Abstract: A collapsible tree stand to provide an elevated support for a hunter or hunters against a tree trunk. The stand includes an elongated sectional ladder having a platform seat and footrest each pivotally attached to the uppermost ladder section. The platform seat also includes safety front and side rails removably associated with the seat. An anchoring structure is provided for securing the tree stand to the tree. The seat and footrest are dimensioned to accommodate a single occupant or two occupants. When disassembled, the safety rails attach and nest, and the platform seat and footrest collapse and nest with respect to the uppermost ladder section, for compact transport and storage.

Abstract: A portable, collapsible, water proof canopy especially adapted for use in a tree is provided. A flexible, collapsible frame is detachably coupled to the canopy along its perimeter. Means for suspending the canopy from a tree is disposed near the center of the canopy. Sufficient canopy material is provided so that when the canopy is suspended from the tree at said means, the canopy assumes an approximately conical shape. A user perched in a tree underneath the canopy is thereby partially protected from inclement weather.

Abstract: A tree chair which may be secured to a tree for supporting a user at elevated dispositions includes a rigid base having a pair of spaced apart rails and a flexible band pivotally connected to each rail. The base includes a rigid V-shape tree engaging member and the bands are connectable to each other or a third band so as to encircle the tree. A seat hangs from and is adjustable relative to the base and a back support brace is pivotally mounted on the rails of the base. Sleeve forming clips are pivotally connected to opposite sides of the brace to provide guides for the banding, one band slidably passing through each sleeve prior to the bands being connected about the tree. A spring member resiliently pulls the back support brace toward the rigid gripping member so that in the operative position the brace is pulled tightly against the tree and when disassociated from the tree pulled toward the stowed condition of the tree chair.

Abstract: A combination hunting stand and game carrier apparatus (10) is described. The apparatus includes a first frame member (12), a second frame member (22) and a third frame member (42). A wheel (48) is mounted on the third frame member to allow for moving the apparatus in the game carrier configuration. The wheel is removed from the third frame member and rotated 90.degree. and remounted on the third frame member to provide a seat for the apparatus in the game carrier configuration. A pair of handles (60) are provided on either side (12C) of the first frame member and allow for moving the apparatus in the game carrier configuration. The handles are removed from the first frame member and reattached between the first frame member and the second frame member to act as braces for the hunting stand configuration.

Abstract: A tree dech including a gusset. The gusset has a back wall with a pair of structures that extend outwardly. The back wall has a front face, a back face and a top end with a keyhole that is positioned over a lag bolt that is screwed within a tree trunk. The pair of structures each have a base and a pair of sides. The base is positioned along the back face of the back wall and adjacent a top edge of the top end. Lastly, a plate is positioned over the gusset and supported by the gusset. The plate, on the gusset, is capable of supporting a hunter.

Abstract: A bow hanger for hanging bows and hunting equipment from a tree or pole. The bow hanger differs from prior art in that the bow hanger is collapsible into a smaller length package than prior art. Also the bow hangar arm can be adjusted for height without disturbing the means of attaching to a tree or pole.

Abstract: A modular ladder system for climbing trees is provided, comprising an upper assembly and a lower assembly, wherein the lower assembly is slidable relative to the upper assembly; wherein the upper assembly includes a first pair of support members attached to one another by a top step, and wherein the lower assembly includes a second pair of support members attached to one another by a bottom step; a locking device operatively disposed between the upper assembly and the lower assembly for selectively locking the position of the lower assembly relative to the upper assembly in an extended position and a retracted position; an attachment device on the upper assembly for attaching the ladder module to a tree; and a stabilizer on the upper assembly and the lower assembly for stabilizing the ladder module against the tree.

Abstract: A portable, hunter's ladder, useful in climbing trees comprising a pair of tubular rails radiused at each end forming a generally "C-shaped" configuration with their ends turned at oblique angles towards each other. A plurality of rungs, spaced along the rail's length, hold the rails in a substantially parallel relationship and are spaced at regular intervals except for the uppermost rung which is placed adjacent the upper, rail radius leaving an unequal spacing between the upper two rungs. Thus providing the climber with a better footing advantage when traversing around a tree to avoid limbs or when transferring to another ladder or tree stand.

