I'd like any opinions from members who are currently using or have used the Simmons Woodpecker drill for installing steps up a tree. I already have a lineman's belt and a set of spurs that I climb with but really like the simplicity and added safety factor of using this method, especially when having to pack a climber or stick ladder/loc-on along way in would be a hinderance. I placed an add in the classifieds "Treestands and blinds" looking for a used one and would also like to find one of the lightweight belts that Simmons sold, so maybe I can pick something up soon.  For those who have used this system, what's the good/bad points, it really look like it's a simple, light, safe, and easy way to go.

Excellent tool. One of those items you buy an extra of just because it's so handy. Along with the lineman's belt it sure makes getting stands up a heck of a lot easier. Well worth the money.

I love mine. The best part is being able to use the same holes each time you climb the tree. It saves alot of time. I carry ten bolts and the drill and there is no tree I can't climb. I use mine with the Greene's Tree Saddle.

It works well considering its small size and weight. When pre-drilling trees for later use I prefer a good cordless drill.

I agree with blackhawk.  I have the belt, the woodpecker drill, and the bolts.  I also bought a bit the same size for a cordless drill.  I use it for pre drilling but I have the hand drill in case I need to add a hole or if I decide to move a stand.  I  use hardened cap bolts now instead of the hex bolts.  I like being able to remove the bolts on the way down.  Stands tend to stay where you put them better.

I like mine, but the tree has to be hard-you guys don't use this system on pine trees do you? I've tried and they are too soft-maybe I'm doing something wrong?

Are people stupid?  This system is so superior to convential steps it's not even funny.  AND it appears the company couldn't make go of it.  Very SAD!!!

Bowmania

I can sell mine if anyone is intrested. Or better do some trading.

Dan,
PM sent.

Darrell

Think about it-you can use this system and get up 15-20 feet with what you can hold  in one hand..
I will offer an alternative for you all that don't like the hand drill aspect of a woodpecker...(boys with toys).

http://www.treesuit.com/treehopper.html

Paul

I've been using my Woodpecker drill and belt for the last 15 yrs or so....very quick and easy way to hang a stand...without alerting what your hunting!

Anyone know if there is a difference between this one and the treehopper drill?  Both look about the same.

I think Yohon must be busy cutting Christmas trees or he would have chimed in here. I know he uses one and has no problem with them in loblolly pine...

East Coast archer,
Woodpecker is a hand drill. Treehopper is a bit that you put in your power drill.

Paul

BCD,
Make sure if you are drilling a soft tree like a pine or poplar that you drill the hole on a slight uphill angle. That way when loaded with your weight it will remain perpendicular to the tree trunk.

nocams

Legolas
Treehopper has a hand drill too.  Looks a lot like the woodpecker.

East Coast,
I was responding to the link I provided... no hand drill there.

Paul

Paul

This is what I was wondering about:

http://www.treehopper-llc.com/HandDrill.aspx

What's the advantage over srew-in tree steps? Your using the same motion to drill the holes. Are you guys pulling out the bolts each time you leave?

VTer,
Yep. And you can hold 10 bolts in one hand, You can't do that with steps. And once the holes are in the tree next time you just put it in the hole and one good shove and its in. Instead of standing there on steps screwin in steps over and over and over...

Paul