Ya know I feel the same way you do but for different reasons. I use the Wal-Mart stands and I use Dicks climbing ladders. Now my reasons for this is I hate taking down and setting up stands and sticks not because I'm lazy but I want to be as quiet as I can but I don't want to give a thief the best there is and belive me if you always leave yur stuff in the woods eventually your going to get hit. The cost is about $80.00 for the stand and the stiks combined so you can afford to get multible sets. As far as the weight goes If you use the straps on the sticks and strap the sticks to the stand then make you some back pack straps for the stand you will be able to carry this package in the woods and carry it for quite a ways and its not bad like this at all. I am 52 years old and can carry it for a mile and my 72 year old hunting partner can go for a while like this too so you see what I mean. Now these stands are very safe and comfortable I sit in them for hours. Its up to you if you want to spend your money for a little less weight or get 3 set-ups that you woud pay for one of the other. Which ever way you go good luck kill a big un Mike