Abstract: The present invention is a bow riser adapted for use in forming an archery bow that is formed with a body having a number of apertures therein, each including an irregular periphery. The bow riser and periphery of each aperture are coated with a material that provides a sound dampening property to the bow riser and to reduce the sound generated when the bow riser is struck with or strikes another object. The coating also provides an uneven or irregular outer surface that provides additional three-dimensional camouflage properties to the bow riser, as well as enhancing the ability of an individual to grip the bow rest.

Abstract: A releasable securing arrangement for reliably securing a tree stand to a tree. The securing arrangement includes a pair of elongate receiving tubes secured to either side of a base or platform for the tree stand. The tubes each include a cam pivotally mounted to each tube within a cam mounting opening disposed in the tubes. Each cam includes a handle portion extending outwardly from the opening that is used to manually move the cam, and an engagement portion that is positionable within the tube and includes a number of spaced teeth. A belt formed of an elastomeric material includes a number of spaced teeth disposed along one side of the belt that are formed complementary to the teeth located on the cam. When the belt is inserted into the tube and engaged with the cam, the teeth on the cam mesh with the teeth on the belt to insure a proper locking of the cam with the belt.

Abstract: A ladder module for use in climbing trees, hunting or other purposes. The module includes a support member having a pair of support brackets mounted at the top and bottom ends of the support member. The brackets are generally V-shaped and include a number of teeth on the interior surface of the bracket that engage the tree on which the module is placed to prevent the module from slipping on the tree. The brackets also include a rectangular slot in the center of the bracket that receives a support member from a second ladder module to form a convenient nested carrying arrangement for the ladder modules. The module also includes a releasable securing arrangement for securing the module about the tree. The arrangement comprises a belt having a buckle and a pair of straps removably engagable with a fastener mounted to the support member on the side of the support member opposite the support brackets.

Abstract: A portable treestand for hunters includes a one piece supporting platform cast from a light weight metal, preferably aluminum. The unitary construction of the platform eliminates a large number of fabrication steps and the related fastening techniques and devices used therewith. As a result, the platform is stronger and more rigid, free of many potentially movable joints, and may be made with an irregular pattern. The grate-like pattern of irregular oepnings in the platform provides variable positioning support for different types of archery bows and enhances the ability to camouflage the treestand.