RE: Scariest moment in a stand TONIGHT
here's my take on this as i have (an older version) Viper.
noisy - a little bit, but i've never spooked a deer while climbing. in fact i've been in a situation twice where i've had deerin my area (within 50y)as i was climbing and didnt spook.
heavy - somewhat, mine is heavy only when my pack is hooked onfor the walk in/out.
hard to shoot out of - not for me anyways. when i get to my desired height i take my bow and move around in the drawn position to make sure i've got clearance in all directions.
as far as the cable moving to the next setting, i think that is due to operator mistake.
alwaysbe attached to the tree!!! i connect/disconnect with my feet on the ground.
i love my viper. only reason i'd replace it is if...couldn't think of one.
good luck with your choice if you replace it with another climber/brand.