Definitely the most in depth saddle review I’ve seen thus far! Great video and I really appreciate the time you spent sitting in each saddle. I’m looking to get into saddle hunting for the ‘23 season and this video helped a lot! Thanks.
So glad to hear that, Charles! I truly appreciate the feedback. I have an entire playlist where I've reviewed 26 different saddles that might give you some additional insight (if you haven't seen those videos). ua-cam.com/play/PL9neNIncVSoxCywFGqu3tlMY99BPV6mPD.html Feel free to email me with any questions you might have. I'm always willing to help. 👍🏼
There are so many tree saddle's being manufactured it takes reviews like yours to determine the pro's and con's of each. I've been tree hunting for 40 plus year's and saddle hunting for the last 4 years. I loved the Aero Hunter line, however, we know they are no longer manufacturing saddles. I was leaning towards the Cruzer single panel. I liked the H2, however, the lineman loops are too floppy for me. Thanks for your hard work presenting your findings.
I have been researching saddles all week lol, finally found your reviews, this is exactly what I was looking for and I really appreciate the time and effort you put into this. I am looking to upgrade from my first saddle and currently my top choices are the Cruzr XC, Cruzr Archon, Tethryd Phantom and the Latitude Method 2. I currently hunt a single panel so not sure if a two panel is for me, but I really like the features of all these saddles for different reasons. In your experience, what are the most important features to you and are you still loving that Cruzr XC? Thanks for the content, I subscribed!
Hey, Tommy! Glad you found the channel! You have narrowed it down to some great saddles for sure. Have you looked at my spreadsheet? It gives a lot more detail so check it out if you haven't yet. drive.google.com/file/d/1VeNU... I personally run the CRUZR XC and love it but the other's that you've mentioned are great saddles as well with my favorite two-panel being the Latitude Method 2. The Method 2 is a saddle I would own if I needed a backup. The Archon is also a great saddle and very comfortable and the Phantom is as well but (for me) it was just slightly less comfortable but not enough to stop me from owning it. I truly think you'd be happy with either one of those so it really comes down to personal preference. If you have any other questions feel free to email me!
@@madhuntsadventures I have looked at your spreadsheet and it helped a lot! In the end, I went with the Cruzr XC. It had all the features I wanted and every review I have seen has said it is the most comfortable. Keep up the great work, love your channel!
Young man you did a fantastic review!!! Very thorough and you touched upon the things we want to know about. Like....what it feels like walking in, comfort, bridge, construction etc etc. Well done. New subscriber!!
Thanks for the great review. I am planning to start saddle hunting this year and I’m leaning toward a two panel for the most part although I watch the video on the solitude 2.0 from Josh. Have you had a chance to look at that saddle? I will probably lean and sit and have been contemplating what to purchase for sometime now. Thank you
Thanks for watching it, Joe! I'm planning to do a review on the Solitude and that should happen as soon as it arrives in the mail. There are a lot of great saddles out there so you've got plenty to choose from. I hope you find the right one! Take care.
@@joepiddington1896 I thought I would already have it but it hasn't arrived yet. I've reached out to Josh at Flat branch but unfortunately I'm not sure at this point. I am working on another saddle review now and will have another one coming up as well so hopefully I can get the Solitude 2.0 soon.
@@madhuntsadventures Yeah Josh said it’s a 1 to 2 months turnaround time I’m just hanging in there to see what you think before I pull the trigger. Thanks Joe
Great question, Chris! I have tested both and they both tied in score in my saddle spreadsheet. Here is a link to the spreadsheet if you want to look at it... drive.google.com/file/d/1nBD_... I currently own the CRUZR XC and it is one of my favorite saddles but I would be happy to own the Archon as well but don't need two saddles. Hope that helps!
Hey MADHUNTS! First, your channel is awesome. Straight-forward, honest, information.Thank you for including us in this, we really appreciate the opportunity to be listed with so many great saddles/companies. We noticed that there was a typo on your spreadsheet and we thought it would be best to let you know asap. The Method weighs 1 lb 13 oz and the leg straps weigh 2.5 oz. Just wanted to make sure we got this corrected for your audience! Thanks again for trying out our saddle and sharing your thoughts!
Thank you very much for the feedback and for letting me know about the error! I did have a typo and I have corrected the spreadsheet and overall rating for the Method 2! Keep up the great work!
