Rivers Edge BIG FOOT XL User manual

Operator's Manual
RE551
BIG FOOT™ XL
GAS/OIL
RATIO
50:1
P/N: 18059
REV4: 04/04/16
© 2016 RETI
All Rights Reserved
Get parts online at
www.HuntRiversEdge.com
Wear Your
Harness!
Maximum Field Rating - 300 lb
Tree Diameter Range - 8" to 20"

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-52
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
CONTENTS
Introduction/Contents/Warranty ..............................................................................................................................................................................................2
Warnings.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................3-4
Inspection and Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................................................................................4
Assembly Instructions ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................5-6
Set Up and Use Instructions ....................................................................................................................................................................................................6-7
Threading the Float Buckle..........................................................................................................................................................................................................8
Notes Page.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
Parts Explosion and Parts List ............................................................................................................................................................................................10-11
INTRODUCTION
Rivers Edge® Treestands are engineered with you the hunter in mind. We appreciate your purchase of one of our world
class treestands. Follow these few simple instructions and your stand will provide you many years of trouble-free
pleasure. Instructions should be kept in a safe place and reviewed at least annually.
If for any reason you have a problem with your product, DO NOT return to the retailer, contact the Rivers Edge®
customer service department at 800-450-EDGE (3343) for assistance.
WARRANTY
RETI oers a one year warranty for all components of the treestand. These warranties apply to the original owner with a proof of purchase. These warranties
begin on the date of purchase by the rst retail consumer and continue for the period specied above. These warranties apply to products that are not
modied, abused or used in a manner that deviates from the product’s intended usage. Minor fading in color is normal and is not covered by warranty.
Any corrosion of painted surfaces that occurs as a result of paint being removed or damaged is also not covered by warranty. RETI oers no other warranty
expressed or implied. Products for which warranty work has been approved must be sent directly to RETI and performed by RETI. To obtain warranty service
and/or replacement instructions, you must obtain prior approval from RETI before shipping your package to us by calling our customer service
department at 800-450-3343 or by writing to: RETI, P.O. Box 755, 1160 Eighth Avenue, Cumberland, WI 54829 for a return material authorization
number (RMA#). All items must be shipped prepaid. RETI will, at no charge, repair or replace, in RETI’s sole discretion, any product that satises the conditions
stated above. RETI retains the right to change models, specications and price without notice.
This equipment has been manufactured under strict quality and safety guidelines. As with any equipment of this type, full understanding of the instructions
and its use is mandatory and imperative for the safety of its user. RETI is not responsible for any damages or injuries sustained due to improper use or
modication of any of its products, or resulting from any use which deviates from the product’s intended usage. RETI is not responsible for any injuries
sustained due to failure to read and adhere to the instructions for use. Any misunderstanding or questions regarding the products of their use should be
directed to RETI prior to any use. All RETI treestands are sold with a full body harness (“Fall Arrest System”) that meets standards set by the Treestand
Manufacturer’s Association (“TMA”). It is the owner's sole responsibility to inspect the product regularly for damage, improper installation, or conditions
that could jeopardize the ultimate safety of the product. Failure to use or improper use of the provided Fall Arrest System may result in serious injury or death.
ALWAYS wear the provided Fall Arrest System while using this product. Owner is responsible to understand and follow product eld weight rating
and must never exceed maximum weight rating. RETI is not responsible for any malfunction or injury resulting from normal wear and tear, damage caused
by improper use, improper maintenance, negligence or accidents. This product, if used safely as intended, will provide trouble free service for the useful life
of the product. We hope you will enjoy the quality of our products for years to come, and have a safe hunt.

