Climbing spikes for hunting?

Are climbing gaffs (AKA:spurs, spikes, hooks) a viable option for hunting? I'll let you be the judge!

[@add106psu1]

I’ve been hunting with climbing spikes for a couple years and love them. I repel out of the tree so I don’t have to worry about dropping my spurs. Food for thought!

[@CookGoesHunting]

*PLUS* You can jump down and drop kick a deer with those spikes so there's no reason to even bring a bow or a rifle!

[@dennisberg2474]

I was just thinking you could pile drive Bigfoot. Lol

[@Ramb0w49]

I am 74 years old and do not use tree spikes anymore. But when I did use them for climbing I did not use the Lemans belt while I climbed I only used it when I hung my lock on stand. When using tree spurs You don’t have to walk around the woods looking for that perfect tree if you find good deer sign just climb in a tree when the wind is right.

[@davidmcleod6032]

Every tree on my land has a price tag on it. You break it you buy it. And southern pine beetles are everywhere so no spikes allowed.

[@markblackburn8685]

I'm glad you made this video, I been seeing all other climbing methods for saddle hunting. This is what I been wanting to know about. Ty

[@sniffer2986]

Only video I’ve seen where they go through the full process. Thanks!

[@dennisberg2474]

I was debating between sticks and spikes and spikes just seem better in so many ways. Thanks for demonstrating

[@GRockBlues]

Using the spikes are so efficient and quiet...so much faster than any other climbing method...Jared does make it look super easy putting the spikes back on while up in the tree...hes young and has 4 ft arms and 6 ft legs...and no belly or heavy clothing...I rappel down so I dont put them back on up in the tree...plus rappelling is fun...awesome job awesome vid !...you guys rule...

[@donnie8266]

Thanks for the video. Great to have another tool. Climb up to set a paracord loop and rappel down after that, then climb SRT . I could see using them gently and slowly.

[@coltonwest3557]

Love the video , trying to get into saddle hunting . I’d love to see an in depth video on how you modified those spurs . Thanks !

[@chriscouch4751]

I've been climbing this way since 1986 and I'm still climbing the same trees. Only thing that has changed is that the trees have gotten bigger (and so have I.)

[@BassMaann]

love this, it just proves even more that the snow flakes saying " you cant spike a tree unless its getting removed" is total bull LOL sure its not healthy for the tree but its not gonna go punk. awesome comment.

[@alsnipe]

I'm an arborist and the issue is the spike holes may insects and diseases to enter. The outside of the tree is where are the nutrients is flowing up-and-down through the roots and canopy. In the industry it is frowned upon. But if you're not doing it the Trees close to houses or prize trees okay I guess. Just don't tell an arborist. Spike holes may be an issue on trees that are dying. Also please be careful with slip outs and please have a good way to get out of a tree fast in case of emergency. Figure eights are good for this. I would use my spikes but they are way too loud. But I have no problem spending eight hours in them.

[@stihl_joking570]

alexp703 that’s what I said get a climbing line from treestuff.com and yeah I spikless prune, SRT rope runner!! Climb high bro!!

[@tylerblack1922]

alexp703 I am too, but if you hunted, youd realize how non invasive this method is compared to using climbing treestands, which the vast majority of every day hunters use. Climbing treestands poke several hundred holes in the cambium layer per climb up and down. There’s 10-20 teeth per each section on the treestands, so one step up with the top and bottom peice will put anywhere from 10-40 holes in the cambium layer. Then at an average of 20 ft per climb, that could be hundreds of holes in a tree compared to 20 or less in most cases using spurs

[@BassMaann]

if the tree is not healthy enough to grow over the gaff holes, it needs to come down...

[@seanbarrett657]

Yup nothin like killin your favorite huntin spot

[@TheCrusher2468]

@@tylerblack1922 youve got it right

[@ColbyBlack]

Just bring a gravity grappling hook with a para cord if anything drops you can easily pick it up

[@Isaacmantx]

Awesome job. I need to spend some more time in my spurs to get as smooth as you on them.

[@small-town-southern-man3573]

I climb trees for a living. When I hunt, I’ll be in a climbing stand or lock-on. I’m not sitting in a saddle to hunt after sitting in one all week. And spikes damage trees, no matter what anyone tells you. It’s just a matter of whether or not you care.

