Looks like a very, very strong stand to me. Since the steps are into a4x4 not a live tree, they will not come out. 4x6 support beams that is great. Rail around the platform that is great. With maintenance done every year for cracked, split and boards that are loose, it should last a long time. If I was going to offer 1 safety suggestion it would be a rachet stap for $5 fromWally World, on the top 4x6 going around the tree, usethreaded lag bolds as fasteners,then you don't have to worrry about the thing coming loose from the tree in 5years.

Just add a rope or twofor pulling up your gear and your good to go. I see no problem with this stand. Very well constructed. Pressure treated would have been better, but I am sure you used what you had, which is the minimum cost way to do things. Thanks for sharing. This is what I had hoped, that folks would share their wisdom, on stand construction.

Thanks Chap Gleason