Primal Treestands The Shotseeker Review

First Impressions of Primal Treestands The Shotseeker

The Primal Treestands The Shotseeker is a minimalist, lightweight, and affordable hang-on treestand designed for mobile hunters. Offered by Primal Treestands, it boasts a rounded rectangular tube frame, a reasonably sized platform, and a flip-up sling seat. It promises to be a compact and easily transportable option for hunters looking to get off the ground without breaking the bank.

I’ve spent countless hours in treestands over the past decade, always seeking the perfect balance between comfort, stability, and portability. I was drawn to The Shotseeker because I needed a lightweight, secondary stand for quick hunts in areas where pre-existing stand locations were either over-hunted or unsuitable for the prevailing wind. I wanted something I could easily pack in and out, allowing for spontaneous hunts without the hassle of heavy, cumbersome stands.

Upon unboxing The Shotseeker, I was immediately struck by its minimalist design. The frame felt sturdy despite its light weight, and the 600D fabric sling seat seemed reasonably durable. Its compact footprint made it seem ideal for those tighter spots in the timber. My initial thought was that the quality matched the price point, but a true test would come in the field. Compared to my heavier, more luxurious ladder stands and my lock-on with larger platform, this was clearly aimed at run-and-gun hunting.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was definitely excited about the potential for easy portability, but a bit skeptical of the long-term comfort for all day sits. I was also concerned about the noise factor during setup, something crucial for not spooking game.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Primal Treestands The Shotseeker to the Test

First Use Experience

My first hunt with The Shotseeker was in a dense hardwood bottomland during the early archery season. The weather was mild and humid. The primary objective was deer hunting, but it also provided an opportunity to assess the stand’s performance in a real-world scenario.

The setup proved to be relatively straightforward, though the light weight meant that even minor movements of the straps to secure it to the tree caused the stand to sway a bit more than I was used to, requiring extra care during installation. Once secured, the platform felt stable, but the smaller size required me to be more mindful of my movements. The sling seat was adequate for a couple of hours, but I definitely noticed some discomfort after that point. There was a slight squeaking noise from the seat fabric against the frame with movement, something I’d need to address before future hunts with some moleskin or similar dampening material.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, primarily during morning hunts lasting 3-4 hours each, The Shotseeker has proven to be a reliable, albeit basic, platform. The paint finish has held up well against scrapes from tree bark and the elements. The 600D fabric seat shows no signs of tearing or excessive wear.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily just wiping down the frame after hunts to remove mud and debris. Compared to my more elaborate stands, The Shotseeker is incredibly easy to care for. While it hasn’t outperformed my more comfortable stands in terms of extended sit comfort, it has definitely excelled in portability and ease of setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Primal Treestands The Shotseeker

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Primal Treestands
• Platform Dimensions: 26 inches x 20 inches
• Seat Type: Flip-up sling seat constructed of durable 600D fabric
• Frame: Rounded rectangular shaped tube frame
• Weight: 17.2 oz This is incorrect; the weight is 17.2 lbs, not ounces!
• Includes: Backpack straps, full body safety harness
• Warranty: 1 year limited warranty
• Dimensions (packaged): Height: 3.74 in, Width: 20.47 in, Length: 27 in
• Additional Features: No

The specifications are fairly typical for an entry-level hang-on stand, except for the incorrect weight listing. A 17.2 ounce treestand would be unbelievably light. The reality of 17.2 pounds is much more believable for a steel-framed stand. The platform size is adequate for most hunters, and the 600D fabric is a standard, durable material for seating.

Performance & Functionality

The Shotseeker performs its primary function – getting a hunter off the ground – adequately. The platform provides a stable shooting base, but the smaller size limits movement and requires careful foot placement. The sling seat is sufficient for shorter hunts, but lacks the padding and support needed for extended periods.

The strength lies in its portability and ease of setup. The weakness is definitely the minimal comfort and the potential for noise during setup. The platform met my expectations for a lightweight, mobile stand, but the comfort level fell short for all-day sits.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The rounded rectangular tube frame is easy to grip and carry. The seat flips up and out of the way, providing full access to the platform.

The build quality is decent for the price point. The materials are adequate, but there’s a definite “budget” feel to some of the components. There is a slight learning curve to setting the stand up quietly and efficiently; practice makes perfect.

Durability & Maintenance

The stand should last for several seasons with proper care. The steel frame is powder-coated for weather resistance. The 600D fabric is durable and easy to clean.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection of straps and buckles. Repair, if necessary, would likely involve replacing the seat fabric or tightening loose bolts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shotseeker comes with basic backpack straps and a full-body safety harness. There are limited customization options, as it’s a fairly bare-bones design. Aftermarket seat cushions or platforms designed for hang-on stands might be adaptable with some modification, but nothing is specifically designed for this model.

Compatible accessories would be universal tree stand accessories like rope hoists, bow holders, or gear hooks, but these are not unique to this stand. The limited options reflect the budget-friendly nature of the product.

Pros and Cons of Primal Treestands The Shotseeker

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Primal Treestands The Shotseeker?

The Primal Treestands The Shotseeker is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who prioritize portability and quick setup over comfort. It’s ideal for those who hunt multiple locations or prefer to move their stand frequently to adapt to changing deer patterns. It’s also a good option for hunters who need a lightweight secondary stand for specific situations.

Hunters who prefer all-day sits, require a large platform for added comfort and movement, or demand premium features should skip this product. Consider a more expensive, feature-rich hang-on stand or a ladder stand instead.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality aftermarket seat cushion to improve comfort. Moleskin or similar adhesive fabric applied to the frame where the seat contacts it can help eliminate squeaking noises.

Conclusion on Primal Treestands The Shotseeker

The Primal Treestands The Shotseeker is a decent entry-level hang-on treestand that delivers on its promise of being lightweight and affordable. While it lacks the comfort and features of more expensive models, it provides a functional and reliable platform for hunters on a budget. The value proposition is strong, considering the low price point and included safety harness.

I would recommend it to hunters who understand its limitations and prioritize portability and affordability. For run-and-gun style hunting, it fits the bill.

If you’re looking for a basic, no-frills treestand that won’t break the bank, give The Shotseeker a try. Just be sure to invest in a good seat cushion and some moleskin to maximize your comfort and minimize noise! Get out there and hunt safe!