Abstract: A vertical columnar member climbing device having an upper climbing assembly and a lower climbing assembly connected by a pair of elastic connectors. The climbing device provides a frame and a step pivotally attached to the frame. A cable extends outwardly from the frame and extends around the vertical columnar member and is spring biased to tighten around the columnar member thereby securing the upper climbing assembly to the columnar member. The upper assembly may be pivoted outwardly away from the tree with the step being pivoted downwardly to operate as a diagonal brace intermediate the upper climbing assembly and the vertical columnar member with a separate strap extending outwardly from the frame around the columnar to further secure the upper climbing assembly to the tree. A sling is suspended from the upper climbing assembly above the lower climbing assembly to support a user.

Abstract: A tree suspended hunter support device has two parallel bars, a tree wrap member, a cross bar and a bag. The two parallel bars extend in a first direction and have first and second ends. The tree wrap member extends between the two parallel bars at a first end of the parallel bars. The cross bar is positioned toward the first end of the parallel bars, and the position of the cross bar can be adjusted in the first direction. The cross bar together with the tree wrap member are adapted for closely surrounding a tree trunk. The bag encloses at least a portion of the two parallel bars such that a bottom of the bag is towards the first end of the parallel bars and rests on the cross bar. The bag has two holes in the vicinity of the bottom so that the parallel bars extend through the bag. The bag has a length and width sufficient for partially enclosing a human torso.

Abstract: A tree climbing apparatus includes a frame structure having a plurality of elongated frame elements interconnected at their ends and forming supports for rotatable tree gripping elements. A bracket is disposed about a tree to be climbed and is attached to a pair of lift rods. A pair of operating rods are connected with these lift rods to cause operating movement.

Abstract: A device for climbing and supporting a person above the ground, on trees, poles, or other vertical structures of limited diameter, using two climbing frame members. Each frame member having two, spaced and parallel, side elements. Each side element having an inclined proximal end, and a substantially horizontal distal end. Each frame member having an assembly mated to the inclined ends for engaging the side of the tree opposite the user, and an abutment for engaging the user's side of the tree, creating a pincer grip of the tree. The first frame member having a seat to support the body of the user; and the second frame member having a platform to support the feet of the user.

Abstract: A hunting blind adapted to be mounted at an elevated position to a tree. The hunting blind is generally comprised of a framework defining a top, bottom, and continuous side of the blind, a ratchet assembly for securely supporting the blind with respect to the tree, and a pulley assembly for adjusting the elevation of the blind. The framework includes first and second sets of tubular members adapted to be mounted in first and second horizontal planes, respectively, and adapted to be held in spaced vertical relation by a plurality of rods adapted to be operatively connected to, and laterally spaced in vertically extending relation with respect to, the first and second series of tubular members. A plurality of fabric sheets are tautly stretched between and slidably attached to the first and second sets of horizontally extending members to enclose the side of the blind. The fabric panels are composed of a material having the physical characteristic of being able to see through only one side thereof.

Abstract: The wildlife observation and hunting platform, of the present invention, is a climbing tree stand for hunting and wildlife observation. The wildlife observation and hunting platform includes an upper frame and a lower frame. Secured to each frame is a platform. Each frame also includes an engaging bar that is adapted to aid in the securement of the hunting platform to the tree. A securing device is also provided to add to the security for attaching the tree stand to the tree. Each platform includes a foot insert to enable the user's feet to be fastened to the device. This will render the device to be propelled up the tree by the user's feet, using a stepping motion. Upon reaching the desired height the frame is leveled and locked by utilizing the engaging bars and the securing device.

Abstract: A new and improved portable tree climbing apparatus for a hunter for ascending and descending a tree is disclosed. The invention comprises an upper member having a seat adapted for swivelly supporting a hunter and an arcuate retaining loop adapted for rolling communication with the tree and keeping the upper member in a horizontal disposition when ascending and descending the tree. The retaining loop has a first end and a second end adapted for releasable engagement with the seat. A lower member has a safety blade disposed in releasable ratchetable engagement with a trunk of the tree for keeping the apparatus in stable communication with the trunk when ascending the tree. A traction wheel is disposed therebetween on an upstanding elongated member and has a plurality of teeth in intermittent contact with the trunk for effortlessly ascending and descending the tree.

