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How to Self-Film Your Turkey Hunts

Capturing your turkey hunting adventures on film can be a rewarding way to relive your experiences and share them with friends, family, and fellow hunting enthusiasts. Self-filming your turkey hunts can be challenging, but with the right equipment, techniques, and storytelling approach, you can create captivating and memorable videos. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about self-filming your turkey hunts.

Choosing the Right Camera

There are many camera options available for self-filming your turkey hunts:

  1. Smartphone Cameras: Modern smartphones have powerful cameras capable of shooting high-quality video, making them a convenient and cost-effective option for turkey hunting.
  2. Action Cameras: Devices like GoPros are portable, durable, and waterproof, but may have limited versatility and lower audio quality.
  3. Point-and-Shoot Cameras: Compact and easy to use, point-and-shoot cameras often have flip-out screens and built-in microphones for added convenience.
  4. DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras: For those seeking the best quality and a more cinematic look, DSLR and mirrorless cameras offer greater flexibility and control but come with a steeper learning curve and higher price tag.

Ultimately, the best camera for self-filming your turkey hunts depends on your budget, preferences, and willingness to invest time in learning how to operate the equipment.

Selecting the Perfect Lenses

For DSLR and mirrorless cameras, selecting the right lens involves considering the following factors:

  • Focal Length: Choose a lens with a focal length that suits your needs. A wide lens (e.g., 16-35mm) is suitable for landscape shots and self-filming, while a longer lens (e.g., 70-200mm) is better for capturing distant subjects. A mid-range lens (e.g., 24-70mm or 18-135mm) is a versatile option if you can only afford one lens.
  • Aperture: A lens with a lower aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or lower) performs better in low light and provides a better depth of field, resulting in a more professional look.

Capturing High-Quality Audio

Good audio quality is essential for a captivating hunting video. Built-in microphones on cameras often produce subpar audio, so consider investing in an external microphone, such as a shotgun mic like the Rode Videomic Pro, for cleaner and more immersive sound.

Filming Techniques for Turkey Hunting Videos

When self-filming your turkey hunts, keep the following tips in mind:

  1. Camera Accessibility: Ensure your camera is easily accessible and ready for use. Consider using a clip or harness to attach your camera to your backpack strap for quick access and comfort.
  2. Stability: Avoid shaky footage by holding your camera tightly to your body, using a tripod or monopod for support, or investing in a camera with built-in stabilization.
  3. Decoy Setup: Properly setting up turkey decoys is crucial to attracting gobblers and capturing exciting hunting footage. Ensure your decoys are visible and positioned correctly to draw in turkeys.

Storytelling: The Heart of Your Turkey Hunting Video

The key to a captivating turkey hunting video is storytelling. Focus on capturing the ups and downs, the exciting moments of stalking prey, and the camaraderie experienced during downtime at the camp. By documenting the journey and the emotions that come with it, you will create a compelling narrative that keeps your audience engaged.

  1. Introduction: Set the stage by introducing your turkey hunting adventure and sharing your goals for the hunt. This provides context for your audience and sets the tone for the video.
  1. Capturing the Emotional Arc: A great turkey hunting video takes the audience on an emotional journey, illustrating the highs and lows of the experience. Remember to capture moments of anticipation, excitement, disappointment, and success. By showcasing the full range of emotions experienced during the hunt, you will create a more relatable and compelling story.
  2. Documenting the Setting: The environment plays a crucial role in the turkey hunting experience. Capture the beauty and challenges of the landscape, whether it’s a dense forest or a grassy field. By documenting the setting, you provide context and enhance the storytelling aspect of your video.
  3. Highlighting the Hunters and Their Relationships: The relationships between hunters and their companions are an essential part of the story. Showcase the camaraderie, teamwork, and shared passion for turkey hunting. By capturing the interactions between hunters, you add depth and human interest to your video.
  4. Focusing on the Hunt’s Unique Aspects: Every turkey hunt has unique aspects that make it stand out. Whether it’s an unusual encounter with wildlife, a particularly challenging stalk, or a humorous moment at the camp, these unique elements will make your video more engaging and memorable.
  5. Turkey Calls: Demonstrating your skills with turkey mouth calls and other calling techniques can add excitement and authenticity to your hunting video. Be sure to capture these moments to showcase your expertise and immerse your audience in the experience.
  6. Reflecting on the Experience: Incorporate reflection and introspection into your turkey hunting video by capturing interviews with hunters discussing their thoughts and feelings about the hunt. This can help to provide insight into the personal significance of the experience and make your video more relatable.
  7. Editing Your Turkey Hunting Video: The editing process is where your story truly comes together. Carefully select and arrange footage to create a coherent and engaging narrative. Use music, sound effects, and voiceovers to enhance the storytelling aspect of your video.
  8. Sharing Your Turkey Hunting Story: Once your turkey hunting video is complete, share it with friends, family, and fellow hunting enthusiasts. Social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook offer excellent opportunities to share your hunting adventure with a broader audience.

