What was recalled
In the spring of 2019, DICK’S Sporting Goods initiated a significant safety recall concerning a specific line of hunting equipment designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The products at the center of this notice are the Field & Stream Timberline Hang On Tree Stands. These stands were marketed toward hunters who rely on elevated positions to observe or wait for game, making the structural integrity of the product a matter of personal safety rather than mere convenience. The recall was officially announced on April 11, 2019, after the company identified a critical manufacturing flaw that compromised the reliability of these units in the field.
To help you determine if your equipment is part of this specific batch, it is essential to look closely at the physical details of the tree stand. The recalled items are characterized by a brown metal frame paired with a black canvas seat. This color scheme was intended to blend into woodland environments, but for verification purposes, the branding and model identifiers are key. You must check the arm of the tree stand, specifically located in the area between the seat and the safety platform. Here, you will find a unique alphanumeric code printed directly onto the metal. The code begins with the sequence "HEH01566." This is followed by one of two possible suffixes: either "FS080117" or "FS090117." If your stand does not display this exact combination of codes, it is likely not part of the recalled lot.
Additionally, you should inspect the canvas seat itself. The brand name "Field & Stream" is printed on the bottom of the black canvas material. While this branding confirms the manufacturer, it is the metal arm codes that definitively identify whether your specific unit is subject to this recall. These stands were sold through DICK’S Sporting Goods retail locations and their Field & Stream branded stores. The company has received three reports regarding these specific units where the structural components failed, prompting the decision to pull them from use entirely. It is important to note that while the exact total number of units included in this recall is not specified in the immediate public record provided, the scope is limited to the Timberline Hang On models with the identified codes. If you purchased these stands during the relevant sales period and they match the physical description above, they are part of this safety action.
The decision to issue this recall stems from a clear pattern of failure in the manufacturing process. The specific components that failed were the welds on the seats. In normal use, the seat bears the full weight of a hunter, often for extended periods. When the weld fails, the entire seating platform detaches from the main structure of the tree stand. This is not a minor defect; it is a catastrophic structural failure. By identifying the exact models and codes involved, DICK’S Sporting Goods aims to ensure that only the affected units are returned, allowing consumers with other Field & Stream products to continue using them safely while those with the defective Timberline stands take immediate corrective action.
The hazard, explained
When you are hundreds of feet off the ground, perched on a narrow platform deep in the woods, your safety depends entirely on the integrity of every single component holding you up. In the case of these recalled DICK’S Sporting Goods tree stands, the critical failure point is not the rope tying the stand to the tree or the hooks gripping the bark, but rather the welds on the seat itself. A weld is essentially a metal joint where two pieces of steel have been fused together under intense heat to create a single, solid unit. In high-quality manufacturing, this bond must be strong enough to withstand not just your body weight, but also the dynamic forces generated when you shift your balance, reach for game, or adjust your position. The recall notice indicates that these specific welds on the Hunters' Tree Stands are prone to breaking. This is a serious structural flaw because it means the connection between the seat and the rest of the stand framework is compromised from the start, or weakens rapidly under normal use.
Physically, what happens next is both sudden and dangerous. When the weld fails, it does not typically bend or sag gradually; it snaps. This causes the canvas seat to detach completely from the metal frame and fall away from the tree. Because you are likely sitting directly on that seat, you lose your primary support surface instantly. Without the seat to hold you, gravity takes over immediately. For many hunters, this results in a freefall from whatever height the stand was placed—often 15 to 30 feet or more. Even if you are wearing a safety harness, the shock of that sudden drop can cause significant injury. You might strike your head on a branch, twist an ankle or knee upon landing, or suffer back injuries from the impact. The trauma is not just from the height but from the unpredictability; you have no time to brace yourself or catch yourself because the support vanishes in a split second.
