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Are you just starting with saddle hunting or looking to upgrade your existing gear?

Well, the last thing you want is to be left hanging in the woods so choosing a solid platform is a critical decision.

We’ve taken the time to review all of the best saddle hunting platforms on the market today and ranked them based on features, weight, reliability, and price. We’ll let you know which platform is the best for your hunting style and budget!

best saddle hunting platforms
Enjoying the comfort and safety of a saddle while waiting for my target buck.
Table of Contents

Which is the Best Saddle Hunting Platform?

Here are my top picks for the best saddle hunting platform:

1. Trophyline EDP Saddle Platform

Trophyline has been making saddle hunting gear since 1961.

The EDP, stands for Everyday Platform. It has that “just right” size and weight while providing a sturdy grip with tons of mounting versatility.

The build quality and thoughtful design show through when out in the woods. 

For example, no metal-to-metal contact when folded means you won’t alert deer on your walk in or out of the woods.

Key Features:

  • Made in the USA
  • One-piece cast aluminum platform
  • Offset bracket and platform leveling system
  • Non-slip grip points and texture on top of the platform
  • Boot grabs on the outer edge
  • Multiple boot placement options

Weight:

3 lb 13 oz

Reliability:

Trophyline put this platform through stringent load and stability testing and it features a 350 lb weight limit.

The EDP platform boasts over 165 five-star reviews on Trophyline’s website.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Trophyline EDP:

We’ve covered what I like about the EDP platform so we’ll skip to the one thing I think could be improved. 

The EDP platform comes uncoated, leaving bare aluminum to potentially cause a glare when hit by the sun.

Trophyline could take the extra step to provide a simple powder coating or matte finish to make this platform an even better value than it already is.

2. Tethrd Predator Saddle Platform

You have probably seen this platform in action if you’ve watched any saddle-hunting videos on YouTube.

Tethrd has created some excellent products for saddle hunting and they’ve certainly done a great job of increasing its popularity among hunters.

The Predator platform is no exception. It has thoughtful design features and even two different size options for hunters who would like a bit more real estate up in their tree.

Key Features:

  • Made in the USA
  • Die-cast aluminum construction
  • Quiet and solid ZipCam strap and button
  • Easy adjustment for crooked trees and adjustable platform leveling
  • Patented traction tread & tow wings for maneuverability in the tree
  • Flat folding for easy transport

Weight:

3 lb

Reliability:

While the Tethrd website doesn’t feature any third-party testing, the popularity of the Predator platform can somewhat speak to its reliability.

Check out this video for an in-depth review.

The Predator platform features a 300lb weight rating and has over 15 five-star reviews on Tethrd’s website.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Tethrd Predator:

The Predator earned a spot on our list of the best saddle hunting platforms with its simple, lightweight, and easily packable design.

I appreciate the flat packing when folded and the thoughtful design featuring a textured boot grip and side wings to assist with mobility around the tree.

Where the Predator leaves a bit to be desired is similar to the Trophyline EDP. The Predator is entirely made of cast aluminum and comes completely uncoated leaving a shiny light metal surface.

You’ll want to plan on giving this platform a coat of matte spray paint or wrap it in stealth strips or paracord to reduce the chance of glare.

3. XOP Edge Saddle Platform

Interesting Features

The XOP Edge stands out from the crowd both in price and built-in features.

This platform is one of the most affordable cast aluminum options on the market.

Another way it stands out from the competition is by including features such as integrated gear attachment points to help with packing your climbing sticks or other gear into the woods.

Although there is one downside we’ll discuss later in this article, this platform packs a punch in the value department!

Key Features:

  • EVO-TRAC provides excellent traction in all weather conditions
  • Durable, abrasion-resistant powder coat finish
  • Integrated gear attachment points
  • Wide tooth profile for increased stability on the tree
  • Cast aluminum construction
  • XOP steel fast strap button

Weight:

5 lb 4 oz

Reliability:

The XOP Edge platform holds multiple third-party certifications and comes with a manufacturer’s lifetime metal warranty.

