The Primal Treestands 18′ Made a Bold First Impression
The Primal Treestands 18′ Double Vantage Deluxe Two Man Ladderstand isn’t just a treestand; it’s an elevated hunting experience. Crafted by Primal Treestands, this ladderstand promises a safe, comfortable, and spacious perch for the serious hunter, especially those who prefer hunting with a partner. Its height and two-man capacity were the initial features that piqued my interest.
As an avid deer hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve spent countless hours perched in various treestands. My old single-person stand was becoming cramped and uncomfortable for longer hunts. I wanted a stand that allowed me to bring my son along and share the experience, safely and comfortably. The Primal Treestands 18′ seemed to offer the perfect solution.
The ladderstand arrived well-packaged, a good sign of Primal Treestands‘ attention to detail. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the seemingly simple yet effective design. The steel frame felt solid, and the spacious platform looked inviting. Compared to some flimsy ladderstands I’ve seen, this felt like a tank. I had been considering a cheaper, single-person stand from a competitor, but the added safety and the ability to hunt with my son made the Primal Treestands 18′ a clear winner. My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primal Treestands 18′ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the Primal Treestands 18′ was on a crisp October morning in the hardwood bottoms of my hunting property. I chose a spot near a well-worn deer trail, hoping to catch a glimpse of a mature buck. The setup, while requiring some effort due to the height, was surprisingly straightforward with two people. The ladder sections connected securely, and the included straps provided added stability.
The platform offered ample room for both me and my son, a welcome change from the cramped quarters of my old stand. Despite a light drizzle, the powder-coated finish provided a secure grip. After settling in, we were immediately struck by the improved visibility afforded by the height of the stand. There were no issues at all during our first use, and my son was really comfortable, making it a successful outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Primal Treestands 18′ has proven to be a reliable and durable hunting companion. The steel construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion despite exposure to the elements. Regular inspection and tightening of bolts have been the only maintenance required. The stand’s durability has far surpassed that of cheaper, aluminum stands I’ve used in the past.
The ladderstand has become a fixture in my hunting routine, providing a comfortable and safe platform for countless hours in the woods. Its performance has consistently exceeded my expectations, making it a valuable addition to my hunting arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Primal Treestands 18′
Specifications
The Primal Treestands 18′ Double Vantage Deluxe Two Man Ladderstand boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and user experience. The 18-foot height provides an excellent vantage point for spotting game. The stand’s two-man capacity is a significant advantage for hunting with a partner or providing extra space for gear. The steel frame construction ensures robust durability and a high weight capacity.
The ladderstand features a spacious platform for comfortable movement and positioning. The powder-coated finish provides excellent weather resistance and a secure grip. These features matter because they provide the hunter with the best and most comfortable chance of taking their game.
Performance & Functionality
The Primal Treestands 18′ performs its primary function – providing a safe and elevated hunting platform – exceptionally well. The height offers superior visibility and reduces the risk of being detected by game. The spacious platform allows for comfortable movement and positioning, even with two hunters. The stand is stable and secure, providing peace of mind during long sits.
The stand’s greatest strength is its two-man capacity, allowing for shared hunting experiences and added safety. One potential weakness is the weight of the stand, which can make initial setup challenging, but this is to be expected. Overall, it exceeds my expectations for a two-person ladder stand.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Primal Treestands 18′ prioritizes both safety and comfort. The sturdy steel frame inspires confidence, while the spacious platform provides ample room to maneuver. The ladder sections are well-designed and connect securely, minimizing wobble.
The ladderstand has a user-friendly design, although the initial setup requires some patience and a second person. The wide steps make climbing easy, even with heavy boots.
Durability & Maintenance
The Primal Treestands 18′ is built to last, thanks to its durable steel construction and powder-coated finish. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintaining the stand is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of bolts.
This is very important because it will ensure the hunter continues to have a safe and enjoyable experience for years to come. With this in mind, this Primal Treestands will hold up for quite some time with proper maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primal Treestands 18′ comes with essential accessories, including safety harnesses and tree straps, which are critical for safe hunting. While the stand itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, hunters can add aftermarket seat cushions or shooting rests to enhance comfort and functionality. The stand is generally compatible with universal ladder stand accessories.
Pros and Cons of Primal Treestands 18′
Pros
- Exceptional stability and safety due to the sturdy steel frame.
- Spacious two-man platform provides ample room for movement and shared hunting experiences.
- Excellent visibility from the 18-foot height.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively easy setup with two people.
Cons
- Can be heavy and somewhat cumbersome to transport and set up.
- Requires two people for optimal setup.
Who Should Buy Primal Treestands 18′?
The Primal Treestands 18′ is perfect for:
- Hunters who prioritize safety and stability above all else.
- Hunters who enjoy hunting with a partner or want extra space for gear.
- Hunters who need a reliable and durable stand that can withstand the elements.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Hunters who primarily hunt on public land and need a lightweight, highly portable option.
- Hunters who prefer to hunt alone and don’t need the extra space of a two-man stand.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- Additional seat cushions for enhanced comfort during long sits.
- A quality ratchet strap for extra stability.
Conclusion on Primal Treestands 18′
The Primal Treestands 18′ Double Vantage Deluxe Two Man Ladderstand is a top-tier option for hunters seeking a safe, comfortable, and spacious elevated hunting platform. While the price point may be higher than some competitors, the superior build quality and two-man capacity justify the investment. The Primal Treestands 18′ delivers exceptional value for the serious hunter.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this ladderstand to anyone looking to elevate their hunting experience, literally and figuratively. If you value safety, comfort, and the ability to share your passion with a hunting partner, the Primal Treestands 18′ is an excellent choice. So, gear up, head to the woods, and experience the difference a quality ladderstand can make!