MOM, did you buy the Mega Transformer or Stalker? If the Stalker, just take your time lifting the seat up with your foot, while placing the other foot just in back of the seat first. Even though the back of the climbing aid will be below the cable of the platform, you don't want that back foot too close to the tree. That stand is solid as a rock after putting the quick strap around the seat and I am seriously thinking of buying one for next year.

A buddy of mine used a climber for the first time last year. While by himself one evening he stepped right against the tree and didn't have his tied together. Next thing you know he is calling his dad on the cell phone after the platform plunged to the ground. 2 hours later his dad comes with an extension ladder.[8D]