The info on this website is different than what you may find elsewhere simply because JRB doesn’t want you to take any chances with your safety. Take your time, educate yourself, and make a plan using the steps outlined below.
Page Contents:
Terminology
There are a LOT of terms and acronyms used in Saddle Hunting. JRB has composed a dictionary: You can skim the whole thing or just use it when you see or hear an unfamiliar term:
Why Saddle Hunt?
If you are not sure that Saddle Hunting is for you, ask yourself why JRB (a hunter with a lifetime of success in minimalist, mobile whitetail deer hunting) uses it exclusively. Refer to the information on this page:
What’s JRB Tree Climbing?
This video summarizes it well.
What are Your Priorities?
Before you do anything, recognize that most folks are just following the crowd and have not been adequately educated to consider what can go wrong and develop a priority list. JRB recommends this perspective on priorities:
Priority 1: Safety
Your safety is more important than ANYTHING ELSE. If something CAN go wrong, it eventually will. Think of it this way: we can hunt thousands of days in our lifetime… but just one accident can change our future forever. Make your safety non-negotiable. Digest the info on the Safety page:
Other Priorities
The relative importance of the following priorities might vary for each person, but JRB urges you to consider that none are more important than Safety. We can achieve and balance ALL of these without compromising our safety:
- Weight
- Bulk
- Noise
- Cost
- Speed
- Comfort
- Versatility in Tree Selection
What’s Your Mission?
Consider capturing YOUR priorities by creating a ‘mission statement’ to guide you. List your priorities in order that they are important to YOU! Free to borrow and modify:
JRB’s Mission Statement:
In order to maximize my success as a deer hunter, I need a climbing system which has:
- Widest TREE SELECTION
- Maximum SAFETY
- Minimum GEAR
- Maximum MOBILITY
- Minimum COMPLEXITY
- Maximum COMFORT
- Minimum TIME
- Maximum COMFORT
- Minimum COST
The Steps
1: Educate yourself
Before you do anything, make a commitment that you are going to invest the time necessary to learn all you can. Be patient and take your time, using this website as a resource.
Understand the difference between a climbing system and a climbing method. We don’t want to be limited in terms of tree selection. JRB shows you how to build one rope-based system which supports multiple methods. After all, the tree we want to climb:
- Might have many branches, alive or dead
- Might have multiple trunks
- Might be leaning or straight
- Might be 6 inches or 4 feet in diameter
Review and understand the climbing methods. Think about what you methods interest you and in what order you might tackle them.
Review and understand the climbing systems, and think about what system(s) you want to build based on your priorities and mission statement. JRB recommends the 60′ 3 Hitch System, given that it can be used with multiple climbing methods.
Review the materials on Comfort and Shooting Positions:
2: Shop
After educating yourself, make a shopping list based on the system and methods you are going to pursue. Use these pages to assist you.
JRB recommends the following:
- Saddle: Pioneer’s Revenge Saddle. (Plan on adding the BHT redundant bridge, using the cord in the Rope system below.)
- Rope System: JRB’s 60 ft Hybrid 3 Hitch System, which includes the necessary carabiners and cord for the hitches and redundant bridge.
- Footloop: A JRB Garda Hitch Footloop
- Depending on what methods you plan to use, either or both of:
- Maverick Pole. If you want to be able to climb without using a throwball, a Maverick Pole physical reach.
- A Throwball and paracord.
- Platform: You decide, as there are so many to choose from. Consider starting with a used platform and upgrade later.
Before you finalize your list, consider some optional items, such as a Swivel, by reviewing the detailed list on the following page:
3: Learn your essential knots
While waiting for your order, all you need is a piece of cord or rope to practice your knots. See the dedicated page for the set of essential knots, and explore the full list on the Knots page:
4: Get used to the saddle
When you get your saddle, before climbing, learn how to put on your saddle and spend some time in with it securely attached to a tree at ground height. If you are not comfortable on the ground, you are not going to be comfortable in the canopy. Bounce around. Adjust the bridge length. If you have a platform, install it. Move around. Simulate shooting one side or another. Put your feet up on the trunk and push off, straightening your legs. Close your eyes and picture yourself up at hunting height, with nothing under you. Get used to the freedom. Allow your system to earn your trust. Related videos:
5: Build your system
When your order arrives, construct your chosen system.
6: Learn to rappel
You can learn to rappel without actually climbing. JRB recommends installing a redundant bridge and practicing a rappel using the Munter friction hitch from a standing position, then do it 2 feet higher, then 4.
7: Practice climb
Your first few climbs should be conducted in a safe setting, with a buddy or friend. Please consider wearing a helmet. Regardless what method you are using, be sure you are always tied in and managing slack.
Your first solo climbs should be in a public location or a place known by others. Make sure you have your cellphone and reception. Make sure you have put together your emergency supply kit and have it on you. Consider bringing everything that you would bring on a hunt including your weapon, just to be sure you can get everything just right.
8: Hunting climb
When on an actual hunt, be deliberate and methodical. Make sure you have memorized any knots that you use and don’t forget to inspect and retie your hitches occasionally.