Great job Matt. Very in-depth look at some of the two panel options out there. Thanks for taking the time to put this together. Very helpful. I also enjoyed the drone and B roll footage you took the time to set up 👍
Great question, Steve! To be honest with you, my absolute favorite dump pouches haven't been from any saddle manufacturers. I got them off of Amazon and I love them! Here is the link: www.amazon.com/Tactical-Drawstring-Magazine-Military-Utility/dp/B08DMYVNPR/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3IE0UCCWTFCDP&dchild=1&keywords=dump%2Bpouch&qid=1634797029&sprefix=dump%2Bpou%2Caps%2C344&sr=8-17&th=1
Great review! I’m looking to buy a 2 panel. I love your real world tests. I don’t believe anyone in the business is doing such a thorough review. Thank you I’m curious, how do you transition from your top stick to your platform? I didn’t see a lateral step. Also, do you have a review of Buzzard Roost Saddle?
Thanks for the feedback, TheChirobull! I really appreciate it! ...and thanks for watching! I always put my platform one step above my top stick and I just step up onto it. Sometimes I offset my platform a little to one side depending on the situation which does make it a little easier to step up on. I've not reviewed the Buzzard Roost saddle yet but I will be soon. Thank you for the suggestion! Take care!
You have tried and liked both the CRUZR XC and the CRUZR Archon. If you could only use one of those two saddles for the whole upcoming season, which of those two Cruzer saddles would you choose? If you could only have one saddle of any manufacturer or model for the upcoming season, which saddle would you choose?
Great questions, Cary! Hmmm... Well of the two (XC & Archon), I'd probably just stick with the XC because it is a single panel and it is super comfortable. The two-panel is also super comfortable but I just prefer a single panel that expands and the XC has everything I like. As far as choosing one saddle from any manufacturer, just for fun I'd probably pick the Latitude Method 2. It is super comfortable and has some really cool features that I liked. Great bridge, cool magnets to hold it together, adjustability, etc. But, I'll be sticking with my CRUZR XC again this coming season even though it'd be fun to try something new. Thanks for asking and I hope you have a great season!
@@madhuntsadventures Thanks. I own and like a Tethrd Phantom (my first saddle), but I wanted to purchase a second saddle so I can bring my adult sons or my daughter (one at a time) along on some hunts, and I wanted to try something different (so the second saddle could not be a Phantom). After watching a bunch of video reviews and ending with yours, I ordered a Cruzer XC. Thanks for your excellent videos.
Great attention to detail, thorough reviews, good editing and camera angles. I'm not even in the market for buying a saddle this year but enjoyed every minute of the video. I'll make my Tethrd Phantom work for at least 4 more years. Maybe even longer 🤣. Thanks for helping fellow hunters make decisions about what saddle to purchase.
Thank you very much for watching and for the feedback, Tom! It's greatly appreciated! The Phantom is a great saddle and is very comfortable! I'm still using my CRUZR XC even though I reviewed some great saddles! Nothing wrong with sticking with what works!
No I just need to upload the new spreadsheet link since I just added another saddle. Here is the link... drive.google.com/file/d/13z5dPQeeRlTWyOelyFbdkIOyhVRwFFwh/view?usp=sharing
You Sir are the saddle review King!! Your videos are everything anyone needs to make an informed decision on any saddle!! I have to be honest and say I would have thought that the Eberhart saddle would have been a little better quality based on John Eberhart having hunted from one for 40 years in designing this one. I saw someone already asked about if you're switching from a single to a two panel so I will wait to see you your response to them! Phenomenal reviews as always!!
Thank you very much for the kind words and feedback! I truly appreciate it! I'm glad to help anyone looking for more information. Unfortunately it takes longer to get into a "groove" with two-panel slings and there are more two-panel saddles coming out now that have zero fiddle factor. When I was using my Recon on a regular basis I had a system down that worked for me, but now that I have my CRUZR XC I don't even take the Recon out of the truck. The ESS is a great sling and I know it works for many (like John), and I feel I gave it a good rating despite the fact I'm not really a two-panel guy. As far as me switching to a two-panel?? I want to keep the Method 2 and the Archon but my bank account disagrees! LOL
Hey Goltine, what's up buddy ? First of all, you don't wear pouches with the ESS, but if you do they WILL cause sagging per John Eberhart. Second, if properly done the panels do stay up or you can use the 24 inch bungee he shows in his video. I would suggest anyone wanting to review the ESS watch all 4 of John's videos covering ESS in their entirety and learn them inside out before doing a review on the saddle.
