Here's the deal. A lock on is more versatile, well, the stand itself isn't, but it's not NEARLY as picky as to the tree it's hanging in. You can put a lock on in a tree that you could never climb. The climbing treestand, which is my favorite because of it's simplicity, comfort, and it's quick and easy to set up and move, needs a straight, fairly uniform tree. Sometimes you just can't find one that meets that criteria. And in that case.......I set up my Matrix. Problem solved.

I've hunted out of lock ons before, but I will forever be using a climber from now on. Some people say that hinders me.....ah, whatever. That's what I use. And I like it.