Climbing sticks are the way to go. I used to use screw in or strap on steps and by the time I got up to where I wanted to hunt, I was worn out and sweating. Buy yourself a seat of the pants harness. It is a safety harness that can also be used as a climbing/hanging belt as well. This will allow you to stand on your stick with both hands free. Don' t forget to put your stick 90 degrees to your stand so you can just step up onto your stand from the stick.