Just got done using mine for the 12 days of blackpowder season here in Virginia. Best stand I've owned, this is number 4. I use mine facing the tree and have the optionalback rest/shooting rail on mine. It is quiet and rock steady. I add a realtree hanger to the tree when facing it and have a nice shooting rail that way. Its also easy to stand up in and turn around when they come in behind me and no sling seat to get in my way. One drawback is that I can't climb as big of atree as I can in my other climbers.