First Impressions of Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit promises an accessible entry point into the world of saddle hunting, offering a blend of affordability and essential features. Manufactured by Tethrd, this kit is designed to provide a safe and comfortable hunting experience without breaking the bank. The inclusion of an 11mm lineman rope, an 11mm tree tether, and a recliner backband suggests a comprehensive package ready for immediate use. Let’s dive in and see if it lives up to the hype.
My journey towards the Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit stemmed from a desire to explore saddle hunting without a significant initial investment. I wanted a system that was safe, comfortable, and didn’t require me to sell my truck to afford it. Traditional tree stands felt bulky and limiting.
Unboxing the kit revealed a well-organized package. The Realtree APX camo pattern looked effective, and the materials felt durable enough for my initial hunts. The saddle itself appeared well-stitched, and the included ropes seemed robust.
I considered the Hawk Helium Hammock Saddle and the Cruzr XC, but the Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit won out because of its lower price point and comprehensive inclusion of essential components. Other kits seemed to require additional purchases to be hunt-ready. The budget-friendly aspect was key.
Initial impressions were positive. I was eager to get into the woods and test its performance. The kit seemed to offer a solid foundation for saddle hunting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit took place in a hardwood forest in central Pennsylvania during archery season. The weather was crisp, with temperatures hovering in the low 40s and a slight drizzle adding a touch of moisture to the bark. The purpose was white-tailed deer.
The saddle performed admirably, providing a stable and comfortable platform for several hours. I was able to easily adjust my position for 360-degree shooting opportunities, a significant advantage over traditional tree stands. I felt more connected to my surroundings and less like a stationary target.
The lineman’s rope and tree tether were easy to use, even with slightly damp hands. However, I did find the recliner backband needed some fine-tuning to achieve optimal comfort. I experimented with placement to maximize support.
After my first hunt, I felt confident in the kit’s basic functionality, although I noticed a bit of stiffness in the saddle material that needed breaking in. I’m not going to lie, my hips were a little sore the first time. Overall it was very successful.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting with the Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit, I can attest to its durability. I hunted in various conditions, from early season warmth to late-season snow. I even dragged it through some briars and thick brush.
The saddle has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the camo pattern hasn’t faded significantly. There are some minor scuffs, but nothing that compromises its functionality.
Maintenance is simple. I brush off any debris after each hunt and occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth. I have not needed to do any major repairs. I also spray it down with scent killer on occasion.
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit has outperformed my expectations for a budget-friendly option. It’s more comfortable and versatile than any tree stand I’ve used. I will be using this for years to come.
Breaking Down the Features of Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Tethrd
- Color: Realtree APX Camo
- Quantity: 1 Kit
- Includes: Workhorse Saddle, 11mm Lineman Rope, 11mm Tree Tether, Recliner Backband.
- Maneuverability: 360-degree.
- Pockets: Built-in for ropes, gloves, range finders, binoculars.
These specifications are important because they highlight the kit’s completeness and focus on essential features. The Realtree APX camo helps hunters blend into their surroundings. The inclusion of ropes and a backband eliminates the need for immediate additional purchases.
Performance & Functionality
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit performs its job admirably, providing a safe and comfortable platform for tree hunting. Its 360-degree maneuverability allows for optimal shooting angles, a crucial advantage when deer hunting. It is hard to beat.
Its strengths include its affordability, ease of use, and included accessories. A weakness is the initial stiffness of the saddle material. I would love to see it softer right out of the box.
The kit meets expectations for a budget-friendly saddle hunting system. It provides a solid foundation for beginners and experienced hunters alike. Overall, it exceeds all initial expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit is designed with functionality in mind. The Realtree APX camo pattern is effective, and the built-in pockets are a convenient addition. They are a total game changer.
The saddle itself is relatively lightweight and comfortable, although it requires some breaking in. There’s a slight learning curve to achieving optimal comfort and positioning, but it’s manageable. The saddle is easy to maneuver in.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit appears to be built to last. After a full season of use, there are minimal signs of wear and tear. I feel that it is extremely rugged.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and inspection. Spot cleaning is all that is needed. The materials seem resistant to damage from the elements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit comes with an 11mm Lineman Rope, an 11mm Tree Tether, and a Recliner Backband. These accessories provide the essentials for safe and comfortable tree hunting. I don’t think you need more.
While the Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit is designed as a complete system, users can customize it with aftermarket accessories like upgraded ropes or different backbands. You can use it with pretty much any aftermarket accessory. It is compatible with many popular brands.
Pros and Cons of Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit
Pros
- Budget-friendly entry point to saddle hunting.
- Includes essential accessories (lineman rope, tree tether, backband).
- Provides 360-degree maneuverability for optimal shooting angles.
- Durable construction holds up well under regular use.
- Built-in pockets offer convenient storage for hunting essentials.
Cons
- Saddle material can be stiff initially and requires breaking in.
- Recliner backband may require fine-tuning for optimal comfort.
Who Should Buy Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit?
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit is perfect for budget-conscious hunters looking to explore the benefits of saddle hunting. It’s also suitable for beginners who want a complete and easy-to-use system. The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit is great for people looking to transition from tree stands to a saddle system.
This kit might not be ideal for hunters who demand premium materials and advanced features right out of the box. Those seeking maximum comfort and customization options may prefer a higher-end saddle system. However, this is a great place to start.
Must-have accessories include a good quality safety harness and a platform or ring of steps for setting up in the tree. Also, extra rope can be a major plus. I would recommend having all of these.
Conclusion on Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit
The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit delivers on its promise of providing an accessible and functional entry point into saddle hunting. It’s a well-designed and durable system that offers significant advantages over traditional tree stands. You will feel like you are a cat.
The price is justified, considering the included accessories and overall quality. The Tethrd Workhorse Saddle Kit gives you everything you need to get started saddle hunting. You might even bag that buck of a lifetime.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone interested in trying saddle hunting without breaking the bank. The benefits of this system are worth it. This is worth the money.