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Fellas,

Which climbing stand do you prefer and why?

I am getting one for Christmas and want to make the best choice because I want this one to last awhile.

Major concerns in order of importance:
-- Weight (some of my spots are a trek back in the woods)
-- Easy of attaching to tree and climbing
-- Comfort with regard to sitting
-- Packability (easy to fold up; quiet; ect.)

Any and all thoughts appreciated. I use mostly lock ons and have not hunted out of a climber in several years.

Thanks,

Pondman

I bought a Summit Gorilla this year and I love it. All welded frame (no moving parts to make noise). It was one of the more expensive ones, but I got tired of using crap. You could probably go with some of the smaller (cheaper) Summit stands since you aren't as big as I am. I will let you look at mine if you want to try it out before you buy.

I have a Summit and and Ol' man grand vision. You really can't go wrong with either one. The Summit is better with smaller trees and grips really well in pines. You have to be careful with the vision not to break the clips that hold the stand to the tree or you will never feel secure. (the stand does not have the best grip unless you lock it in). Personally, if you have good size trees, the Ol' man seems to be more comfortable because has a more forgiving and bigger seat. Both stands are very light and hold up well.

I like my ol man but I don't think you can go wrong with an API, Summit, or an OlMan.

Summit Viper. I have had mine for about 5 years and wouldn't take anything else into the woods. Never had one problem out of it. It's light and super comfortable.

If you have a haul then you need to look at the loggy bayou climber. I have used this stand for about 12 years and love it due to the weight and comfort. I do not use the hand climber to cut down on weight. Hug the tree and once you do it a few times it is easy. Seat folds up and is very comfortable. There are other stands that are nicer but I have tried most of them and none are easier or lighter than the loggy bayou. Just my 2 cents.

I have one of the old Summit shooters. Been hanging in da woods since 94. Come to think of it, i might need to paint it and buy new straps for it this year. I love it, it faces the tree and you can use tree or stand as a rest; but, don't try to Bow hunt out of it