Have You Faced This Situation?
You hang a pre-set stand before archery opener. Deer filter through… 50+ yards away. You ask yourself:
👉 “Do I move closer to the action or hope they use my trail?”
👉 “This stand is heavy and a pain to move… I’ll just stay here.”
That was me too — until I tried saddle hunting.
Saddle hunting is one of the best ways to become more mobile, especially on pressured public land. But the biggest barrier? Cost. Premium kits can run over $900 before you even add accessories.
This guide shows you how I built my own “Frankenstein” saddle hunting kit for just $594.97 — using smart budget-friendly choices (many available on Amazon) without sacrificing safety or effectiveness.
Why Saddle Hunting?
Saddle hunting is about mobility, stealth, and versatility. Instead of lugging a bulky tree stand, you carry lightweight sticks, a small platform, and a comfortable saddle. You can set up virtually anywhere, adjust to deer movement, and stay flexible when the wind shifts.
But here’s the key: you don’t need the most expensive gear to hunt effectively from a saddle.
My Budget Saddle Hunting Kit (Total: $594.97)
1. Hawk Helium Climbing Sticks – 4 Pack ($99.99)
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20″ long, 300lb weight rating
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Nest together, 11.8 lbs for the full set
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Comparable to $200–$300 sticks from premium brands
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Add Stealth Strip silencing tape ($21.99) to quiet them
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Use rubber wire ties ($9.99 per 65) to strap to your pack
👉 Must-do tip: tie down the strap ends to eliminate unwanted movement.
2. Hawk Helium Hammock HSP Tree Platform ($39.99)
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Super compact (10″x 6″) and only 1.4 lbs
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Attaches on top of a climbing stick with 2 pins
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Premium platforms run $200–$300
3. Tethrd “Menace” Saddle ($208.99)
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Comfortable, durable, middle-of-the-road price
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Weight: 30 oz
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Solid choice for new saddle hunters
Attachments & Accessories:
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Tethrd Molle Pouch – $24.99 (for tether & rope storage)
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Molle Clips – $12.99 (hang climbing sticks while climbing)
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Kong Duck Blocker – $66.40 (fast tether adjustments)
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Drop Stop Clip – $12.99 (keeps tether snug to tree)
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Replacement Bridge Rope (Trophyline) – $39.99
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Tethrd Tree Tether 8mm – $75.88 (life-safety gear — don’t go cheap)
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Hunter Safety System Lineman’s Rope – $24.99
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Allen Bow Pull-Up Rope – $8.26
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Knee Savers – $22.99 (must-have for comfort)
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Tree Stand Gear Hanger – $19.99
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Ameristep Bow Hanger – $3.95
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Paracord 100ft – $6.99
Kit Comparison: My Build vs. Premium Kits
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My Kit: $594.97 (before tax) | 17 lbs total weight
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Tethrd Phantom Starter Kit = $921.45
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Trophyline Covert Lite 2.0 Kit = $809.97
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Cruzr XC Super Kit = $620.00
👉 My build saves $200–$300 while including accessories the “starter kits” don’t.
Recommended Amazon Gear for New Saddle Hunters
Want to try saddle hunting without piecing everything together? These are budget-friendly Amazon picks I recommend (replace # with your affiliate links):
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Best Budget Trail Camera – Track deer before you move in
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Stealth Strips Camo Tape – Quiet your sticks/platform
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Rubber Wire Ties – For attaching sticks to pack
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Heavy-Duty Gloves – For climbing & rope work
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Knee Pads – Essential for long sits
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Bow & Gear Hangers – Keep everything organized in the tree
Final Thoughts on Building a Custom Saddle Kit
My setup wasn’t built overnight. I tested, swapped, and upgraded gear until I found a budget-friendly, lightweight, and safe kit that works for me.
Saddle hunting has completely changed how I hunt. I can slip deeper into public land, move with deer patterns, and set up in places that are impossible with a heavy stand.
If you’re looking to close the distance on pressured whitetails this season — without spending $900+ — I hope this breakdown helps you build your own cost-effective kit.
Note: Prices and availability are subject to change. Always research and select gear that best fits your hunting needs and budget.
Affiliate Disclaimer:
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.