[@codyshowalter5714]

Great video no more worrying about a holes stealing a set

[@mkaz411]

Funny how I've come full circle on hunting. I was a lineman 35 years ago, used spikes and my linesman belt for several years. Then went with a Lonewolf climber for 20+ years, and now saddle hunting and using spikes again where I can.

[@alsnipe]

M Kaz I'm an arborist and I once saw someone learn the hard way not to use tree spikes on a pole. I had to pull out a 2inch shank of wood out of his hand which made me queasy.

[@stihl_joking570]

@@alsnipe I’m an arborist as well I definitely have had my share of my spikes kicking out but I climb in a treemotion saddle and I set lines since I’m an SRT guy lol but if it’s just a pine or something no rigging I just spike up blow the limbs and blow the top but I have used my spikes in my lone wolf lock on, but the Velcro on my gekos is loud when you take them off 😅be safe climbing bro!

[@ABAVP23]

Very informative.. thx bro! A lineman buddy gave me some & I’m getting tree gaffes put on em right now. He said dont use normal spurs.

[@clayrichardson1839]

Nicely done. Just ordered a saddle & based on your presentation... I will be adding a set of spikes to my arsenal. So, glad you addressed, “What if you drop your spikes”?

[@he5890]

Hack berry trees In the south are notoriously risky to climb like your maple comparison except the grain cork screws and slippery thin bark and extremely hard. Only thing that ever worked well at the time were those summit stands That had the D loops on the back.

[@chadgoebel7476]

Great Video, can you please show a close up or give a description of how you have your bridge attached to your Kestrel and how you have it tied out of the way when it's not being used

[@donnielauderdale1453]

I've been hunting with spikes for over 20 years, I love them but I really like the modifications you've done with the quick release buckles, I would love to see them up close to exactly how you did that.

[@killemorwoundemoutdoors5904]

Go to my chanel I have a video with really good buckles

[@TheCrusher2468]

Do not use those buckles! They are not rated for your body weight abd you move around in those spikes so much you will break those plastic clips, they came with velcro and leather buckles for a reason, it has to support your weight

[@tactnastyy]

@@TheCrusher2468there’s no weight loaded on the clips. The clips/ velcro are primarily to secure the shank to your leg. the weight bearing is distributed through the bottom potion of the shank

[@TrehanCreekOutdoors]

Good video. Thanks for sharing. One question, please. I am 6 foot and weigh 290 pounds. What is the safe weight limit for using spikes and a saddle.

[@hutchison1224]

Ik this video is a little older would love to know what kinda and where you bought ur gear ! Thanks and great video !

[@roberthammond9596]

How you do the straps on spurs? And where did you get them? I have the same aluminum spurs and been trying to find a video on the quick release strap.

[@AshInTrees]

As a certified arborist I climb on spurs nearly every day, but only on dead or dying trees identified for removal. They should not be used on live trees as they open up wounds for pests and diseases to enter otherwise healthy trees.

[@jakecook9881]

This video convinced me to get some spurs. I have been hunting in them this season but taking them on/off as they came from are a pain. What webbing and buckles do you recommend?

[@devinsduncan89]

Just don't drop them taking them off any hanging them on your hook. Looks like a no brainier to me to pair with a saddle system with spikes

[@dustybowhunter]

Good video! Where about in Marion county do you hunt? I hunt around the fairmont area and am just curious if we are hunting the same deer. haha

[@DIYWhitetail]

I need to take a serious look at doing this. Crazy light weight.

[@firestomper734]

Can you do a video of the modifications that you did to your spikes.

[@johncok-toastin1500]

it's the excessive sweating that gets me as it never gets cool until about December. I setup a double snap system so that the spurs are either connected to my belt or the tree so i cna't drop em

[@JaredCarter84]

What size or what rope you use for climbing? I feel like I need one that is more stiffer

[@scflooring8658]

Great stuff and agree 100 percent!!

[@jeremylawson7154]

Hey man were did you get your gaff guards? and great video! thanks for sharing :)

[@outdoorbobo]

I’m a saddle hunter and a climbing stand hunter who hunts a lot of public land and I agree that climbers cause as much or more damage to trees. Good point. I use a climber in the cold months when I have on heavy clothes. God made the trees for us, so don’t be so apologetic. I’d already have a pair of spurs if I had access to good private land. Great video!

