RE: Screwin in treesteps???
I had the same experience, killadoe. I used them for a bit, but now I use Lone Wolf climbing sticks. Much easier, quieterand not much heavier (4 sticks = 10 lbs to get up 15'-18'), and they can be used in most circumstances where screw in steps can.
Now I use my screw in steps to hold my backpack and water bottle.