I'm partial to Summit myself--comes with a great harness, the quick climb hooks (rather than straps, to put your feet in) are the best idea I've seen in a tree stand in years, very comfortable, quiet to put up, very comfortable, and excellent warranty.  I'm a big guy and need the Goliath, but they make several smaller/lighter stands.

Chad

Jeff, I've never been a huge fan of climbers, but recently I have seen a few situations where they are handy, like when I am traveling hours for a weekend hunt.  Anyway, We've got both the Hand Climber, and the sit & climb deal made by Lone Wolf.  Personally, I love the hand climber, and never use the sit and climb.  The hand climber is lighter and easier to pack. It also allows more clearance for a guy shooting traditional gear. As far as climbing treestands go, I thinks it is the way to go.  They are expensive, but you only need one.  When you get it, practice on a telephone pole in your yard.  It only takes about 2 times up and down, and you will have it down.

Jeff, if you are allowed to use screw in steps.Then you might consider the simmons woodpecker drill.It is a small hand held drill and you use grade eight bolts insted of steps.Works good, is compact and you'd be surprised how quickly you can get 16 feet up.


CB

LBR ( Chad ), I am with you, Summit Viper rocks ! I have hunted for about 25yrs and hunted out of em all, even homemade ones, ( Yikes ! ). Viper is quiet, light, easy to set up and rock solid on the tree. Seat is very comfy. I never like to nap if I can help it, but in a viper you can catch a 10 minute nap and stay on stand another few hours, rather than packing it in too early. Also if you are hunting out of state and hunting for a week at a time from dark to dark it makes a HUGE difference ! I do not think I could stay in any other stand that long day after day. JMHO.

nocams

I own a summit viper. Quiet and sit and climb option is great. Especially the way the sit and climb bar folds out of the way to make an open front stand which are bowhunter friendly. My friend has the summit bowhunter stand and it folds flat for easy transport in and out from your stand location. where the viper is a little awkward to carry especially with all your other gear.