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-5 3
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
WARNING
Pull up a bow, backpack, or rearm or other equipment
only after being secure in the treestand and a rearm
must be pulled up with it unloaded, chamber open, and
muzzle down.
Always inform someone of the hunting location, where
the treestand will be located and the expected duration
of the hunt.
A signal device such as a mobile phone, radio, whistle,
signal are or personal locator device (PLD) must be on
your person and readily available at all times.
Inspect the treestand and all safety devices each time
before use and Do Not store a treestand outdoors when
not in use.
Never modify your treestand in any way by making
repairs, replacing parts, or altering it except if explicitly
authorized in writing by the manufacturer.
Practice installing, adjusting and using your treestand at
ground level prior to using it at elevated positions. Study
your new stand to become familiar with all of its features
and design. Doing so will conrm that the product is
manufactured, assembled and installed correctly.
Instructions (written and video) shall be kept in a safe place
and reviewed at least annually. It is the responsibility of
the treestand owner to furnish the complete instructions
to any person who borrows or purchases the treestand.
The use of a lineman’s/climbing belt is required when
installing a hang-on treestand to stabilize the user with
the tree.
Correct tightening and adjustment of chains, cables,
straps, etc. are critical to stable hang-on treestand
installation. All treestand contact points must be in
contact with the tree before you step onto your stand.
Never leave a treestand in a tree for more than two weeks
since weather or animals could cause damage. Tree
growth can also stress and damage straps and buckles.
Practice the attachment of hang-on treestands at ground
level before using in a hunting environment. Doing so
will conrm that the product is manufactured, assembled
and installed correctly. Failure to install and test at ground
level rst puts users at risk for serious injury or death.
Use a haul line to raise and lower the treestand. Never
climb with anything on your back.
Always lean forward as you ascend or descend ladder or
climbing aid.
Never lean out over edge of device.
MODEL RE551
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY ONE 1
TOTAL WEIGHT LIMIT 300 LB
TREE DIAMETER RANGE 8"TO 20"
WARNING
This product carries strict weight restrictions. Do Not use
this product if you exceed the total weight limit. Please
note that the total weight limit includes the user(s) and
their equipment.
WARNING
When hunting from a treestand falls can occur any
time after leaving the ground causing injury or death.
Always wear a Fall Arrest System (FAS) comprising a full
body harness at all times after leaving the ground. You
must stay connected at all times after leaving the ground
while using climbing and hang-on treestands. Single
safety belts and chest harnesses are no longer allowed
and shall never be used. If you are not wearing a full body
harness properly attached to the tree that is protecting
you from a fall, do not leave the ground.
Read and understand all of the manufacturer’s Warnings
and Instructions and use all safety devices provided by
the manufacturer. Contact the manufacturer for any
questions. Failure to do so could result in injury or death.
Never exceed the total weight limit of the treestand.
Never use a treestand during inclement weather such as
rain, lightning, windstorms or icy conditions and end your
hunt and return to the ground if inclement conditions
arise.
Never use a treestand while using drugs (even
prescription drugs) or alcohol.
Never use a treestand while feeling ill, nauseous or dizzy,
or if you have a prior medical condition that could cause
a problem, that is, heart condition, joints that lock-up,
spinal fusions, etc., or if you are not well rested. Never
sleep in stand.
Never use a treestand on a dead, leaning, diseased or
loose barked tree, or a utility pole. Always avoid electrical
power lines.
Never rely on a tree branch for support.
Never jump or bounce on a treestand to seat it to the tree.

