I have a Lone Wolf Hand Climber (I don't use the normal hand climbing method; I sit on the seat and pull up the platform with the nylon straps that hold the seat to the platform). It takes me about 15-20 minutes to climb into position.

It is critical that I estimate correctly the amount of "up" angle I need on the platform on the bottom of the tree so that it will be level when I reach my desired height. Several times I have been far enough off that it was necessary to climb back down and re-adjust.

The climbing process involves the following:

1. Unpack the stand. The folding portion of the platform must be "unfolded" to the climbing position. Secure the plaform onto the tree with proper "up" angle. Secure the seat to the tree. Attach the two nylon straps to hold the seat and platform together.

2. Attach the pull-up string from my bow to the seat.

3. Climb onto the platform, attach my tree rope, and attach my harness to the tree rope. My harness is already on: it is sewn into my Primos vest.

4. Begin to climb: sit on the seat and pull up the platform. Stand on the platform, move the tree rope up, and raise the seat. Repeat.

5. Pull up my bow.

The type of tree makes a big difference with the Lone Wolf "belts" rather than the more rigid Summit cables: a rough bark tree like a cherry can be a pain with noise and snagging the belts.

Also, it is often necessary to readjust the seat as I ascend and the tree diameter becomes smaller. This adds time to the process.

Still, 15 to 20 minutes is not a problem as long as I can climb quietly and safely. Once I am in position, the rest of the preparation (detach and hang quiver, arrow ready, put on release and arm guard, face mask, etc.) takes another 5 minutes or so. However, this can be done with very little movement or noise, so it is also not a problem.