Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man Review

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man Made a Bold First Impression

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man ladder stand promises a comfortable and secure hunting experience for two. At a price point of $226.49, it aims to provide value without sacrificing safety or comfort, a balance many hunters seek. I was eager to evaluate if it lives up to these claims.

What drew me to the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man was the promise of shared hunting experiences. My son is finally old enough to join me in the stand, and I needed a safe and comfortable option for us both. I had been searching for a stand that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered ample space and stability.

The stand arrived in a large, somewhat unwieldy box, typical for ladder stands. Unboxing revealed the various components, each seemingly well-constructed. My initial impression was positive; the steel seemed robust, and the seat appeared generously padded. This ladder stand immediately appeared superior to some of the more flimsy single-person stands I’ve used in the past.

I considered the Millennium L220 2-Man Ladder Stand and the Big Game Guardian XLT Two-Person Ladder Stand. The Millennium offered similar features, but was significantly more expensive. The Big Game option was closer in price, but I was wary of its less-padded seat and potentially lower weight capacity based on online reviews. I ultimately chose the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man due to its promising balance of features and affordability.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The stand appeared well-built for the price, but the true test would be in the field. I was eager to assemble it and see how it performed in a real hunting scenario.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man on a weekend deer hunt in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania. I chose a spot overlooking a well-traveled game trail near a creek. The weather was crisp, with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit and a light drizzle throughout the morning.

Assembly was straightforward, though definitely a two-person job. We carefully followed the instructions, ensuring all bolts were tightened securely. The stand felt remarkably stable once properly anchored to the tree. Climbing the ladder, even with hunting gear, felt secure and the wide steps were a welcome feature.

The seat proved to be surprisingly comfortable, even after several hours of sitting. The light drizzle didn’t seem to affect the stand’s stability or the grip on the ladder rungs. My son and I had ample room to maneuver without feeling cramped.

One minor issue arose during the descent. The ladder sections, while sturdy, did rattle a bit as we climbed down. This could potentially spook nearby deer, so future hunts will require some additional noise dampening measures.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use throughout the hunting season, the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the steel frame. The seat padding has retained its shape and comfort.

The powder coat finish has resisted rust despite exposure to rain and snow. Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each hunt is all that’s needed to keep it clean.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, single-person stands, the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man is a significant upgrade. The added stability, comfort, and room for two make it a vastly superior hunting platform. It outperforms my expectations given its price point, proving to be a solid and reliable choice.

Breaking Down the Features of Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man

Specifications

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man ladder stand boasts a sturdy construction designed for two hunters. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds. This is crucial for ensuring safety and stability when occupied by two adults and their gear.

The stand features a platform size of 40″ wide x 33″ deep, providing ample room to maneuver. The seat height is approximately 19″, and offers a comfortable vantage point. The ladder extends to a height of 18 feet.

The stand is constructed from durable steel with a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion. The seat is padded with high-density foam for added comfort. The ladder rungs are wide and slip-resistant for safe climbing.

These specifications contribute to the stand’s overall performance by providing a stable, comfortable, and safe hunting platform. The weight capacity ensures it can handle two hunters and their gear. The platform size allows for freedom of movement.

Performance & Functionality

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man performs its primary function of providing a safe and comfortable elevated hunting platform exceptionally well. It offers a stable and secure shooting position. The wide platform allows for easy target acquisition.

One of the stand’s strengths is its comfortable seat. It is a significant improvement over other ladder stands I’ve used. The sturdy construction ensures minimal swaying or movement.

However, the ladder sections could benefit from some added noise dampening. As previously mentioned, the rattling can potentially spook game. Additionally, while the instructions are clear, assembly can be somewhat time-consuming.

Overall, the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man meets and even exceeds expectations for a ladder stand in its price range. It provides a reliable and comfortable hunting experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man features a simple yet functional design. The steel frame is robust and well-constructed. The seat is generously padded and offers good back support.

The stand’s weight, while manageable, can make transportation and setup a bit challenging for one person. The ladder rungs are spaced appropriately for comfortable climbing. The overall design prioritizes safety and comfort.

While there is a slight learning curve involved in the initial assembly, the stand is generally user-friendly. No specialized tools or skills are required.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man is built to last. The steel construction and powder-coated finish ensure long-term durability. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe down the stand after each use and inspect it regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly to ensure continued safety and performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man comes with all the necessary hardware for assembly and anchoring to a tree. There are no included accessories beyond that. However, there are several aftermarket accessories that can enhance its functionality.

Consider adding a shooting rail for increased stability and accuracy. A camouflage skirt can help conceal the stand from wary game. Some hunters also opt to add additional padding to the seat for even greater comfort.

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man is compatible with most universal ladder stand accessories. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual hunting preferences. Adding bungee cords to secure the ladder is another worthwhile upgrade for reducing noise.

Pros and Cons of Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man

Who Should Buy Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man?

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man is perfect for hunters who want to share the experience with a friend or family member. It is especially well-suited for fathers and sons, mentors and mentees, or any two hunters who want to hunt together comfortably and safely. The stand’s stability and comfort make it a great choice for those who spend long hours in the stand.

Hunters seeking the lightest weight or easiest transport should probably skip this product. It’s a robust stand, not designed for frequent moves. Likewise, hunters who primarily hunt alone may find a single-person stand more suitable.

A must-have accessory for this stand is bungee cords for securing the ladder sections to minimize rattling. A comfortable harness system and safety line are also crucial for safe climbing and hunting.

Conclusion on Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man

The Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man is an excellent ladder stand that delivers on its promise of providing a safe, comfortable, and spacious hunting platform for two. Its sturdy construction, comfortable seating, and ample weight capacity make it a top contender in its price range. While the ladder rattle is a minor concern, it can be easily addressed with simple modifications.

The price of $226.49 is justified by the stand’s overall quality and performance. It offers excellent value for the money compared to other two-person ladder stands on the market. I would definitely recommend the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man to any hunter looking for a reliable and affordable way to share the hunting experience.

If you’re looking for a durable, comfortable, and safe two-person ladder stand, the Rivers Edge Relax LS 2-Man is a solid choice. Get yours today and create lasting hunting memories with a friend or loved one!