It is important to understand why this class of hazard is particularly insidious for hunting equipment. Tree stands are designed to be static platforms, yet hunters are rarely still. You lean forward to aim, shift your weight to look around, or brace against the wind. These movements place uneven stress on the welds. If a weld is weak, it may hold up during a gentle sit but fail under the torque of a sudden movement. The fact that there have already been three reported incidents of these seats breaking suggests that this is not a rare anomaly but a predictable failure mode for this specific model. The danger is amplified by the environment; you are in an uncontrolled, natural setting with hard ground, rocks, and tree trunks below. There is no emergency response team hovering nearby to catch you if your seat gives way while you are alone in the forest. This is why CPSC issues these recalls with such urgency: they are addressing a latent defect that turns a tool for patience into an instrument of accidental trauma at any moment.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of hunters who have purchased and are actively using the Field & Stream Timberline Hang On Tree Stands. These products are specifically designed for outdoor enthusiasts who spend hours stationary in elevated positions, often in remote or wooded areas. The individuals involved are typically adults engaged in hunting activities, where patience and stability are paramount. Because these tree stands are hung from trees to provide a vantage point for spotting game, the user is inherently placed in a precarious position, relying entirely on the structural integrity of the stand’s components, particularly the welds on the seat, to maintain their safety.
While the CPSC reports no injuries to date, the potential severity of a fall from a tree stand cannot be overstated. The individuals most vulnerable to serious harm are those who may be less agile or have reduced bone density, such as older adults or those with pre-existing physical conditions. A fall from even a moderate height can result in significant trauma, including fractures, head injuries, or internal damage. Hunters who rely on these stands for their livelihood or deep personal passion may find themselves in difficult terrain after a fall, potentially exacerbating the situation due to delayed access to medical care. The psychological impact of such an event should also not be underestimated; a sudden mechanical failure can cause shock and disorientation, leading to secondary injuries.
Another critical factor is the nature of the hazard itself. The weld on the seat is a point of high stress, especially when the user shifts their weight, adjusts their position, or experiences the jolt of an animal moving nearby. Hunters who may be carrying heavy gear, such as bows or firearms, are at increased risk because the added weight can place additional strain on the already vulnerable weld points. Furthermore, users who have owned these stands for several years may not realize that metal fatigue can set in over time, making them particularly susceptible to sudden failure without warning signs like visible cracks or bending.
It is also important to note that anyone who has lent or given one of these specific tree stands to a friend or family member is indirectly at risk. If the recipient is unaware of the recall, they could be using a defective product under the assumption that it is safe. This highlights the importance of not just checking your own gear but also communicating with others who might have acquired these models through secondhand markets, gift exchanges, or shared equipment pools. The risk extends beyond the original purchaser to anyone who interacts with the physical object, making awareness and immediate cessation of use a collective responsibility within hunting communities.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your tree stand is part of this specific recall requires a close and careful inspection of the physical product itself. Because DICK’S Sporting Goods sold these items through multiple retail channels, simply knowing where you bought it might not be enough on its own. You need to verify the specific markings printed directly on the stand to confirm it matches the affected models. The primary product involved in this recall is the Field & Stream Timberline Hang On Tree Stand. If your stand does not bear the "Field & Stream" branding, it is likely not part of this specific safety notice, but it is still worth double-checking.
The most reliable way to identify the recalled unit is by looking at the metal arm structure of the tree stand. This is typically the main horizontal or angled support bar that connects the seat area to the rest of the frame. On this arm, you will find a specific alphanumeric code printed clearly. Look for the sequence "HEH01566" followed immediately by either "FS080117" or "FS090117". This combination is unique to the affected batches. If you do not see this exact string of characters, your stand is probably safe from this particular defect. However, if you see "HEH01566" paired with one of those two date-based codes, you must stop using the product immediately.
In addition to the code on the arm, check the seat itself for branding confirmation. The canvas seat should have "Field & Stream" printed on its bottom side. This helps confirm that you are indeed looking at the Timberline model rather than a different product line from DICK’S Sporting Goods or Field & Stream. Visually, these stands are described as being made of brown metal with a black canvas seat. They are designed for hunters to hang in trees, so if your stand is a different color scheme, such as camouflage patterns on the metal or a different fabric color, it may not be included in this recall, though you should still verify the codes.
