now that just about everyone owns a battery powered sawzall or bolt cutter i dont think theres much you can do. the first stand i had stolen made my heart sink so bad i thought about giving up hunting the area for a while. if you must leave a stand just mentally prepare yourself that someone is going to take it so it wont bother you as much. in those type areas i use my cheapo clearance 25 dollar after season ladder stands. I CANT BELIEVE IN THIS DAY AND AGE THAT PEOPLE STEAL DEER STANDS. they are cheap as dirt and stealing one is about the lowest form of sportsman.