api or summit deerstands


ROADKILL04

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I have never used a API, but I love my Summit!

I have the Broadhead backpacker and it is the most perfect climber for bowhunting I have ever used. It folds flat for carrying, very light, open front and sits very sturdy on the tree.

I say get a Summit, They have great customer service too.

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  • 2 weeks later...

I have not used a Summit stand..yet.

I have used a API Climber for years though and have found it to be on the heavy side for longer hikes.

Padded shoulder straps are a definite must have!

The chain tree straps are covered in a heat shrink plastic and have to be replaced the more you use the stand.

I like the stability because of the strong grip into the tree.

I also like the sturdy construction.

I like the ability to replace the chains tree strap D-clips with Locks if I choose to leave the stand out overnight.

I geuss that it's personal prefference on what you like for creature comforts, a safe construction regardless of brand, but the end result should be "Can you afford to buy it" and "Can you shoot out of it".

The only adaptation I made to the stand was to add a small piece of rope between the top section and the foot straps to make it easier to get my boots in(where the red line is in the pic).

gs2500m-1.jpg

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  • 2 weeks later...

Summit. I have had my Goliath for about 4 years, wouldn't trade it for anything. Will be getting a lot of use this year. My cousin was looking for a climber as well. We will be hunting some state land this year. He went and bought an Ameristep yesterday. We got back here, took it out and set it up and we were both pretty disappointed in it. First ,it was missing the shoulder straps, then, we tried setting it up and it was very awkward. HE took it back and we drove to Cabelas and he bought a Realtree Outfitter Series Viper Ultra Treestand, for $179.99, regular price is $229, but they have had a sale on it all week at the store here in Michigan. We got it out of the bow last night when we got home,and He set it up earlier today, no problems at all. Summit is the way to go IMO :cool:

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  • 3 weeks later...

I have an API Bowhunter, very comfortable and grips the tree really well. I also have a Lone Wolf sit and climb that I got this year. Cannot say I like the LW as well, the band grips well, but, they get too loose as you go up the tree ( feels like to you need to re-adjust about half way up). Maybe I will get used to it.

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Most people on here know that I have been a long time fan and outspoken advocate of Summit treestands. Which is what makes my next comment almost unthinkable but I am considering changing to API.

I love my Summit Cobras but they have stopped making them. I have found Summit stands to be incredibly easy to use in the field (especially in the dark), light weight, durable, and above all else quiet. I prefer stands that have an open front. Unfortunately Summit is not offering as many options in open front stands. This is the main reason I am conidering API.

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I have an API Bowhunter, very comfortable and grips the tree really well....

I have the same treestand and like it for exactly the same reasons.

I actually bought the stand from a member here "JCWA" in the classifieds section a few years ago.

My Father who is experienced in working with metal helped me change the stand into a sit-down climber. Though it added alot of weight to the stand(because it was overbuilt for safety) I feel alot safer using it now. I could never get used to how I felt my upper body was pushing out away from the tree when pulling up the lower section.

I've shot deer from the stand as it is now and have never had any problems with the Bow hitting the front bar. I just lean out with the Bow already outside of the bar.

I've since bought 2 other API climbers(grand slam magnums) and have no problems with them or thier construction.

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I just purchased a Summit Titan. The dealer I spook with has the Summit Viper SS and 2 API Grand Slams and he said he mainly uses the Summit anymore. I myself have never seen the API's-must be at the big dealers like Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops. I was very impressed with the build of the Summits.

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