API aluminum climbers???

[L. E. Carroll]

Just got my first tree stand... a API Magnum Bowhunter aluminum self climber model.... used, but looks Like new for $125 I think I got a good price but need some input ?? no instructions with this thing    

all advise is appreciated        

[bucksakemmer]

Ive got two bowhunters and I think they are one of the best made. Practice with it before the season and learn how to judge the tree size and taper of the tree so when you setup and start your climb your base is level when you reach your desired heigth.
It should have included a strap that you use to attach the top/seat to the tree. this hooks in the holes on the teeth on the back. If it is not included get a ratchet strap. this keeps the top from falling when you stand to shoot. Tie the top and bottom together with a short piece of GOOD rope when you start up the tree, this will prevent you from dropping the bottom and having it go all the way to the ground and leaving you hanging.
It should have loops of straping on the bottom for your feet to go in with a bungy cord that goes around your heal.
You/I place my hands inside the seat top piece and place my elbows on the handle and curl my knees up and bring the bottom up. Stand up and move the top/seat up and repeat the process.


BUY A SAFETY BELT. I like the seat of the pants model by summit.
practice with the stand and you will enjoy
PUT the strap around the tree as you go up and down the tree. Most accidents happen at this time when people wait till they get possitoned to attach the safey belt

[Eric Krewson]

My API bowhunter stand has been my favorite for years. I put strips of carpet on the base to make it more quiet, replaced the chain cover with heavy vinyl water pipe for durability and replaced the carrying straps with GI Alice pack straps for comfort. I use a 3" webbing strap over the handles to make mine a sit and climb as well.

I have worn out the original seat that came with it and replaced it with a new one.

Great stand, light, climbs easily and very stable after you strap the top part to a tree.

You can contact Summit and they will most likely send you a DVD about how to use their stands or-- I have a couple. PM me your address and I'll send one to you. I don't need it.

[mrpenguin]

LE Carroll,

You've got a good stand there... the first stand I ever used was an API Bowhunter and its a solid stand... where did you find that?  I am going to be looking for one in the next couple of mos.

All the advice above is good.  Practice climbing in different trees to learn which trees are best to use it in.  Also, make sure you spend some time developing the physical muscles to climb with the stand.  The better muscular control you have over it, the quieter you will be when climbing with it.

[Jason R. Wesbrock]

The API Bowhunter climbers are great stands. My friends and I have been using them for several years with no complaints.

If you need new shrink wrap for the chains, there used to be a guy selling them (prepunched for less than $10) on the large auction site. He may still be there; I honestly don't know.

[sswv]

got one the first year they were available and still use it every year. also have three other API stands, a grand slam supreme and two lock-on. I like'em all.

[Running Buck]

I have four different climbers but its the API that is my favorite. I log over 60 days a year in that thing. I changed the seat from the one that came with it. I got a seat for a summit stand and cut the back rest off it.

Oops I mean API.