its portability, was considerably more expensive. I was excited to get it into the woods and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON took place in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania during early archery season. I scouted a promising white oak stand, and the relatively lightweight design of the stand made the mile-long trek with my climbing sticks manageable.

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON performed admirably in slightly damp conditions. The textured platform provided secure footing, even with a light layer of dew. Setting it up was straightforward with the included tree strap, and I was impressed with how quietly it cinched down. There was a slight metallic “ting” when initially tightening the strap, but easily mitigated with a small piece of moleskin. After the initial setup, no noise was present.

After the first use I was satisfied, but a little fatigued from the initial setup with the tree strap. The setup, while quiet, took a little getting used to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON across various hunting locations, it continues to impress. The stand shows no signs of significant wear and tear. The powder coat finish has held up well against scrapes and bumps against tree bark.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the platform after each use to remove mud and debris. I’ve inspected the welds and connections regularly, and everything remains solid.

Compared to my old steel stand, the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON is a game-changer. It’s significantly lighter, more comfortable, and quieter to set up. The increased platform size offers a noticeable improvement in stability and room to maneuver. The HAWK has truly exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON

Specifications

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON boasts some impressive specifications for a hang-on treestand in its price range. It is designed for one person and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds. The platform size is notably generous, providing ample room to move around.

• Weight: Approximately 12 lbs. This is a critical spec for anyone who packs their stand long distances.
• Construction: Aluminum. This ensures both strength and resistance to rust and corrosion.
• Platform Size: 30″ Wide x 24″ Deep. The “XL” designation is well-earned.
• Seat: Contoured Mesh Seat. The seat provides good comfort during long sits, while resisting moisture.
• Tree Size Compatibility: Designed for trees 8″ to 20″ in diameter. This covers a wide range of tree types and sizes.
• Attachment Method: Tree Strap with Silent Overmold Buckle. Promotes quiet and secure attachment.

These specifications translate to a treestand that is easy to carry, durable, comfortable, and adaptable to a wide range of hunting environments.

Performance & Functionality

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON performs its primary function – providing a stable and secure hunting platform – exceptionally well. The platform is generously sized, which allows for easy pivoting and repositioning for shots in different directions. The contoured mesh seat is comfortable enough for long sits without causing excessive fatigue.

The HAWK’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, spacious platform, and ease of setup. The only real weakness is the initial setup noise from the tree strap buckle, which can be easily addressed with a simple modification. It exceeds my expectations for a treestand in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down without sacrificing strength. The large platform provides ample room to maneuver, and the contoured mesh seat is surprisingly comfortable for extended periods.

The stand is relatively easy to use, even for those new to hang-on treestands. The included tree strap makes setup straightforward, and the platform levels easily.

Durability & Maintenance

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON appears to be built to last. The aluminum frame is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, and the powder coat finish provides an additional layer of protection. I expect this stand to last for many years with proper care.

Maintenance is simple. I wipe down the platform after each use and occasionally lubricate the moving parts. The stand can be easily disassembled for storage and transportation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON comes with the essential accessory – a tree strap for attachment. The Hawk ecosystem is expansive, allowing accessories such as climbing sticks and safety harnesses to be easily paired with this stand.

The stand is also compatible with aftermarket treestand accessories such as footrests and accessory hooks. Users are not locked into Hawk branded equipment.

Pros and Cons of HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON

Who Should Buy HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON?

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON is perfect for hunters who prioritize portability, comfort, and a spacious platform. It is ideal for both seasoned veterans and those new to hang-on treestands. Hunters who hunt public land and need to pack their stands long distances will especially appreciate the lightweight design.

Those who prioritize absolute silence during setup above all else might want to consider a different attachment method or be prepared to modify the tree strap buckle. Heavier hunters over 300 lbs should look elsewhere due to the stand’s weight capacity.

A quality safety harness and climbing sticks are must-have accessories for use with the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON.

Conclusion on HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON

The HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON is an excellent treestand that offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. The lightweight design, spacious platform, and durable construction make it a standout in its class.

At a price of $158.99, the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON is a justified investment for serious hunters. The increased comfort and maneuverability translate to more successful hunts.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON to anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable, and portable hang-on treestand. Take your hunting to new heights and invest in the HAWK HELIUM XL HANG-ON today.