a novel lock for a tree stand for use in hunting and similar pursuits comprises a hardened metal loop for encircling the body of a tree , where the metal loop is retainable to brackets integrally attached to a tree stand . the tree stand lock further includes lockable hardened ends on said metal loop for retaining the metal loop to the brackets . the hardened metal loop is pivotable about a pivot pin that is formed from a hardened metal and where the pivot pin opens and closes the loop for assisting in the installation and removal of the tree stand lock from a tree stand .