Everyone is right on when looking at a tree you need to figure outwhere the platform will be at your desired hight. Some trees are bent a little also if that is the case just move your stand around the tree on the way up. This should solve your problem also be sure to wear your body harness it can save your life. A friend of mine fell out of a tree several ytears back and is lucky to be alive. He is messed up enough that he can't hunt anymore so practice Practice Practice and most of all be SAFE!!!!!!