Hawk Saddle Platform vs. XOP EDGE – Which One for a Beginner?

[AdamMon]

Hey everyone!

I’m new to saddle hunting and looking to get my first platform. I’ve been looking at the HAWK Saddle Platform and the XOP EDGE, as both seem to fit within my budget. Since I’m just starting out and want to keep things low-cost to see if this is really for me, I’d love to hear your opinions on which one might be better for a beginner.

Which one would you recommend for someone just starting out? Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[Erussell01]

Honestly I really like the xop I have. Its not the lightest, but its sturdy, quiet and goes up easy. I still use the cam buckle, but have it stealth stripped to help qith clanking. Its not a bad platform for the money. It has features I never use, but truly it isn't bad at all. There are bigger, and there are lighter, and there are platforms that pack smaller but this one just works so why get rid of it?

 

[Ringbill27]

I bought this kit.

XOP Full Rut Combo Saddle Kit

SCHEELS.com

www.scheels.com

I wanted a complete kit. Wish came with a pouch or two. But it’s complete and ready to climb. I actually found it 2 weeks ago for 25% so it was $323.

 

[Erussell01]

I bought this kit.

XOP Full Rut Combo Saddle Kit

SCHEELS.com

www.scheels.com

I wanted a complete kit. Wish came with a pouch or two. But it’s complete and ready to climb. I actually found it 2 weeks ago for 25% so it was $323.

I enjoy my x2 steps but i did just have one crack on the stand off. Just inspect them periodically and I'm sure you'll be fine. That platform is insanely light for the price. Eventually you'll likely upgrade your saddle but you can absolutely hunt with that mondo. I did a full season and it was fine. The xop ropes are a bit stiff so watch to make sure they bite on trees with smooth bark

 

[Btaylor]

Neither. I would encourage you to look at the Trophyline platforms for a rock solid, reliable platform that are reasonably priced.

 

[GRR95]

Has anyone tried the latitude platform or climbing sticks? i like the idea of carbon for the weight reduction and most likely less noise.

Hunting Saddles & Mobile Hunting Gear | Latitude Outdoors

Hunting saddles & public land inspired mobile hunting products - Latitude Outdoors provides ultra-light saddle hunting gear, climbing sticks, platforms, accessories & more. Learn how to saddle hunt with our mobile hunting how-to videos.

www.latitudeoutdoors.com

 

[Deli]

This is my first year saddle hunting and I bought the full Hawk saddle kit, platform, and sticks. The kit isn't great, but I bought it used, so shouldn't lose money when I upgrade. I got the platform on Camofire and am already looking for something else. It's nice and light/compact, but too slippery and doesn't give me confidence in shifting for a shot. The sticks are actually pretty decent for the price.

 

[Luked]

This is my 2nd season with the saddle. It has become my main set.
I was in a similar boat as you when I first started looking at getting into something.
Ill put it this way as it is how I put it for myself.

Are you willing to skimp on cost on gear that you could loose your life over?

Sounds extreme I know. But think of it for a second. Your strapped to a tree off the ground how ever high, standing on 1 square foot of platform.

What I did was bought a lightly used Tethrd setup, It came with the saddle, all the ropes and pouches.
Then bought the platform.
What I will say is no matter what you get as far as a kit your probably going to upgrade or get another brand at some point.
These things are like boots. What works for one dude might not work for you.

Right now I like the saddle set up. But Mine does give me some hip pinch, My ass starts to hurt after hanging for hours. My feed start to get really tired and sore from leaning (standing) mainly because of the way I stand on the platform.
So I am in the process of looking at after this season, which ill be done bow hunting in about a month, and ill probably sell my whole set up and try a different brand of gear to see if I can find something that works better for me.

Saddle hunting is really nice. But it can get expensive quick. And its about as Gadgety as anything.

 

[sage1]

Xop edge, very sturdy

 

[JBrew]

The Edge hunts good, is comfortable, and built like a tank....but heavy. Can't speak for the Hawk.

 

[JCMCUBIC]

The Novix Raider platform is worth looking at. It's lighter, larger, and not a massive increase in cost over the XOP Edge. To me, the extra room on this platform is nice. It's a nice blend of size, weight, and cost.

Comparing numbers:

XOP - 5 lbs 6.4 oz, 13.75"x11", $119.99

Novix Raider - 3 lbs 15 oz, 14.5"x14.75", $189.99 - and can add a 15% discount with the following discount code (if it's still active):

OnYourOwn15​

Raider Saddle Platform

New for 2024, the Raider Saddle Platform is the newest member of the Raider family, providing a 100% USA Made saddle platform for the mobile hunter. Equipped with a welded offset bracket and leveling features, the Raider Saddle Platform is another tool in the mobile hunter's toolbox. Product...

www.novixoutdoors.com

 

[Erussell01]

Neither. I would encourage you to look at the Trophyline platforms for a rock solid, reliable platform that are reasonably priced.

Trophyline is awesome. I started with an XOP edge, and now have a mission as well and use them both a lot. If Id have bought an onyx first Id probably just have 1.


Probably not, lets be serious I'm a gear whore

 

[Jake_B]

I have a mission and Onyx, love them both

 

[VuduDoc]

Edge over the Hawk. I’m a fan of larger platforms.

 

[GreenheadKAG]

Personally, I’d save a few extra bucks and buy a trophyline or other mid/high end. It’ll pay for itself when you’re trying to draw on a deer and it’s not kicking out or shifting on you. Trust me..

 

[Erussell01]

The edge has been nothing but solid for me. Cam it down and it stays. I did try a buddies tethrd phantom and that was more tricky and finicky. The edge is heavy for its size but it's simple to use and stout.

I do prefer trophyline, but edge platforms can be had new for very reasonable and will get a guy hunting for as long as his gear addiction can hold out.