By focusing on storytelling and capturing the various aspects of your turkey hunting experience, you can create a captivating and memorable hunting video. Remember to document the emotional arc, the setting, the relationships between hunters, and the unique aspects of your adventure. With thoughtful editing and a commitment to sharing your story, you can create a turkey hunting video that will resonate with your audience and stand the test of time.

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Early Season Turkey Hunting Tips: Expert Strategies for Success

Early-season turkey hunting offers a unique challenge, as the birds haven’t been exposed to hunters for months. These gobblers may be less cautious but are still capable of detecting even the smallest mistake. To maximize your chances of bagging an early-season turkey, follow these expert strategies and bring your A-game to the field.

1. Exercise Caution from the Start

When hunting in the early season, always assume that the turkeys can see you, as their vision is far superior to yours. Avoid moving unless you are absolutely certain there is a solid barrier between you and the turkey. Sit down immediately after striking a gobbler and attempt to work the bird from that position.

2. Call Assertively to Roosted Toms

Though soft tree yelps and clucks are traditionally used to call roosted gobblers, a more aggressive approach can result in a higher success rate when hunting early-season turkeys. Switch call types until the tom responds and then cut the bird off whenever it gobbles. Learn more about different turkey calls and turkey mouth calls for beginners.

3. Scout for Acorns to Locate Turkeys

Finding last year’s acorns is a reliable way to locate turkeys or good listening spots at dawn or dusk. Turkeys are fond of wormy acorns or beech nuts, making areas with leftover mast crops from the previous fall a prime location for early-season hunting.

4. Target the Solitary Gobbler

Focus on the boss gobbler that doesn’t mingle with younger birds. These older birds are typically more predictable and have favorite spots and routines. By studying their patterns and avoiding overly aggressive tactics, you can increase your chances of bagging a trophy tom.

5. Change Tactics for Stubborn Toms

Switch calls, move positions, or go silent when dealing with uncooperative early-season gobblers. These changes can pique the bird’s interest and encourage it to come closer.

6. Always Have a Setup Plan

Before calling, ensure you have a suitable tree or brush pile nearby to set up against. This is particularly important when covering large areas, as a sudden response from a turkey can leave you with little time to find adequate cover.

7. Carry a Backup Call

Carry a variety of calls to increase your chances of success. Adding a new call type to your arsenal can make a difference on a day when your go-to calls aren’t producing results.

8. Gobble to Attract a Gobbler

During the early season, use a gobble tube or shaker call to mimic another tom. This can be an effective way to draw in dominant birds. Always exercise caution when mimicking a tom during the open season.

9. Deploy a Jake Decoy

Use a lone jake decoy or a jake and hen combination in the breeding position for early-season hunting. This setup can attract longbeards that may be hesitant to approach a strutting gobbler decoy. Learn more about turkey decoys and their proper setup.

10. Don’t Give Up on Spooked Birds

A turkey that has been “soft bumped” can often be lured back with a different angle, location, or call.

11. Focus on the Leading Bird

When dealing with a group of gobblers, pay close attention to the leader, as the rest will follow suit. Tailor

your calling to the preferences of the leading bird and ensure you remain undetected to avoid spooking the entire group.

12. Reduce Calling Volume as the Bird Approaches

With limited foliage to dampen sound, calls can travel farther in the early season. Once a gobbler is moving towards you, reduce the volume of your calls and stick to soft feeding yelps, clucks, and purrs. This will help avoid alerting the bird to your presence.

13. Utilize Natural Barriers

Strategically position yourself near natural barriers such as creeks, fences, or thick brush to guide gobblers towards your setup. These obstacles can influence the bird’s movement and increase the likelihood of a close encounter.

14. Hunt in the Afternoons

While many hunters focus their efforts on early morning hunts, don’t overlook the potential of afternoon hunting. Gobblers are often more receptive to calls in the afternoon as they search for hens that have left their nests to feed.

