I agree with this....except that I like th rail behind me as I DO use this one as a hand climber. Call me a wuss.....but I like the added (perceived) security of the rail, there. I step over it once I'm at height and settled in.

Coming down is still new to me. Going up is a breeze. Packing, once I'm down, is getting better.

Other points:

1. They should REALLY think about going to a more "sturdy" buckle for the cinch straps that attach the upper to the lower. I can see them getting broken in the future. I may go ahead and order a few extras "just in case".

2. The bungee SHOULD BE attached to the platform. There's no reason to have to remove it when you're setting up....and I can see this one getting lost in the dark if the hunter is not dilligent by removing it on set-up and storing it "carefully".

3. If they'd moe the seat out 4" from the tree.....they'd go a LONG ways towards making this stand more comfortable. It sure does promote a prone posture, while sitting, though!

4 I was thinking, last night, 20' up.......that a tree with a slight lean backwards would make this stand sit more comfortably. You could kinda lean back, while sitting, and still have your angle of your platform be level. I'll try that, soon.