All true-blue hunters get an amazing adrenaline rush anticipating the opening day of deer season, but regardless of how excited you are, safety must come first. A full inspection and a completed safety checklist on your deer stand can not only make the difference between an accurate shot, it can be the difference between life and death.
First, check your ladder or climbing pegs for signs of extensive rust or weakening before attempting to climb. Check the tree for signs of rot or infestation that can compromise its strength.
Second, check all straps and chains that secure the ladder and stand to the tree for signs of dry rot and extensive rust. Keeping feet planted firmly on the ground, tug and pull on straps, ropes and chains to ensure they are still strong and stable.
Third, only after you are completely sure your access path (ladder or pegs) is completely safe, start a slow climb up the tree, wearing all safety gear necessary for your particular stand. Give a gentle tug and pull periodically during your climb to ensure stability.
Fourth, inspect the seat, arm rests, foot rest and gun rest, including pads, for signs of rust, rot and animal housing or feasts. (There is a good chance that the squirrels have used your pads for bedding.) Replace all that are necessary.
Fifth, replace your gun hoist every season. All safe hunters use a gun hoist, or rope, tied to the top of their stand to raise and lower their gun. A hunter should never carry his/her gun on their person while climbing their tree stand. If you leave your hoist hanging year round, replace it each season to eliminate the “unknown” factor. Rot and weathering can exist without being seen with the naked eye and can weaken a rope hoist, potentially breaking while your gun is attached.
For more information on hunting:
“Choosing The Best Cartridge For Your Hunting Location”
http://associatedcontent.com/article/8743949/choosingthebestcartridgeforyour.html
“Unspoken Rules of Deer Camp”
http://associatedcontent.com/article/8405005/unspokenrulesofdeercamp.html