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Tree stands are great for hunters, as they provide a better viewpoint in order to fully see your environment and surroundings.
They’re easy to climb into thanks to the attached ladder and the seats are often very comfortable and supportive. No need to worry about safety, as they also tend to include safety harnesses so you won’t have to worry about falling.
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Think about investing in a two-man ladder stand for your next hunting trip.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for 2 Man Ladder Stands
- OUR TOP PICK: X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk Ladderstand
- RUNNER-UP: BIG GAME 18' Guardian XLT Two-Person Ladderstand
- BEST CAMO MODEL: Guide Gear 2 Person 20' Double Rail Ladder Tree Stand with Hunting Blind
Comparison of the Best 2-Man Ladder Stands
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Are All 2-Man Ladder Stands the Same?
Like with most products, not all products are the same too. You will find a lot of variations, even within the same brand, and you will need to be really observant if you are looking for the best model out there.
The size, construction material, and other underlying features help differentiate each product. You will find that there are some really tall ladders and then there are really short ones. It really depends on the height of the tree.
Moreover, construction material also helps differentiate the models. You will find some items made of steel that are really durable. On the other hand, there are also some models that are really quiet and sturdy.
Other important features that help separate the models are safety and comfort features. A durable material would help prevent any unwanted accidents. Moreover, some models come with padded seats, while others don’t.
X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk Ladderstand
How to Choose a Two-Man Ladder Stand
There are many different products out on the market and all have their own qualities to bring to the table. To help make your decision a little easier, we’ve provided a few things that you may want to consider before investing in an item, take a look below.
Comfort
One very important thing to consider when purchasing a ladder stand is the comfort that it has to offer. It’s likely you’ll be sitting in it for a while as you wait for a target to walk into the area staked out, so back support and padded seats play a significant role.
For a two-person ladder stand, the seat should be able to accommodate accordingly, and there should be enough space for both individuals to move and have a bit of personal space.
Accessibility
If you aren’t unable to easily get into and out of the ladder stand, it really isn’t functioning as it should. One important thing to consider is how easy it is to access your ladder stand. It also is beneficial that a ladder stand has a decent sized platform, especially for two individuals.
Safety
Safety is key, and a hunter’s safety in the field is very important. Look for a ladder stand that has a nice rail and a good sized platform so you have lots of room to move without fear of falling off. Many stands also often include safety harnesses, so make sure to put those to use. The stand should be attached securely so there will be no worry of it being unstable at any time.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
Platform Size: This refers to the dimensions of the platform for standing and shooting.
Height to Shooting Rail: This generally refers to the height from the ground to the shooting rail, although manufacturers may use other metrics to measure such as full height or height to platform.
Weight Capacity: The amount of weight the platform can support. This includes supplies.
Weight of Stand: The actual carrying weight of the stand.
Seat Size: The dimensions of the seat measured in inches (L x W).
Seat Height: The distance between the platform and the seat.
Seat Type: The material the seat is made of.
Ladder: The type of ladder and materials it is constructed of. May include other pertinent details about the ladder.
Review of the Best 2-Man Ladder Stands
There are many great stands out on the market, so we’ve compiled a list of a few that we think are the best. There are options that are the best for the money and the best by certain brands that you may be familiar with, so take a look!
Best Overall:
X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk Ladderstand
PROS
CONS
Review
This tree ladder stand has a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds and has a stand weight of 122 pounds. The durable steel material allows for solid construction that will last through multiple hunting seasons.
Two four-part, full body harnesses are included to ensure that safety is prioritized at all times. The seats and front shooting rail are able to fold upwards to allow for easier entry onto the platform and the foldable seats also allow for more space to stand while shooting.
The cushions and pads make for a very comfortable experience, so no back strain will be taking place. The quality design allows for a quiet stand and mounting brackets make it very simple to install.
Bottom Line
This ladder stand is made of sturdy steel material and the quality of the construction allows for a very quiet stand that won’t allow any squeaks or creaks alert your targets. The seats are very comfortable, with padding and a supportive backrest that prevents any strain that your body may experience. The seats are able to fold up, allowing for more platform space so you’re able to stand and shoot, if you so choose.
The shooting rail also folds up, which helps make climbing up to the stand simpler. As expected for a two-person ladder stand made of durable material, this stand will take a few strong individuals to help with installing it, though once it’s up, the stand will remain sturdy and well-attached thanks to the strong mounting brackets.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
42 x 34"
Height to Shooting Rail:
20 ft
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
122 lbs
Seat Size:
39 x 17"
Seat Type:
Comfort-FleX
Ladder:
Steel
Runner-up and Best by Big Game:
BIG GAME 18’ Guardian XLT Two-Person Ladderstand
PROS
CONS
Review
This two-person ladder stand is 18 feet in height up to the shooting rail and has a standing platform of 6.5 inches by 12.5 inches. The bench style seat design makes for very simple construction, also making this ladder stand relatively light and simple to set up.