Excellent video. I recently received a custom saddle that is the best of both worlds of all the saddles in your review. It is similar to the mesh style Latitude 2 method. However it is mesh with a wider webbing on the top & bottom & is double pleated. U can really cover up your back simultaneously as well as the lower support system on your hamstring area. I can adjust the bridge (which I ordered a webbed bridge) to any length with no hip pinch. U can tell them on the order form what type of bridge style u like. The saddle is made by Flat Branch Outdoors & the model is The Solitude 2.0. It is rated to 350 lbs. It passed through the testing with flying colors w/o any failure points. I have a couple of different brand saddles with clips for the leg loops. I'm not a big fan of that style. With the Solitude 2.0 it is much simpler to slide on & off. I ride a flat tire bike way back. I then ditch the bike & carry in all my gear. I don't even feel the saddle on me. I climb the tree with a 11.4 mm Samson Predator climbing rope. When I'm @ hunting height I just put an 8 mm oplux tether around the tree. Then I take a lanyard that I ordered through Flat Branch Outdoors which is 11.4 mm Predator rope & the vertical loops on the top of the saddle are in the ideal position to adjust the length of my lanyard. My Flat Branch order I requested 3D printer clips. I received 3 accessory clips along with a bow hanger. I made a 1" diameter webbed strap that has an adjustable clip on each end. I actually made 1 for a smaller tree & 1 for that size up to a tree with 3' more of circumference. Very easy to transfer 3D parts from 1 webbed strap to another. They fit even better after I stealth stripped them. The saddle & both the lanyard & 3D parts were all under the price of the Latitude 2 Method mesh saddle. I hope u are able to get your hands on 1 of these for a future video. Keep up the great work u do & happy hunting. 😊
Wow that is some great stuff! Very cool setup! Thanks for sharing and I hope to get my hands on the Solitude 2.0 now that you've brought it to my attention. Thank you for the comment and for watching!
Thank you for the feedback, Kenneth! I appreciate you watching! I only have one saddle left. I have the Tactisaddle AdApT for sale. If you are interested just email me at madhunts2@gmail.com and I can send you more info.
Great question, Mark! However, the Archon actually scored higher (on my spreadsheet) than the Transformer. The Archon scored a 5 and the Transformer came in at 4.8 points. You can look at the spreadsheet and see all the pros/cons if you click on the link in the description. Either way, they are both great saddles. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for the feedback, Duncan! I truly appreciate it and I'm glad it was helpful! I only have the Tactisaddle AdApT for sale at this point. If you're interested email me at madhunts2@gmail.com and I can get you more information.
Haha! That wasn't intentional but the Archon is a great saddle. However, the Method 2 tied with the Archon in comfort and in overall points! Both are GREAT saddles!
I’m very curious to know - did you experience the same Raptor buckle noise that you mentioned with the Overwatch Outdoors saddle with the Tethrd ESS? My ESS buckle was extremely noisy - wondering if it’s a hit or miss situation with the buckles, or if they all seem to be noisy. Great review, thanks!
Great question, Matt! ...and sorry for the late response (I didn't see it until now). I don't recall any buckle noise with the ESS. I know the Raptor buckle is used on several different saddles and I don't usually have a noise problem with them so I think it's probably more of a hit or miss situation. Hope that helps! 👍🏼
Awesome review. I’m still hung up on my decision, but was at least able to eliminate a few. I have low back issues, and will be either going to a 2 panel in place of my current single panel or to a JX3 for the longer sits.
Thank you for the feedback, Kevin! Sorry to hear about the back issues! I can't comment on the JX3 yet but I can tell you that the Latitude Method 2 two-panel is awesome and very comfortable! I hope you find one that works perfect for you!
Great review! I'm looking at purchasing a saddle this year and I don't know wether to go with a single or double saddle. I believe, it would be a Cruzr either way, but looking for some advise/guidance. thanks in advance!