The cam straps have also been third-party tested and include waterproofing and UV treatments to improve weather resistance.

The XOP Edge platform features a 350lb weight rating and has over 40 five-star reviews on the XOP Outdoors website.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the XOP Edge:

I am impressed with all the features included with this platform and the price point at which it is offered.

XOP’s decision to include a powder coating finish on the cast aluminum platform is something I wish more saddle platform companies would take note of.

The more significant of the two downsides I found is that this platform is the heaviest in our list of the best saddle hunting platforms and weighs around 2 lbs more than the similarly sized platforms we’ve already discussed.

While this might not make much of a difference to someone transitioning from a mobile treestand it could be a concern for someone who needs an ultralight setup.

The other thing some may consider a downside is that I could not confirm where the XOP Edge is made, because of this, one can assume it may not be made in the USA.

4. Novix Raider Saddle Platform

The Raider saddle platform comes from Novix, a company gaining attention for its recent innovations in treestand design.

Browse their site and you’ll discover an all-aluminum folding ladder stand, or the upcoming Raider Hybrid treestand, an innovative cross between mobile treestand and saddle platform.

The Raider made this list because it is new to the scene and has some interesting features unique to Novix.

Key Features:

  • Machined aluminum with welded construction
  • Offset bracket for leveling
  • Frost Coating for glare reduction and traction
  • Also available in FDE and OD Green
  • 100% Made in the USA
  • Includes VersaStrap

Weight:

3 lb 15 oz

Reliability:

Novix claims “This product is undergoing testing and is expected to exceed the standards set by the Treestand Manufacturer’s Association (TMA).”

The Raider platform is 100% Made in the USA.

It has a 300lb weight rating and had zero reviews on the Novix website when this article was written.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Novix Raider:

You’ve probably figured it out if you’ve read this far, I appreciate it when saddle platform manufacturers provide a final coating or finish to the platform to reduce glare and increase traction.

Novix accomplished this with their Frost Coating and included additional colors like FDE and OD Green.

While I see no glaring downside to the Raider platform, other platforms at a similar price point could easily win a side-by-side comparison due to the unique design features that the Raider lacks.

5. Latitude Outdoors Rebel Platform

Best Surface Area to Weight Ratio

The Rebel is part of Latitude’s Speed Series line which focuses on packability and gear optimization.

This platform comes in as one of the lightest and flattest packing while maintaining a respectable amount of surface area for comfort in the tree.

Hunters packing their gear across miles of public hunting land should look at the Rebel platform as a lightweight and functional addition to their saddle kit.

Key Features:

  • Integrated ring of steps guide slot
  • Beveled teeth
  • Rear-facing edges for mobility around tree
  • Made in the USA
  • 6061 aluminum with black coating

Weight:

2 lb 11 oz

Reliability:

The Rebel platform is made in the USA and has over 50 five-star reviews on Latitude’s site.

Neither Latitude nor other retailers listed a weight rating or mentioned third-party testing for this platform.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Latitude Outdoors Rebel:

I admire the thoughtful design of the Rebel platform. Specific features that aid in packability and maneuverability for a saddle hunter are valuable.

While this platform features smooth sides and lacks boot grip points, it comes finished with a black coating that reviewers mentioned provides some grip.

Finding specific build information and specifications for this platform has proven difficult as it is not listed on the manufacturer’s or retailer’s websites.

6. Lone Wolf The Fix Saddle Platform

The Fix platform sets itself apart from the competition with features that eliminate the need for additional pieces of gear and make your ascent into the tree more streamlined.

Lone Wolf has been proven in the hunting industry with premium mobile treestand offerings and innovative climbing stick options.

The Fix is yet another demonstration of Lone Wolf’s expertise in the elevated hunting game.

Key Features:

  • American made metal
  • Exclusive top-side leveling knob
  • Climbing stick transport ports
  • Hammered titanium finish
  • Easy hang integrated molle hook
  • Built-in utility hooks

Weight:

3 lbs 9 oz

Reliability:

Lone Wolf’s site features an “American Made Metal” product feature line for The Fix as well as over 44 five-star reviews.