15. Use Terrain to Your Advantage

When setting up, consider how the terrain may impact a gobbler’s approach. Position yourself on the same elevation as the bird or on a slight incline to increase the chances of the turkey coming within shooting range.

16. Practice Patience

Early-season turkey hunting requires patience and persistence. Don’t become discouraged if a gobbler doesn’t respond immediately or seems hesitant. Sometimes, waiting quietly and allowing the bird to become curious can lead to a successful hunt.

By implementing these expert strategies and adapting your tactics to the unique challenges of early-season hunting, you can improve your chances of harvesting a gobbler and create a memorable turkey hunting experience. Don’t forget to equip yourself with the right gear, such as a turkey choke, to increase your odds of success. Good luck, and happy hunting!

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Must-Have Saddle Hunting Accessories for the 2023 Deer Season

The 2023 deer hunting season is fast approaching, and there’s no better time to make sure you have all the essential gear you need for a successful hunt. Saddle hunting has become increasingly popular, as it offers a lightweight, comfortable, and versatile alternative to traditional tree stands. In this article, we’ll go over the must-have saddle hunting accessories for the 2023 deer season, focusing on climbing accessories, comfort accessories, gear organization, and more. Let’s dive in!

Saddle Hunting Essentials

For those new to saddle hunting, it’s a method that involves using a hunting saddle and various climbing accessories to ascend a tree and hunt from an elevated position. This offers a unique vantage point and increased mobility compared to traditional tree stands. You can learn more about the best hunting saddles of 2023 on our website.

Climbing Accessories

To start, you’ll need some essential climbing accessories for saddle hunting:

  1. Climbing sticks: These are crucial for getting you up the tree safely and efficiently. Opt for lightweight and easy-to-install options.
  2. Tree ascender: A device like the Kong Duck or Ropeman 1 can make climbing even easier by helping you ascend the tree with minimal effort.
  3. Aiders: These are straps or webbing loops that attach to your climbing sticks, giving you extra reach and making your ascent more efficient.

Comfort Accessories

Next, let’s discuss some comfort accessories to make your hunting experience more enjoyable:

  1. Knee cushion: A knee cushion can make a world of difference when you’re in the saddle for long periods. Look for one that’s lightweight, durable, and easy to attach.
  2. Backband: A comfortable backband provides additional lumbar support, reducing strain on your lower back during your hunt.
  3. Knee pads: Hunting-specific knee pads, like a foam hunting seat, can provide extra padding and protection for your knees when kneeling or sitting in the saddle.

Gear Organization

Proper gear organization is crucial for saddle hunting. Consider these accessories to help keep your gear in order:

  1. Gear strap: A gear strap or gear holder can help you secure and organize your equipment, making it easily accessible when you need it.
  2. Molle clips or Heroclip: These versatile clips can be used to attach small items to your saddle or backpack, keeping everything within reach.
  3. Saddle gear bags or haulers: A dedicated gear bag or pull rope can help you transport your gear up and down the tree with ease.

Deer Hunting Tips

Finally, don’t forget about specific deer hunting tips and accessories that can enhance your chances of success:

  1. Whitetails: Familiarize yourself with the habits and habitats of the deer you’re hunting, particularly whitetails, to increase your chances of success.
  2. Grunt call: A well-executed grunt call can lure deer closer to your position, making it easier to get a clear shot.

As you can see having the right saddle hunting accessories can make a significant difference in your overall experience and success during the 2023 deer season. Be sure to prioritize climbing accessories, comfort accessories, and gear organization, as well as deer-specific hunting tools, to make the most of your time in the field. Happy hunting!

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The Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

As saddle hunting continues to grow in popularity, so do the innovations in the space. Bowhunters desire a level of quiet, lightweight mobility that traditional treestands just don’t offer, making saddles the go-to tool. With many options on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top tree saddles for 2023, featuring brands like Trophyline, Tethrd, Hawk, H2, Latitude, and TX5.

Trophyline Venatic

The latest from Trophyline is the Venatic saddle, combining quality and comfort in a 20-ounce package. It is the lightest saddle from Trophyline to date, designed from an ultralight ripstop fabric to ensure rugged durability. The Venatic features strategically placed, narrower straps, and a rubberized waistband to ensure it won’t slip. When adding a set of their lightweight Double Step Mini Sticks and platforms, Trophyline delivers the complete saddle package.

