I've had a learning experience for sure but am very comfortable after a full season. I learned after breaking the crank handle off the foot platform on a trip in in the dark to use the little knobsfor attaching themto carrythe cranks in my pouch and attach them at the tree, also attaching them both to the outside aids greatly in turning them for adjustment. BTW, Equalizer sent me a new crank and a set of knobs free. I took the Summitsling seat off and put the hardsling seat from Equalizer back on because I didn't like the tri fold of Summits seat when putting the stand together for backpacking. I don't like the hardness of Equalizer's sling seat but it is the better of the 2 for folding up. I don't like the standard seat as it putsyou up too high as it rests on the top rail. I wish the stand would fit trees up to 22 inch's but then the stand would be too big. I like the way it folds up as I can pack a coat and fanny pack on the stand under the sling seat without fear of it falling out on the trek in or out of the woods as the seat holds it in tight once cinched down. Over all I am very pleased with this stand. Now if I could just find a hang on with everything I want incorporated in it.