Thank you for the feedback and comment, Chris! I'm glad to help! CRUZR saddles are great and I truly love my CRUZR XC which is a single panel. With the new single panel saddles that are out on the market you should be fine doing either one (single or double). The CRUZR Archon and the Latitude Method 2 are both great two-panel saddles. If I was going to buy a single panel it would be the CRUZR XC. ...but that's just my opinion. Hope that helps!
Good review 👍, you have the dealers paying attention to you. I'm disappointed with Cruzr archon not improving waist belt. Unless I missed something. My XC belt keeps working loose. Maybe cuz I'm a little soft in the middle. But a definite nusence. I'm leaning towards method 2. Thanks for review. Worth waiting for, before I made a purchase.
Haha! Well I'm just a little guy on the UA-cam scene so they have nothing to worry about. But as long as the saddle competition keeps growing we'll continue to see better and better saddles! That's a good thing! I do know what you're talking about with the waist belt but I don't have any problems with it personally. But I can see how it might slip easier than other brands. Based on the few complaints I've heard about that that would be something I guess CRUZR could improve upon. Thanks for watching!
Day after your review, I ordered a Latitude method 2, xl. Wow I received it today. Kudos to Latitude. Really like the waist belt, just like Huckleberry Finn. Just a tug on the rope and it stays up
Haha! Great question, David! Honestly, I would love to keep the Method 2 and the Archon but I already have a great saddle (CRUZR XC) so I'm going to let them go. I've never been a two-panel guy but those two could definitely change my mind! Thank you for watching and for the feedback!
Thanks for reaching out, shmeefers Bohannon! The only saddle I still have is the Tactisaddle AdApt. If you're interested just shoot me an email at madhunts2@gmail.com and I can discuss it with you. Thanks again!
got the method 2 as well its better then the method 1. it was a hard choice between the method 2 and the transformer but i was never able to get a transformer when i was shopping seems they are making them faster now but luv the method 2
Thanks for the feedback, Rick! I didn't include the Recon because I already did a review on it... ua-cam.com/video/moADh85AjwQ/v-deo.html Thank you for watching! I appreciate it!
Great video.
Thanks for watching, Randy!
Definitely the most in depth saddle review I’ve seen thus far! Great video and I really appreciate the time you spent sitting in each saddle. I’m looking to get into saddle hunting for the ‘23 season and this video helped a lot! Thanks.
So glad to hear that, Charles! I truly appreciate the feedback. I have an entire playlist where I've reviewed 26 different saddles that might give you some additional insight (if you haven't seen those videos).
ua-cam.com/play/PL9neNIncVSoxCywFGqu3tlMY99BPV6mPD.html
Feel free to email me with any questions you might have. I'm always willing to help. 👍🏼
There are so many tree saddle's being manufactured it takes reviews like yours to determine the pro's and con's of each. I've been tree hunting for 40 plus year's and saddle hunting for the last 4 years. I loved the Aero Hunter line, however, we know they are no longer manufacturing saddles. I was leaning towards the Cruzer single panel. I liked the H2, however, the lineman loops are too floppy for me.
Thanks for your hard work presenting your findings.
Great job saddle looks nice
Enjoy the warm weather
Thank you, Midnight1 Kelly! I appreciate it!
As usual another great review.
Thank you, Tom! I appreciate the support! You're in the drawing!
By far the best saddle review I have seen. Thank you for taking the time involved in doing a review the way it should be done.
Thank you very much for the comment, Ryan! I truly appreciate it! 👍🏼
Definitely considering the Archon.
Between it and the single panel XC.
Both are great saddles! 👍🏼
Great job thx
You got it, 504daron! Thanks for watching!
I have been researching saddles all week lol, finally found your reviews, this is exactly what I was looking for and I really appreciate the time and effort you put into this. I am looking to upgrade from my first saddle and currently my top choices are the Cruzr XC, Cruzr Archon, Tethryd Phantom and the Latitude Method 2. I currently hunt a single panel so not sure if a two panel is for me, but I really like the features of all these saddles for different reasons. In your experience, what are the most important features to you and are you still loving that Cruzr XC? Thanks for the content, I subscribed!
Hey, Tommy! Glad you found the channel! You have narrowed it down to some great saddles for sure. Have you looked at my spreadsheet? It gives a lot more detail so check it out if you haven't yet.
drive.google.com/file/d/1VeNU...
