I' ve made a couple ladder stands of treated lumber - They are HEAVY and you really need a winch to put them up safely. The seat is wood and slides in a track depending on whether you want to face the tree or not. My seat is actually two boards, then I can bring my young son hunting and we can face each other.

The platform is " V-notched" and 2 heavy duty ratchet straps hold it in place. The stand is very sturdy for nevous hunters - and with a shooting rest in Gun Season is an Excellent stand. For bowhunting - its really good - just not as portable or hidden - as I would prefer for bow