I have hunted from 8 feet off the ground to 20ft off the ground with many nice deer taken and I feel it depends on what the hunter feels comfortable with. Many hunters don't realize that the higher the stand the angle of projection of the shot changes. I have heard guys say I can't believe I missed that deer and shot under or over the animal. Just remember just be careful with what ever height your sitting in a tree and make sure your safety harness is on and works correct.