I just stumbled on the deal of the century for a new Alpha Hang on today at one of the Big Box Discount Sports Stores. I'm psyched to say the least!!

Just wondering if you guys prefer using the offset bracket or the EZ Hang hook.

I just quickly put it up in my yard trying both methods, and the EZ hang seemed a bit less stable, but I may just have to learn more about it.

Any tips??

With the easy hang I use a second strap on the top button.  I didn't have the offset bracket on mine.  I have that now on my new Assault, but have not messed with it much yet.  Time to get on that.  I think the best way to go is two standard straps and an easy hang so you can hang it easy then snug it down good with straps on the buttons top and bottom.

Thanks Todd, great minds do think alike. I was just looking at it and thinking he same thing about using another strap.

I love the EZ hook. It allows the stand to hang while you put the straps on. I also use two straps to secure mine. With both straps it is bombproof and gives me peace of mind. I also have four Lone Wolf climbing sticks. When you carry it, instead of mounting them on the center as they instruct you to. I mount two on each side of the back of the stand like ski poles. This allows me to attach my pack or my Catquiver to it.

Bicster, thanks for the tip on the climbing sticks. I'm looking into a set of them now.

Allen, If the tree is straight use the EZ hook. If you want to hang it in a bend or crook use the bracket. It is the best stand you have ever hunted. I have used them since they first came out.  

Michael

I have never even tried the EZ hook - not needed in my opinion. Stand works well and is built well - not the lightest and not the most comfortable.

What is considered a deal?

Use the Bracket -

Has more bite than the hook, placing the stand on the hook can be a chore in the dark, and most importantly - on the OLDER Alpha's, if you DID NOT secure the stand with BOTH Straps and raised the seat you could cam the top of the stand OFF the HOOK!  And go for a ride.  


If you choose to use the hook, put BOTH straps around the stand to secure it.  

Me, I'm lazy and live dangerously - I use the offset bracket and a strap at the top.  If you tighten the top strap, climb out onto the stand, kneel on the seat and lift the edge of the platform up with your toe, the seat will slide down a bit and lock into the tree (digging the offset bracket in) - it's also a chance to setup your platform leveler's.  Pressing the stand back flat will cam out the bottom/platform and lock the stand securely in place.

I think Allen put the "deal" line in just in case his wife is on Tradgang ...  

Yeah, I never use the hook, to easy to hang just using the offset bracket. I use straps on both buttons, it just feels more secure using it this way when it comes to leaning out or off to the side!

Thanks for all the tips guys.


Ken, you DID read my signature line didn't you??!!


No really, I got this one at such a low price, I'm wondering if they may have had it mismarked.....oh well.

I'm a belt and suspenders sort of guy when it comes to tree stands.  I own three of the LW Alpha stands and love them.  However, once I get them where I want them I use a ratchet strap to really nail them down (since I don't move them much once in the tree of my choosing).  I don't like the quick hanger system because it isn't sufficiently overkill for me.  Before I started using a ratchet strap I ALWAYS used two LW straps.  Let's all remember to be safe out there! (although you don't necessarily have to be as "overkill" as I am)

Thanks John, I'm sure my ACS will see plenty of action out of my new Alpha this fall!


While I'm at it, do most of you guys use just 3 of the climbing sticks, or go higher as a general rule?

I hunt out of a lot of poplar trees with not much cover, and usuall get up to about 22 feet with my other stands.

EZ hook all the way.

Don't like the hook at all. Use the bracket exclusively on both of mine.

The reason I asked about price is I got one shipped for $204. I thought that was reasonable.

Onehair, sent you a pm

Allen, 3 sticks will put the bottom of my stand at 15 ft.  In case I need to get a little higher, I carry a couple of screw in steps.

I use the easy hook only to hang the stand in place quick to get it in place while I get the other straps on and the stand set-up.  I don't use it for support.