[@HouseBladeDesign]

Good video I do the same like ur quick straps u put on urs.

[@richardtrammell7521]

Thanks for the info 😊

[@robertahlholm6412]

so you have no issues with the plastic buckles you installed? reason I ask is I need to replace my lower straps and trying to save a little cash

[@dannybrowning2068]

you got a new video on the hole climbing route with spikes, pack and bow?

[@ephlax18]

Curious as to what spurs you have. Looking to get into this but cannot find any spurs with buckles like that.

[@joshbradybaugh6198]

What size webbing and buckles did you use on the top and the bottom?

[@tylerlee549]

Any chance you could provide a link to what kind of quick release straps you’re using?

[@TheThorgoesinya]

very cool! thank you

[@maxhunts_]

Everyone asking about the buckles.. I just made a pair of spurs and I used a strong dog collar clip! If it holds a Rottweiler it’ll hold my feet.

[@whw103]

Awesome video!

[@rice256]

Great video buddy.

[@taylor1982100]

Did you make that lineman's belt yourself? The one I have is the flat strap version which really sucks constantly rolling up on itself which makes it harder to adjust. And can you use a normal harness 2 saddle hunt or do you have to have a certain harness?

[@flinginairos]

Bill Armstrong you can use most 11mm and even smaller climbing rope for a linemans rope. I use a Ropeman1 ascender to adjust it. They are much easier to adjust than a rope with a Prussic knot. The strap belt is harder to advance up the tree for sure. There are several options for a saddle, check out g2outdoors and DIYsportsman they have some great videos on different saddles.

[@hntfsh_liebchen373]

What set of climbing spur are you using?

[@evil04svtcobra]

Do you know any large frame hunters that use spurs?

[@TheBuckPsych]

great video brotha . im getting them

[@gedudeoo5]

Does it hurt the tree and does it hurt your foot/ankles ?

[@millerbrosmediaoffgridflyf7767]

Thanks for this video man! I noticed your running a similar boot to what I use (Zamberlan Guide) do you have any issues with rubbing from the pad on your legs with those boots or do you typically where a knee high rubber for hunting? Thanks!

[@flinginairos]

Sitka Gear Fanatic I typically run boots like these (don’t care for rubber boots much) and don’t have any issues with the pads rubbing. I climbed yesterday wearing shorts and regular shoes with no issues. Not the most comfortable but for the short amount of time on them it was ok. Lol

[@millerbrosmediaoffgridflyf7767]

Also, Would you mid sharing what brand/type of rope you use for your linemans setup as well as carabiners and rope-man if you use one?

[@Onix.556]

My Pawpaw always said “you’ll mess up soon as you think you’re doing good” I highly recommend tethering your spikes, because now you will drop one lol

[@robertahlholm6412]

hey did you notice when you put them back on your right lower strap is under your boot

[@coodyoutdoors8766]

I had a set of sport climbers 20 yrs ago wish I still had them

[@americanmade733]

I see all the videos using hiking boots with the tree spurs, but how well do tree spurs work with knee high hunting boots? Where I hunt you usually have some water to walk through. Any advice on using them with knee high rubber boots?

[@dr.matthewshifflett1718]

that's all I've used mine with. they're quite comfortable with my Irish Setter's.

[@alvinhamby1779]

What Brand of spurs

[@mikeherpel6308]

need more info as to where you can get the spurs and which ones. i have a set of small ones but they have no support and are to small for my boots

[@flinginairos]

Treestuff.com, wesspur and Sherilltree are all good places to order from. If you are patient you can find good deals and sales on them!

[@Prog27801]

Or if you wanna sell the climbrites now that you have the geckos?

[@robbiehenry6156]

Are there any certain stores that sell those spikes ?

[@dannybrowning2068]

are you using a repel rope now the your climbing spikes?

[@Matt-rt9ws]

what type of climbing Gaffs are these? you said you had silencers on them? thanks

[@dougpierce1906]

I started using spikes at 16 (30 years ago) and actually thought it was normal. I stopped along the way and bought a new pair last season and it was like riding a bike. However, I HATE the straps that mine have. How did you modify the straps and can you provide guidance? Thanks!

[@fredsalay720]

Pennsylvania you are not allowed to damage trees on state property or private without permission. I would use them in a minute if I could.