I personally run the CRUZR XC and love it but the other's that you've mentioned are great saddles as well with my favorite two-panel being the Latitude Method 2. The Method 2 is a saddle I would own if I needed a backup.
The Archon is also a great saddle and very comfortable and the Phantom is as well but (for me) it was just slightly less comfortable but not enough to stop me from owning it.
I truly think you'd be happy with either one of those so it really comes down to personal preference. If you have any other questions feel free to email me!
@@madhuntsadventures I have looked at your spreadsheet and it helped a lot! In the end, I went with the Cruzr XC. It had all the features I wanted and every review I have seen has said it is the most comfortable. Keep up the great work, love your channel!
oh great video thx for all the work you put into this
Thank you for watching, Jason! I appreciate the feedback!
bummer the spreadsheet does not exist at this time wanted to find out the 3 way tie
You can always check my most recent saddle review video for the latest spreadsheet. Here is a link...
drive.google.com/file/d/1uzJu...
Are the aluminum d-rings and other buckles aluminum color or are they painted that shiny aluminum? I don't like that
Young man you did a fantastic review!!! Very thorough and you touched upon the things we want to know about. Like....what it feels like walking in, comfort, bridge, construction etc etc. Well done. New subscriber!!
Thank you very much, klundin2000! I truly appreciate the feedback and I'm glad it was helpful! Thank you also for subscribing!
Thanks for doing the reviews. The info is very helpful. 👍
You're very welcome, Jason! I'm glad they are helpful! Thank you for watching and for commenting!
Thanks for the great review. I am planning to start saddle hunting this year and I’m leaning toward a two panel for the most part although I watch the video on the solitude 2.0 from Josh. Have you had a chance to look at that saddle? I will probably lean and sit and have been contemplating what to purchase for sometime now. Thank you
Thanks for watching it, Joe! I'm planning to do a review on the Solitude and that should happen as soon as it arrives in the mail. There are a lot of great saddles out there so you've got plenty to choose from. I hope you find the right one! Take care.
Looking forward to it!
@@madhuntsadventures Any idea when you're supposed to receive it?
@@joepiddington1896 I thought I would already have it but it hasn't arrived yet. I've reached out to Josh at Flat branch but unfortunately I'm not sure at this point. I am working on another saddle review now and will have another one coming up as well so hopefully I can get the Solitude 2.0 soon.
@@madhuntsadventures Yeah Josh said it’s a 1 to 2 months turnaround time I’m just hanging in there to see what you think before I pull the trigger. Thanks Joe
Have you still got the ESS saddle available
I do not. It has been sold but I appreciate you reaching out! 👍🏼
have you tested both cruzr saddle and if so which one do you like the most. two panels or single
Great question, Chris! I have tested both and they both tied in score in my saddle spreadsheet. Here is a link to the spreadsheet if you want to look at it...
drive.google.com/file/d/1nBD_...
I currently own the CRUZR XC and it is one of my favorite saddles but I would be happy to own the Archon as well but don't need two saddles.
Hope that helps!
Hey MADHUNTS! First, your channel is awesome. Straight-forward, honest, information.Thank you for including us in this, we really appreciate the opportunity to be listed with so many great saddles/companies. We noticed that there was a typo on your spreadsheet and we thought it would be best to let you know asap. The Method weighs 1 lb 13 oz and the leg straps weigh 2.5 oz. Just wanted to make sure we got this corrected for your audience! Thanks again for trying out our saddle and sharing your thoughts!
Thank you very much for the feedback and for letting me know about the error! I did have a typo and I have corrected the spreadsheet and overall rating for the Method 2! Keep up the great work!
@@madhuntsadventures Thank you!
I bought the Overwatch Transformer after seeing this review. It is my first saddle and so far I am very pleased. I have zero buckle noise.
That's awesome, cjr4497! Thanks for the feedback! I hope you have a great season with the Transformer!
Great job Matt. Very in-depth look at some of the two panel options out there. Thanks for taking the time to put this together. Very helpful. I also enjoyed the drone and B roll footage you took the time to set up 👍
Thank you, Dave! I appreciate your support and comment very much! Thank you for watching!
Review sheets have been deleted.
