RE: Tree Stands
This year, I'm using an Ameristep/Non-Typical climber. I've made a couple practice runs in some trees in the backyard. It beats my old Summit stand hands down in quietness, space, and ease of setup. And I like Summit stands.
I do have some Lone Wolf climbing sticks and a Gorilla Silverback treestand. I don't leave stands out. Setting up with the sticks is turned out to be a pain in the butt, and the stand is kind chincy and not exactly confidence inspiring. It looks like it'll just be the climber this year.