Hunting Blind Chair Buying Guide: Best Hunting Blind Chair
So, you’re ready to upgrade your hunting game… from uncomfortable log-sitting to luxurious blind-based relaxation? Excellent choice! A good hunting blind chair can be the difference between a successful, comfortable hunt and a miserable, aching one. Let’s get you seated in style (and comfort!).
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Hunting Blind Chair
Choosing the right hunting blind chair involves more than just picking the flashiest one. Think of it like choosing a hunting rifle – you wouldn’t pick a .22 for elk hunting, would you? (Unless you’re *really* good, and even then… probably not). The perfect chair depends on your hunting style, the terrain, and your personal preferences. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
- Step 1: Assess Your Hunting Terrain. Are you stalking through dense woods, perched on a rocky hillside, or settled in a comfortable blind overlooking a field? A lightweight, packable chair is ideal for those long treks through the woods, while a heavier, more stable chair might be better suited for a permanent blind setup.
- Step 2: Consider Your Hunting Style. Are you a still hunter, patiently waiting for the perfect shot? Or are you a more mobile hunter, frequently changing positions? Your hunting style directly impacts the type of chair you need. A swivel chair is perfect for quick adjustments, while a stationary chair might suit a more static approach.
- Step 3: Prioritize Personal Comfort. This is crucial! You’ll be spending hours sitting in this chair, so comfort is paramount. Think about factors like padding, back support, armrests, and overall chair design. Do you need extra lumbar support? Would armrests hinder your shooting? Consider these personal preferences carefully.
- Step 4: Evaluate Weight and Portability. Weight is a major consideration, especially if you’re hiking to your hunting spot. A heavier chair might offer more stability and comfort, but it’ll also be a burden to carry. Look for chairs with features like adjustable straps or carrying handles to ease transport.
Chair Weight and Portability in Different Hunting Locations
Let’s face it, lugging a 50-pound chair up a mountain is nobody’s idea of a good time. Weight and portability are directly linked to the location you’ll be hunting. A lightweight, packable chair is essential for backcountry hunts, while a heavier, more robust chair is perfectly acceptable for a permanent blind setup in a field. Think about the distance you’ll need to carry the chair and choose accordingly. A foldable chair is always a plus for easy storage and transport.
Recommended Chair Features Based on Hunting Scenarios
Sometimes, a little extra feature goes a long way.
| Hunting Scenario | Recommended Chair Feature |
|---|---|
| Hunting from a tree stand, requiring precise aiming | Swivel seat for quick and accurate adjustments |
| Long sits in a ground blind during cold weather | Padded seat and back for maximum comfort and warmth |
| Hiking to a remote hunting location | Lightweight, packable design with comfortable carrying straps |
| Hunting in uneven terrain | Stable base and adjustable legs for secure seating |
| Extended hunts requiring long periods of sitting | Armrests for additional support and relaxation |
DIY Hunting Blind Chair Modifications & Enhancements
Let’s face it, even the fanciest hunting blind chair can leave you feeling like you’ve wrestled a badger after a few hours. But fear not, fellow hunters! With a little elbow grease (and maybe some duct tape), you can transform your uncomfortable perch into a throne fit for a king… or at least a very comfortable hunter. These modifications are simple enough for even the most mechanically challenged among us (yes, that includes me!).
Backrest Enhancement with Added Padding
A flimsy backrest is the bane of any hunter’s existence. Adding padding can dramatically increase comfort, especially during those long, chilly waits. This modification involves attaching extra padding to the existing backrest.
- Assess the Backrest: Carefully examine your chair’s backrest to determine its structure and the best placement for additional padding. Consider whether you need more lumbar support or overall back support.
- Choose Your Padding: Select a cushioning material like high-density foam, closed-cell foam (for weather resistance), or even repurposed camping pads. The thickness will depend on your preference, but 1-2 inches is a good starting point.
- Cut and Secure: Cut the padding to the desired shape and size, ensuring it fits snugly against the backrest. Use strong adhesive spray, heavy-duty Velcro, or even sew it directly onto the existing fabric if possible. For extra security, consider adding straps or bungee cords to further secure the padding.
Armrest Upgrades for Added Comfort, Best hunting blind chair
Those spindly armrests are more likely to cause discomfort than provide support. Let’s beef them up!
- Material Selection: Select a durable, weather-resistant material like PVC pipe, foam pipe insulation, or even repurposed wood. The chosen material should be comfortable to the touch and able to withstand the elements.
- Attachment Method: Carefully measure the existing armrests and cut the chosen material to the desired length and shape. Secure the new armrests to the existing ones using strong adhesive, screws (if the chair’s construction allows), or even zip ties. Ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- Optional Padding: For added comfort, wrap the new armrests with closed-cell foam and cover with a durable fabric, securing it with strong adhesive or staples.
Custom Padded Seat Cover Creation
A custom seat cover is the ultimate comfort upgrade. It protects your chair and provides a plush, personalized seating experience.
This project requires basic sewing skills. If you’re not a sewing whiz, enlist a friend or family member who is!
- Measure Your Seat: Carefully measure the dimensions of your chair’s seat, including width, depth, and height. Add extra fabric for seams.
- Choose Your Materials: Select a durable, water-resistant outer fabric (like canvas or ripstop nylon) and a soft, comfortable inner fabric (like fleece or quilted fabric). Also, choose a suitable filling material such as batting or foam.
- Cut and Sew: Cut out the fabric pieces according to your measurements. Sew the outer fabric pieces together, leaving an opening for the filling. Insert the filling material and sew the opening closed. Then, sew the inner fabric pieces together and attach them to the outer fabric, creating a complete cover.
- Attach the Cover: Secure the completed cover to your chair using Velcro, straps, or other suitable fastening methods.
