Let’s Dive into Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands promises a spacious and secure hunting experience. Rivers Edge Treestands aims to provide hunters with a comfortable and stable platform for those long hours in the woods. Featuring a flip-up seat, large platform, and a robust attachment system, it appears to be a solid contender for serious whitetail hunters.
My aging back and knees have made smaller treestands unbearable for extended sits. I needed a stand that offered ample room to maneuver and stand comfortably for those crucial shots. The Big Foot Brute’s oversized platform caught my eye as a potential solution.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the size of the platform. The steel construction felt solid and durable, though a bit heavier than some of my other stands. The TearTuff mesh seat seemed comfortable enough for those pre-dawn waits.
Compared to my old Summit climber and a smaller API hang-on, the Big Foot Brute is significantly larger. The Summit offers more mobility, while the API is lighter, but neither provides the same level of spaciousness as the Big Foot Brute. I ultimately chose this stand for its promise of enhanced comfort and stability, crucial for making accurate shots after hours of waiting.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension about the weight. I was eager to see if the comfort and stability justified the extra effort of hauling it into the woods. The promise of quieter, more secure setup with the lever action system also piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands on a public land hunt in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania. The area is known for its steep terrain and thick underbrush, providing a challenging environment for any treestand. I hunted from it for a full day, in relatively dry conditions, though the early morning dew added a bit of moisture.
The setup was surprisingly easier than expected, thanks to the Big Foot lever action system. It bit firmly into the tree without excessive noise. The platform offered ample room to stand and adjust my position, even with bulky hunting boots.
The only minor issue I encountered was the armrests occasionally interfering with my draw while practicing shooting from a seated position. Adjusting my form slightly resolved the issue, but it’s something to be aware of. Overall, the first hunt was a success – comfortable, stable, and quiet.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the platform or seat. The powder-coated steel 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 it requires. The Big Foot Brute has outperformed my expectations in terms of comfort and stability, especially compared to previous hang-on stands I’ve used. Its robust construction gives me confidence that it will last for many seasons to come.
Breaking Down the Features of Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands
Specifications
- The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands features an oversized platform measuring 30″ wide x 37″ deep. This provides ample room for standing and maneuvering, a significant advantage for bowhunters or anyone who likes to stretch their legs during long sits.
- The seat dimensions are 21″ wide x 13″ deep x 23″ high. This provides a comfortable seating area for extended periods.
- The stand is constructed from powder-coated steel. This ensures strength and durability, resisting rust and corrosion.
- It utilizes the unique Big Foot lever action system and a noiseless strap attachment for secure installation. This significantly reduces noise during setup and provides a rock-solid connection to the tree.
The specifications matter because they directly translate to comfort, stability, and safety in the field. The oversized platform provides crucial room to move, especially during cold weather when wearing bulky clothing. The robust steel construction inspires confidence in the stand’s load-bearing capacity.
Performance & Functionality
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands performs its primary function – providing a safe and comfortable elevated hunting platform – exceptionally well. The large platform allows for quiet adjustments and easy target acquisition. The lever-action system ensures a rock-solid, noise-free attachment to the tree.
The stand’s strengths lie in its size, stability, and quiet operation. The only notable weakness is its weight, which can make it challenging to transport to remote locations. Overall, the Big Foot Brute exceeds expectations for a hang-on stand in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands features a practical, no-frills design focused on functionality. The all-steel construction feels robust and reliable. The flip-up seat with padded armrests offers a decent level of comfort for long sits.
The stand is relatively user-friendly, although the initial setup with the lever action system may require a bit of practice. Once familiar, however, the system is efficient and secure. The weight is a factor, but the large platform and sturdy construction offset this drawback for many hunters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands is built to last, with its powder-coated steel frame and durable TearTuff mesh seat. With proper care, it should provide many seasons of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
There are no complex mechanisms or delicate parts that are prone to failure. This contributes to the stand’s overall longevity. The robust construction and simple design make it a low-maintenance and highly durable option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands comes standard with padded armrests and a footrest. While there are no included accessories beyond these, some hunters might consider adding aftermarket treestand safety straps for extra security. Aftermarket cushions or seat pads can further enhance comfort for extended hunts.
The stand’s compatibility with accessories is limited due to its fixed design. However, the core functionality is already well-addressed, minimizing the need for extensive modifications. The stand is primarily designed as a standalone unit, focusing on providing a stable and comfortable platform.
Pros and Cons of Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands
Pros
- Oversized Platform: Provides ample room for standing shots and maneuvering.
- Big Foot Lever Action System: Ensures a secure and silent attachment to the tree.
- TearTuff Mesh Seat: Offers comfortable seating for long hunts.
- Durable Construction: Powder-coated steel frame resists rust and corrosion.
- Footrest: Provides added comfort and reduces leg fatigue.
Cons
- Weight: Can be challenging to transport to remote locations.
- Armrests: May interfere with draw for some bowhunters.
Who Should Buy Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands?
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands is perfect for hunters who prioritize comfort and stability, especially those who spend long hours in the stand. It’s also a great option for larger hunters who need a more spacious platform. Bowhunters will appreciate the extra room for drawing and maneuvering.
Hunters who prioritize lightweight mobility above all else should skip this product and consider a climbing stand or a smaller, lighter hang-on. Those with physical limitations that make it difficult to carry heavier loads might also find this stand challenging. A quality treestand safety harness is a must-have accessory for any treestand hunter, including those using the Big Foot Brute.
Conclusion on Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands
The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands delivers on its promise of providing a spacious, stable, and comfortable hunting platform. While its weight is a consideration, the benefits of its oversized platform and secure attachment system outweigh this drawback for many hunters. The Rivers Edge Treestands Big Foot Brute Hang-On Treestands offers excellent value for its price.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable hang-on stand, especially those who prioritize stability and room to maneuver. If you’re tired of cramped, uncomfortable treestands, the Big Foot Brute is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your hunting experience and spend more time focusing on the hunt, rather than your aching back!