Originally Posted By: KirschOriginally Posted By: wherdog When I hunt at night, I am always standing using a tripod. P&Y said the same thing. I know I am probably in the minority but I sit on virtually all my stands, day and night.
The 4 main reasons, are:
#1 Stability: I don't care how good of a tripod setup you have, it will never be as steady the further you extend the legs.
#2 Hard on the body: As I get older, the longer I stand, the harder it is on my back, legs, etc.
#3 It's colder: This may sound silly but the first time I tried standing for night hunting, I was so surprised how much colder it is. I hunt ND with frozen ground and snow, but it still is warmer sitting down (at least when using something under your butt).
#4: Less noticeable movement/concealment: I realize a hunter gets by with a lot more movement at night vs the daytime, but sitting offers a lot more concealment.
As far as standing, I totally get why people do it. It is easier to see 360 degrees and you can move left or right much easier. I took the time to explain why I sit because I don't believe it is probably the norm for night hunting.
I don't know about #3, I'm in Va. and it does not get nearly as cold here as it does where you are.
I agree with #2 and #4.
As far as #1, stability, goes... with cheap Chinese tripods and heads I agree, but with a high quality tripod and a direct mount it is just about like shooting off of a rest.
Plus being able to shoot without re positioning is a big plus.
The only time that I sit now is when the moon is bright and I can't find a spot to hide with the tripod. And mostly I skip those spots until the moon gets better.