This question mades me wonder too over the years. I do push the 300 lb. limit but I have one of the Grand Vision mades by Ol'Man and it never has failed me. I wear my safety belt and have enjoyed days from sun up to sun down in it. I always hang my extra gear on the tree and haul it up after everything is secure. I am not one to jump up & down in mine, but I respect the stand and my fear of heights.