I seriously think switching to an oak tree instead of a long leaf pine would cure the problem. When I'm in MO I'm quiet a mouse. These Florida pines have no lower limbs so they are great in that aspect..the stand also locks in like a weld but the bark is very loose and crackily. You can rip 1/2 slabs off with your bare hands. There are a few oaks close by. I plan to move my stand. When the stand hangs up on in the bark it takes more upper movement on the boot..alot more.
c7