my dad just had a stand stolen that was locked to the tree with a cable lock. I know cable locks can be cut with bolt cutters because I have had to do it for my work, may not be the quickest way but can be done. The sad part is whoever steals a stand that is locked must have really wanted the stand. It wouldn't matter how its lock. The stand we had stolen was a ladder stand so the thief found the stand, probably came back with tools to cut the cable or lock(I don't carry those type of tools while I am hunting and i don't know too many who do)and then hauled the stand out. We all know that ladder stands are not the most convienent to transport through the woods either. It was a lot of work and time for a $100 stand. So if someone really wants your stand they are going to get it no matter what you do.