Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand Review

The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand Made a Bold First Impression

After years of navigating the whitetail woods, I’ve learned one thing: elevation is key. That’s why the Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand caught my eye. The promise of a 360-degree view and easy transport in a cornfield setting had me intrigued, and after a season of use, I’m ready to share my experiences with this unique hunting perch.

I was looking for a hunting stand that provided an elevated view without the hassle of climbing trees or dealing with cumbersome ladder stands. I needed something portable, easily deployable in open areas, and comfortable enough for extended sits. The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand seemed to tick all those boxes, at a price point that didn’t break the bank.

Out of the box, the Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand makes a decent impression. The weight at 67 lbs is manageable, though certainly not light. The frame felt sturdy, with a powder coat finish. The Flex-Tek seat looked comfortable.

Compared to a traditional ladder stand or a climbing tree stand, the tripod design offered a completely different approach. The fold-flat design was more appealing than other cumbersome tripod stands I’d seen, and the advertised 360-degree swivel seat set it apart from fixed-position options. I was definitely excited. The ease of transport combined with the potential for unrestricted shooting lanes seemed like a game-changer.

Real-World Testing: Putting Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test came during early archery season in a sprawling Kansas cornfield. Setting up the Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand was relatively straightforward, taking about 20 minutes alone. The exterior ladder provided safe and easy access to the platform. Once up, the swivel seat proved invaluable, allowing me to silently adjust my position as deer moved through the dense vegetation.

Despite the dry conditions, a slight breeze made the stand sway a bit, which was disconcerting at first. However, I quickly got used to it. The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand performed admirably, providing a clear field of view over the corn stalks and enabling me to spot deer much earlier than I would have on the ground. No issues or surprises after my first time use, setup was relatively easy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand has proven reasonably durable. There are a few scratches on the powder coat from transport and use, but nothing major. The Flex-Tek seat still provides a comfortable sit. I did tighten all the bolts after about a month of use to eliminate any squeaks and rattles.

Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes mud and dirt. Compared to lugging around a heavy, fixed ladder stand, the Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand offers a significant advantage in portability. While not perfect, it definitely outperforms my expectations for a stand in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand

Specifications

• Height: 12 feet to the shooting rail. This height provides a good vantage point in most open areas.
• Weight: 67 lbs. It is heavy enough to be stable, but not so heavy that it’s impossible to move alone.
• Seat: Flex-Tek seat rotates 360 degrees. The seat is quite comfortable, especially for extended sits.
• Ladder: Exterior ladder for easy entry. This ensures safe climbing and descent.
• Design: Fold-flat design. This makes transportation much easier than with traditional tripod stands.
• Weight Capacity: Typically around 300 lbs (though not explicitly stated, comparable models are rated this way). This is a standard weight capacity for safety.

These specifications are crucial for overall performance. The 12-foot height allows for a clear line of sight. The 360-degree seat rotation eliminates the need for noisy movements. And the fold-flat design ensures convenient transport and storage.

Performance & Functionality

The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand performs its primary job admirably: providing an elevated and stable hunting platform. The 360-degree seat rotation is a standout feature, allowing for silent adjustments to changing deer movement. Its greatest strength is its adaptability to open areas where tree stands are not an option.

The design could benefit from a slightly wider base for increased stability, particularly in windy conditions. The ladder, while functional, could also be improved with a more secure locking mechanism at each section. Despite minor shortcomings, the stand meets my expectations, offering a convenient and effective hunting solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable, using durable steel with a powder coat finish. The 67 lb weight strikes a decent balance between stability and portability, it is manageable, but not featherlight. The Flex-Tek seat is comfortable enough for all-day sits.

There is a slight learning curve in setting up the stand, especially the first time. However, with a little practice, it becomes quick and easy. The exterior ladder design provides relatively easy access.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand should last several seasons with proper care. The powder coat finish helps protect against rust and corrosion. Regular cleaning and tightening of bolts will help maintain its integrity.

Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort. It is recommended to store it indoors during the off-season. This helps extend its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand doesn’t come with many accessories, and customization is limited. Some hunters might add padding to the shooting rail for added comfort. Aftermarket shooting sticks or rests can also be used for increased stability.

Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited due to the stand’s unique design. However, universal accessories like cup holders or gear hooks can be easily attached.

Pros and Cons of Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand

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Who Should Buy Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand?

The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand is perfect for hunters who primarily hunt in open areas like cornfields, clearcuts, or prairies where tree stands are not an option. It’s also well-suited for hunters who value portability and ease of setup.

This stand might not be ideal for hunters who prefer hunting in dense forests with plenty of trees or those who require a highly customizable stand. If you prioritize rock-solid stability above all else, a more robust (and expensive) tripod stand might be a better choice. A must-have accessory would be some type of tie-down straps or ground anchors to improve stability in windy conditions.

Conclusion on Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand

The Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand offers a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and portability. While it has minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The 360-degree seat rotation and fold-flat design are standout features that make it a worthwhile investment for hunters who frequent open areas.

At a price of $192.49, the value proposition is strong. You are getting a solid, elevated hunting platform that’s easy to transport and set up without breaking the bank. I would definitely recommend it to hunters looking for a versatile and affordable tripod stand.

Ready to elevate your hunt? Grab a Nomad 12′ Folding Tripod Stand and experience the difference an elevated vantage point can make.

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