Screw-in
steps have a bad reputation when used in conjunction with hang-on stands
and here is the usual scenario. You decide to place a stand in a
new area where hot deer sign has been found. You throw a hang-on
stand in your truck and stop by the pro-shop for a dozen screw-in steps.
Upon arriving at your stand site the real work begins as you sweat profusely
while fighting to install the steps. Believe me when I tell you I
have experienced this first hand. I love the thought of the portability
of tree steps but I hated the work involved installing them. That
is until now.
I recently discovered just how easy when using Cranford Manufacturing Company
EZY Climb Rod Tree Steps. I found a well-traveled funnel area between
a creek and dense thicket of pines. Within the pines was a mature
ash tree that supplied several shooting lanes to the path next to the creek.
With the stand strapped securely to my back I began installing steps.
What a breeze as I simply placed the point of the step against the tree
and start turning. The 2 ½" EZY self-tapping precision point
immediately began installing itself and with no more than 10 turns was
rock solid and secure in the hard core of the tree. The climbing
was easy as these heavy-duty ½" steel rod steps feature a step area
wide enough for the largest of boots at a little over four inches. The
step area is also scored not milled for traction, which aids in turning
the step unlike milling, which tends to roughen up your palm as well as
catch on clothing and gloves. The end of the step is also angled
at 45° to prevent slipping off. The angle aids when descending
as you step off your stand to the first step in the waning light.
It
didn't take long with the fast procedure that consisted of, installing
a step, moving up my safety harness, taking a step and then repeating the
procedure. Before you knew it I was 15 feet up and securing my stand.
Looking down from my perch I couldn't help but crack a smile knowing from
now on how much easier it would be to hang stands. No more fussing
with noisy and cumbersome ladders that are especially a pain on not so
straight trees. To make climbing even easier I recommend the
EZY Climb holster to safely hold your tree steps and make them readily
available.
Cranford Manufacturing is an American company, located in North Carolina,
which has been manufacturing tree steps since 1974. Close to thirty
years of experience shows as they currently have nine different styles
of tree steps. All models feature the EZY self-tapping screw allowing
easy and stress free installation. All products also feature a one
year limited warranty. They also manufacture a wide array of hunting
accessories such as safety harnesses, seats and bow holders to name a few.
Before I thought all tree steps were made the same but from now on when
purchasing them I will look exclusively for the Cranford Manufacturing
Company EZY Climb brand. They can be found on the Internet under
sponsors at bowhunting.net or at www.ezyclimb.com
or www.cranfordmfg.com.
Engineering and design scores 5 out of 5 - I don't believe there is
a better made tree step on the market. The EZY Climb self-tapping
screw begins installing as soon as you make your first turn. No pre-drilling,
ratchets or special tools are required and with a few good turns the step
is secure.
Durability and safety scores 5 out of 5 - Top quality construction and
made in America with a one piece ½" steel rod will ensure many seasons
of wear and tear.
Price scores 4 out of 5 - For the quality of step and safety I do not
mind paying a little extra for each step. The ease of use and time
as well as sweat it will save me on my next stand installation EZY Climb
by Cranford Manufacturing Company is worth its weight.
Cranford Manufacturing
Company, Inc.
1927 Junction Road
Mocksville, NC 27028
(336) 284-2686
Fax (336) 284-6453
Web: http://www.cranfordmfg.com
Email: sales@ezyclimb.com |