Placing a tree stand in the proper place can significantly increase the success of your bowhunting experience. Instead of buying a tree stand from the local shop, it may actually be a better idea to make one of your own. In this way, you can customize the tree stand to the terrain and to the environment where you will be hunting in.

Before you build your tree stand, it is first important that you scout your hunting area. Select a location and a specific tree where you will be placing your tree stand. Next, decide on how high the landing should be – not too high that it will be difficult to hit your target, but not too low that you will be seen. Make sure that there are branches of considerable size by the landing so that it will be adequately supported. If some branches are blocking your view or your shot, cut them away.

Next, gather the necessary materials. These include a circular saw; 6 pieces of 2 by 4 by 12-foot wooden boards and 2 pieces of 1 by 6 by 12-foot wooden boards, which you will have to cut into different sizes; approximately 50 screws 3 inches in length; 4 bolts 6 inches in length, 8 pieces of corner brackets; and an electric drill.

Cut some wood into 6 pieces, each measuring 2 by 2 by 4. These pieces of wood will serve as your steps. Get 2 pieces of wood, each measuring 2 by 4 by 12. Using 3-inch screws, attach the steps in between these 2 pieces of wood in order to create your ladder.

Next, cut 4 pieces of wood measuring 2 by 3 by 4. Arrange them into the shape of a square and screw in each corner. This will serve as the frame for your landing. Cut another 6 pieces of wood, each measuring 1 by 3 by 6. Position this on top of the frame, using screws to affix it to the frame. This is now your landing.

Once you have the ladder and the landing ready, bring them to the tree. Using 3-inch screws again, attach the upper end of the ladder to the frame of the landing. Finally, use 2 pieces of 1 by 3 by 6 wood to hook each side of the ladder to the frame of the landing. Use 3-inch screws and corner brackets to secure the connection.

Finally, use 6-inch bolts to secure the frame of the landing to the tree. Cut 2 pieces of 2 by 4 by 6 wood and bolt it to the tree under the landing. Also screw it to the landing to make it even more secure.

Your tree stand is finally ready!

Before you use your tree stand for bowhunting, check it for safety. Make sure that all the screws and bolts are in place, and that the landing and the ladder are stable enough. Another good idea would be to place the tree stand before the start of the actual hunting season. This allows the animals to get used to the tree stand, which will benefit you when you are finally out there hunting.