These items were sold at DICK’S Sporting Goods and Field & Stream stores across the United States. They were available both in physical retail locations and through online channels. The sale period for these specific models is not detailed in the current recall facts, so if you do not have a receipt or know the exact purchase date, rely heavily on the physical codes mentioned above. If you cannot find the "HEH01566" code or the "Field & Stream" branding on the seat bottom, it is highly probable that your tree stand is not part of this recall. However, when in doubt, it is always safer to contact DICK’S Sporting Goods directly for verification rather than risking a fall.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Field & Stream Timberline Hang On Tree Stands, the most important thing you can do is stop using it immediately. This is not a situation where you should wait for the next hunting season or try to "make do" until the weld gives out completely. The hazard here is sudden and structural; the weld on the seat can break without warning, causing the entire seat to detach from the tree stand while you are positioned in it. To ensure your safety, please follow these concrete steps to resolve the issue and get your money back. First, carefully inspect the tree stand you have at home. Look specifically for the identification codes printed on the arm of the stand, located between the seat and the safety platform. You need to see if the letters "HEH01566" are followed by either "FS080117" or "FS090117". Additionally, check the bottom of the black canvas seat to confirm that "Field & Stream" is printed there. If these markings match, you definitely have a recalled unit. Do not attempt to weld or repair the stand yourself, as this will not address the underlying manufacturing defect and may void your remedy options. Next, prepare to return the item. You have two convenient options for processing your recall: you can take the tree stand to the nearest DICK's Sporting Goods store or a Field & Stream retail location. Both retailers are authorized to handle these returns. If you happen to have your original receipt, bring it with you. Having this proof of purchase is crucial because it guarantees you will receive a full cash refund. However, if you cannot find your receipt, do not panic. DICK's Sporting Goods has a policy in place for this exact scenario; consumers without a receipt will still be helped, but they will receive store credit instead of a direct cash refund. This ensures you are not left out of pocket, even if the paperwork is missing. Finally, if you have questions or need assistance locating a return center, you can contact DICK’S Sporting Goods directly. Call their toll-free number at 877-846-9997. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to midnight ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit www.dickssportinggoods.com and click on the “Recalls” link located at the bottom of the page for more detailed online information. By taking these steps promptly, you eliminate the risk of a fall injury and secure your financial reimbursement in a straightforward manner.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified that your Field & Stream Timberline Hang On Tree Stand is part of this recall, the good news is that the remedy offered by DICK’S Sporting Goods is straightforward and consumer-friendly. The company has chosen not to offer a repair kit or a replacement unit, but rather a full financial resolution. This approach is often preferred in cases where the structural integrity of a product—specifically the weld on the seat—is compromised. Attempting to weld a broken joint in the field or even at home can be dangerous and may not restore the original safety standards. Therefore, the safest path forward is to remove the item from your possession entirely and receive compensation for your purchase.
Your primary option is to return the recalled tree stand to any nearby DICK’s Sporting Goods or Field & Stream store. This physical return process is designed to be seamless. Upon bringing the item back, you will be offered either a full refund or store credit, depending on whether you can produce your original proof of purchase. If you have your receipt, you are entitled to a complete refund of the amount you originally paid. This means you get your money back exactly as it was spent, allowing you to choose any other hunting gear or outdoor equipment that meets your needs without financial penalty.
Losing a receipt can be stressful, but DICK’S Sporting Goods has accounted for this common scenario. If you do not have your receipt, you will not be left with nothing. Instead of a cash refund, the store will provide you with store credit. This credit is typically issued in an amount equivalent to the current selling price of the item or the price paid if verified through other means. While store credit locks you back into their ecosystem, it ensures that you are not out of pocket for a defective product and can still invest in safe, reliable hunting equipment from their inventory.
To initiate this process or if you prefer to handle logistics before visiting a store, you can contact DICK’S Sporting Goods directly. You may call their toll-free number at 877-846-9997. These customer service representatives are available from 8 a.m. to midnight ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit www.dickssportinggoods.com and navigate to the “Recalls” section located at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions and further assistance. Do not attempt to fix the weld yourself; the risk of sudden failure while suspended in a tree is too great to ignore.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might be tempted to keep using your tree stand. Perhaps you have already invested significant time and money into preparing your hunting spot. Maybe the weather is perfect, and you do not want to miss this specific window for harvest. Or perhaps you simply believe that because no one has been hurt yet, the risk must be low. These feelings are natural, but they can be dangerously misleading when it comes to equipment with structural failures. Ignoring a recall notice is not just about violating a company policy; it is about exposing yourself and your companions to a severe, unpredictable physical danger that you have no control over.
