Third Hand Deer Drag Review

Let’s Dive into Third Hand Deer Drag

The Third Hand Deer Drag, manufactured by an unspecified company, promises a simple solution for enhancing comfort while using a Sit and Climb stand. It also boasts a dual-purpose design as a deer drag. This immediately piqued my interest, as I’m always looking for gear that can pull double duty in the field.

I spend countless hours in my treestand each season, enduring everything from bone-chilling winds to relentless rain. The promise of keeping my feet warmer and providing a more comfortable perch was alluring. Add to that the utility of a deer drag, and I had to give it a try.

The Third Hand Deer Drag arrived in minimal packaging, reflecting its straightforward design. My initial impression was of simple, durable construction; the materials felt sturdy and capable of withstanding the rigors of the hunt. I was also curious if it truly offered any advantage over using a standard rope or even just resting my boots on the stand itself.

Compared to dedicated treestand footrests, which can be bulky and expensive, the Third Hand Deer Drag seemed a more streamlined, affordable alternative. I’ve also used improvised drags made from rope or paracord, but these often lack the comfort and grip necessary for efficiently dragging a deer. I picked this specifically because of the potential for a 2-in-1 function that would eliminate carrying an extra dedicated drag.

I was cautiously optimistic. While the design appeared basic, I hoped its simplicity would translate into reliable performance and genuine comfort. Whether it would live up to its dual-purpose claim remained to be seen.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Third Hand Deer Drag to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Third Hand Deer Drag came during an early-season bow hunt in the heavily wooded hills of western Pennsylvania. I attached it to my Summit Viper SD treestand, focusing on getting the positioning just right for optimal foot elevation. The temperature was a crisp 45 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight drizzle adding a chill to the air.

Initially, the elevation of my feet made a noticeable difference in comfort, particularly after several hours of sitting. The metal stand normally draws heat away from my feet, but the Third Hand Deer Drag provided a small but welcome buffer. There were no deer to drag on this hunt, but even as a stand foot rest, I felt it was adequate.

Using it was intuitive; there was no need for any special tools. A little adjustment was needed during the first climb, but once positioned, it stayed put. The only minor issue was the slight swaying motion it introduced, which required a little getting used to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full deer season of use, the Third Hand Deer Drag showed minimal signs of wear and tear. The material proved surprisingly resilient to abrasion from the treestand and the elements. No amount of maintenance was necessary other than removing bits of mud or leaves.

The durability impressed me. Considering its simple construction, I expected some fraying or weakening of the material over time, but it held up admirably. The design is simple, but it holds up.

Compared to simply resting my feet directly on the metal platform, the Third Hand Deer Drag definitely provided increased comfort and warmth. The effectiveness as a deer drag, however, is where my opinion became less enthusiastic due to the lack of padding and handle options.

Breaking Down the Features of Third Hand Deer Drag

Specifications

The Third Hand Deer Drag is a simple accessory designed for use with climbing treestands. Its primary functions are to elevate the feet for comfort and to assist in dragging harvested deer. It is constructed from a durable, woven nylon-type material.

The price is $35.99. While the company does not specifically list dimensions or weight capacity, the product is designed to be lightweight and easily packable.

Performance & Functionality

As a footrest, the Third Hand Deer Drag performs its intended function adequately. The slight elevation of the feet helps to reduce fatigue and provides a modicum of insulation against the cold metal of the treestand. The benefit is slight, but can be felt over extended periods of hunting.

The effectiveness as a deer drag is less impressive. While the material is strong enough to withstand the weight of a deer, the lack of a comfortable handle or ergonomic design makes dragging any significant distance a chore. This is not a substitute for a good deer-dragging harness.

The product meets expectations for basic comfort while in the treestand, but falls short as a dedicated deer drag. More thoughtful design and better handle options would greatly improve its utility.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and straightforward. The woven nylon construction is durable, yet lightweight. The lack of padding, however, detracts from overall comfort, particularly during prolonged use as a deer drag.

There is virtually no learning curve. It attaches easily to most climbing treestands and requires minimal adjustment.

Durability & Maintenance

The Third Hand Deer Drag is remarkably durable for its simple construction. The woven nylon material is resistant to tearing and abrasion. Maintenance is minimal; simply wiping it clean after use is sufficient.

Given its robust construction, the Third Hand Deer Drag should provide several seasons of use with proper care. The durable build should offer a long-lasting solution for improving comfort in the stand.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Third Hand Deer Drag does not come with any additional accessories, nor are there any readily apparent customization options. The product’s simplicity limits the potential for modification. Users might try adding padding or creating a more comfortable handle for dragging, but these would be DIY modifications.

Because the product is so basic, accessories or customization options are not needed to fulfill its primary purpose of elevating your feet. However, the lack of accessories would impact anyone planning to use it as a serious deer drag.

Pros and Cons of Third Hand Deer Drag

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Who Should Buy Third Hand Deer Drag?

The Third Hand Deer Drag is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who spend extended periods in climbing treestands and are looking for a slight improvement in comfort. It’s also a decent option for those who occasionally need to drag a deer short distances across relatively flat terrain. Someone who prioritizes value over high-end features will get the most out of this accessory.

Hunters who regularly harvest large deer or hunt in challenging terrain should skip this product and invest in a dedicated deer-dragging harness or sled. Also, those who prioritize maximum comfort in the stand should consider a more robust footrest system.

A must-have modification would be to add some sort of handle to make it easier to drag a deer. Padding would also be beneficial, but the handle is the most pressing need.

Conclusion on Third Hand Deer Drag

The Third Hand Deer Drag is a budget-friendly accessory that offers a modest improvement in comfort for treestand hunters. While it’s not a game-changer, the simple design and durable construction make it a decent value for the price. Its effectiveness as a deer drag is limited, however, and serious hunters will likely want to invest in a dedicated solution.

The price is justified for the added comfort it offers while in the stand, but don’t expect a premium deer-dragging experience. Consider this a minor comfort upgrade, not a replacement for essential hunting gear.

I would recommend the Third Hand Deer Drag to hunters on a tight budget who are looking for a simple, lightweight way to improve their comfort in the treestand. Just be realistic about its limitations as a deer drag. Give it a try if you have reasonable expectations and acknowledge that dedicated gear offers superior comfort and functionality.