Let’s Dive into Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand is a lightweight, open-front treestand designed for the mobile bowhunter. Manufactured by Summit Treestands, it boasts a compact design and features their signature DeadMetal Sound-Deadening Technology. The open front offers unobstructed shooting lanes, and the folding seat allows hunters to stand comfortably against the tree. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was eager to see if this stand lived up to the hype of being a truly portable and functional option for deep-woods hunting.
My quest for the perfect treestand has been ongoing. I needed a lightweight, easily packable stand that wouldn’t restrict my movements while bowhunting in dense mountain terrain. The OpenShot SD’s specs and open-front design seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Unboxing the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand, I was immediately struck by its surprisingly light weight. The aluminum frame felt solid, and the Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo was well-applied. The fold-up seat seemed comfortable enough for extended periods of standing.
I considered several other stands, including the Lone Wolf Hand Climber and the Millennium M100U. The Lone Wolf is known for its packability, but I heard from other hunters that their stands are less forgiving on longer sits. I chose the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand for its balance of portability, comfort, and open design.
My first impression was excitement. I was eager to hit the woods and test its climbing capabilities. The stand felt well-built and ready for the rigors of mountain hunting.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand on a deer hunt deep in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was steep and the woods were thick, making portability a critical factor. I hunted from dawn until dusk, pushing the stand to its limits in varying conditions.
The weather was cold and damp, with occasional rain showers. Despite the wet conditions, the OpenShot SD’s RapidClimb stirrups provided a secure grip. I was able to climb safely and efficiently even with muddy boots.
The initial setup and climbing process took a little getting used to, but the QuickDraw cable retention system proved to be fast and secure. After a few practice climbs, I felt confident in its ease of use. I did have to adjust the cables several times to fit the diameter of the tree I wanted to climb.
The only initial issue I encountered was with the seat cushion slipping slightly when folded up for back support. It didn’t affect performance, but was a minor annoyance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand has proven to be a reliable and durable hunting companion. The aluminum frame shows no signs of bending or weakening. The camo finish is still holding up well to abrasion from tree bark and branches.
I have used the stand in temperatures ranging from freezing to mild, and it has consistently performed well. The RapidClimb stirrups provide secure footing in all conditions. The DeadMetal Sound-Deadening Technology has minimized noise while climbing and adjusting my position.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe down the stand with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally lubricate the cable joints. This stand is easier to maintain than my previous treestand, which had several more parts and required more extensive cleaning. The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand is outperforming my expectations for a lightweight climbing stand.
Breaking Down the Features of **Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand**
Specifications
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. The stand weighs just 15 pounds, making it exceptionally portable for hunters venturing deep into the woods. Its weight capacity is rated at 300 lbs, accommodating most hunters and their gear.
The stand features a 20-inch wide platform and a seat that measures 16″ W x 12″ L x 3″ D. These dimensions provide ample space to maneuver and remain comfortable during long hunts. The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand also incorporates Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo, offering excellent concealment.
The platform frame size is 20″ W x 32″ D, and the seat frame size is 19″ W x 20″ D. The stand accommodates trees with diameters ranging from 8″-20″, providing versatility in tree selection. The attachment method is via cable, ensuring secure attachment and easy adjustment.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the stand’s portability, stability, and comfort. The light weight makes it easy to carry long distances. The platform and seat dimensions provide ample space to move around. The tree diameter range ensures compatibility with a wide variety of trees.
Performance & Functionality
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand performs admirably in its intended role as a lightweight, mobile bowhunting stand. The open front design provides unrestricted shooting lanes. The stand’s QuickDraw cable retention system ensures fast, quiet, and secure attachment to trees.
Its strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and quiet operation. One weakness of the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand is the seat cushion slipping when folded as back support. While functional, it’s not as comfortable as stands with dedicated backrests.
The stand meets my expectations for a lightweight climbing stand, but I wish the seat was designed to give better support when folded up.
Design & Ergonomics
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes portability and functionality. The aluminum 4-channel platform frame is sturdy yet lightweight. The DeadMetal Sound-Deadening Technology minimizes noise.
The stand is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve thanks to the RapidClimb stirrups and QuickDraw cable system. The camo backpack straps make it easy to carry the stand hands-free.
Durability & Maintenance
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand appears to be built to last, thanks to its high-quality extruded aluminum construction and precision welds. The durable materials and solid construction suggest it will withstand years of use.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand also includes SummitLOKT Structural Enhancement to create strength and a silent operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand comes with several useful accessories, including camo backpack straps, a green utility strap, and a stand umbilical rope. The Four-Point FAS (harness) adds an element of safety. These are the standard safety features that Summit provides with most of their stands.
While customization options are limited, some users may choose to replace the seat cushion or add aftermarket accessories such as bow holders. The stand is compatible with many universal treestand accessories. These are designed to accommodate most universal accessories that can be applied to Summit stands.
Pros and Cons of **Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand**
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable, making it ideal for deep-woods hunting.
- QuickDraw cable retention system allows for fast, quiet, and secure attachment to trees.
- Open-front design provides unrestricted shooting lanes for bowhunters.
- DeadMetal Sound-Deadening Technology minimizes noise during climbing and movement.
- RapidClimb stirrups ensure secure and efficient climbing in various conditions.
Cons
- Seat cushion can slip when folded up for back support.
- Limited customization options compared to some other treestands.
Who Should Buy **Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand**?
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand is perfect for mobile bowhunters who prioritize portability and unrestricted shooting lanes. It is an excellent choice for hunters who venture deep into the woods and need a lightweight, easy-to-carry stand. This is a great option for the type of hunters who often still hunt deep into public land.
Hunters who prioritize maximum comfort and a dedicated backrest may want to consider other options. People who require extensive customization options might also be better suited with a more modular stand.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality safety harness. The stand comes with one, but upgrading to a more comfortable and adjustable model is recommended for long hunts.
Conclusion on **Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand**
The Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand is a well-designed and functional climbing stand that excels in portability and ease of use. Its lightweight construction and QuickDraw cable system make it an excellent choice for mobile bowhunters. The DeadMetal Sound-Deadening Technology is a real bonus for stealthy hunting.
The price of $349.99 is justified given the stand’s features and performance. Its value proposition makes it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters.
I would personally recommend the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand to any bowhunter seeking a lightweight, portable, and functional climbing stand. It has proven to be a reliable and effective tool in my hunting arsenal, making it easier to access remote hunting locations and take ethical shots.
If you’re ready to elevate your hunting game, consider the Summit Treestands OpenShot SD Climbing Treestand. Get yours today and experience the freedom of mobile bowhunting!