This document is an operator's manual for the Big Foot™ XL RE551 Lever-Action Hang-On Treestand, manufactured by Rivers Edge® Treestands, Inc. It provides comprehensive instructions for assembly, setup, use, and maintenance, along with critical warnings and warranty information to ensure user safety and product longevity.
The Big Foot™ XL RE551 is a hang-on treestand designed for hunting, intended for use by a single occupant. Its lever-action design allows for secure attachment to a tree, providing a stable platform for hunting at elevated positions. The treestand is engineered to offer years of trouble-free use when properly maintained and operated according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Big Foot™ XL RE551 is to provide a secure and stable elevated platform for a hunter. It attaches to a tree using a strap assembly and a lever-action mechanism that tightens the stand against the tree. The stand features a platform for standing and a seat for sitting, allowing the user to choose their preferred hunting posture. The lever-action design is crucial for snugging the stand tightly to the tree, preventing shifting and ensuring stability. The treestand is designed to be installed and removed with the platform folded up, which allows for slack in the strap for easier removal.
Usage Features:
The manual emphasizes several key usage features and safety protocols:
- Assembly: The treestand requires initial assembly, which must be performed at ground level using two 1/2" wrenches. The instructions detail how to bolt the cables onto the platform, ensuring all nut and bolt assemblies are tightened correctly without crushing tubing. Double-checking assembly steps is critical to ensure the product is correctly put together.
- Pre-Use Practice: Users are strongly advised to practice installing, adjusting, and using the treestand at ground level before attempting to use it at elevated positions. This practice helps users become familiar with the stand's features, design, and proper installation techniques, confirming that the product is manufactured, assembled, and installed correctly.
- Strap Attachment: Critical instructions are provided for attaching the Big Foot XL strap (P/N 18063) to the treestand. The sewn loop side with the float buckle can be positioned on either side of the treestand, depending on the user's preference. It is essential to slide the sewn loop completely over the oval mount on both sides of the treestand, ensuring it is secured properly and cannot come off. Incorrect attachment, such as looping the strap around the top of the oval mount, is explicitly warned against as it can lead to serious injury or death.
- Tree Attachment: The stand should be attached to the tree with the platform folded in an upright position. The strap is lengthened, wrapped around the tree, and then tightened firmly. The lever-action mechanism, engaged by pivoting the platform down, further snugs the stand to the tree, preventing shifting. All four contact bars must be touching the tree for proper installation.
- Footwear: Appropriate non-slip safety boots are recommended when using the treestand, with a specific warning to tuck shoelaces into boots to prevent them from getting hooked on the stand or its components.
- Climbing Aids: Climbing aids (stick ladders, sectional ladders, steps) must extend above the platform to allow the user to step down onto the platform. The maximum recommended use height is five feet less than the height of the climbing aid being used.
- Haul Line: A haul line should be used to raise and lower the treestand and other equipment. Users should never climb with anything on their back.
- Body Harness: The use of a full body harness (Fall Arrest System - FAS) is mandatory at all times after leaving the ground. A lineman's/climbing belt is also required when installing a hang-on treestand to stabilize the user with the tree.
- Environmental Conditions: The treestand should never be used during inclement weather conditions such as rain, lightning, windstorms, or icy conditions. Users are advised to end their hunt and return to the ground if such conditions arise.
- Tree Selection: The treestand should never be used on a dead, leaning, diseased, or loose-barked tree, or a utility pole. Electrical power lines should always be avoided.
- Removal: To remove the stand, the platform must be folded back up, and the buckle hand strap pulled to release tension on the roller bar.
Maintenance Features:
The manual outlines a strict inspection and maintenance schedule to ensure the treestand remains safe and functional:
- Before Each Use Inspection:
- Inspect all webbing, rope, cord, and strap assemblies for wear or damage.
- Inspect cables and/or cable ends for damage or kinking.
- Inspect all hardware and chain components for damage.
- Inspect for any structural damage, especially at weld locations. If any damage is found, contact customer service.
- Inspect all nut and bolt assemblies to ensure none are loose.
- Inspect for any missing parts.
- Lubricate all pivot and slide-together points with powder graphite, petroleum jelly, or silicone spray to prevent noise, wear, and rust.
- Inspect the entire product for rust, corrosion, cracks, freezing, excessive heat, or rotting damage. Any questionable product should be discarded.
- Using correct wrenches, inspect all nut & bolt assembly locations and snug up any that may be loose, being careful not to crush tubing.
- Check the operation of all cables, cable ends, cord, rope, webbing, and strap or chain assemblies. Replace any item showing signs of wear, damage, kinking, or incorrect function with factory new parts.
- Inspect the seat for structural damage or wear and replace if necessary.
- Inspect all hardware for wear or damage and ensure no parts are missing.
- Strap Replacement: All treestand straps must be replaced every two years or when signs of damage or wear exist.
- Storage: Do not store the treestand outdoors when not in use.
- Modifications: Users are explicitly warned never to modify the treestand in any way by making repairs, replacing parts, or altering it, unless explicitly authorized in writing by the manufacturer.
- Annual Review: The instructions (written and video) should be kept in a safe place and reviewed at least annually. The treestand owner is responsible for furnishing complete instructions to anyone who borrows or purchases the treestand.
- Leaving Stand in Tree: Never leave a treestand in a tree for more than two weeks, as weather or animals could cause damage, and tree growth can stress and damage straps and buckles.
The manual also includes a warranty statement, offering a one-year warranty for all components to the original owner with proof of purchase. It covers products that are not modified, abused, or used in a manner deviating from intended usage. Minor fading, corrosion from paint damage, and normal wear and tear are not covered. Warranty service requires prior approval and a return material authorization number (RMA#) from RETI.
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