The flip-up padded shooting rail helps for additional safety purposes, as well as stabilizing your gun for shooting. The powder coating gives weather-resistant protection, so you won’t have to worry about replacing this ladder stand any time soon.
The solid stand is well constructed and sturdy, providing good support and added height to the user.
Bottom Line
Overall, this ladder stand could use some improvements. While it is relatively easy to set up and is made of a nice material that adds to the overall durability and stability of the construction, it has many flaws.
One thing to note is that the shooting rail is not quite tall enough, so it may be great for someone with a handgun, but not so much for someone with a rifle. It is a flip-up rail though, which makes for easier entry and exit of the ladder stand.
The seats are made of mesh and have a support bar running through the middle, so you aren’t able to comfortably sit in the middle of the seat. There also is no cushioning or backrest, making it not the most ideal and comfortable situation. This ladder stand could use some work, but with added cushions, it could make for a nice product worth the money.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
6.5 x 12.5"
Height to Shooting Rail:
18 ft
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
53 lbs
Seat Size:
38 x 12"
Seat Height:
17"
Seat Type:
Flex-Tek Zero-Gravity Bench Seat
Ladder:
3 x Single Rail made of steel
Maximum Tree Diameter:
Minimum 9"
Best Camo Model:
Guide Gear 2-Person 20’ Double Rail Ladder Tree Stand with Hunting Blind
PROS
CONS
Review
This ladder tree stand is able to fit two individuals, and it has a total height of around 20 feet, giving you a really nice view from up in the trees. The camo patterned material circles around the platform to aid in keeping you out of sight from any keen-eyed targets.
The metal structure of the stand is very strong and durable, making for a nice and sturdy tree stand. The quality build and construction makes for a relatively quiet stand, so you won’t have to worry about any undesired rattling or squeaking.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a pretty nice ladder tree stand, able to get you a good distance in the air since it has a height of around 20 feet. The blind that wraps around the platform helps the hunter stay concealed from any targets and is relatively easy to enter and exit. Though it is a large and heavy stand, there isn’t a lot of legroom, or room for two full-grown individuals. There is a good amount of room for an individual and their gear though.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
55 x 14"
Height to Shooting Rail:
20 ft
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
90 lbs
Seat Size:
36 x 14"
Seat Type:
Padded seats
Ladder:
Steel
4. Rivers Edge Two-Man Ladder Stand
PROS
CONS
Review
This two-man ladder stand has a 42-inch by 28.5-inch platform, and a 40-inch by 19-inch seat, allowing for a good amount of room to sit comfortably. The cushioned seats and backrest make for a comfortable experience and to help relieve back pain.
A powder coating leaves for a nice finish that helps battle harsh weather conditions while also preventing slipping. The durable construction makes for a great and stable stand that you can trust and it is also at a great height that makes the surrounding area much easier to see.
The safety features of the harnesses and such are to the benefit of the hunter, offering security while so high up in the trees. Built to last, this two-man ladder stand will become a significant part of your next hunting season.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a pretty nice ladder stand, with a maximum capacity weight of 500 pounds and pretty much able to comfortably fit two hunters. The retractable footrest adds a nice comfort factor and can help provide more platform room, should it be needed when standing to shoot or for other purposes.
This stand is rather heavy and takes a lot of patience and strength to set up. Once it is set up though, it is quite comfortable and gives a very nice view. The cushioning does make quite a bit of noise, so it’s suggested to put some other type of covering on them to cancel out the noise. Other than that, this is a very nice stand and delivers all the quality it says it holds.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
42 x 32.5"
Height to Shooting Rail:
20 ft 6"
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
129 lbs
Seat Size:
41.5 x 16"
Seat Height:
17"
Seat Type:
Cushioned
Ladder:
5 (44" each) made of steel
Maximum Tree Diameter:
12 - 30"
5. Sniper Deluxe Two-Man Ladder Tree Stand
PROS
CONS
Review
This stand provides a nice lookout view, beneficial to any hunter. Straps help secure it to a tree, making for a more stable stand overall, and safer when ascending and descending via the attached ladder.
The padded shooting rail adds support as a hunter takes aim and shoots, and it also adds another safety aspect if you decide to stand and shoot. The seats have added cushioning for additional comfort, so you won’t have to sit straight on metal seating for hours on end. Screws and nuts are included upon purchase and help ensure that the tree stand is properly in place and secured to the tree.
Bottom Line
This isn’t too bad of a ladder stand for the money. It provides a nice added height, beneficial to any hunter, and though it may take some time and work to set up, once it’s up, it is quite secure and stable. The additional straps make for added stability as well.
