DIY: Make the Cadillac of Tree Saddle Knee Support

Even though the season just ended, I’ve been laser-focused lately on dialing in my setup for my tree saddle. My preference is to go without kneepads lately and I’ve been inspired by some others to attach some cushioning to the tree instead.

Hunt Comfort has been my go-to cushion for some time. I have an Outpost on my Lone Wolf Alpha II and I frequently carry a Hunt Comfort Scout for just about any extended sit, whether it be for turkey or predators on the ground or for some extra support when fishing out of the kayak all day. This project shows how to add a versatile strap to the Scout so it can be attached to a tree, strapped to a bench, or used as a sling.

Materials Needed

• Hunt Comfort Scout

• 3/4″ Webbing

• 3/4″ Aluminum G-Hook

• 550 Paracord

• Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

• Heavy Duty Polyester Thread

Step 1: Tie Two Fixed Loops from Paracord

Using a double-fisherman’s knot, tie a small fixed loop in a length of paracord. Tie another one of similar size so you have one for each side of the cushion. Keep the loops as small as possible. [00:00:11]

Step 2: Cut Two Lengths of 3/4″ Webbing

Cut an 8″ length and a 60″ length of 3/4″ webbing. These two pieces will form the basis for your attachment strap. [00:02:00]

Step 3: Attach the 8″ Webbing to a Paracord Loop

Fold one end of the 8″ webbing around the double-fisherman’s knot of one paracord loop. Secure it with at least two bar tacks. You can form a bar tack by stitching and backstitching multiple passes over the webbing. [00:01:05]

• Tip: For sewing bar tacks on a Singer Heavy Duty, use a heavy-duty needle and polyester thread. Recommended settings: length of 4, width of 0, and tension of 6.

Step 4: Sew a Fixed Loop in the 8″ Webbing

With one end secured to the paracord, fold the tag end to meet the secured end and secure it with two more bar tacks. Position these so that a fixed loop of webbing is formed at the fold. This loop is what the G-hook will eventually latch into. [00:01:40]

Step 5: Attach the 60″ Webbing to a Paracord Loop

Attach one end of the 60″ webbing to the second paracord loop using the same method as Step 3. [00:02:04]

Step 6: Attach the G-Hook to the 60″ Webbing

Thread the G-hook onto the free end of the 60″ webbing. Fold over the very end of the webbing and secure it with a single bar tack. This "stopper" ensures the G-hook doesn't slide off the strap. [00:02:13]

Step 7: Attach the Paracord Loops to the Hunt Comfort Scout

The Scout cushion features built-in snaps on the sides. Open these snaps, slide your paracord loops inside, and snap them shut to secure the straps to the seat. [00:02:32]

Step 8: Secure It to the Tree

Wrap the long 60" webbing around the tree, slide the G-hook into the fixed webbing loop on the 8" side, and pull the excess webbing to snug the cushion against the bark. I recommend pushing your knees into the cushion while tightening to ensure it’s at the perfect height and tension. [00:03:03]

Wrapping Up

This setup is incredibly comfortable for saddle hunting as it allows the cushion to wrap slightly around the tree, providing a soft surface for your knees. To remove it, just pull the G-hook to release the tension. It even works as a convenient shoulder sling for carrying the cushion to and from the woods. Hope it helps y'all!