Abstract: A tree climbing stand is made of two assemblies, the seat assembly and the platform assembly. Each has folding support arms which support a V-bar gripper. The V-bar gripper is made of hollow aluminum to maximize strength and reduce weight. Each V-bar gripper has a pair of clutch mechanisms in a housing assembly. The clutch mechanisms use cams to precisely adjust the grip on the tree and do it silently. The housing assemblies also serve to lock the entire unit together in a backpack mode.

Abstract: A hunter's tree stand is provided with a lightweight composite platform and a flexible steel truss belt encircling and engaging the supporting tree. One end of the belt and the belt length adjustment member has supporting links at opposite sides of the platform. These links are movable from an automatically locked, collapsed position to a raised and automatically locked operative position extending upwardly and forwardly from the platform. The belt and belt adjustment member are supported by pivotal attachment to respective links carrying a sliding guide slot. The guide slot receives a compression spring actuated cylinder plunger biased to engage holes at opposite of the guide length. The cylinder plunger is recessed through the platform supporting angle into the sides of the composite platform and allows lateral movement of the supporting lengths and the encircling belt, thus eliminating the need for universal joints.

Abstract: A circular stairway and method of making same, including a helical newel formed by installing a cylindrical tube or pipe with its longitudinal axis concentric with the vertical axis about which the circular staircase is to wind. The treads are then affixed to the tube in either cantilever fashion or are bridged between the tube and an outer wall. The tube is subsequently cut along helically extending lines disposed beneath the tread line and at approximately the handrail elevation. The tube material between these lines is then removed to leave a helically extending ribbon of tube material forming the tread supporting helical newel. As an alternative, the several components of the stairway can be pre-fabricated and transported to a site for assembly.

Abstract: A tree stand is disclosed as having an seating unit and unit to assist in climbing. The tree stand includes a main frame that extends outwardly from a tree and has a seat frame thereon that engages the front of a tree. An engagement bar attaches to the mainframe, surrounds the tree and engages the rear of the tree. A horizontal frame having a platform section thereon is mounted to the main frame below the seat. This platform frame is mounted to the main frame such that it does not engage the tree during ascension of the tree. There is also a means for securing the platform frame against the tree which may include a cinch and rachet set. When a user reaches the desired height, the rachet and cinch is used to secure the platform to the tree so the tree stand has three engagement points stabilizing it against the tree. A rest frame may also be secured to the tree stand above the seat.

Abstract: A combination backpack and seat device is constructed of first and second U-shaped frame members, each having a transverse portion intended to be horizontally disposed during use and parallel side portions intended to be vertically disposed during use. The frame members are pivotably interconnected at a site within their side portions. A fabric panel extends between the transverse portions of the frame members and serves as a seat when the frame members are pivoted to maximum separation, representing the seat mode of use of the device. In the seat mode of use, the lower extremities of the side portions of the second frame member contact the ground, and a strap of adjustable length secured to the side portions of the second frame member is caused to tautly embrace a tree adjacent the ground.

Abstract: The climbing tree stand of the present invention is convertible between a pair of individual and independent frames attachable to a tree trunk for climbing the same, and a cart for transporting equipment or game. The seat frame includes a U-shaped support frame with a blade connected between the ends of the support frame legs, for engagement with a tree trunk. A U-shaped loop has its legs pivotally connected to the support frame legs, and includes a base for engaging a tree trunk opposing the blade. An axle is removably connected to the seat frame and may be repositioned to receive a pair of wheels when the tree stand is converted to a cart configuration. A pair of struts are pivotally connected at their lower ends to the support frame legs, and removably connected at their upper ends to the loop, to support the loop in an inclined position. The struts and support frame include apertures which will be aligned and locked into position by pins, when the tree stand is converted to the cad configuration.

Abstract: A shroud is presented for use in combination with a conventional climbable type tree stand which enjoys widespread usage among deer hunters. The shroud is formed from a flexible camouflage fabric and can be easily folded into a small package for carrying by the hunter. The shroud includes Velcro type fasteners along the top edge for releasably attaching the shroud to the tree stand. A draw cord along the bottom edges allows the shroud to be closely gathered around the footrest section of the tree stand to prevent deer or other game animals from being frightened by inadvertant movement of the hunter.

