You'll learn the ins and outs of your stand in about half a season. You'll get your own "methods" down, pat. I use the same stand....it it can be used quietly, safely and expeditiously.

You'll learn some trees are quieter to climb than others. Some size trees are easier to climb. NOW.....I can be up a tree (quietly) to 23' in less than 10 minutes....from the time I arrive, unpack and ascend. I rarely go fast in doing this, though....opting to just get there a little earlier (or a LOT in my case, sometimes) and go very slowly. There are some items on the stand that will make noise if you don't watch them. The biggest being the s-hooks on the bungee that wraps around the tree to hold your seat back up. They will hit EVERYTHING metal if you're not careful.

You'll get it down after several trips....and have your own little system of packing this stand.....and how to attach everything to haul it up. DO NOT forget to get the climbing stirrups. They're golden!

Good luck.