I know exactly what your talking about here. It was also a concern of mine when I purchased my Summit Viper 2yrs ago. I had a previous API climber with the bar across the front. I had an older bow with a longer ATA, 41" to be exact. I did have a buck come directly under my stand, and no way could I make that shot. But what I realized is being up around 20ft, and having that deer directly under at that angle wouldn't have been the best of shots anyways. I felt the advantages of the bar out weighed the disadvantages. Like you said with the bar I too feel safer. I prefer the sit & climb method over the forearm climbing method on non barred climbers. Also with the bar it allows you to sit in 2 different positions either in the seat or on the bar for added comfort, plus different viewing of your hunting area. I have since gone to a 36" ATA bow, and it now longer interferes with the bar. But I still don't think I'd make that almost direct downward angled shot!