Love my Viper. A few tips from the techies at Summit, who I pestered with calls after purchasing my stand...

For reducing noise: when carrying: (1) push the cables as far as possible into the framing, this will reduce any " bounce" from side to side within the framing. (2) use the green strap and wrap the two platforms vertically, not horizontally as indicated on the tape. Go vertically between the V and the outer edge of the stand, much quieter. When climbing: (3) be sure you lift the platform away from the tree so there is no drag against the bark. That usually rattles the cables and makes mucho noise.

Personally, as for the rope, I never tie my platforms together. Why take chances---I' m much more careful if I know I have to shimmy 15 feet down a tree because I was too careless to pay attention. I' ve also adjusted the cables once while in the tree, not fun. Had to bring the bottom all the way up and sit on the bar---luckily I have large hands and long arms. It is much easier to just adjust the angle by putting tension on the cable, lifting out the platform with your heels and then putting downward pressure on the tree-part of the platform with your toes. I' ve found I can manipulate the stand angle by an average of 6 inches on most trees.

AS for smooth trees, that' s like climbing telephone poles. To me that' s more idiotic than climbing without the rope tied, and an accident waiting to happen. Not only can your stand slip, but the tether rope for your harness can also slide all the way down the tree/pole. Not good.

I try not to take naps, but with a secure stand, 4-point harness and tether rope, I feel I' m just as safe there than as on the ground. Especially during gun season---not many bullets buzz by your head at 15-20 feet off the ground

S&R