The present invention relates to a tree stand having a first stand section including a central tube, the central tube having a first circumference, the central tube of the first stand section having at least one leg affixed to the tube, the leg having a u-shaped slot at an end of the leg proximate to the tube; and a second stand section including a central tube having a second circumference, the second circumference being larger than the first circumference, the central tube of the second section having at least one leg affixed to the tube, the central tube of the second section having a pin in corresponding relationship with the u-shaped slot on the leg of the first stand section such the slot is disposed over the pin when the tube portion of the first stand section is slid over the tube portion of the second stand section to create the stand.