Key Features:

  1. Mobile Marvel: The Trophyline Venatic Saddle is built with the mobile hunter in mind. Its lightweight design and compact size make it incredibly easy to carry around, allowing you to effortlessly navigate through even the most challenging terrains. No more lugging around bulky stands or struggling with heavy gear – this saddle is your ticket to true hunting freedom.
  2. Feather-Light Comfort: Say goodbye to uncomfortable hunting experiences. The Venatic Saddle is meticulously crafted to provide you with ultimate comfort during those long hours in the tree. Its ultralight ripstop fabric not only ensures durability but also keeps you feeling weightless, allowing you to focus solely on the thrill of the hunt. With this saddle, discomfort becomes a thing of the past.
  3. Versatility Unleashed: Whether you’re a bowhunter or a rifle enthusiast, the Trophyline Venatic Saddle has got you covered. Its adaptable design enables you to seamlessly transition between different hunting styles, making it a true all-rounder. No matter your preferred weapon of choice, this saddle will enhance your hunting experience like never before.

Pros:

  1. Unparalleled Mobility: The Venatic Saddle takes mobility to a whole new level. Its lightweight construction and easy-to-carry design ensure that you can swiftly move through the wilderness, seizing every opportunity that comes your way. No more limitations or missed shots – with this saddle, you’ll be the epitome of agility.
  2. Cloud-Like Comfort: Hunting for extended periods can take a toll on your body, but not with the Venatic Saddle. Its ergonomic design and thoughtful padding provide unmatched comfort, allowing you to stay focused and alert throughout your hunting session. Say goodbye to sore muscles and hello to uninterrupted hunting bliss.
  3. Adaptability at Its Finest: Its versatile nature enables you to customize your setup to suit different hunting scenarios, ensuring that you’re always in the perfect position to take that shot of a lifetime. No more compromises – this saddle gives you the freedom to hunt your way.

Tethrd Phantom Elite

Tethrd Phantom Elite Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

Tethrd is another fan favorite, and their Phantom Elite will certainly wow the Tethrd faithful. The Elite is wrapped in First Lite’s Specter camo and comes with special addition SYS Haulers and an MVP back support for enhanced comfort. At just 24 ounces, it’s a minimalist’s dream and incorporates other notable features like Comfort Channels for high, medium, and low support settings and a strong UtiliBridge system that offers nearly 37 inches of easy adjustment.

Key Features:

1. Cutting-Edge Design: The Tethrd Phantom Elite Hunting Saddle boasts a state-of-the-art design that combines comfort, functionality, and durability. Every aspect of this saddle is meticulously crafted to enhance your hunting experience and provide you with the utmost convenience.

2. Featherweight Construction: Weighing in at 24oz, the Phantom Elite is an ultralight hunting saddle that won’t weigh you down during long treks or climbs. Its lightweight design ensures maximum mobility, allowing you to effortlessly navigate through the wilderness with ease.

3. Supreme Comfort: Say goodbye to uncomfortable hunting sessions. The Phantom Elite features a plush, ergonomic seat that molds to your body, providing exceptional comfort even during extended periods in the tree. No more restless fidgeting or numbness – this saddle keeps you cozy and focused.

4. Versatile Adaptability: Whether you’re a bowhunter or a rifle enthusiast, the Phantom Elite has been designed to accommodate your preferred hunting style. Its versatile configuration allows you to adjust the saddle to suit your needs, ensuring optimal shooting angles and stability.

Pros:

1. Unmatched Stealth: The Phantom Elite is designed to be whisper-quiet, ensuring that you remain undetected by your prey. Its stealthy construction, combined with its silent attachment points, minimizes the chances of spooking deer, giving you the upper hand in your hunting pursuits.

2. Easy Setup: Setting up the Phantom Elite is a breeze. With its intuitive design and user-friendly components, you can have this saddle ready for action in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned saddle hunter or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of the setup process.

3. Superior Stability: Stability is key when it comes to hunting from a saddle, and the Phantom Elite delivers. Its secure attachment system and robust construction ensure that you feel stable and confident while in the tree. No more wobbles or concerns about safety – this saddle keeps you steady as a rock.

Tethrd Linesman Belt Kit

The Lineman Belt is one of the most important pieces of kit in your arsenal. The Lineman Belt safely connects you to the tree while you climb, to help reduce the risk of a fall.

Includes 8′ rope with one 2″ factory-spliced eye, 2 ultra lite carabiners, and prusik cord.

