Can anyone recommend a quality 2 man ladder stand for my 11 year old son and I. Something comfortable for spending a lot of time on and built to last?

Thanks,

TXPower

I had a big game partner either the pro or the plus. It had a full platform with flip up rail and flip up seat. I didn't spend too much time in it but I recommend it. Suggest getting a different harness than the ones provided though.

I also used an extra ratchet strap at the very top rail to the tree (top/back of the seat rail). It was extremely sturdy once that was done.

I have had real good luck with the Game Winner double stand from Academy. Fairly comfortable and really reliable.

I have yet to find a comfortable ladder stand. I bought the two man Game Winner from Academy and wasnt pleased with the comfort - I also had the foldup seat come unwelded - it is good for the money but I wouldnt rate it very high in quality - you get what you pay for and these are the lower priced stands. If I had a child I wouldnt skimp on a stand. Look at some of the Summit, Big Game, Millenium, Ameristep. Basically you will be looking in the $200 - $300 range. A double rail ladder would be recommended as well. Again - when I get ready to take my child hunting I will be investing in some better and safer equipment. Note - if you buy your stand from Sportsmanguide beware that their "Guide Gear" barnd is made by same group that Academy labels as "Game Winner".

And as someone else eluded to - get a stand with an upper and loer tree "biter" - boomerang looking thing with teeth that grap the tree. Some only come with one. Dont be shy about using more than the recommended ratchet straps. I personally use lag bolts in the tree - one of each side of tree (generally total of two pair going up tree) and attache ratchet straps to the which are connected to the ladder. This is used in addition to the adjustable ladder support.

Thanks for the replies gentlemen. Can anyone recommend a website for a quality supplier or manufacturer other than the big box sporting goods stores?

Thanks,

TXPower

Wish I could help but only place I ever buy is from Academy, Sportsmanguide.com and Cabelas. Not because I am married to any of them - always go with best price. Reason I would go with Academy or one of the box stores is ease of return if need be - dealing with returning a ladder stand would be a bear. However, Ebay has some pretty standup reputable folks on there.

The Big Game Partner Pro is good. Have had some 6 years now and very pleased with them. Partner Plus is too cheaply built, bought one last year and am not pleased. I say this assuming that they haven't cheapened the Pro up too much.

Google: Family Tradition Treestands. I ordered the 2 man ladderstand, I think called DD14. Not sure of the name. It is one of the few that I feel is built well enough to climb on, as well as let my child on. It is made in America too. Don't know about the others. I am a large guy, and exceed the weight limit on most other brands. This one is rock solid. Where most ladder stands have two metal poles making the ladder, this one has two on each side that are welded together. Makes a much more solid ladder. It is also very comfortable. Strap it down good, and you won't be dissapointed. You will probably have to order it through the mail, which was expensive, unless you live by one of the few dealers in Texas. Just put mine back up this year, and reconfirmed how nice it is. Just my opinion.

Thank you all gentlemen.

TXPower