The Quick Stick XL Climbing System Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve relied on a hodgepodge of climbing methods to access my treestands. From cumbersome ladder stands to sketchy screw-in steps, I’ve tried it all. But I yearned for a safer, quieter, and more efficient system. Enter the Quick Stick XL Climbing System, a promising solution from an unnamed manufacturer that aims to revolutionize how hunters ascend to their perches.
My quest for the perfect climbing system stemmed from a near-miss experience with an old, rusty ladder stand that nearly gave way under my weight. I needed a system that offered both stability and ease of use, something that wouldn’t betray me 20 feet up a tree. The Quick Stick XL Climbing System’s all-steel welded construction and cam-buckle strap system immediately piqued my interest.
Unboxing the Quick Stick XL Climbing System revealed a set of five hefty, steel climbing sticks. The weight was immediately noticeable. Each stick felt substantial, lending an air of confidence in their load-bearing capabilities. The alternating angled steps appeared well-designed, and the sleeved sections promised a quieter climb. Initial build quality seemed solid, although the bare steel finish left me wondering about long-term rust resistance.
I’d previously considered climbing sticks from Hawk and Muddy Outdoors. Both offered similar systems, but the Quick Stick XL Climbing System’s advertised ease of assembly and focus on silence swayed my decision. Plus, the price point of $74.49 made it an incredibly attractive option compared to the others.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Quick Stick XL Climbing System looked promising, but the proof would be in the climbing. The weight concerned me slightly, but I hoped the security and silence would outweigh the extra heft. I was eager to get into the woods and put this system to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Quick Stick XL Climbing System to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Quick Stick XL Climbing System in a dense oak forest on a private hunting lease in central Texas. The trees were relatively straight and free of obstructions for the first 10 feet. The weather was dry, with a slight breeze and temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for an initial climb.
The assembly proved surprisingly straightforward. The cam-buckle straps cinched down securely around the tree. And provided a reassuringly solid base for each stick. I found the alternating angled steps very comfortable and easy to navigate. The large surface area of each step provided ample room for my boots, even when wearing bulky hunting boots. The advertised silence, however, wasn’t quite as advertised. There was a noticeable clink as each sleeved section contacted the stick below it.
After reaching a height of about 15 feet, I did notice a slight flexing in the sticks. I’m at the higher end of the weight limit at 230lbs. This wasn’t alarming, but it was something to be aware of. Also, the spacing between the sticks felt a little close. Requiring a steeper climb than I had anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use during deer season, the Quick Stick XL Climbing System has held up reasonably well. There are some signs of wear, mostly minor scratches and scrapes to the steel finish. I also noticed a small amount of surface rust developing on the straps’ metal buckles.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use has been sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I did apply a thin coat of oil to the buckles to prevent further rust. Compared to my previous experiences with screw-in steps, the Quick Stick XL Climbing System is a significant upgrade in terms of both safety and convenience. However, the weight and the aforementioned noise remain drawbacks.
Despite my initial concerns, the Quick Stick XL Climbing System has proven to be a reliable and functional climbing system. It outperforms my old ladder stand in terms of portability and concealment. While it isn’t perfect, it’s a solid option for hunters seeking a safe and relatively quiet way to access their treestands.
Breaking Down the Features of Quick Stick XL Climbing System
Specifications
The Quick Stick XL Climbing System is designed for safe and silent treestand access.
- Material: All-steel welded construction offers strength and durability.
- Height: Provides a total climbing height of 20 feet.
- Attachment: Five one-inch cam-buckle straps secure each stick to the tree. This ensures a stable and reliable connection.
- Steps: Large alternating angled steps for easy climbing. This maximizes comfort and grip.
- Sections: Five sleeved sections minimize noise during ascent.
These specifications contribute directly to the system’s performance and user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Quick Stick XL Climbing System performs its primary function adequately: facilitating a hunter’s ascent to a treestand. The angled steps provide a comfortable and secure foothold, while the cam-buckle straps offer a robust attachment point. The system’s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use.
However, the noise level is higher than advertised, and the weight can be cumbersome. The spacing between steps might be too close for some users. While it meets basic expectations, there is room for improvement in noise reduction and weight optimization.
Design & Ergonomics
The Quick Stick XL Climbing System features a straightforward and functional design. The all-steel construction ensures durability. While the sleeved sections attempt to minimize noise, the weight and the spacing of the steps could be improved.
The system is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Attaching the sticks to the tree is simple. Climbing is intuitive, although adjusting to the step spacing may take some time.
Durability & Maintenance
With its all-steel welded construction, the Quick Stick XL Climbing System promises longevity. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and rust prevention, is essential. The simplicity of the design minimizes potential failure points, which helps with long-term durability.
Repairing damaged straps or steps may require specialized tools. However, overall, the system is designed for long-term use with minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Quick Stick XL Climbing System comes with five climbing sticks and five cam-buckle straps. There are limited customization options available directly from the manufacturer. Users can potentially replace the straps with heavier-duty versions or add padding to the steps for increased comfort.
However, the system is generally not designed to accommodate extensive modifications. The primary focus is on its core functionality as a simple and reliable climbing system.
Pros and Cons of Quick Stick XL Climbing System
Pros
- Safe and secure climbing system. The all-steel construction and cam-buckle straps provide a reliable and stable ascent.
- Easy to assemble and use, minimizing setup time in the field. The intuitive design allows for quick and straightforward attachment to the tree.
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to hunters on a budget. At $74.49, it offers excellent value for the money.
- Large, angled steps providing comfortable footing. Reducing fatigue during longer climbs.
- Relatively portable compared to ladder stands. Allowing for easy transport to different hunting locations.
## Cons
- Heavier than some competing climbing stick systems. The all-steel construction contributes to the system’s weight.
- Not as quiet as advertised. The sleeved sections do not completely eliminate noise during ascent.
Who Should Buy Quick Stick XL Climbing System?
The Quick Stick XL Climbing System is perfect for budget-conscious hunters. These hunters prioritize safety and ease of use above all else. It’s also well-suited for those who hunt in areas with limited access. Where portability and quick setup are essential.
This product is not ideal for hunters who prioritize lightweight gear. Or for those who require absolute silence during their hunts. Anyone sensitive to noise might find this system disappointing.
Must-have accessories include a good quality safety harness and a lineman’s climbing rope. Consider adding padding to the steps for increased comfort during extended periods of use.
Conclusion on Quick Stick XL Climbing System
The Quick Stick XL Climbing System offers a viable and affordable solution for accessing treestands. While it’s not without its flaws, its strengths lie in its simplicity, safety, and ease of use. The weight and noise level are drawbacks. However, the system’s overall value proposition remains compelling.
The price of $74.49 is indeed justified for what you get. It provides a functional and reliable climbing system. It certainly outperforms improvised methods or unsafe alternatives.
I would recommend the Quick Stick XL Climbing System to hunters seeking a budget-friendly and easy-to-use climbing system. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize safety and convenience in the field. So ditch those sketchy ladder stands and give the Quick Stick XL Climbing System a try.