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-54
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
WARNING
Climbing aids (stick ladders, sectional ladders, steps, etc.)
must extend above the platform to allow the user to step
down onto the platform. Never step up to your stand from
a climbing aid. To ensure that you step down onto the
platform, the maximum recommended use height is ve
feet less than the height of the climbing aid being used.
Do Not use this product until you have watched the
included treestand safety DVD, understand it, and practiced
the techniques for safe hunting discussed in this DVD.
Read and perform all inspection and maintenance tasks
before each and every use. Replace any questionable
components immediately with RETI original replacement
parts.
Do Not crush tubing when tightening bolt assemblies!
Identify and familiarize yourself with all parts before you
start. A bolt identication cart can be found in the back.
Double check assembly steps to be certain you have
correctly assembled this product.
Never use any product that has not been maintained or
inspected properly - Your life depends on it!
Replace any and all treestand straps every two years or
when signs of damage or wear exist before.
Do Not use any type of after market hanging assists,
bracket mount systems or any other type of mechanism
to attach your hang-on treestand to a tree. These types of
devices can negatively aect the stability of the treestand
in the tree and reduce or prevent proper tightening, tree
adhesion and performance of the treestand to the tree
which can lead to serious injury or death.
Platform must be folded up to remove stand! This allows
slack in strap for removal.
Always climb tree on the oat buckle side of this treestand.
Visually inspect that both sewn loop attachments are
securely connected to be assured you have correctly
attached stand to tree as per instructions and Figures.
Always wear the appropriate footwear when using a hang-
on treestand. A good non-slip safety boot is important to
your personal safety. Be especially careful that boot laces
do not get hooked on the stand or any of its components
(tuck shoelaces into boots before climbing).
Never touch or move buckle while stand is in use.
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
BEFORE EACH USE PERFORM THE FOLLOWING:
• Inspect all webbing, rope, cord, and strap assemblies for
wear or damage.
• Inspect cables and/or cable ends for damage or kinking.
• Inspect all hardware and chain components for damage.
• Inspect for any structural damage to product. (If any exists
call RETI customer service.)
• Inspect all nut and bolt assemblies to be certain none are
loose.
• Inspect for any missing parts.
• Lubricate all pivot and slide together points with powder
graphite, petroleum jelly or silicone spray to prevent noise,
wear and rust.
• Inspect entire product for any rust, corrosion, cracks,
freezing, excessive heat or rotting damage that may eect
the safety of your product. Discard any questionable
product.
• Inspect entire product for any structural damage - pay close
attention to all weld locations. (Return to factory for repair or
discard product if any damage is found.)
• Using correct wrenches inspect all nut & bolt assembly
locations and snug up any that may be loose. Be careful not
to crush tubing when tightening!
• Inspect and check operation of all cables, cable ends, cord,
rope, webbing, and strap or chain assemblies. Replace with
factory new any item or assembly that shows signs of wear,
damage, kinking, or functions incorrectly.
• Inspect seat. Replace any seat with factory new that shows
signs of structural damage or wear.
• Inspect all hardware for wear or damage, also be sure you
have no missing parts.
• Never modify your stand in any way by making repairs,
replacing parts, or altering adding or attaching anything to it
except if explicitly authorized in writing by the manufacturer.

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-5 5
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
1. Bolt cables onto platform using the (2) provided 5/16 x 1-1/2" bolts,
locknuts and steel washers. SEE FIGURE 1.You must now tighten all
nut & bolt assemblies. Be sure not to over tighten or crush tubing
when tightening!
platform cable
5/16-18 x 1-1/2" bolt
steel washer
locknut
FIGURE 1
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Tools needed: two 1/2" wrenches.
All assembly must be done in this order at ground level.
Do not remove labels/warnings from product, they are
there for your safety.
Recommended for adult use only.
WARNING
Double check assembly steps to be certain you have
correctly assembled this product.
Practice installing, adjusting and using your treestand at
ground level prior to using it at elevated positions. Study
your new stand to become familiar with all of its features
and design. Doing so will conrm that the product is
manufactured, assembled and installed correctly.
Always wear the appropriate footwear when using a hang-
on treestand. A good non-slip safety boot is important to
your personal safety. Be especially careful that boot laces
do not get hooked on the stand or any of its components
(tuck shoelaces into boots before climbing).
Climbing aids (stick ladders, sectional ladders, steps, etc.)
must extend above the platform to allow the user to step
down onto the platform. Never step up to your stand from
a climbing aid. To ensure that you step down onto the
platform, the maximum recommended use height is ve
feet less than the height of the climbing aid being used.
Do Not twist strap when attaching. See setup and use
instructions for correct attachment.
Always climbtreeon theattachmentside of thistreestand.
Visually inspect your connection to be assured you have
correctly attached stand to tree as per instructions and
diagrams.
The use of a lineman’s/climbing belt is required while
ascending, descending and installing a hang-on treestand
to stabilize the user with the tree.
Correct tightening and adjustments of chains, cables,
straps, etc. are critical to stable hang-on treestand
installation. All treestand contact points must be in
contact with the tree before you step onto your stand.
Platform must be folded up to remove stand! This allows
slack in strap for removal.
Never touch or move buckle while stand is in use.
If seat is removable, be certain it is securely attached
when in use.
Never stand on seat, it is designed for sitting only.
Some models include a footrest, which is designed as a
footrest only. Never stand on footrest! Always be fully
aware of foot placement.