Hawk Helium Hammock

Hawk Helium Hammock Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

Jumping into the saddle arena recently, Hawk Hunting brings their years of tree stand design experience to the drawing board with the Helium Hammock. The Helium kit comes in at less than 4 pounds and features a removable padded seat and adjustable reclining belt to ensure a comfortable hammock-like feel. It comes equipped with high-grade climbing accessories to ensure safety and folds up into an included case for easy transport.

Key Features:

1. Lightweight and Packable: The Hawk Helium Hammock is designed to be incredibly lightweight and easily packable, making it an excellent choice for hunters who need to move around frequently. Its compact size allows for effortless transportation, ensuring that you can take it with you wherever your hunting adventures lead.

2. Comfortable Padded Seat: The hammock features a padded seat that provides optimal comfort during long hours of hunting. The seat is designed to fit waist sizes 28″ and up, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of hunters. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to uninterrupted hunting enjoyment.

3. 360-Degree Shooting and Aiming: With the Hawk Helium Hammock, you can enjoy the freedom of 360-degree shooting and aiming from any angle and direction. This feature is particularly beneficial for hunters who need to stay concealed in a tree while waiting for their target deer. You’ll have a clear line of sight and be ready for that perfect shot.

4. Secure Setup: The hammock includes climbing-grade rope and carabiners, ensuring a secure and stable setup. Safety is paramount while hunting, and the Hawk Helium Hammock provides peace of mind with its reliable attachment system. You can focus on your hunt without worrying about the stability of your setup.

Pros:

1. Enhanced Mobility: The Hawk Helium Hammock’s lightweight construction and packability allow for enhanced mobility in the field. You can easily carry it to different hunting locations and climb trees without feeling weighed down. This agility gives you the freedom to explore new areas and adapt to changing hunting conditions.

2. Versatile Use: Whether you’re a bowhunter or a rifle hunter, the Hawk Helium Hammock accommodates various hunting styles. Its design allows for easy maneuverability and shooting from an elevated position, providing versatility for different hunting scenarios. You can confidently hunt with your preferred weapon of choice.

3. Quick and Easy Setup: Setting up the Hawk Helium Hammock is a breeze, even for beginners. Its user-friendly design and clear instructions make the setup process quick and straightforward. Spend less time fussing with gear and more time focusing on the hunt.

H2 Slingshot 2.0

H2 Slingshot Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

Building upon the success of their original Slingshot, H2 Saddles adds some enhancements to the 2.0 model with a price point that is sure to be a fan favorite. Available in multiple color schemes, the 2.0 features larger linemen loops for easy hookups and reinforced bridge loops for added strength and stiffness. It’s equipped with both loose and tight molle webbing along the top and bottom and is also equipped with additional sets of gear loops below the seat that are perfectly positioned for accessing steps when initially setting up. It comes standard with a tubular web bridge but can be upgraded to a fully adjustable TriAd AmSteel bridge that glides through the carabiner with ease.

Key Features:

1. Lightweight and Portable: The H2 Slingshot 2.0 Hunting Saddle is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great option for hunters who need to move around frequently. Its compact size and lightweight construction ensure hassle-free transportation and setup.

2. Affordable: The H2 Slingshot 2.0 is relatively inexpensive compared to other hunting saddles on the market, making it a budget-friendly choice for hunters looking for a cost-effective option without compromising on quality.

3. Comfortable Design: The saddle is designed with comfort in mind with adjustable webbing straps to ensure a good fit. This allows for extended periods of use without discomfort, enabling hunters to remain focused and alert during their hunting sessions.

Pros:

1. Enhanced Mobility: The H2 Slingshot 2.0’s lightweight and portable design provide hunters with increased mobility and flexibility in the field. Its compact size allows for easy maneuverability through dense vegetation and challenging terrains.

2. Easy to Use: With its user-friendly design, the H2 Slingshot 2.0 is easy to set up and adjust. The saddle’s simplicity makes it accessible to both experienced saddle hunters and beginners, allowing for a quick and hassle-free setup process.

3. Versatile Application: The H2 Slingshot 2.0 can be used for various hunting situations, including bowhunting and rifle hunting. Its adaptable design and adjustable straps make it suitable for different hunting styles and preferences.

