Well, here is my story (and I'm stickin to it). A good while back I had the opportunity to sit in the new Summit Revolution, set up at a local hunting store. Man alive, it was the most comfortable stand I have ever been in, and I had to have one. It was rock solid on the pole, and the store owner, who is about the same size as me, said he it had been a hot item. I found one a few weeks ago at a good price, and bought it. Couldn't wait to get that jewel in the woods. Not quite as simple as most stands, but I figure with a little practice it wouldn't be much trouble to use. Climbing with it takes some getting use to also, because of the way it has you sitting out from the tree further than any I had been in before.

Anyway, I get to my spot, primarily just to try out the stand. When I got up the tree, it was indeed super comfortable, and I was able to sit still for hours without any discomfort. However, I knew then I would never climb a tree with it again.

The stand was as solid as a rock when in place, but the little bar that supports you when you sit down to climb is not strong enough for my big behind (when they say it is rated for no more than 300#, they mean it!) I was afraid it was going to bend at any time--it stressed to the point that paint flaked off at the bends and welds.

I contacted Summit via e-mail, and even though I had admitted I was over the weight limit, they sent me a new stand--the Goliath (rated for 350#). The service could have been a little faster, but I was impressed that they went to that extent, as they were under no obligation to cover for my ignorance. I just got the Goliath, and haven't had a chance to climb a tree with it yet, but it looks comfortable.

For anyone that is under 300lbs (I'd say 275 and under), the Revolution is a good choice. It is super comfortable, and I think climbing wouldn't be that bad once you got used to it. Not the lightest stand to carry in, but it is great for those who like to stay in the stand a long time. The service Summit provided was well above average too, in my opinion. I felt it was perfect for bowhunting--I could have taken a shot at most any angle, except directly behind the tree, due to the open front (still a sit-down/stand-up climber).

Basically just wanted to say that Summit stands behind what they sell.

Chad

Long Bows Rule!