I've got a Nikon Prostaff 440 and YES it will range through netting. I would recommend checking it through your particular netting (it may give you an inaccurate reading) but I have had good luck with mine. Yes the AC one is limited to about a 100 yds, it is intended for bowhunters. If you want a Nikon with ID tech. that has longer range go with the RifleHunter 550 does all the same as the AC with a longer range.

As to needing it out of a treestand it depends on how you practice and the capabilities of you bow. If you practice from and elevated stand and have your bow sighted to your rangefinder no it's not necessary. However, if you practice on the ground and then move to an elevated position there is a chance that your point of impact may change (this is where your bow performance comes in) if you are shooting @ 40 yds with a bow that shoots 300+ FPS your point of impact change will be much less than if you are shooting a bow @ 250 FPS because of a flatter arrow trajectory.

As to the Nikon not displaying the angle, I prefer it that way. Less clutter to look at while ranging. I just want an accurate range and that's it, I don't really care what the angle is. Not starting anything, just wondering if there is a reason you want to see the angle?

Good luck with whatever you choose!