For the extra $10 get the Alpha. You'll appreciate the bigger seat and platform when the time comes. The Assault is great if you're a smaller guy, or need the ultimate in light weight to pack in/out on a frequent basis. Even at 12.5 lbs the stand is very lightweight, and you can fit it into plenty of trees. I don't think I've run into a tree that I"ve wanted to put one in yet that I couldn't because it was too big.