That is interesting. I have had deer sniff the ladder rungs and never look up. I only use ladder stands in pine trees and I have never been busted out of one.

I don't like screw in steps. I find them to be a pain and since I have used some of the same trees for over a decade, screwing steps in and out couldn't help the tree. The strap on climbing sticks are my preferred method. Again, I have never had a deer notice them and they are spaced well, easy to climb, etc.

I like both ladders and hang ons. It just depends on the situation. If you want to set up in a pine, then use a ladder. The branches will conceal the ladder and it is a one step process. Deciduous trees, hand on all the way. Just my thoughts.