I own one and I know lots of owners of TL stands that won't ever hunt out of another type of stand. I also know lots of hunters that would buy one if they had the funds.

My take:
I've hunted out of all types of stands. The TL is the most solid stand one could be in. It grips the tree like glue, I feel very safe in mine. I've never felt unsafe and I'm scared of heights BTW. The stand is "heavy" to some I couldn't tell the difference in weight from a TL verses my summits. IMHO if your not in shape enough to carry 25 pounds on your back, you might ought to think about (a) not hunting anymore (b) hitting the gym (c) hunting off the ground. I LOVE the way it sets up around the tree. Sure I'm on the ground a bit longer than I'd like to be (5 mins verses 4 mins) but its worth the extra time. Very comfy. It took me years to break down and buy one, now that I have, I won't ever use another type. There is however, a SMALL amount of noise setting up BUT its not anymore noise than with my summit, which is "suppose" to be the quietest stand to set up. theres no difference.

My advice to you: try it out if you like, buy, if not keep looking.