[@dougpierce1906]

Same in Arkansas. When I hunt public, I use climbing sticks. When I use private, I will use them occasionally. They are no longer my 'go to', but I agree with the concept.

[@stihl_joking570]

Treestuff.com or Sherrel tree should carry different spikes

[@truedarkness91]

what kind of spikes are those? what brand is what im asking

[@rossreeling8177]

Where can I find those climbing spikes?

[@brysonhollar]

What saddle are you using?

[@samhotstick13.28]

What kind of saddle do you have?

[@MrChulaFreak]

Do U prefer these or the knaider/swaider combo that we’ve seen lately?

[@flinginairos]

scott porter I do like the Knaider/Swaider and will be using it this year some. I still like spikes better lol

[@srats7530]

Would it be possible to post a video of how you would climb a more "realistic"/ irregular tree? I think a climbing stand may be the best option for the tree shown,

[@flinginairos]

Silas Ratten Yeah I can do that sometime!

[@srats7530]

Thanks! Very interesting technique here.

[@ScottWConvid19]

Definitely the best climbing method when possible. Subscribed

[@Bloodysugar]

For someone not having a clue about tree climbing, maybe...

[@ScottWConvid19]

@@Bloodysugar there's always one of your kind in the KZbin comments 🤤🤡

[@Bloodysugar]

@@ScottWConvid19 Sure, there's always some certified recreational tree climbing instructor in KZbin comments.

[@ScottWConvid19]

@@Bloodysugar I was referring to the kind of person that uses condescension as a way to prop themselves up Mr. Cert. Bearer instructor expert

[@ScottWConvid19]

Bloodysugarturd

[@bradyjones8166]

Hey man I just seen this video is there anyway you can send me the gear you use ?

[@richardfowler7843]

How do you handle climbing past a branch with the lineman strap? Deer around here look up and I want to be in the branches.

[@flinginairos]

Richard Fowler I have two ropes that are identical. When I have a tree with branches I will hook both up to my saddle before I climb. When I hit a limb I throw the second line above the limb and unhook the first. I try to climb trees with a good amount of limbs as well just to stay hidden.

[@jamesschmitt5442]

I think alot of comments I have seen/heard is concern for damage to the tree

[@timwaldroup9654]

Good no BS video.

[@thebluecollarbowhunter360]

Quick question on those quick connect buckles, obviously they held you in the video but is there a weight rating on them? If so can you share which ones you got thanks

[@flinginairos]

I now have a new set of spikes and have switched things up a bit. I am now using a Sea To Summit compression strap on the bottom with an aluminum open hook buckle. That buckle is rated at over 220lbs which is more than enough for the bottom. That strap/buckle setup is super light and makes zero noise. The top I am using a 1.5" plastic quick release buckle. I'm not sure of the weight rating on that but I tested it with my full body weight and it held just fine. I would recommend the ITW Nexus buckles. eBay or mil surplus stores usually have them.

[@thebluecollarbowhunter360]

Flinginairos thank you

[@ItsRange]

I bought some used spikes are they different in spikes these have small spikes on them maybe for poles or could I use them for tree's

[@flinginairos]

It's Range I actually use pole spikes myself and have no issues with them. They are actually easier to use on most hardwood trees. Just be careful if you have trees with big thick bark then you may want to consider tree spikes

[@williamharris5126]

Warren Womack should get credit for this method

[@flinginairos]

William Harris yes!! Warren is the man!

[@josephsutherland6144]

What size lineman belt are you using? 11 mm?

[@agi6521]

Thats a great video!! Years ago a company came out with climbing spikes that were made for hunting. They only had straps that wrapped around the ankle, nothing around the upper leg. I bought a pair. The spike was too long, no bar going up the leg for support. It was a bad product...needless to say that was the beginning/ending of me using spikes. This video has peaked my interest in climbing spikes again... .

[@flinginairos]

James Green Sport Climbers. I know exactly what you’re talking about lol! These are much much better. Very comfortable and safe to climb in.

[@agi6521]

@@flinginairos I am looking them as we speak!!! Thanks again for a great video!!!

[@jodyhodge2129]

I threw that same pair in the trash! Felt like my ankles were gonna break.