Abstract: An apparatus providing a game stand and game carrier combination having an elongated frame providing a ladder, the frame having wheels mounted thereon for transport of the apparatus, an elongated stabilizer bar having one of its ends mounted to the frame and extending outwardly therefrom, the other end of the stabilizer bar being provided with a first gripping device for contact with an upright for laterally stabilizing the frame in a generally upright posture with respect to the upright, a platform on the frame and extending outwardly therefrom in the same general direction as the stabilizer bar, and a second gripping device provided on the apparatus at an upper portion thereof for contact with the upright for further laterally stabilizing the frame at its upper portion with respect to the upright.

Abstract: This invention relates to a removable load supporting stand for temporary attachment to a tree trunk or the like for use while hunting for example. According to the invention a stand is provided including a platform extending laterally outwardly from the tree trunk. The platform has a load supporting portion between opposing sides. Engaging means on an inward portion of the platform function to releasably engage an adjacent segment of the tree trunk. A chain at each of it's ends is secured to an opposing side of the platform. The chain releasably encompasses the tree trunk upward of the segment and defines a plane transverse an axis of the tree trunk. The chain is flexible in the plane and resistant to flexure perpendicular to the plane. Biasing means engage the chain and urge the chain in a direction of the plane to disengage the tree trunk.

Abstract: A climbing tree stand comprised of a platform having a V-shaped front edge. The platform has a pair of L-shaped brackets secured thereto on opposing sides thereof. A pair of sleeves are secured to the L-shaped bracket of the platform. A tree clevis has securement poles extending outwardly from end portions thereof. The securement poles are telescopically received within open ends of the pair of sleeves and engaged thereto by a bolt and wing nut. A clevis blade having a sharpened front edge is secured to the front edge of the platform with the sharpened front edge extending outwardly of the front edge of the platform.

Abstract: A folding ladder tree stand comprising a ladder having a runged upper section and a separate runged lower section; a coupling mechanism for pivotally coupling the upper section with the lower section such that they are generally alignable for placing the ladder in an operable configuration and proximately positionable for placing the ladder in a stowed configuration; a collapsible chair pivotally coupled to the upper section of the ladder and positionable above the upper section in an operable configuration and proximately positionable therewith in a stowed configuration; and a securement mechanism adapted for securing the chair to a tree with the chair and ladder in operable configurations for use and for securing the chair and ladder in their stowed configurations for transport.

Abstract: A compact, lighweight and self-contained tree stand that can carry heavy loads and yet is demountable, readily assembled and disassembled, for easy transport, mounting and use, comprising a sturdy mounting bracket for secure attachment to a tree trunk or vertical post, a readily detachable platform connectable to the mounting bracket and capable of carrying a substantial load, a readily detachable seat connectable to the bracket, and means to secure the bracket to the tree trunk.

Abstract: A hunter's tree stand with a platform detachably mounted to an upright mounting bracket which mounts to a tree trunk. A supporting arm pivots about the lower end of the mounting bracket and may be attached at various points long the platform to allow the platform to be leveled. The platform has wing extensions which may be folded around hinges. The platform may be easily removed from the mounting bracket or folded up against the tree. A ladder which may be disassembled for transport, is attachable to the platform. Leveling extensions are provided on the legs of the ladder. An optional seat assembly is provided. An alternative embodiment provides a platform fixed to a ladder member, for use as a ladder stand.

Abstract: A tree structure includes three vertically spaced-apart annular members extending about the trunk of a tree. Each annular member has a plurality of pointed members extending downwardly and inwardly into the trunk. The first annular member is below the second annular member and above the third annular member. The first and third annular members have joist supports and the second annular member has cable anchors. Joists extend radially outwards from the joist supports. Outer members are connected perpendicularly to the joists to form first and second outer rings extending about the first and third annular members. There are two platforms mounted on the joists. First cables are connected between the second annular member and the first ring. Second cables are connected between the first ring and the second ring. A roof extends over the first cables. Outer walls extend between the outer rings.