This platform has a 300lb weight limit however no third-party testing or ratings are mentioned on the product page.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about The Fix from Lone Wolf:

I like a lot of things about The Fix platform. I admire the amount of built-in features that allow you to pack in the platform and your climbing sticks without added attachment methods.

Secondly, I appreciate the traction-focused design of the platform and the hammered titanium finish.

A downside is a few built-in features requiring the purchase of other Lone Wolf gear. If you have a different brand of climbing sticks, the built-in stick storage features are rendered virtually useless.

7. XOP Invader Saddle Platform

XOP’s offering for ultralight missions well off the beaten path on public hunting lands.

The Invader is the lightest platform we’ve reviewed but packs plenty of value with added features like built-in aider attachment points and a Dura-Grip coating.

Key Features:

  • Ultralight 6061 aluminum construction
  • Integrated stick attachment points
  • Anodized and powder coat finish
  • Small platform aids in packability
  • Integrated aider attachment points

Weight:

2 lb 9.6 oz

Reliability:

The XOP Invader platform holds multiple third-party certifications and comes with a manufacturer’s lifetime metal warranty.

The cam straps have also been third-party tested and include waterproofing and UV treatments to improve weather resistance.

The Invader platform features a 350lb weight rating with 20 five-star reviews on the XOP Outdoors website.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the XOP Invader:

Much like the XOP Edge, I am impressed with the features included with this platform.

XOP’s decision to include a powder coating finish on the cast aluminum platform is something I like to see.

While the Invader has no issues with weight, some hunters may prefer more real estate than this platform provides.

The other thing some may consider a downside is that I could not confirm where the XOP Invader is made, because of this, one can assume it may not be made in the USA.

8. Hawk Helium Apex Saddle Platform

Hawk creates some excellent and affordable hunting gear for aerial deer hunters. The Helium Apex is a great piece of equipment for the hunter with a minimal budget for saddle hunting.

The Apex platform compares in size and construction to many of the other options we’ve reviewed, with a much more affordable price tag.

Hunters hanging their first-ever set out of a treestand and into a saddle will likely be satisfied with the Helium Apex.

Key Features:

  • Aluminum construction
  • Tree digger teeth
  • Silent attachment pull strap
  • Built-in leveling adjustment
  • Finished gray coating

Weight:

3 lb 9.6 oz

Reliability:

While the Helium Apex has hundreds of five-star reviews on retailer sites, a few reviews mentioned reliability, and some even experienced failure.

Hawk advertises a 300lb weight rating in the product description on their site.

A 1-year limited warranty is mentioned on a retailer’s website but no mention is made on Hawk’s website.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Hawk Helium Apex:

While this platform offers great value for the beginning or budget-minded hunter, I find few reasons to purchase beyond that.

According to reviews, traction is lacking on the surface of the platform and many hunters resorted to adding some traction tape to increase grip.

With a few mentions of failure and a lack of third-party testing, it’s unlikely that I would put this platform through anything but light and temporary use.

9. Tethrd Predator CFX Platform

An innovative new release from the guys at Tethrd, an all-carbon Predator platform.

This platform is the newest in our list of the best saddle hunting platforms and was only offered in the XL size when this article was written.

Ultralight hunters may not see the specs they’re looking for but the ones looking for plenty of real estate with a bit of weight savings will likely be pleased.

Key Features:

  • Full carbon construction
  • Molded carbon attachment button
  • Molded boot grips on platform sides
  • Propriety carbon compound
  • XL sized platform

Weight:

3 lb 3 oz

Reliability:

On their site, Tethrd describes the CFX platform as being made of a proprietary carbon compound that produces parts certified to hold up to four times the required standard.

The Predator CFX has a weight rating of 300 lbs.

There aren’t any customer reviews listed for the CFX platform on the Tethrd site at this time.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Predator CFX:

I appreciate the innovation that Tethrd has pioneered with the CFX platform. Will I purchase this platform over its aluminum counterpart? Probably not yet.

Stealth is an advantage that comes to mind when reviewing this platform as carbon will not create the dreaded metal-on-metal noises that aluminum does when accidentally brushed with a climbing stick or carabiner.

