Which XOP Climbing Sticks Are Right for You

When it comes to mobile hunting, your climbing sticks are as critical as your bow or boots. Choose wrong, and every ounce, step, and second in the dark becomes a liability. Choose right, and you're up the tree, locked in, and ready before shooting light. If you’re running and gunning whitetails on public land or dialing in a deadly semi-permanent set, XOP has a climbing stick system built to match your mission. Here's the tactical breakdown.

Why Climbing Stick Choice Matters

Climbing sticks might seem like a straightforward tool, but every detail matters—weight, standoff, step width, modularity, and ease of stacking all factor into real-world use. Are you covering miles on foot to get away from pressure? Are you hunting rut funnels that require quiet climbs in the dark? Or are you setting up multiple pre-hung locations on private land? Match your gear to the grind, and you’ll move smarter, quieter, and safer.

Every step of the climb needs to be fast, quiet, and rock solid. A bad stick setup introduces clanking metal, sketchy footing, or bulk you can’t manage with a stand and pack strapped to your back. That’s why XOP’s lineup matters: they’ve refined their designs around true field use—not the showroom.

The XOP Climbing Stick Lineup (2025)

XOP currently offers five climbing stick models designed for different styles of hunting. Below, we’ll walk through each option, who it’s best for, and what separates it from the rest.

1. XOP HYDRO

• Price: Varies by vendor

• Weight: ~18 oz per stick
  
  

• Material: I7 proprietary alloy
  
  

• Step Width: 9.5"
  
  

• Step Spacing: 14"
  
  

• Weight Rating: 300 lbs
  
  

• Locking System: REACTOR 3-step aider system included
  
  

Best for: Ultralight mobile hunters prioritizing efficiency and low-profile gear.

The HYDRO stick is engineered for the backcountry hunter. Weighing just 18 oz per stick and coming with a built-in aider system, HYDRO lets you get higher with fewer pieces of gear. The 14-inch spacing is the tightest in the XOP lineup, offering better control and comfort during the climb—especially when wearing heavy layers or in tight spots.

Its proprietary alloy build keeps it featherlight without sacrificing strength. But with a 300 lb rating (vs. the 350 lb standard on other sticks), you'll want to double-check your total load if you’re hauling heavy gear.

Why it stands out: For long hikes, minimalist saddle hunting, or fast-paced public land moves, HYDRO gives you ultra-efficient climbing in the smallest footprint.

2. XOP X2

• Price: $139.99
  
  

• Weight: 26 oz per stick
  
  

• Material: Lightweight aluminum (7075/6061)
  
  

• Step Width: 10"
  
  

• Step Spacing: 17"
  
  

• Stand-Off: Optimized for large boots
  
  

• Locking System: Slide-Lock stacking
  
  

• Weight Rating: 350 lbs
  
  

Best for: Hardcore mobile hunters packing deep into public land.

The X2 is built for bowhunters who chase whitetails where most won't go. Lightweight, tough, and quick to deploy. The 17-inch step spacing means fewer sticks, which helps when packing for distance. Wide steps, strong standoff, and easy stacking make it a go-to for mobile, minimalist setups.

Why it’s a favorite: Dead quiet, featherlight, and fast to deploy. Perfect for saddle hunters and public land roamers who demand low profile gear.

3. XOP X3 (4-Pack)

• Price: $199.99
  
  

• Weight: ~2.6 lbs per stick
  
  

• Step Width: 10"
  
  

• Step Spacing: 15"
  
  

• Stand-Off: 5"
  
  

• Length: ~32"
  
  

• Weight Rating: 350 lbs
  
  

Best for: Semi-mobile hunters who prioritize durability and security.

The X3 bridges the gap between ultralight and durable. If you’re hitting the same few trees repeatedly or hunting private ground with seasonal pressure, these sticks offer strong footing and quick setup. Great pairing with lock-on stands for fixed but flexible sets.

Why it’s dependable: You can hammer these in rough terrain and hunt confidently season after season.

4. LMO4 (3-Pack)

• Price: $99.99 (on sale from $119.99)
  
  

• Weight: ~3.3 lbs per stick
  
  

• Step Width: 5"
  
  

• Step Spacing: 15"
  
  

• Locking System: Quarter-Turn Lock
  
  

• Weight Rating: 350 lbs
  
  

Best for: Budget-conscious hunters or those needing more height in fewer sticks.

LMO4 is a solid pick for new hunters or cost-aware gear setups. With a longer design and solid lock system, you can reach solid height quickly. The steps are narrower than higher-end sticks, but it’s a fair trade for the price.

Why it’s useful: Reliable, no-frills performance for guys who want height without the premium price.

Comparison Chart

Field-Tested Advice

• Weight vs Height: More spacing means fewer sticks, but harder climbing. Know your limits in cold weather.
  
  

• Step Width: Wider = better boot stability. Great in late season.
  
  

• Standoff: Good clearance keeps feet planted and bark quiet.
  
  

• Stacking Systems: Slide-Lock and Quarter-Turn save time and noise.
  
  

• Tree Fit: Always check tree diameter compatibility—especially for gnarly public trees.
  
  

Safety note: Always use a lineman's belt and inspect all gear preseason. Tree hunting is safe—if your system is bombproof.

Final Word

Choosing the right climbing sticks isn’t about brand—it’s about mission. Whether you’re ghosting through public land transitions or locking into a pre-rut pinch point, your stick setup has to work with you, not against you.

• Pick HYDRO for ultra-light mobility and minimalist saddle hunts.
  
  

• Go X2 for public land stealth and speed.
  
  

• Choose X3 for strength and repeatability.
  
  

• Grab LMO4 for budget-friendly reach.
  
  
  

Climb smart. Hunt harder. Be where other hunters won’t go—and stay there until it pays off.