The saddle concept isn’t new; in fact, it dates back at least 30 years. But thanks to online content producers such as The Hunting Public and DIY Sportsman, saddles have rocketed in popularity.

The reason? A hunter in reasonably good shape can slip into the forest with a saddle and three or four climbing sticks, and after finding hot deer sign, can climb almost any tree quickly and quietly, then begin hunting immediately.

Important note: In many states, on public land it’s illegal to use screw-in treesteps, leave hang-on portable stands and ladder stands overnight, or cut shooting lanes. Saddles and climbing sticks are legal everywhere because they don’t damage trees, and the ropes and saddle platform enable hunters to slightly adjust their position in a tree to find open shots.

Most companies that build and market saddles operate on a direct-to-consumer business model, but your retail store isn’t left completely out of the game (more on that in a moment). In fact, your brick-and-mortar store has one huge advantage over your online competitors: Bowhunters can field test the entire saddle system right in your store. Think about it: Anyone who sees a saddle in use online (YouTube) wonders if it is comfortable. Hunters also want to know if they can shoot their bow effectively from a saddle.

In my opinion, saddles make a lot of sense for archery shops, even small ones. Unlike pop-up ground blinds and full-size treestands, saddles take up little space in a store. And because the entire saddle system includes numerous components, with many options for various styles of hunting, dealers can expect add-on purchases over time.

Smart dealers will mount a 12-inch-diameter wooden pole in the corner of their store that serves as a test tree so customers can try out a saddle. Dealers can also schedule seminars on the subject of saddle hunting. In your promotion of the event, offer a $50 or $100 prize drawing toward purchase of a saddle system.

Display tip: An AccuBow (archery training device) works well in the hands of a hunter testing what it’s like to draw while using a saddle. Customers can safely draw an AccuBow and move around the in-store tree just as they would in a real hunting scenario.

 

Hawk Helium Hammock Saddle System

As I said previously, most saddle brands operate exclusively on a direct-to-consumer business model. However, one company, Hawk, builds an effective saddle system that’s dealer-friendly. 

The Hawk Helium Hammock Saddle (MSRP: $329.99) is well made and includes a back band for additional support. Features include: Chaos Camo pattern; ultra-packable, the entire kit fits into an 8x 8x10-inch carrying bag; padded and removable seat; secure set up with climbing-grade rope and attachments; lightweight, the kit weighs just under 4 pounds; maximum weight rating, 300 pounds; fits waist sizes 28 to 40 inches.

Hawk offers two saddle platforms: the Helium HSP Platform ($49.99), which mounts to the top of a Hawk Helium Climbing Stick ($139.99 for three pack), or the Helium Hammock Apex Platform  ($99.99).

In addition to the Hawk Helium Hammock Saddle, platforms, and climbing sticks, dealers should also consider stocking and displaying a bow hanger that doesn’t damage a tree. One to consider is the Pine Ridge Archery Hunt-n-Gear Equipment Hanger ($8.25). Another saddle add-on product to stock is the Hunter Safety System Retractable Bow and Gear Hoist ($15.64).

Now is the time to brainstorm how to display saddles in your store. Don’t let all of these sales happen online. Become known in your area as the place to visit to test out a saddle, and it’ll benefit your customers and your bottom line.