Damn, you grew a beard in two hours! Great video and great backdrop.
Out of all the dump pouches you have tried which is your favorite?
Great question, Steve! To be honest with you, my absolute favorite dump pouches haven't been from any saddle manufacturers. I got them off of Amazon and I love them! Here is the link:
www.amazon.com/Tactical-Drawstring-Magazine-Military-Utility/dp/B08DMYVNPR/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3IE0UCCWTFCDP&dchild=1&keywords=dump%2Bpouch&qid=1634797029&sprefix=dump%2Bpou%2Caps%2C344&sr=8-17&th=1
Great review! I’m looking to buy a 2 panel. I love your real world tests. I don’t believe anyone in the business is doing such a thorough review. Thank you
I’m curious, how do you transition from your top stick to your platform? I didn’t see a lateral step.
Also, do you have a review of Buzzard Roost Saddle?
Thanks for the feedback, TheChirobull! I really appreciate it! ...and thanks for watching!
I always put my platform one step above my top stick and I just step up onto it. Sometimes I offset my platform a little to one side depending on the situation which does make it a little easier to step up on.
I've not reviewed the Buzzard Roost saddle yet but I will be soon. Thank you for the suggestion! Take care!
You have tried and liked both the CRUZR XC and the CRUZR Archon.
If you could only use one of those two saddles for the whole upcoming season, which of those two Cruzer saddles would you choose?
If you could only have one saddle of any manufacturer or model for the upcoming season, which saddle would you choose?
Great questions, Cary! Hmmm...
Well of the two (XC & Archon), I'd probably just stick with the XC because it is a single panel and it is super comfortable. The two-panel is also super comfortable but I just prefer a single panel that expands and the XC has everything I like.
As far as choosing one saddle from any manufacturer, just for fun I'd probably pick the Latitude Method 2. It is super comfortable and has some really cool features that I liked. Great bridge, cool magnets to hold it together, adjustability, etc. But, I'll be sticking with my CRUZR XC again this coming season even though it'd be fun to try something new.
Thanks for asking and I hope you have a great season!
@@madhuntsadventures Thanks. I own and like a Tethrd Phantom (my first saddle), but I wanted to purchase a second saddle so I can bring my adult sons or my daughter (one at a time) along on some hunts, and I wanted to try something different (so the second saddle could not be a Phantom). After watching a bunch of video reviews and ending with yours, I ordered a Cruzer XC. Thanks for your excellent videos.
@@carypeaden4147 Awesome! I hope you enjoy the XC, it's a great saddle in my opinion!
Great attention to detail, thorough reviews, good editing and camera angles. I'm not even in the market for buying a saddle this year but enjoyed every minute of the video. I'll make my Tethrd Phantom work for at least 4 more years. Maybe even longer 🤣. Thanks for helping fellow hunters make decisions about what saddle to purchase.
Thank you very much for watching and for the feedback, Tom! It's greatly appreciated! The Phantom is a great saddle and is very comfortable! I'm still using my CRUZR XC even though I reviewed some great saddles! Nothing wrong with sticking with what works!
Have the files been deleted? I get that error when trying to view them.
No I just need to upload the new spreadsheet link since I just added another saddle. Here is the link...
drive.google.com/file/d/13z5dPQeeRlTWyOelyFbdkIOyhVRwFFwh/view?usp=sharing
@@madhuntsadventures I found it on a newer video. Thank you though!
You Sir are the saddle review King!! Your videos are everything anyone needs to make an informed decision on any saddle!! I have to be honest and say I would have thought that the Eberhart saddle would have been a little better quality based on John Eberhart having hunted from one for 40 years in designing this one. I saw someone already asked about if you're switching from a single to a two panel so I will wait to see you your response to them! Phenomenal reviews as always!!
Thank you very much for the kind words and feedback! I truly appreciate it! I'm glad to help anyone looking for more information.
Unfortunately it takes longer to get into a "groove" with two-panel slings and there are more two-panel saddles coming out now that have zero fiddle factor. When I was using my Recon on a regular basis I had a system down that worked for me, but now that I have my CRUZR XC I don't even take the Recon out of the truck. The ESS is a great sling and I know it works for many (like John), and I feel I gave it a good rating despite the fact I'm not really a two-panel guy.
