Any Saddle Hunters on this Handgun Hunting forum. When saddle hunting you go in very light and carrying a handgun instead of a rifle is just another lighter weight option.

From the lack of response, I would gather not. Are you referring to light weight tree rigs in the name "Saddle Hunters" or the equestrian version?

I have saddle hunted for about a year and half, meaning the first year I was hesitant, now after a full season also, I am sold. it takes getting used to but I really like the flexibility and handguns add to the flexibility. I initially started with bow hunting but now pretty much hunt from the saddle. IF I take a rifle (once in two seasons) then I might use a ladder stand. My son, grandsons and friends cringe when i tell them I am thinking of removing all the stands from my property since I don't need them anymore. I am a short range handgun hunter so i treat it like bowhunting - longer range shooters may have to work on their form/plan just to find what works for them. Lots of suggestions and videos out there but I have found that each individual needs to try and decide what works for them. Try it, I think you will enjoy it.

Still in the dark as to whether you're talking about horseback hunting or some brand of tree rig. ?????????

I just ordered my first saddle setup this week from Tethrd. I am look forward to using my SRH in 10mm 6.5" from a saddle rig this fall for deer. Riding in a chest holster, it should be a nice option. Btw, he is not talking about hunting from horseback! LOL!

I also use the phantom. Suggestions from my 1.5 year experience: Get suspender system, get very organized in the stuff pouches and always take your time and do things safely. I think the medium platforms are the right size and weight balance. I bought the trophyline larger platform but it was just too heavy to haul and install quietly so I trimmed it down (I'm sure this is frowned upon but to costly to buy another one plus always connected to tree). I tried a variety of packs but a good backpack that will hold your platform works best for me. I use the tethrd HYS strap and it is really good. I use a 3d printed plastic flat hook on my bow and quiver to hang onto the HYS strap and that is best system I have found. Not needed for handgun in chest rig but still use HYS strap with carabiners for pack and other stuff. Even though the saddle will adapt to almost any angle tree, a near vertical one is so much more comfortable to stay in and basketball size is about as big as I think is good, otherwise the tree actually gets in the way trying to see around it and maneuver around it. Just a few thoughts, enjoy!

This question was asked a while ago but I'll chime in. I've been saddle hunting a few years now. I've tagged my buck with a bow the last few years so I haven't gun hunted from a saddle yet. I will be carrying either my 44mag T/C or one of my Ruger Blackhawks this year. I hang in either a JX3 or a Latitude Method II and a predator XL stand, depending on the stand site. If it's raining, I'll be in a ground blind with the same gear plus a couple saplings lashed together for shooting sticks.