A device for providing additional support for the lower horizontal platform of a tree mounted hunting stand of the type where the lower horizontal platform is supported by cables. The device has a front member to be attached to the lower horizontal platform of a tree mounted hunting stand of the type where the lower horizontal platform is supported by cables； a toothed member for engagement with the tree； an adjustable length strut attached at one end thereof to the front member and at the other end thereof to the toothed member. A method for providing additional support for the lower horizontal platform of a tree mounted hunting stand of the type where the lower horizontal platform is supported by cables. The front member of the device of claim 1 is attached to the lower horizontal platform of a tree mounted hunting stand of the type where the lower horizontal platform is supported by cables and the length of the adjustable length strut is adjusted so that the toothed member engages with the tree below the lower horizontal platform.
