XOP Rubicon 9.6 Lb Cast Aluminum Hang On Treestand - Ultralight

In this review the XOP Rubicon treestand is judged as a focused option for hunters who prioritize portability and low impact on trees. The single biggest reason to consider it is its ultralight cast aluminum construction paired with a chamfered tooth profile, which together make the stand easy to carry into heavy cover while minimizing damage to the tree. The reviewer found it especially useful for still-hunters who walk long distances and need a compact, reliable hang on treestand that still offers traction and a level seat on leaning trunks.

Key Features

• Ultralight cast aluminum: The low weight makes long approaches and multiple setups in the field much less tiring without sacrificing structural strength.
• Chamfered tooth profile: The teeth are designed to bite with less bark damage, which helps preserve trees and keeps the stand more discreet in public or pressured areas.
• EVO-TRAC traction: The platform surface provides confident footing in wet or cold conditions so footing does not become a distraction while glassing or mounting a shot.
• Adjustable seat and platform: Both can be leveled to compensate for leaning trees, improving comfort and hunter stability during long sits.
• Quick-Lock transportation shelf: The shelf speeds rigging for carry and stows the stand compactly for easier pack or backpack transport.

Who It's For

The XOP Rubicon is best for mobile deer hunters who cover ground on foot and need a small, light treestand that fits into dense cover. It suits anyone who values minimizing tree damage and wants a stable perch with good traction in variable weather. The compact platform and mesh seat favor hunters who accept a tighter sitting area in exchange for portability.

Hunters who need a large platform, extended seat comfort for ladder-style installs, or who prefer heavier duty all-steel construction should look elsewhere. Likewise, if you require accessory rails or extra storage capacity, a larger hang on or ladder stand will be a better choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very light for carrying into distant or tight stand locations without excessive effort.
• Chamfered teeth reduce tree impact, which is useful in pressured hunting areas and for conservation-minded users.
• EVO-TRAC surface keeps traction secure in wet or cold conditions, boosting confidence when moving on the platform.

Cons

• Small platform size limits movement and gear storage compared with larger stands, so it is less comfortable for extended sits.

Specifications

Product type	Hang on treestand
Construction material	Cast aluminum
Weight	9.6 lb
Platform	Small, EVO-TRAC traction surface
Seat	Mesh seat, adjustable
Finish	Durable abrasion-resistant powder coat
Transport feature	Quick-Lock transportation shelf

Our Verdict

The XOP Rubicon is a solid pick for hunters who need a light, low-impact hang on treestand that is easy to carry into thick cover and offers good traction and leveling ability on leaning trees. It delivers clear value for mobile hunters, though those wanting a larger platform or more comfort should consider bigger stands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this stand easy to carry for long approaches?
Yes, at 9.6 lb the cast aluminum construction keeps weight low for long hikes and tight access through cover.

Will the stand damage trees?
The chamfered tooth profile is designed to reduce bark impact compared with more aggressive teeth, helping minimize visible damage.

Can the platform be leveled on leaning trees?
Yes, the adjustable seat and platform allow leveling to improve comfort and stability on uneven trunks.