903, I couldn't agree more, and yes, I found my crippled 33-yr. old butt in a ground blind as well, sitting in a full sized chair. I suppose because I grew up hunting in treestands, I almost felt like I was cheating sitting in a comfortable chair! When visiting a buddy last year I sat for the first time in his ladder stand, I was VERY surprised how spacious and comfy it was.

I suppose my next question is a follow-up to my last statement to current ladder stand users. Have you ever felt you have spooked deer as a result of the stand itself? I don't know why, but I guess I always thought they were geared more towards the rifle hunter for shooting at longer distances, so the ladder made little difference. Right? Wrong?

903, in my first post I kinda touched on a few problems you mentioned. What do ya think about building almost a very small ramp looking contraption, with the pointed end aimed at the sky? Possibly cutting some half moons with a jig so it hugs the tree a little, then screwing on a strap? I'm just thinking that having a solid/flat back support from my sacrum to my upper back would be flat out heavenly!

A lot of very good ideas fellas, keep them coming! Please know how much I appreciate the time spent expressing your ideas,etc., it means alot.

Chad