One thing is that the cushions on the seats tend to be a bit noisy, so you may want to change them out for something not as loud. The padded shooting rail adds to the safety aspect, so you can stand and shoot if you’d like. The platform to this ladder stand doesn’t seem to really be big enough for two individuals, but it could comfortably fit a hunter and their gear.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
37 x 13"
Height to Shooting Rail:
18 ft
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
65 lbs
Seat Size:
13 x 38"
Seat Height:
17"
Seat Type:
1" of cushion
Ladder:
Steel
Maximum Tree Diameter:
9"
Best by Ameristep:
Ameristep Two-Man Ladderstand w/ RealTree AP Seat
PROS
CONS
Review
This ladder stand is around 15 feet tall, providing a nice view from the trees. The metal construction makes for a very sturdy and durable build, able to be used through multiple hunting seasons without worry.
The padded cushions add for additional comfort, so you can take the strain off your body from standing and opt for sitting instead. The shooting rail is able to be pulled up or down, allowing it to be easier to enter or exit the platform and go down the stairs. This also provides an extra safety factor to the stand, so you are able to stand and shoot without the worry of falling.
Bottom Line
This is a pretty good ladder stand considering the price, and it offers a nice height of 15 feet off the ground. The construction is simple and relatively easy to set up, and the material is sturdy and will last through multiple seasons. The cushions are rather cheaply made and may make some noise, so it is suggested that they be replaced.
The backrest also doesn’t have built-in cushions, so you may want to invest in some to provide more comfort to your back, especially for sitting hours on end. The pull-down shooting bar is great for added security while shooting and standing and it also makes it easier to get in and out of the ladder stand. Overall, this wouldn’t be a bad purchase and would provide the simple necessities sought after in a ladder stand.
Product Specs
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Seat Size:
40 x 13″
Seat Type:
Padded cushion
Best by Big Dog:
Big Dog 17.5’ Stadium Series
PROS
CONS
Review
This ladder stand includes a free blind and features a dual rail ladder construction for easy and trustworthy access to the curved platform. The platform is 53 inches by 13 inches, and the curved design makes for easier maneuvering to look and stand in different directions when seeking a target.
The seat is also curved and is 37 inches by 16 inches. It also features additional padded armrests and a backrest, adding comfort so you are able to sit for hours without worry. There are four ratchet straps that contribute to the stand’s stability and security, along with pinned ladder sections and an adjustable ladder support bar, making for great safety features altogether. There are also armrest systems included for additional support.
Bottom Line
This is a very nice ladder stand, with lots of additional features that add to its quality. It has padded seats, backrests, and armrests for all-day comfort. The dual ladder construction, four ratchet straps, and pinned ladder sections make for a very secure item that is relatively easy to set up, though like most ladder stands it will take some patience and strength, and a little bit of teamwork before it is up and ready to be put to use.
Though there isn’t ample platform room for two large individuals, it would work well for a solo hunter and their gear, or an experienced hunter taking a younger hunter out for the day. The stand is very stable, but there are quite a few steps and additional features that need to be set up properly to make for a sturdy stand.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
53 x 13"
Height to Shooting Rail:
17.5 ft
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
102 lbs
Seat Size:
37 x 16"
Seat Height:
18"
Seat Type:
Padded Back-Rest Cushion
Ladder:
Steel
Best Rivers Edge 2-Man Ladder Stand:
Rivers Edge RE634
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The first thing that buyers look out for in any model is comfort. This is essential because it not only upgrades your experience but also makes it more worthwhile. This model is built for hunters' greater comfort demands. It comes with thick paddings and a fully ergonomic mesh designed seats that offer larger platforms.
Buyers are also pleased with the very spacious seats that allow hunters to stretch their backs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Durability is probably the most important feature that you need to look out for if you want to get a good and solid ladder stand. All Rivers Edge ladder stands are designed especially to provide you with high construction that lasts for a relatively long time. This unit, too, is also both secure and stable thanks to its proper quality control. Moreover, this durability also comes in handy in difficult weather situations.
Bottom Line
Ladder stands are extremely useful, but only when you invest in the right model. This is one of the most extraordinary products in the market with exceptional features like a proper backrest and some padded seats that allow proper resting. Moreover, it is relatively more spacious, which makes it very easy to both set up and relax on it. So if you want comfort with convenience, then this is the model for you.
Product Specs
Platform Size:
40 x 17"
Height to Shooting Rail:
17 ft 1"
Weight Capacity:
500 lbs
Weight of Stand:
75 lbs
Seat Size:
38" x 15.5"
Seat Type:
TearTuff mesh
Ladder:
Steel
Can You Really Find a Quality Two-Man Ladder Stand That’s Affordable?
All good things come to people who wait, but in this case, all good things come to people who research. There is a common myth surrounding two-man ladders, and it prevents many people from using this otherwise wonderful product. Contrary to what you believe, not all models are expensive, and you can find a very good and affordable model.
