I started with a Viper Classic. Didn't use it much. I am about 160 lbs and the classic was big and bulky to carry, a gaurenteed work out. The I got the Alpha Sit And climb and wow. What a difference for packing it. It sits so close to your back that you don't feel the weight. Set up is a bit easier to be quiet, no metal cable to clang around but not as comfortable to sit in and the shoulder straps IMO were cheap.. I fixed that! Took the shoulder straps and seat cusion from my viper and put them on my Alpha Wolf. Few adjustments and a few accessories and I've got the best of both climber stands.