I'm considering getting a tree sling setup of some sorts, and one of the things I'll need are some strap-on tree steps so I can "walk the tree." The only brand step I've seen so far are the ones by Ameristep. Are they any good? What other steps are available?

Thanks.

Chuck,

Dont remember the ones I have, they are the brown straps and brown steps I believe....either way I really liked them.  Always pick up a set every fall when I'm in Mn at gander MT, likely the same things.

Kinda funky getting used to using them but they work well once you do.  Dont pick a to big of a tree though, you'll regret it sorely!

I have a set that I have had for years.  I like them.  Do not get cheapies....  I came down out of a tree when two broke, while helping a lady friend set hers up.  Her steps were not what I would have bought...  much lighter weight.  

The trick I learned is, when you install them, pull them tight and while holding the strap tight, pull up a bit on the locking lever (spring loaded) so it bites into the strap right off.  Once I started doing that, I had never a problem.  Before that they sometimes slipped a bit.   I have a bag of ten and I can go 25 feet up a tree pretty easily.  

Please learn to use a safety harness going up and down as well as while in your stand.  Use the excuse that it frees both hands to work the steps.
ChuckC

Thanks, guys. I'll probably get several Lone Wolf climbing sticks, and just use the strap-ons for moving around the tree.

I'll be hunting in Michigan with my brother. He always sets up several platform stands, but I don't really like hunting from them. He does have one metal ladder stand that is o.k., but hunting from a Treesuit, or something similar looks to be much better.

I use the Ameristep strap-on steps with the Lone Wolf climbing sticks. I just cut 2 or 3 steps off their straps and placed them on the 4th step/strap. That way I have 4 steps on the same strap to use as a platform with my tree saddle. I only used this setup a few times, but it worked really good. I put the strap-on steps right above my top Lone Wolf stick so that I could use the step on the stick as part of my "platform" as well. The stick bracket also helps keep the strap from working its way back down the tree when you move around. I'll have to try ChuckC's method of getting the locking cam to bite into the strap. I hadn't thought of that.

About the slickest strap on step system I've seen is the Steppladder by Jim Stepp (also came up with the Bevellok t/d system).  I use 'em, my dad uses 'em, and two buddies of mine use 'em.

The website doesn't look to be up and running, but  www.steppladder.com  has his contact info anyway.

Oh, the "ladder" part is deceiving.  It's actually a bunch of steps that are tied rather loose to the three and then secured by simple cam action.  The steps are just large enough to put both feet on.

I have 3 sets of the aluminum Ameristep brand and love them they are the best in my opinion. They are light and easy to install and one set will get you 20 to 25 feet up depending on how tall you are.

Lone Wolf has something new coming out, or it may be out, for using with a trees sling type setup. fairly expensive, like $100 for each platform! Check out their website!