As far as me switching to a two-panel?? I want to keep the Method 2 and the Archon but my bank account disagrees! LOL
Hey Goltine, what's up buddy ? First of all, you don't wear pouches with the ESS, but if you do they WILL cause sagging per John Eberhart. Second, if properly done the panels do stay up or you can use the 24 inch bungee he shows in his video. I would suggest anyone wanting to review the ESS watch all 4 of John's videos covering ESS in their entirety and learn them inside out before doing a review on the saddle.
Excellent video. I recently received a custom saddle that is the best of both worlds of all the saddles in your review. It is similar to the mesh style Latitude 2 method. However it is mesh with a wider webbing on the top & bottom & is double pleated. U can really cover up your back simultaneously as well as the lower support system on your hamstring area. I can adjust the bridge (which I ordered a webbed bridge) to any length with no hip pinch. U can tell them on the order form what type of bridge style u like.
The saddle is made by Flat Branch Outdoors & the model is The Solitude 2.0. It is rated to 350 lbs. It passed through the testing with flying colors w/o any failure points. I have a couple of different brand saddles with clips for the leg loops. I'm not a big fan of that style. With the Solitude 2.0 it is much simpler to slide on & off. I ride a flat tire bike way back. I then ditch the bike & carry in all my gear. I don't even feel the saddle on me. I climb the tree with a 11.4 mm Samson Predator climbing rope. When I'm @ hunting height I just put an 8 mm oplux tether around the tree. Then I take a lanyard that I ordered through Flat Branch Outdoors which is 11.4 mm Predator rope & the vertical loops on the top of the saddle are in the ideal position to adjust the length of my lanyard. My Flat Branch order I requested 3D printer clips. I received 3 accessory clips along with a bow hanger. I made a 1" diameter webbed strap that has an adjustable clip on each end. I actually made 1 for a smaller tree & 1 for that size up to a tree with 3' more of circumference. Very easy to transfer 3D parts from 1 webbed strap to another. They fit even better after I stealth stripped them. The saddle & both the lanyard & 3D parts were all under the price of the Latitude 2 Method mesh saddle. I hope u are able to get your hands on 1 of these for a future video. Keep up the great work u do & happy hunting. 😊
Wow that is some great stuff! Very cool setup! Thanks for sharing and I hope to get my hands on the Solitude 2.0 now that you've brought it to my attention. Thank you for the comment and for watching!
Very informative film, great work. Do you have any of the saddels left for sale?
Thank you for the feedback, Kenneth! I appreciate you watching! I only have one saddle left. I have the Tactisaddle AdApT for sale. If you are interested just email me at madhunts2@gmail.com and I can send you more info.
Why the transformer over the archon? Those are my 2 finalists as well and I can't decide and I have never seen either in person .
Great question, Mark! However, the Archon actually scored higher (on my spreadsheet) than the Transformer. The Archon scored a 5 and the Transformer came in at 4.8 points. You can look at the spreadsheet and see all the pros/cons if you click on the link in the description. Either way, they are both great saddles. Thanks for watching!
Looking to get started in saddle hunting. Very informative and great at showing pros and cons of the different saddles. Got any still for sale?
Thanks
Thank you for the feedback, Duncan! I truly appreciate it and I'm glad it was helpful! I only have the Tactisaddle AdApT for sale at this point. If you're interested email me at madhunts2@gmail.com and I can get you more information.
Love the reviews would really love to be able to see the results but the Google drive document doesn't work
Thanks you, SeanBuckShot! I appreciate it. I fixed the link as well.
drive.google.com/file/d/1fe-OPcJwiCtreoa6dr32UqwQRrsNQlUs/view?usp=sharing
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Always save the best for last 😁
Haha! That wasn't intentional but the Archon is a great saddle. However, the Method 2 tied with the Archon in comfort and in overall points! Both are GREAT saddles!
I’m very curious to know - did you experience the same Raptor buckle noise that you mentioned with the Overwatch Outdoors saddle with the Tethrd ESS? My ESS buckle was extremely noisy - wondering if it’s a hit or miss situation with the buckles, or if they all seem to be noisy. Great review, thanks!
