Tree Stand Shot Angle Calculator

Find line-of-sight distance, shot angle, and horizontal aim distance from a tree stand

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I aim for the line-of-sight or horizontal distance?

Aim for the horizontal distance. Gravity acts only on the horizontal component of the shot, so even though the line-of-sight looks longer, holding for the shorter horizontal distance prevents shooting high.

Why do I shoot high from a tall tree stand?

The steeper the downward angle, the more the line-of-sight distance exceeds the horizontal distance. If you range and hold for the line-of-sight number, your arrow or bullet drops less than expected and hits high.

When is the angle correction negligible?

At gentle angles, a low stand with a long shot, the line-of-sight and horizontal distances are nearly equal, so almost no correction is needed. The effect grows sharply with tall stands and close targets.

What safety gear should I use in a tree stand?

Always wear a full-body harness connected to the tree from the ground up, use a lifeline, and haul your unloaded weapon up by rope after you are secured. Falls are a leading cause of hunting injury.

Fishing & Hunting Disclaimer: Estimates only. Verify regulations and practice safety.

This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. Bag limits, seasons, legal methods, and equipment rules vary by state and locality and change frequently, so always confirm current regulations with your state wildlife agency before fishing or hunting. Follow all firearm and tree-stand safety practices.