Review: Millennium M100U Ultralite Hang-On Treestand

If you’re anything like me when it comes to hunting gear, you probably have a bit of a love-hate relationship with new products. On one hand, you’re certainly willing to try almost anything once. But on the other, in order to take the place of your tried-and-true equipment and become a permanent fixture in your repertoire, something about a new product is going to have to blow you away.

For me, once such instance happened at the ATA Show several years ago when I simply wanted to grab a quick bite to eat before heading to my next meeting. The tables were full in the convention center dining area, so I walked a few extra feet down the concourse where Millennium Treestands had set up a few of their ground benches for anyone that needed a quick five. Good marketing strategy! From the moment I sat down, I knew I was going to visit their booth the first chance I got. If they could make sitting on a bench that comfortable, just imagine how they could improve all-day sits in a tree that fall!

Fast forward to today, and that’s exactly what I’ve found they’ve done. Over the past several years, I’ve tested a number of Millennium models — none of which were lacking in the comfort department. And to take it a step further, at this point I’d be genuinely shocked if a product with the Millennium logo on it didn’t provide a comfortable hunting experience.

This past fall, the M100U Ultralite was the latest to meet every expectation that I had. Not surprisingly — as per usual — it starts with how comfortable you are in the tree. That comes directly from the ComfortMAX seat — a patented design that comes with side straps and a full back that will allow you to stay in the stand for as long as you desire. Have you been missing some of the best hunting hours of the day because you simply can’t stay in the tree any longer? This is the remedy. The other great aspect to come from this seat is that you don’t have to worry about the weather when you’re not in the tree. Rainwater, morning dew, etc. — none of it will collect, meaning that you know you’ll be good to go next time you climb in and sit down in the dark.

If the M100U Ultralite sounds familiar to you, well, you’re probably thinking of Millennium’s classic M100. So, what’s the difference? The M100U features a powder-coated aluminum-frame construction, which brings me directly to another important part of this review — weight, or lack thereof! At just 13.5 pounds (20 percent lighter than the original M100), it’s a breeze to carry — particularly if you choose to utilize the included backpack straps. That weight also plays a big role in hanging the stand. Not only will it help immensely with initial setup, but it means the decision to move your stand to a different spot during the course of deer season doesn’t seem nearly as daunting as it would in the past.

Additionally, the majority of bowhunters like to shoot from the standing position. That being said, you’ll certainly appreciate a seat that folds up when the moment of truth arrives. You’ll have plenty of room to maneuver with the entire 20x38-inch platform at your disposal. Also of note, the seat measures in at 20x16 inches, and is 17 inches tall. If you like to shoot from a seated position like myself, you can comfortably turn from side to side with no obstructions. Likewise, whether I was sitting or standing, there were no noticeable creaks or unwanted sounds the entire time I was in the stand.

Included with every purchase is a SafeLink to keep you locked in at all times when ascending up the tree or descending to the ground. The CamLock Chain Receiver — a tool tasked with ensuring your stand is securely fastened to the tree — also comes with every stand. These two products are a very important piece of the puzzle from a safety perspective and shouldn’t be overlooked in the least!

If you’ve purchased a Millennium stand in the past, there’s probably nothing written here that’s news to you. But if you have a need for a new hang-on stand for the upcoming season — and let’s be honest, who couldn’t use another one? — this is absolutely where I’d advise you to begin your search. You won’t be disappointed. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that a second purchase might come sooner than you think after trying one for yourself. Besides, how else are bowhunters expected to spend their stimulus checks? MSRP: $259.99 | millenniumstands.com