Familiarize Yourself with Climbing Stick Installation and Care Techniques
Unlike a ladder or screw-in steps, tree stand climbing sticks are lightweight and can be carried over your shoulder when trekking through the woods. You may find that your new set of climbing sticks provides you with a convenient way to gain access to your hunting stand, but will need to familiarize yourself with the installation process and basic care techniques prior to using your sticks during a hunting trip.
Learn How to Strap the Sticks Together
Remove your set of sticks from their packaging and lay out all of the components across your lawn. The first thing you should do is learn how to group the pieces together and secure them with a velcro or adjustable strap. Stick pieces are designed to nest together, allowing you to stack the pieces neatly.
After securing the pieces, place the bundle inside of a carrying case that has a shoulder strap. If a bag did not come with your set of sticks, purchase a waterproof bag from a hunting or sporting goods store. The bag can be used during hunting expeditions and will also be needed as a storage solution when the sticks are not being used.
Practice Securing the Sticks to a Tree
If you have a sturdy tree growing on your property, use it while you practice securing the sticks. Separate the bundle of stick pieces. Hold onto one section and lay the others back on the ground. Hold the stick vertically and lean it against the tree, so the ends that are designed to grip the tree are adjacent with the tree's bark.
Wrap your lineman's rope around the bottom and top of the tree and pull on the rope until it is snug. Lock the rope into place. If there are branches close to the stick, use them for leverage as you hoist yourself up onto the stick's pegs. Otherwise, grip your hands onto the lineman's rope or top of the stick section.
Pull the next stick section upward and slide the end of it over the first piece that is attached to the tree. The two pieces will interlock and form a uniform section. Again, wrap your lineman's rope around the top and bottom of the second climbing stick section.
Climb up onto the second piece once you have ensured that the stick section is stable. Practice securing the sticks to the tree until you are comfortable using the new equipment. After each hunting trip, clean the stick sections with detergent and water. Dry the metal pieces and place them in the storage bag