Make sure any ratchets used with straps are in good operating condition. It is especially important for ratchets to snap and lock securely. Be sure they are free of rust and the clinch straps are wound on properly. Many locking systems also use S-hooks to help secure ladders and stands to the tree. Be sure all such hooks or rings are free of rust and have no nicks or wear marks.

Also, make sure every point in the stand or ladder intended for snap pins or locking pins has them in place, and make sure the pins are in good repair and working properly.

The crimps where extension ladders join are important, too. They should fit tightly, and pin holes should line up properly once the sections are fully seated. Make sure the holes are round, and have not been worn to an oval shape from wear. Check all such connections on stands and ladders as well as ladder support bars.

ACCESS SYSTEMS
Several different types of systems have become popular and are used to access stands other than ladders, particularly screw-in steps (where legal) and climbing sticks. The biggest problem I have noticed with screw-in steps is the threads sometimes become coated with sap and sawdust after repeated use. Make sure the threads are clean to ensure ease of installation and a solid grip.

Some screw-in steps are designed to fold after use. The pivot point is the most crucial here. If a pin is involved, make sure it is in good condition and free of rust.

Where screw-in steps are prohibited, steps or climbing sticks (with ropes that have to be tied to the stand or tree) or straps equipped with ratchets must be used to secure the steps to the tree.

Be sure ropes or straps are not frayed or cut and that all components are good condition, and test ratchets to be sure they operate smoothly and lock securely.

On climbing sticks featuring steps welded to a main frame, inspect the welded connections for breaks or cracks, as you should on ladders and stands.

Finally, keep in mind that it is best to store stands and other metal components in a dry place after the season. Doing so will help protect the metal and fabric parts from the degradations of the elements and help ensure that they will provide years of reliable service.

GROUND BLINDS
Many sportsmen hunt from the ground these days using some kind of ground blind. I built a simple hiding place on my property a few years ago using materials collected on or near the site, and have taken several deer from it.

But even blinds made of natural materials require refurbishing each year. Most such blinds have no floor, so I clear away leaves and other debris that have collected between seasons and move rocks, roots and other troublesome obstacles.

Two seasons ago, I purchased some camouflage fabric and made a portable blind that can easily be set up and taken down, and stores easily in a dry corner of the garage after the season ends.

Modern pop-up blinds are compact and portable, and most are built with materials that are practically maintenance free. Most offer a water-resistant nylon outer shell, an interior shadow guard and several mesh-covered shooting ports. Some are even wheelchair accessible.

A hunting buddy of mine owns one and said the only things you might want to inspect prior to the season are the frames that make them pop up or erect properly, and after a few seasons of service, the outer shell may need a fresh treatment of waterproofing.

Maintenance is not the most popular word in the sportsman's lexicon and often is interpreted to mean a lot of time-consuming work, but most routine stand and blind repairs take only a few minutes. Remember, proper maintenance is important -- it can prevent you from becoming another statistic, perhaps even save your life!