Abstract: A tree stand is disclosed which is comprised of an elongated bracket section for securing tree stand to a tree trunk and a platform section which is manually detachable from the bracket section. The method of installing the tree stand is to initially secure the bracket section to a tree and then attach the platform section to the bracket section. In a preferred embodiment of this invention a means for securing the bracket section to a tree, such as a belt or chain, is attached immediately adjacent the upper terminal end of bracket section to allow the length of the bracket section to be used as a lever for tightening the bracket section to a tree.

Abstract: A portable, hunter's ladder, useful in climbing trees comprising a pair of tubular rails radiused at each end forming a generally "C-shaped" configuration with their ends turned at oblique angles towards each other. A plurality of rungs, spaced along the rail's length, hold the rails in a substantially parallel relationship and are spaced at regular intervals except for the uppermost rung which is placed adjacent the upper, rail radius leaving an unequal spacing between the upper two rungs. Thus providing the climber with a better footing advantage when traversing around a tree to avoid limbs or when transferring to another ladder or tree stand.

Abstract: A tree stand torso bar is attachable to a tree or post to support the torso of a hunter in a tree stand and prevent the hunter from accidentally falling out of the stand. The invention comprises a sturdy oval metal frame with vertical supports which engage the trunk of the tree, a lower cross-bar connecting the vertical supports, lower inclining struts which provide additional strength, and an adjustable strap which may be tightened by a ratchet mechanism to hold the device to the tree trunk or pole. The frame, supports, cross-bar, and struts are of integral, unitary construction. The device may be screwed into the tree by threaded stakes directed through apertures in the vertical supports. Alternatively, a second strap may be used in place of the threaded stakes.

Abstract: A tree stand includes a flat V-bar having an upstanding lip spaced from the tree when the V-bar engages the side of the tree opposite from the tree platform. A strap extends through the lip to secure the platform to the tree. A gun rest bracket enables a gun rest to pivot from an upright position to an inclined position, enabling the gun rest to serve as a support for the individual when climbing the tree. Tree teeth having multiple projections are applied to the platform to afford lateral stability to the platform. In a tree stand having a seat, a pair of clevises connect to a seat bracket for receiving a strap for securing the seat and stand to a tree. A ladder stand includes a plurality of disassembled ladder sections for forming a backpack and which sections, in assembly form a ladder. Quick connect-disconnect clips are secured to rails of one section and releasably couple to the rails of another ladder section to form a rattle-tree backpack of disassembled ladder sections.

Abstract: A new and improved portable deer cart and tree stand comprising a flooring section. The flooring section has two support brackets each having a first end and a second end. Each first end is integral with opposing sides of the front end. Each of the two support brackets has securement bolts integral with side portions thereof. Included in the device is a generally U-shaped treestand seat having two leg portions, two intermediate portions, and a seat portion. The two leg portions are pivotally secured to the two sides of the flooring section. The seat portion has a securement hoop theresecured. Included in the device are two support brackets each having a first end and a second end. Each first end is coupled with the two intermediate portions of the treestand seat. Each second end is optionally coupled with the securement bolts of the two support brackets of the flooring section in a tree stand configuration. A tree strap has a hook therefrom.

Abstract: This invention is a climbing type tree stand having a seat bracket swivelly mounted thereon with a seat rotatively mounted at the end of such bracket to allow said chair to be turned 360.degree. whereby less interior space is required within said stand than would be required for a rotatable chair that is not swivelly mounted. An elevated rail system is also mounted on the stand and acts as both a guard rail and a gun support means. Either one, two or three pairs of removable wheels are provided for moving the stand to and from its use location and to allow the same to also be used as a big game carrier.

Abstract: A new and improved fully-adjustable tree stand with a rectangular bracket having two vertically extending support bars. Four horizontally extending legs are secured to a back portion of the rectangular bracket. A metal securement clasp is secured to the side portion of each of the two support bars. A large lower platform has a support bracket secured to its lower surface. The support bracket has two end portions extending outwardly therefrom. The two end portions are coupled to a lower portion of the two vertically extending support bars of the rectangular bracket. A small upper platform has a support bracket secured to its lower surface. The support bracket has two end portions extending outwardly therefrom. The two end portions are coupled to an upper portion of the two vertically extending support bars of the rectangular bracket.