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-56
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
FIGURE 2a
FIGURE2b
Sewn loop around bottom of oval mount
Sewn loop secured properly to oval mount
WRONG
Sewn loop around top of oval mount
WRONG
CORRECT
SETUP AND USE INSTRUCTIONS
During installation and removal of a hang-on treestand, you must always
and properly use the included Full Body Harness (Fall Arrest System)
with climbing belt. Refer to the Full Body Harness and climbing belt
instructions included with this product for proper use. You must always
use the Full Body Harness while using this product.
CRITICAL STRAP ATTACHMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Improper strap attachment to the treestand and/or improper treestand
attachment to the tree may lead to serious injury or death due to sudden
release of an incorrectly attached strap/treestand!
1. The Big Foot XL strap (18063) can be attached so that the sewn loop
side with the oat buckle can be put on either side of the treestand
depending on your left or right hand installation preference. Make
sure to always orientate climbing aid to the oat buckle side of the
strap. Start by attaching the sewn loop of the long side strap to either
the left or right side of treestand by sliding sewn loop completely
over the oval mount. SEE FIGURES 2a AND 2b.
2. The sewn loop on oat buckle side secures to the opposite side of
treestand in the same way as described in step 1 by sliding sewn
loop completely over the oval mount.
3. It is critical that you secure the sewn loops of Big Foot XL strap to the
oval mounts properly and securely, your life depends on it! DO NOT
attach the sewn loops of the strap as shown in FIGURES 3a and 3b or
any other incorrect fashion or you may be seriously injured or killed due
to sudden release of an incorrectly attached strap/treestand to the tree!
WARNING
All users are responsible for ensuring strap is attached
to treestand properly and securely. Failure to do so may
result in serious injury or death. Read and understand
all instructions for proper installation procedure and
product warnings before use.
WARNING
Only use approved RETI parts. Failure to do so may result
in serious injury or death!
WARNING
It is critical to familiarize yourself with how the strap
attaches to the stand. Practice attaching the stand to the
tree several times at ground level before ascending up
the tree.
FIGURE 3a
FIGURE 3b

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-5 7
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
TREE ATTACHMENT INSTRUCTIONS
1. At desired height, attach by following instructions - a,b,c,d,e,f.
NOTE: Stand should be attached to tree with platform folded in
an upright position!
a. Lengthen strap by pulling oat buckle away from strap - this will
allow strap to slide around oat buckle roller bar.
b. With the sewn loop of the long side strap attached correctly, take
sewn loop on oat buckle end and wrap around tree. Be sure the strap
is even and at the same level all the way around the tree. Also, be
sure there are no twists in the strap. Connect sewn loop to opposite
side of stand by correctly looping over opposite oval mount. Be
absolutely sure both sewn loops are securely attached and can not
come o. SEE CRITICAL STRAP ATTACHMENT INSTRUCTIONS.
c. Pull on excess end of strap rmly - snugging up stand to tree.
SEE FIGURE 4.
NOTE: Platform must be folded up while doing this.
d. While platform is still folded up, push treestand in a downward
direction to further tighten strap. SEE FIGURE 5.
e. Once securely attached, pivot the platform down.This lever-action
will snug stand up tight to tree to prevent any shifting. Redo as
necessary to accomplish a snug stand-to-tree t. All four contact
bars must be touching tree! SEE FIGURES 6 AND 7.
f. The tension on strap will not allow any slippage due to roller bar
tension of buckle. Proper installation should be checked prior to
stepping onto platform to ensure safety.
2. Before stepping down onto center of stand platform, be sure it is secured
properly and is tight against tree with all (4) contact bars touching tree!
3. Carefully step onto stand platform to be sure you have a solid feel
against tree and platform is level. Seat folds down for sitting and tips
back for standing.
NOTE: To remove stand, fold platform back up and pull on buckle hand
strap to release tension on roller bar.
FIGURE 4 FIGURE 5
FIGURE 6
excess end
of strap
platform
seat
FIGURE 7
oat buckle
oat buckle
oat
buckle

