RedBeard Outdoors · Johnathan (RedBeard)

463. CRUZR Saddles and Michael Brandon | Why EVERYONE Should use a CRUZR saddle system this fall!

August 30, 2025·56 min·5 clips

Michael reveals how a saddle gives you 360-degree shooting angles, unlike traditional tree stands.

This episode features RedBeard and Michael Brandon from CRUZR Saddles discussing saddle hunting systems for both Western and Eastern hunters. RedBeard shares his personal experience using CRUZR saddles for whitetails and elk, while Michael explains his role as business development manager. They emphasize the versatility of saddle hunting for accessing remote spots like water holes and wallows during hot, dry seasons. Michael defines saddle hunting as the most versatile and adaptive method for elevated hunting, highlighting advantages in weight, silhouette, and sound. He notes that elk and mule deer are not conditioned to look up for predators, unlike whitetails. The hosts compare saddles to lock-on stands, explaining saddles allow 360-degree shooting by pivoting around the tree. RedBeard recounts a missed whitetail opportunity in a ladder stand due to limited mobility, which a saddle would have solved. They detail CRUZR's product lineup, including the Seeker and Mini Seeker platforms, Solution climbing sticks, and a dedicated backpack. Michael recommends practicing at ground level first, then climbing to full height to master the system, sharing his own early struggle with efficiently bringing sticks up a tree. He advises setting the platform about half an inch below the top climbing stick for safer stepping down onto it. The hosts discuss using a lineman's rope and tether for safety and maneuverability, with RedBeard strongly endorsing the Kong Duck ascender over the included prusik knot for easier one-handed adjustments. Michael explains a technique using a second rope to climb past branches while always staying connected to the tree. RedBeard describes the initial unease of trusting the saddle and rope but confirms the comfort after acclimation. Michael outlines optimal platform placement opposite the expected game approach, with sticks at a 90-degree angle for better maneuverability. They cover various shooting positions, like straddling the tree or using knee pads, to reduce fatigue during long sits. The conversation includes practical tips for attaching sticks to the saddle during climbs using carabiners or CRUZR's stacking system. The tone is enthusiastic and instructional, blending personal anecdotes with detailed product explanations. The style is conversational and geared towards hands-on learning, with both hosts sharing from direct field experience. Hunters interested in lightweight, mobile treestand alternatives, especially those pursuing elk or whitetails in varied terrain, will find this episode valuable. Listeners who exclusively use permanent stands or prefer ultra-minimalist ground hunting might not connect with the detailed system breakdown.

As heard by us

A grounded saddle-hunting conversation that turns gear talk into practical setup decisions.

Red Beard Outdoors centers on CRUZR saddle systems, but the real value is the broader look at how saddle hunting changes from one hunt to the next.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want a saddle setup that feels practical before opening day and the water spots start drawing pressure.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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