The Secret to Success: Tree Stands vs Elevated Blinds for Hunting

Every hunter knows that nothing beats a day in the woods. And nothing is more devastating than coming home empty-handed. For a little extra help, gear like tree stands and elevated blinds for hunting can make things a whole lot easier. But which one is right for you? 

What are Elevated Hunting Blinds?

Elevated hunting blinds are enclosed structures that sit on a base five to ten feet off the ground. With windows on all sides, this gives you a 360° view. These are perfect for bow or rifle hunting to help you line up the perfect shot.

Elevated blinds for hunting can completely transform your time in the wilderness. Here are some of their benefits:

• They hide you from view.
• They mask your scent.
• They are structurally sound. 
• They make hunting more comfortable.

What are Tree Stands?

Tree stands are portable platforms secured to the trunk of a tree. This gives you a bird’s eye view to locate and shoot your prey. Usually made of aluminum or steel, they let you easily move to a new vantage point if needed. There are many different types of tree stands: 

• Hang-On Tree Stands: Also called fixed-position tree stands, these are meant to be left in for the entire hunting season. A chain or strap secures them to the tree, and you can reach them using climbing sticks or screw-in steps. 

• Ladder Tree Stands: These have a built-in ladder to climb up the tree. They are the safest and most secure option, but they are also harder to transport. 

• Climbing Tree Stands: These have two pieces, a seat and a platform, that move up the tree trunk with you as you climb. 

• Saddle Tree Stands: Straps attach you to the tree, providing a comfortable hammock-like seat, giving you full range of motion.

You should always wear a safety harness when using a tree stand to avoid a nasty fall.

Similarities

At first glance, tree stands and elevated blinds for hunting are pretty similar. They both have the same goal—making hunting easier. They do this by providing an elevated position with a strong vantage point. Getting above your prey lets you line up a better shot (and makes it safer if you miss). 

They also both provide a 360° view of your surroundings. Deer blinds use windows—either open or tinted—while tree stands are exposed. Both also offer two-hunter options, so you’re not forced to go alone. However, while their purpose is the same, their execution is different. 

Differences

Mobility

Elevated Hunting Blinds: Our Amish-built deer blinds are meant to be a more permanent, secure structure. You install it once and leave it there all season long. 

Tree Stands: These are designed with mobility in mind. Most tree stands let you move at a moment’s notice. They are compact and lighter weight, and some allow you to sit or stand for the ultimate range of motion.

Comfort

Elevated Hunting Blinds: Deer blinds provide you with a comfortable hideout while you hunt. You can move around inside and wait from a shooter’s chair of your choice. And when you’re comfortable, hunting will be more fun (and probably more successful). 

Tree Stands: After sitting for a while, tree stands can become uncomfortable. For some people, it can also be frightening to climb up the tree, adding another level of potential discomfort. 

Protection

Elevated Hunting Blinds: This is where deer blinds shine! This enclosed structure protects you from the weather, so you’re not sitting out in the open, suffering from the wind and cold. This helps you hunt safely for longer. Our blinds also hide your scent and limit your sound, protecting you from being noticed by your prey.

Tree Stands: Tree stands leave you exposed to the elements. Fresh air is nice on a beautiful day, but it can get cold very quickly. You also must be careful about your scent when you’re out in the open.

Visibility

Elevated Hunting Blinds: These help conceal your movements since you’re no longer at eye level with your game. You also get a full view of the landscape with windows on each side. Our Amish-built deer blinds come in camouflage colors so they blend in with your surroundings, and our tinted windows keep you hidden mid-hunt.

Tree Stands: These also get you out of sight of your prey. However, since you are more exposed, slight movements can attract attention. Tree stands also offer you slightly more visibility than a blind because there are no walls confining you.

Scent

Elevated Hunting Blinds: Many blinds are made with scent-blocking materials to help mask your smell. We suggest installing yours one month before your first hunt and hiding the base with leaves and debris. This helps block out the new scent of the structure and allows wildlife to get comfortable with its presence. 

Tree Stands: Tree stands raise you above ground level, helping limit your scent some. However, wind direction is crucial here. Make sure you use scent-blocking spray or cover scents on your gear and clothes and keep your items clean. 

Safety

Elevated Hunting Blinds: Our raised deer blinds use quadpod stands that are reliable and sturdy. 

Tree Stands: Tree stands rely on you finding a good tree that can support the weight of you and your gear. You should always wear a harness for extra safety. 

Setup

Elevated Hunting Blinds: Deer blinds sit on the ground, so they can be set up almost anywhere! Do your research to pick the best location according to deer paths and travel habits. For ultimate convenience, consider installing it near your hunting cabin.

Tree Stands: Tree stands are quick and easy to set up, but they require you to find a good tree in a high-traffic area.

Picking the Best One for You

You’ve done your research. You’re itching for the hunt. Now it’s time to pick the right gear for you. The first question you should ask yourself is: Which features matter most? If you value comfort and protection, then blinds are probably the better choice. If you want something that’s easier to carry, then tree stands are perfect for you. 

They each have their own benefits and drawbacks, but both are sure to make this upcoming hunting season a success. Need a little more guidance? Check out our blog to help you decide if a hunting blind is right for you.

Shop Our Elevated Blinds for Hunting

Want to know the secret to a successful hunt? Our Amish-built deer blinds. With our expert construction, raised foundation, and either open or tinted windows, these blinds are a lifetime investment to help you bag the big one. If you’re still not convinced, explore our FAQs to get all your questions answered about delivery, installation, and warranties. 

We offer various heights and shapes to choose from—square, rectangle, and octagon. The height you want depends on what you’re comfortable with and where you’re hunting from. You want it high enough that you’re out of sight of animals, but not so high that the wind affects the blind. 

The shape depends on where you’re installing it and your hunting habits. Do you usually hunt alone or with others? What will blend in best with your surroundings? 

Once you’ve decided on the right style, it’s time to accessorize! Consider adding a shelf and shooting rest, a shooter’s chair, a shooting bag, clear window panels, and floor mats.