Saddle hunting isn't just for archers. Gun and crossbow hunters can run the same lightweight, mobile setup — you just adjust how you position and rest for the shot. Here's what changes.
Get your platform and height dialed
A firearm or crossbow needs a steady rest and room to shoulder. Set your platform at a height that lets you stand square and stable, with a solid step system keeping your feet planted.
Find your rest
Use the tree, your tether tension, or a bow/gun hanger to steady the shot. Practice mounting and swinging on target from the saddle before season so it's natural.
Mind your muzzle and your movement
Plan your shooting lanes on the way up, keep your muzzle controlled, and make slow, deliberate movements. The saddle lets you rotate for shots a fixed stand can't reach.
Start with a rock-solid climb
Whatever you carry, it starts with getting up the tree and standing planted. The steel APEX Ladder System, built around a patent-pending V-Press crossbar, bites hard and holds. Check the 5-Pack and 10-Pack.
Safety Warning & Liability Disclaimer
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION — read in full before assembly or use.
The Apex Ladder System by S.T.A.L.K. Outdoor Gear is a portable climbing and access system intended for recreational, hunting, camping, hiking, utility access, and non-life-safety firefighting access only. This product is not designed, manufactured, or intended to function as life-safety, rescue, or fall-arrest equipment and must never be relied upon as such.
Climbing, elevated access, and outdoor activities are inherently dangerous and involve risks that may result in serious injury, paralysis, or death. By purchasing, possessing, assembling, or using the Apex Ladder System, you acknowledge and voluntarily assume all risks associated with its use, including but not limited to falls, equipment failure, environmental conditions, improper installation, misuse, or user error.
The user is solely responsible for proper installation, anchoring, inspection, maintenance, and determining fitness for use. The Apex Ladder System must be inspected before and after every use and removed from service immediately if any wear, damage, defect, or abnormal condition is observed. Appropriate safety harnesses, lineman’s belts, and fall-protection equipment should be used at all times.
Any alleged defect must be reported in writing to S.T.A.L.K. Outdoor Gear within five (5) days of discovery and prior to further use of the product. Unauthorized repairs, modification, or continued use void all claims. The sole remedy for any approved claim shall be repair, replacement, or refund at the sole discretion of S.T.A.L.K. Outdoor Gear.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, you agree to release, defend, indemnify, and hold harmless S.T.A.L.K. Outdoor Gear, its owners, officers, employees, affiliates, and partners from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses arising from or related to the use or misuse of this product, including claims of negligence or alleged product defect.
This disclaimer and all disputes arising from use of the Apex Ladder System shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas.
For complete details, read our full Safety & Liability Information. Document Version: ALS-SAFETY-v1.0 | Updated: December 2025.