Abstract: A tree stand bow holder releasably coupled to a climbing or ladder-type tree stand comprising a pair of spaced U-shaped brackets, each with parallel legs, positionable in a common plane and attachable to a lower portion of the tree stand, the parallel legs of each U-shaped member constituting a bow rest fabricated of steel with a plastic coating, the brackets also including a plate with an aperture mountable to the bottom edge of the tree stand with the legs in an outwardly facing horizontal orientation; a bow holder associated with one bracket, the bow holder consisting of a disk having a tube with threaded apertures therethrough, formed with the disk as a threaded cylindrical extension projecting from the disk, the disk being positionable on the top side of the legs with the threaded tube extending therethrough for coupling purposes by a threaded rod adapted to be threadably secured into the stabilizer hole of a bow; and an elastic strap having opposed ends, each opposed end having an aperture with a hook r

Abstract: A tree stand comprising a foot rest; a back leg having a base end and a tip end with the base end coupled with the foot rest in an operable configuration and decoupled therefrom in a stowed configuration; a front leg having a base end pivotally coupled to the foot rest at a location offset from the coupling of the foot rest with the back leg and a tip end pivotally coupled to the back leg, the front leg and the back leg upwardly orientable from the foot rest in an operational configuration and proximately orientable therewith in a stowed configuration; a seat pivotally coupled to the rear leg and generally perpendicularly orientable therefrom in an operational configuration and upwardly orientable therefrom in a stowed configuration; a seat back pivotally coupled to the rear leg and generally upwardly orientable therefrom in an operational configuration and proximately orientable with the seat in a stowed configuration; and a coupling mechanism for coupling the back leg to a tree.

Abstract: A tree stand leveler comprising a sleeve having a base end and a tip end; at least one adjustable mounting bracket coupled across the sleeve and adapted for securing a tree stand thereupon; a T-shaped extension rail having a cross leg with an base leg extended therefrom and adjustably coupled to the sleeve; and a coupling mechanism for adjustably coupling the cross leg of the extension rail to a tree; whereby adjustment of the mounting bracket, sleeve, and coupling means enable a tree stand to be leveled.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved portable seat for use in the outdoors comprising an elongated lower support member having a first end, a second end, a top surface, and a bottom surface. A triangular securement member has an upper portion, a lower portion, a base end and an apex end, the apex end of the securement member being integral with the first end of the lower support member. The upper portion of the securement member includes a first leg and a second leg, and a slot formed within the base end of the securement member. An elongated upper support has a first end and a second end, a top surface and a bottom surface. A back rest has a first end, a second end, a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface of the back rest being secured to the second end bottom surface of upper support.

Abstract: A foldable tree stand comprising a planar base section; securement means for coupling the base section to a tree, thereby placing it in an operable position; a pedestal pivotally coupled to the base section, the pedestal adapted to be pivotally positioned in proximity and essentially parallel with the base section in a stowed position, the pedestal further adapted to be pivotally positioned away from the base section and adjustably secured at a location essentially perpendicular thereto in an operable position; and a seat coupled to the pedestal.

Abstract: A combination self-climbing tree stand and wheeled game carrier provides for carriage of a hunter's equipment into a relatively remote hunting site and carriage of game or other articles therefrom. The disposition of the relatively large wheels near the center of gravity of the device, enables a person to carry a substantial load with the wheels supporting nearly all of the weight. The configuration of the device may be changed relatively easily, by separating two major components and removing the wheels, whereupon the device may be reassembled about a tree or the like and used to lift the hunter and his/her equipment up the tree, without need for other supplemental lifting or hoisting devices. The seat disposed within the tree stand configuration may be arranged to face toward or away from the tree, and additional convenience and safety features may be provided, such as storage pockets, side rails, and a foot rest.

Abstract: A portable hanging shelf system is disclosed wherein one or more shelves are suspended in a horizontal position from generally vertical objects of varying diameter. A non-elastic flexible fabric belt encircles generally vertical objects of varying diameters, such as a tree trunk, and an adjustable lever-type buckle on the belt releasably grips and applies tension in the encircled portion of the belt to firmly secure a pair of brackets to the curved surface of the vertical object. A cord is connected to each bracket and forms a loop which receives one or more flat rectangular shelves. The cords pass through slots at the opposed ends of each shelf and the shelves are secured in an adjustable horizontal position at the desired height above the ground by a cord lock or by passing the cord through additional slots.

