Firearms in Tree Stands
Follow these steps to get your firearm safely into and out of a tree stand:
- Unload your firearm, and open the action. PROVE it safe.
- Lay it on the ground with the muzzle slightly elevated to prevent dirt and debris from getting into the barrel.
- Tie a short rope or cord around the stock, and attach the other end to the barrel. This “bridle” will give you a means to attach your haul line. If your firearm has a sling, use it instead.
- Tie or attach the haul line securely to the sling or bridle so that the firearm hangs with the muzzle pointed down. Make sure the haul line is a bit longer than the height of the tree stand above the ground.
- Slip the end of the haul line through your belt. Leave it untied so that it can pull free if you fall.
- Put on your fall-arrest system, secure yourself to the tree, and climb to your stand.
- Once you are secure in your tree stand, haul up the firearm. Untie the haul line and bridle.
- Check the firearm barrel for obstructions. Reload it.
- To lower the firearm, attach the haul line the same way you did when bringing the firearm up. Gently lower the firearm to the ground on the opposite side of the tree from your climbing route. Once you are back on the ground, check the barrel for obstructions.