[@flinginairos]

Jody Hodge I’ve heard the same thing from other people lol

[@alanhilliii7729]

Those things were sketchy🤣 climbed 2 seasons with them and then got me some aluminum spurs...way safer👍

[@BombsAwayMineCraft]

This is what I need

[@Grizzlife]

Great video! So you like the longer spur over short?

[@flinginairos]

Grizz Friction Wood calls I’m using a new set of spikes this year and have been using the short pole spikes. I like those a lot better! Much easier to climb with them and they work better for the trees I hunt

[@Grizzlife]

Ok good I'm new to the saddle hunting and spurs. Getting older and need lighter gear. I picked up a couple pair of spikes. Ordered a sit drag and my lock on climber totin days are over. Happy Huntin! .

[@dixiecrat9474]

What kind of spikes are you using big guy? They’re legal on public land in both states that I hunt. Seriously considering a purchase. Just wanna make a good one though.

[@flinginairos]

DixieCrat94 Depends on the tree type but I will say that I like the shorter pole spikes a lot better after using them for two full seasons. They just feel more secure to me with my feet closer to the tree. If you have a lot of thick bark trees like cottonwood or pines I’d use tree spikes. For hardwoods pole spikes work better

[@flyerzfan10]

Do you ever use a steel core flip line? If so what are you using to adjust it? Does a ropeman fit? Thanks

[@sixpath]

Most steel core come with a rope grab. You could also use a small pulley to tend an eye to eye prusik.

[@flinginairos]

I don’t simply because of the weight. For bigger trees the steel line would be nice but for what I do the regular rope works just fine

[@CodyFriend-wz1qo]

Can you use them on public land in Arkansas?

[@moonchild2686]

great job

[@lancerudy9934]

How do you get the gun up the tree?

[@stanleyburns9101]

What is the name of the saddle you are using in this video?

[@flinginairos]

Aerohunter Kestrel in this video. I will be using the Tethrd Mantis this year.

[@Tatorhead1234]

For all you guys worried about the trees, every set of climbing sticks I have owned have left 4 spots on the tree where the bark was peeled off. That's the same as spurs would do climbing up and down a tree. If your not peeling any bark, you dont have a good purchase on the tree.

[@ricomidence2063]

Well damaging the bark and damaging the cambium layer are 2 different things.

[@x426x]

You make it look so easy dude.

[@Momwhocantdance]

Hoping this doesn't happen but what is the backup plan if for whatever reason you bump or accidently knock off your spikes? What is your options to get down?

[@ABAVP23]

Rapell.. I think I’m going to climb up take my spurs off and put them in my backpack and repel down next year. Voice text

[@fredbeartactics13]

What kind of straps do you recommend on your spurs? I’ve found that many of the stock leather ones are too noisy.

[@30minutesLess]

fredbeartactics13 weaver straps are kings. Their leather and all but I doubt it’ll make a difference

[@GRockBlues]

check out G2 Outdoors...he has a great video on spur mods

[@richardaranda4879]

Wht kinda spikes

[@andrewmitchell821]

Great video! Could I get a link to or a description of the dump pouch you have on the back of the saddle? Thanks!

[@flinginairos]

I would suggest the new SYS haulers from Tethrd. They are a lightweight mesh that dries really fast. I think you will like them!

[@gant8408]

i prefer to just leave them on up there as long as you silenced them shouldnt be a problem

[@TheMattboi]

Brand?

[@chaseyourdreams4104]

Making me nervous when you put that right boot back on in that heel strap wasn't up

[@TheCrusher2468]

Those buckles are surely not rated to take the load of your body. I use spikes a lot and rhey come with heavy leather straps and a belt buckle style for a good reason IT IS STRING ENOUGH to hold you witbout breaking and causing your foot to slip out of the spike

[@flinginairos]

They don’t need to be load rated to handle your body weight. They simply hold the spike in place on your foot which is what is holding the weight. The G hooks I currently have on my carbon spikes can handle some weight. Never had a single issue with them. The leather straps are no doubt the safest option, but I hated them.

[@2greeksandacamera]

Why would you need to take them off when you get your stand set? Seems like they’re not in the way while you’re hunting.

[@flinginairos]

Too much potential for noise is why I take them off

[@kingk1813]

Wat pads did u use to modify ur upper calves

[@flinginairos]

King K these spurs had the climb rite ultra lite pads on them. They only work on the Climbrite spurs I believe