I also look forward to future carbon offerings as the weight savings of even only a few ounces eventually add to pounds across your whole gear kit.

10. Hawk Helium HSP Platform

The Helium HSP serves dual purposes as either a budget-friendly entry into saddle platforms or an effective solution for ultralight and one-stick hunters.

Simple design and light weight lend to its packability when paired with a new or existing set of Hawk Helium climbing sticks.

With a few small modifications, mentioned below, the HSP platform could be everything you need in the woods.

Key Features:

  • Aluminum construction
  • Ultra packable
  • Mounts to top of Helium sticks
  • Includes two quick-set snap pins
  • 10”x6” platform size

Weight:

1 lb 6.4 oz

Reliability:

The Hawk HSP platform has many consumer reviews on multiple websites and the average rating ranges from three to four stars.

A factor that appears to contribute to the mediocre reviews is how many modifications most people make to the platform to get it to perform best.

Things like replacing the quick-snap pins with bolts, drilling new holes to fit their sticks, and adding grip tape to the platform are frequently mentioned.

Price:

See Current Price

What I Like/Dislike about the Helium HSP:

While I love the idea of minimalizing the gear I pack into woods I found one large downside to using a stick-mounted platform. 

Typically, I will mount my saddle platform just a couple of inches above my last stick to provide myself with a half-moon of surfaces around the tree to place my feet. This positioning will give just a bit more flexibility and allow for an increase in potential shot opportunities. 

With a stick-mounted platform, I lose the benefit of having the separate stick and platform providing much more surface area around the tree.

What is the Best Alternative to a Saddle Platform?

If you don’t have access to a saddle hunting platform there are a couple of alternatives you may already own.

A mobile or traditional lock on tree stand can be an alternative to a saddle platform when getting started. A stand can also serve as a larger, more comfortable platform for your saddle hunting.

If you’ve been treestand hunting, you’ll typically have access to climbing sticks or tree steps. These can be set strategically at hunting height and used as an alternative to a saddle platform.

You also have purpose-made options, like a ring of steps, which differs from a platform by surrounding the tree and providing 360-degree foot placement options.

Is Saddle Hunting Worth It?

Whether saddle hunting is worth it depends heavily on your hunting style.

As most of my hunting is done on suburban permission properties I’ve found quite a few benefits to saddle hunting.

Not only am I mobile, able to move around to different properties, and even quickly change trees if needed, but I also increase my stealth.

Saddle hunting, and mobile hunting in general, helps me keep heavily pressured deer from learning my access and hunting patterns as well as being able to leave zero trace on properties where my permission could be quickly revoked due to negative attention received from neighbors or landowners.

Other hunters love saddle hunting for their ability to reach far corners of public land and the adaptability to hang a set in nearly any tree available to them.

If you’re setting permanent stands on a family hunting property, saddle hunting might not be worth the investment.

As for everywhere else, you will likely see a benefit and feel the time and money invested was worth it!

What Gear Do I Need for Saddle Hunting?

In reality, all you need to begin saddle hunting is a saddle… some hunters even choose to saddle hunt from the ground or just a foot or two above.

This is often done strategically when overlooking a draw or other natural vantage point and beats sitting on the ground or lugging a chair around the woods.

Below is a list of gear you’ll probably want to add to your saddle hunting kit to ensure a safe, effective, and comfortable hunt.

This is a quick list of essentials based on my experience in saddle hunting. You could spend days, if not months, browsing all the different gear and gadgets sold to hunters.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it, my list of the best saddle hunting platforms to consider while you’re gearing up for this deer season.

When deciding which platform is right for you, dig deep into the features, reliability, and weight.

The ability to slip into a tree undetected while ensuring safety and comfort during your hunt is the goal. Think hard about how a saddle platform helps you accomplish this goal.

If you have anything to add to the best saddle hunting platforms, feel free to comment below or email us.

I hope that sharing my experience in this review of what I think are the best saddle hunting platforms will help you to enjoy more time in the woods and more meat in the freezer this season!