The core issue here is the integrity of the weld on the seat. Welds are critical connection points in metal structures. When a weld fails, it does not usually give a warning sign like a creak or a wobble beforehand. It can remain stable for hours, days, or even weeks, leading you to believe the stand is perfectly safe. Then, without any prior indication, the metal bond snaps. Because the seat is the primary platform that supports your entire body weight, its sudden detachment means there is no longer any barrier between you and the ground. You are not just losing your equipment; you are losing your support system at a critical moment.
The consequences of this failure are almost exclusively related to falls from height. While the recall report notes that DICK’S Sporting Goods has received three reports of seats breaking with no reported injuries, it is crucial to understand that the absence of injury in past reports does not guarantee safety for future users. Falls from tree stands can result in a wide range of serious outcomes, depending on the height of the stand, the terrain below, and how you land. These consequences can include broken bones, such as fractured hips or wrists, which can take months to heal and may require surgery. In more severe cases, falls can lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or even fatal accidents. The unpredictability of these outcomes is what makes the hazard so dangerous; you cannot "try it once" to see if it holds.
Furthermore, consider the emotional and logistical toll of such an accident. If a fall occurs while you are hunting, especially in remote areas, you may be far from immediate medical help. This can turn a manageable injury into a life-threatening emergency due to delayed treatment. Additionally, the stress and trauma associated with a near-miss or actual fall can ruin the experience for you and your hunting partners, creating lasting anxiety about outdoor activities rather than the enjoyment you sought.
Finally, ignoring the recall undermines the entire safety net that manufacturers and regulators provide. The recall exists because the company has identified a pattern of failure that affects all units of this model, not just the ones that have already broken. By continuing to use the stand, you are gambling with your physical well-being on the hope that your specific unit will be the exception. Given that the hazard is inherent in the design and manufacturing process, there is no logical reason to believe your unit will hold up any better than the three that have already failed. The safest choice is always to remove the risk entirely by returning the product.
Staying safe: broader tips
When it comes to hunting equipment like tree stands, the environment you are working in is inherently unpredictable. Trees are living, breathing structures that shift with wind, temperature changes, and the weight of the gear they hold. Because of this, relying solely on a manufacturer’s initial setup is rarely enough for long-term safety. One of the most critical habits you can develop is regular pre-use inspection. Before you ever climb into any elevated hunting stand, take a moment to examine every connection point. Look specifically for signs of metal fatigue, such as hairline cracks near welds or bolts, and check that all safety straps are free from fraying or UV damage. If you notice anything unusual, do not hesitate to step down. It is far better to miss a single shot than to compromise your physical safety. The cost of replacing a worn strap is negligible compared to the risk of a fall.
Equally important is understanding that "hang-on" stands require more than just a sturdy tree; they require a compatible and properly maintained mounting system. The integrity of your stand depends heavily on the ratchet straps or cables you use to secure it. Over time, these components can stretch or corrode, especially if left exposed to rain and snow during transport or storage. Consider investing in high-quality, weather-resistant accessories designed specifically for hunting gear. Regularly lubricate moving parts like hinges and ratchets to ensure they function smoothly under load. This proactive maintenance prevents the kind of mechanical failure that can occur when a weld is stressed by uneven tension or rusted components.
Beyond the equipment itself, your personal preparation plays a massive role in preventing accidents. Always use a full-body fall arrest system that includes both a harness and a separate lifeline attached to the tree above you, independent of the stand’s structure. This dual-system approach ensures that even if the stand fails, you remain secured to the tree. Additionally, never hunt alone if possible, and always let someone know your location and expected return time. Regularly reviewing official recall notices from agencies like the CPSC is also a vital part of responsible ownership. By staying informed about known defects in various brands and models, you can make smarter decisions about which gear to trust with your safety. Ultimately, treating your hunting setup with the same respect you would give to climbing gear can make the difference between a memorable experience and a hazardous one.