Latitude Method 2

Latitude Method Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

Latitude Outdoors’ Method 2 is their latest addition to the tree saddle lineup. Complementing their original Method saddle, the next generation features a unique two-panel system that allows users to find their sweet spot with ease. It comes in at just over 30 ounces and features an updated bridge system for maximum adjustability that is now designed with a lighter and easier-to-adjust Amsteel. To make slipping in easier and more comfortable, the Method 2 also features user-friendly removable leg straps and a magnet system to keep them together while hiking to your stand.

Key Features:

1. Two-Panel Design: The Latitude Method 2.0 Hunting Saddle features a unique two-panel design that allows for independent adjustment of the top and bottom support. This innovative feature enables hunters to customize their support exactly where they need it, providing superior comfort and stability.

2. Lightweight Construction: The Latitude Method 2.0 Hunting Saddle is designed to be lightweight, making it easy to carry and wear for extended periods of time. Its lightweight nature allows hunters to move quickly and quietly through the woods, enhancing their overall hunting experience.

3. Rope Belt with Climbing Knot: The saddle utilizes a load-rated adjustable climbing knot for its rope belt, which offers superior reliability and quietness compared to standard buckle-based designs. The climbing knot ensures a secure and precise fit, giving hunters peace of mind while in the tree.

Pros:

1. Comfortable All-Day Sits: The Latitude Method 2.0 Hunting Saddle is crafted with adjustability in mind, made with a lightweight and comfortable material that ensures all-day comfort during hunting sessions. This saddle’s design and materials prioritize the hunter’s comfort, reducing fatigue and allowing for longer, more enjoyable hunts.

2. Fool-Proof and User-Friendly: The Latitude Method 2.0 Hunting Saddle is designed to be simple and fool-proof, making it easy to use for hunters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned saddle hunter or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the straightforward setup and intuitive design of this saddle.

3. Silent Operation: The Latitude Method 2.0 Hunting Saddle’s rope belt and climbing knot system provide silent operation, minimizing noise that could potentially alert game. This feature allows hunters to move stealthily and remain undetected, increasing their chances of a successful hunt.

TX5 Custom Gear LoneStar Saddle

TX5 Custom Gear Lonestar Best Hunting Saddles of 2023

The LoneStar Saddle from TX5 Custom Gear is completely customizable when ordering and is available in either a stretch seat or their popular X PD pleated seat. It features a patent-pending Hip Pinch Reduction system that prevents the upper and lower webbing on the chassis from collapsing under pressure, and newly designed Viper lineman’s loops that are more streamlined than before and extend forward.

Key Features:

1. Single Panel Saddle Technology: The LoneStar Hunting Saddle utilizes innovative single panel saddle technology, providing a comfortable and streamlined design for hunters. This technology ensures optimal comfort and functionality during long hours in the tree.

2. HPR (Hip Pinch Reduction) System: The LoneStar 2.0 introduces the HPR system, which effectively reduces hip pinch. The sleeves of the HPR have been strategically relocated to enhance its performance, offering hunters improved comfort and minimizing discomfort during extended sits.

3. Dual Waist Belt System: The LoneStar 2.0 features the industry’s first-ever dual waist belt system. Users have the option to position the waist belt in its traditional location, inline with the upper chassis webbing, or above the upper chassis. The upper sleeves eliminate the need to readjust the saddle seat once in the tree, providing a more comfortable and convenient hunting experience.

4. Weight Distribution Webbing: The saddle incorporates sewn-in weight distribution webbing on each bridge loop, which connects to the center of the HPR system. This webbing ensures three points of contact at each hip, distributing pressure over three locations instead of two, enhancing comfort and stability.

Pros:

1. Enhanced Comfort and Streamlined Design: The LoneStar Hunting Saddle’s single panel saddle technology offers superior comfort and a streamlined design, allowing hunters to remain comfortable and focused during extended sits in the tree.

2. Improved Hip Pinch Reduction: The HPR system of the LoneStar 2.0 effectively reduces hip pinch, enhancing overall comfort and reducing potential distractions while hunting.

3. Versatile Waist Belt Options: The dual waist belt system provides users with flexibility in choosing the most comfortable position for the waist belt. This customization ensures a secure and ergonomic fit, enhancing stability and ease of use.

In conclusion, 2023 offers an impressive array of tree saddles for bowhunters seeking lightweight, comfortable, and mobile options. Brands like Trophyline, Tethrd, Hawk, H2, Latitude, and TX5 have stepped up their game, providing innovative designs and features to enhance the saddle hunting experience. When choosing the best tree saddle for your needs, consider factors such as weight, comfort, and mobility, and explore the various offerings from these top brands. Happy hunting!