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-58
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
THREADING THE FLOAT BUCKLE
Always check the condition of your Big Foot strap before use. If strap
becomes twisted or if you need to replace a worn or damaged strap,
make sure to follow these instruction to ensure proper assembly.
1. Hold oat buckle so warning tag faces upward. SEE FIGURE 8.
2. Feed end tail of strap up through the bottom of the oat buckle on
the sewn loop side of the roller bar. SEE FIGURE 9.
NOTE: Smooth side of end tail must face sewn loop.
3. Feed end tail over roller bar and down through oat buckle.
SEE FIGURE 10.
4. Pull end tail away from oat buckle. SEE FIGURE 10.
!
FIGURE 10
FIGURE 8
!
warning tag
oat buckle sewn loop
!
FIGURE 9
sewn loop
roller bar
end tail
of strap smooth side

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-5 9
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
NOTES

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-510
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
10
9
4
11
8
1
2
16
6
7
14
13
12
3
5
15
9
PARTS EXPLOSION

Check for parts online at www.HuntRiversEdge.com or call 800-450-EDGE (3343) M-F 8-5 11
Operator's Manual
RE551 - BIG FOOT™ XL
KEY # PART # DESCRIPTION QT Y.
1 17444 WELDMENT PLATFORM 1
2 17815 WELDMENT SEAT POST 1
3 17446 ASSEMBLY SEAT TEARTUFF 1
4 48212 CABLE 28 INCH BROWN VINYL 2
5 18063 STRAP ASSEMBLY BIGFOOT XL 1
6 48250B BOLT 1/420 X 13/4 2
7 48752B LOCKNUT 1/420 2
8 98930A142 BOLT M81.25 X 65 2
960G5NYB LOCKNUT 5/1618 4
10 WN516 WASHER PLASTIC 5/16 INCH 6
11 17949 BOLT 5/1618 X 23/4 2
12 18611 WASHER M8 4
13 18610 LOCKNUT M81.25 2
14 WF516B WASHER FLAT 5/16 INCH 2
15 48152 BOLT 5/1618 X 11/2 2
16 18551 PLUG PLASTIC 1 INCH SQUARE 2
ITEMS BELOW NOT SHOWN
10531 FULL BODY HARNESS FAS 1
15599 CLIMBING BELT 1
48800 DVD TREESTAND SAFETY 1
PARTS LIST
BIG FOOT™ XL
MODEL RE551

*All weights, specications and features are approximate and are subject to change without notice. Due to continuous product improvements, product images may not be exact. Warning labels in some product images
may have been removed for photography purposes only. Props shown in photos not included. Some assembly may be required.
Rivers Edge® Treestands, Inc.
1160 Eighth Avenue, PO Box 755
Cumberland, WI 54829
800-450-EDGE (3343) | Fax 715-822-2124
Email: info@huntriversedge.com
This manual suits for next models
1
Table of contents
Other Rivers Edge Rack & Stand manuals

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge BIG FOOT XXXL User manual

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge Pack-n-Stack RE622 User manual

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge BIG FOOT XL LOUNGER RE552 User manual

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge DELUXE RE647 User manual

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge RELAX WIDE RE631 User manual

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge LOCKDOWN User manual

Rivers Edge
Rivers Edge LOCKDOWN 2-MAN User manual