Great question, Matt! ...and sorry for the late response (I didn't see it until now). I don't recall any buckle noise with the ESS. I know the Raptor buckle is used on several different saddles and I don't usually have a noise problem with them so I think it's probably more of a hit or miss situation. Hope that helps! 👍🏼
Awesome review. I’m still hung up on my decision, but was at least able to eliminate a few. I have low back issues, and will be either going to a 2 panel in place of my current single panel or to a JX3 for the longer sits.
Thank you for the feedback, Kevin! Sorry to hear about the back issues! I can't comment on the JX3 yet but I can tell you that the Latitude Method 2 two-panel is awesome and very comfortable! I hope you find one that works perfect for you!
Great review! I'm looking at purchasing a saddle this year and I don't know wether to go with a single or double saddle. I believe, it would be a Cruzr either way, but looking for some advise/guidance. thanks in advance!
Thank you for the feedback and comment, Chris! I'm glad to help! CRUZR saddles are great and I truly love my CRUZR XC which is a single panel. With the new single panel saddles that are out on the market you should be fine doing either one (single or double).
The CRUZR Archon and the Latitude Method 2 are both great two-panel saddles. If I was going to buy a single panel it would be the CRUZR XC. ...but that's just my opinion. Hope that helps!
I’ve the cruzr arcon is as comfortable as the xc that’s one nice saddle I’m still loving the xc. Great review on all
Thank you, Brian! I appreciate you watching and commenting! Yeah the Archon is equally as comfortable as the XC! I love my XC as well!
Good review 👍, you have the dealers paying attention to you.
I'm disappointed with Cruzr archon not improving waist belt. Unless I missed something. My XC belt keeps working loose. Maybe cuz I'm a little soft in the middle. But a definite nusence. I'm leaning towards method 2. Thanks for review. Worth waiting for, before I made a purchase.
Haha! Well I'm just a little guy on the UA-cam scene so they have nothing to worry about. But as long as the saddle competition keeps growing we'll continue to see better and better saddles! That's a good thing!
I do know what you're talking about with the waist belt but I don't have any problems with it personally. But I can see how it might slip easier than other brands. Based on the few complaints I've heard about that that would be something I guess CRUZR could improve upon.
Thanks for watching!
Day after your review, I ordered a Latitude method 2, xl. Wow I received it today. Kudos to Latitude. Really like the waist belt, just like Huckleberry Finn. Just a tug on the rope and it stays up
@@donborg3331 😂 Yeah the Method 2 is SUPER sweet! One of my top favorites for sure! I'm sure you're going to love it!
You know Im going to have to ask. Are you going to be switching to a two panel or sticking with the single panel? Great reviews as always.
Haha! Great question, David! Honestly, I would love to keep the Method 2 and the Archon but I already have a great saddle (CRUZR XC) so I'm going to let them go. I've never been a two-panel guy but those two could definitely change my mind!
Thank you for watching and for the feedback!
Are any still available to purchase? Thanks in advance
Thanks for reaching out, shmeefers Bohannon! The only saddle I still have is the Tactisaddle AdApt. If you're interested just shoot me an email at madhunts2@gmail.com and I can discuss it with you. Thanks again!
got the method 2 as well its better then the method 1. it was a hard choice between the method 2 and the transformer but i was never able to get a transformer when i was shopping seems they are making them faster now but luv the method 2
Yeah I personally feel the Method 2 has a slight edge over the Transformer but both are really nice saddles. Sounds like you've got a good one!
Nice review, I like the method 2. I find the amsteel is a super glide. Thanks for the video very helpfull.
Thank you, Steve! I appreciate you watching! I really like the Method 2 as well!
I'm bummed you didn't include the Recon however, a great review of the other two panel saddles.
Thanks for the feedback, Rick! I didn't include the Recon because I already did a review on it...
ua-cam.com/video/moADh85AjwQ/v-deo.html
Thank you for watching! I appreciate it!
Still got any saddles for sale?
Thanks for asking, Chance! Glad I had one left for you! 👍🏼
Is the ESS for sale?
Hey, Will! Unfortunately the ESS has sold but thanks for reaching out!
Is the cruz for sale?
Unfortunately Jimmy, the Cruzr Archon has sold already but I do have a bunch still for sale at a discount.
@@madhuntsadventures
Thank you but that's the one I'm looking for.
@@jimmybradley6654 Okay no problem! Great saddle and I hope you find one!