Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green Review

The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green Made a Bold First Impression

The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green isn’t exactly going to set the world on fire with innovation, but it is a crucial piece of kit for any serious treestand hunter looking to keep their gear safe and sound. This simple, yet effective tool from Hunters Specialties provides a reliable and quiet method for hoisting your bow, rifle, or backpack into your stand, eliminating the need for noisy climbs with cumbersome equipment. It promises safety and convenience, two virtues held in high regard by any hunter worth their salt.

I was on the hunt (pun intended) for a better system after nearly dropping my expensive rangefinder out of my stand last season. I’d been using a length of paracord, but it was always a tangled mess, and the knot I used for securing my gear felt anything but secure. I needed something dedicated, something designed for the task, and something reliable.

Upon receiving the Hunters Specialties Lift Cord, the first thing I noticed was its simplicity. The olive drab color blends seamlessly into the forest environment, and the overall build felt solid enough for the task. The clips appeared sturdy, and the cord lock mechanism seemed to function smoothly.

I’ve used similar, albeit less refined, hoist ropes in the past. The biggest difference was the integrated clip and cord lock, a feature absent on cheaper alternatives. This seemed to promise a more secure and user-friendly experience compared to just using a basic rope and relying on knots. I also considered a more elaborate pulley system, but the added weight and complexity didn’t seem worth it for my needs.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a basic product, but sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. If it performed as advertised and held up to the rigors of a hunting season, it would be well worth the modest investment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Hunters Specialties Lift Cord was on a bowhunting trip deep in the Pennsylvania woods. The setup was straightforward: clip one end to my backpack containing my rattling antlers and snacks, attach the other to my stand, and hoist away. The OD green color truly vanished amongst the oak and maple trees.

Despite a light drizzle, the cord didn’t slip or become difficult to handle. The cord lock held firm, even with the weight of a fully loaded pack. It was noticeably easier and quieter than wrestling with paracord and attempting to tie knots one-handed while perched twenty feet in the air.

The only minor hiccup was getting used to the cord lock. It took a couple of tries to smoothly release and tighten the cord with gloves on, but after a few practice runs, it became second nature. Otherwise, the first use was remarkably uneventful, exactly what you want when your focus should be on the hunt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full whitetail season and several scouting trips, the Hunters Specialties Lift Cord has proven its worth. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The cord remains strong and supple, and the clips still function perfectly.

I’ve used the cord in temperatures ranging from below freezing to relatively mild autumn days, and the material hasn’t become brittle or stiff. Cleaning is a breeze, usually just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any mud or debris. It’s holding up far better than the cheap paracord I used previously.

It vastly outperforms my old system. The integrated clips and cord lock provide a level of security and convenience that I didn’t realize I was missing. It’s a simple tool, but it’s made a noticeable improvement to my hunting experience, providing peace of mind knowing my gear is safely secured.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green

Specifications

• The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green boasts a 20-foot length, offering ample reach for most treestand setups. This length is sufficient for safely hoisting gear into stands positioned at various heights, providing versatility in different hunting environments.

• Its olive drab (OD) green color ensures excellent concealment in wooded areas. This color minimizes visibility, preventing unwanted attention from game or other hunters.

• The cord features a clip on one end and a cord lock and clip on the other. This configuration allows for secure attachment to gear and the treestand, as well as easy adjustment and locking of the cord length.

• The entire system is designed for quiet operation, minimizing noise that could spook game. The smooth operation of the clips and cord lock is crucial for maintaining stealth in the woods.

• The product is manufactured by Hunters Specialties, a well-known name in the hunting industry, which speaks to its potential quality and reliability. Hunters Specialties has a long-standing reputation for producing hunting accessories.

Performance & Functionality

The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord excels at its primary function: safely and quietly hoisting gear. The cord lock mechanism holds securely, preventing accidental slippage, and the clips provide a reliable attachment point. It eliminates the risk of dropping essential equipment and allows for a more focused hunting experience.

The system’s main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. There’s no complicated setup or learning curve. The length is adequate for most stand heights, and the OD green color provides excellent camouflage. However, users with stands exceeding 20 feet in height will need to consider an alternative solution.

It absolutely meets expectations. It’s a basic product that does exactly what it claims to do, and it does it well. It’s a reliable and effective tool that I now consider an essential part of my hunting gear.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and functional. The lightweight construction doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your pack. The clips are easy to operate, even with gloves on, and the cord lock is intuitive.

The build quality is surprisingly good for the price. The materials feel durable, and the stitching is secure. There’s no unnecessary complexity, making it a user-friendly tool for hunters of all experience levels.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Hunters Specialties Lift Cord should last for several seasons with proper care. The cord itself is resistant to abrasion and UV damage. The clips are made of durable plastic that shows no signs of cracking or breaking.

Maintenance is minimal. Just a quick cleaning after each hunt is sufficient to keep it in good working order. Store it in a dry place to prevent mildew or rot.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green doesn’t require any specific accessories. It is a standalone product designed to work as is. While there are no direct customization options, you could potentially replace the clips with higher-strength carabiners for added security if desired.

The cord is compatible with any gear that can be attached via a clip or loop. This includes bows, rifles, backpacks, and other hunting essentials. However, it’s always a good idea to test the weight capacity of the clips before hoisting heavy items.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green

Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green?

The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green is perfect for treestand hunters of all experience levels who prioritize safety and convenience. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade from using basic rope or paracord. It’s especially useful for bowhunters wanting to quietly get their equipment up the tree.

Hunters who consistently use stands exceeding 20 feet in height should skip this product or consider an extension cord. Similarly, those who regularly hoist extremely heavy loads (well beyond a typical hunting pack) may want to opt for a more robust system with metal clips.

A small carabiner could be added as a “must-have” modification for added piece of mind, especially if hunting from a treestand over 15 feet high. This addition adds a little extra security.

Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green

The Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green is a simple, yet remarkably effective tool for any treestand hunter. Its ease of use, quiet operation, and secure cord lock make it a significant upgrade from using basic rope. It’s a small investment that provides peace of mind and enhances the overall hunting experience.

At a price of $7.49, the value proposition is undeniable. It’s a small price to pay for the safety and convenience it offers. For the price, you get a dependable and quiet method for getting your bow, pack and even your lunch up the tree with you.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Hunters Specialties Lift Cord 20′ OD Green to any hunter who uses a treestand. It’s a basic but essential piece of gear that will make your hunt safer, quieter, and more enjoyable. Upgrade your hunting setup today and experience the difference a simple tool can make.