I have never used a blind but I have taken most of my deer from the ground. I have started using a treestand and I feel it gives you an advantage because your scent is above the deer. I think you have pretty good freedom of movement in a treestand as long as you are quiet and slow, that is if your high enough in the tree. I would say at least 15ft, I don't see the need to go 30ft in the air. Personally I think its more fun to take a deer while hunting on the ground. Just something about being that close makes it really exciting.