PA BOW/FLINTER; once the bar is folded back, it's completely out of the way. If memory serves me, it folds up under the seat. Yes, it makes some noise where the sides latch at the hinge. Nothing terrible, but metal latching always makes some noise. It would be a good stand, I believe, but given the 2, I'll take the Viper everytime. The last thing I want to be doing while in a tree is messing w/ that bar, getting it out of the way. With the Viper, climb and hunt. IF you can stay awake.