The good ones are acctually pretty easy to use, and are safe and comfortable once you get used to using them.

worth repeating: safety harness at all times. Don't skimp on this- if the one that came with the stand isn't easy to use PROPERLY, buy another one and don't be a cheap skate - buy the $40 one rather than the $15 one! Practice putting it on. I put mine on first thing when I'm getting ready inside - not out in the dark. I wear it inside my final coat and the strap comes out of the neck of my jacket.

Practice using your climber a few times before you actually go hunting. First time it's kind of wierd, second time it's much easier and less scary. Third time, it's pretty easy and comfortable to use.

As the guy said, adjust the stand so it angles up quite a bit when you first start it at the bottom of the treee. As you go up and the tree tapers down, the stand will level out.

Follow all the other advice these guys have given you also. Have fun.

What kind of climber did you get?