Ok, So I have a Summit Cobra XLS climber.... The finish on it is in very bad condition, the paint has been chipping and peeling pretty bad for a couple years now and I am tired of touching it up......
I have loved this stands comfort over the yearsbut I see Summit no longer offers a true open front stand any more. If I can't find something I like as much as this I guess I could get it dipped or sandblasted and repainted....
Price really isn't that important because if it is a stand I like I will keep it for years to come as I did this one.
My must haves.....
20 pounds or less.
Very comfortable seat.
Open front (no bar).
No pins on the cables.
Silent setup and take down.
I've had the lone wolf hand climber for 3yrs and love it! I did get an extra cushion for the seat as it's not the most comfortable but hte cushion helps a lot. It folds flat for easy carry and only weigh 13- 14lbs. Its great for long hikes in on public land.
It is to stripped down.... It has a cheapo seat.... Thanks for the link though. My current stand is identical to a Viper but the bar doesn't wrap around the front. I want to maintain that comfort level.
I also am looking into getting a new stand also. I seen this treestand at the harrisburg pa show and fell in love with it! I am not sure how comfortable they really are but they sell an optional "chill" seat that looks like it would be great!
They are light, the cable system seems nice and it locks together for carry out without any ropes, straps, etc....! The only downfall is the price tag, but it is right around the same price as most others!
I really do believe this will be the treestand that I wil be carrying with me this year!!