Abstract: Disclosed is a new portable wedging tree stand for providing a small lightweight foldable tree fork engaging support for elevating an outdoor enthusiast above ground level for hunting, photography, bird watching, and the like. The portable wedging tree stand comprises a rectangular platform whereupon the user may stand. The platform has a longitudinal V-shaped notch formed in both ends thereof wherein tree trunk fork members may be engaged. A plurality of tree surface piercing teeth extends longitudinally from the notched ends of the platform whereby the platform may be stabilized to prevent unwanted rocking motion during use. The platform is foldable laterally for storage, transport, and to enable a leveraged wedging action whereby the longitudinal tree surface piercing teeth may be firmly set into the tree during installation of the stand.

Abstract: The improved climbing apparatus hereof includes a pair of climbing members attachable to the feet of a user that assist the user in climbing a tree or pole. When put to use, the climber maintains a motion similar to that used when climbing stairs to scale up or down the tree. Each climbing member includes a foot-supporting platform and a siderail attached to the foot-supporting platform that extends along the side of the tree. At least one adaptive member, such as a cam mechanism having a reciprocating arcuate portion, is attached to each climbing member. The cam mechanism changes its form or position depending upon an outer contour of the tree to thereby provide a gripping force against the tree. The climbing member thus advantageously grips tightly to the tree, thereby reducing the chances of slippage. In addition, since the tree climbing apparatus does not involve the use of teeth or spikes that wedge into the tree, the apparatus is environmentally "friendly" and trees are left undamaged.

Abstract: A tree stand includes a platform attachable to a tree so as to be substantially horizontal and a pivotally connected seat structure. The seat structure includes a first U-shaped member attachable to the tree, and a V-shaped member with its splayed arms pivotally connected to the U-shaped member. A flexible seat material is suspended between the apex of the V-shaped member and the transverse portion of the U-shaped member so as to make a seat conformable to the posterior of the outdoorsman, when seated. The seat element is pleated so as to be bowl-shaped to more naturally conform to the outdoorsman's posterior.

Abstract: A tree stand utilized by hunters and outdoorsmen to provide an elevated view. The tree stand includes a support bracket adapted to be secured to a tree or pole, a strap for securing the support bracket to the tree or pole, a platform including a generally flat planar member for supporting at least one person; and means for releasably interlocking the platform and the support bracket by pivoting the platform with respect to the support bracket to interlock the platform and the support bracket and prevent the platform from inadvertently separating from the support bracket. If desired, the platform may be removed from the support bracket and moved to other trees having extra support brackets as required.

Abstract: A tree skirt for use by a hunter to wrap around a tree trunk. The tree skirt includes a reversible sheet of quilted insulating material having differing camouflage patterns on either exposed side, a reversible zipper to bind opposite sides of the sheet together around the tree, and upper and lower fasteners such as VELCRO for securing the excess girth of the tree skirt around the tree into a pleated fold. A detachable bib flap is attachable to a lower portion of the tree skirt for the hunter to sit upon as a barrier or cushion. Optionally, the bib may be waterproof to thereby reduce cold and dampness that might otherwise affect the hunter's pants. A storage pocket is provided for storage of the bib flap when detached.

Abstract: A device to aid an individual in climbing a tree and to provide shelter to the individual when in the tree. The device comprises a lower platform including a lower ring of steel tubing. The lower ring has a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. A floor is bolted to the top of the lower ring. The floor has a top and a bottom. A set of nylon straps are bolted to the top of the floor. A lower climbing assembly is adapted to be secured about a tree trunk. The lower climbing assembly is secured to the lower ring. An upper ring of steel tubing is included in the device. The upper ring has a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. An upper climbing assembly is adapted to be secured about a tree trunk. The upper climbing assembly is secured to the upper ring. A tubular cloth blind having a first end with a first perimeter, and a second end with a second perimeter is included in the device. The first perimeter is secured to the upper ring and second perimeter is secured to the lower ring.

Abstract: A stable and comfortable deer stand is provided consisting of lightweight, hollow aluminum tubing and a padded chair. The deer stand includes a chair, a platform, and a platform support. The deer stand is attached to a tree trunk by a total of five different attachments for stability and safety. The deer stand is conveniently collapsible for storage and transportation purposes.