But don’t worry just yet; you won’t have to spend hours, days, or even weeks looking for an affordable model because we have done the research for you. We came across many great models on the internet. These aren’t only very durable and strong but also come with reliable padding. Moreover, you will also be amazed to see some amazing warranties associated with high affordability products.
Benefits of Investing in a Great Ladder Stand
Ladder stands are really beneficial to a hunter, and there are many things that they bring to help make for a successful hunt. We’ve listed a few of these things below.
Viewpoint
Ladder stands are great investments because they provide the hunter with a great viewpoint, able to increase the range of visibility in order to spot prey easier and make a better shot.
Comfort
Ladder stands often have padded seats and backrests, making for a more comfortable hunting experience. They also often include a padded shooting rail that can double as an armrest and this also provides support for shooting so you can more accurately aim.
Concealment
Animals have a very keen eye and being higher in the air helps get the hunter out of the sight of their target. This gives a hunter the ability to move without having to worry about startling a target by their subtle movements. This also helps the hunter’s scent remain in the canopy of the trees rather than near the ground where prey would be able to detect it.
How to Put up a Ladder Stand
Many people find putting a ladder stand very difficult, but contrary to popular belief, it is actually not that hard. You have to follow a few simple steps to do this accurately. Here is a brief overview of all the steps you need to follow.
- The first step is obviously to buy a ladder stand. You can choose from a number of different products, depending on size, safety, and comfort features.
- You then have to decide on a specific area where you want to set up the thing. This place will depend on hunting or even your personal preference.
- You have to find a decent tree that you need to put a tree stand on. You need to ensure that it is strong and durable and can handle the weight of the ladder.
- Then comes the assembly of your ladder stand that is the main task. You need to lay it in a horizontal position.
- You need to then ensure that the seat is farthest from the tree, and the feet of your ladder is almost touching it.
- You need to have someone stand or at least hold the base of the stand. Someone can stand on the feet of your ladder so that when you push it up vertically, the ladder doesn’t slide or fall.
- Then you need to push the ladder to stand up. You can do this by simply using its steps.
- Next, the person standing at the bottom can hold the ladder stand at the base, and you can climb up.
- Then use a ratchet strap that you can attach to your stand.
- Now, come down from your tree stand and attach a middle support beam. This will give the whole thing extra stability.
For a more detailed step by step overview, refer to the video given below.
Conclusion
Ladder stands are a great investment for a hunter to make, allowing them to increase their range of vision and have a higher vantage point for locating targets. They aid in concealing the hunter as well, since a target is less likely to spot them high in the tree canopy and they won’t be able to catch their scent as quickly as if the hunter were on the ground. Ladder stands are very durable and offer a stable platform that makes shooting while sitting or standing a breeze and any hunter who invests in one won’t regret it.
People Also Ask
Ladder stands are great for things like hunting or simply climbing on a tree stand. People often feel hesitant using such products because of how difficult and unique the product looks. But don’t fret too much; here are all your unanswered questions answered once and for all.
In What Circumstance Would a Ladder Stand Be Ideal?
A ladder stand ranges between 12 and 16 feet and is ideal for hunting as well as many other established game trails. Some also come with relatively smaller seat platforms that hunters can use to escape the ground. You can also add a skirt that will further hide your movements.
How to Cover a 2-Man Ladder Stand?
If you are aiming to hunt from a tree, one great way is to use a tree stand camouflage burlap or a blind kit. You can wrap the seat and the platform of the stand. That is a great way to hide any movements that you and your friends might be making while in the tree. You can also use a piece of fabric to loose cut all the leaves. This will leave you with a natural look.
Why is it so Difficult to Put a 2-Man Ladder Stand up?
The name is self-explanatory here. It is called a two-man ladder because you need at least two people to set it up. This isn’t only because of the greater weight of the model but also because of the height of the model. These two features combined make it very difficult for a person to set it up alone.
How Hard is it For One Person to Set up a 2-Person Ladder Stand?
This is difficult to do, but certainly not impossible. You can set up a two-person stand with a little bit more effort. You will definitely need to invest more time too. You need to first eliminate any obstructions that exist between the tree and the ladder. You can then raise the ladder so that it doesn’t slide. You can also tie the two straps or rode to the ladder first to ensure it doesn’t fall.
How Long Does it Take to Assemble a 2-Person Ladder Stand?
This depends on how many people are involved in the assembly. Normally, when two or more people are helping with the setup, the whole process takes less than ten minutes. However, if there is a single person involved in the whole thing, then it might take relatively more time.
How Tall is the Average 2-Man Ladder Stand?
Most good quality two-man ladder stands are 17 to 20 feet high. The height could be higher, too, depending upon the height of the tree stand. Moreover, you will have to use a cover to also conceal any movements. This might increase the overall height of the whole thing.
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