I have the Goliath that I bought last year and hunted all season with it. Previously I had used several ladder type stands.
At 280 lbs, I wouldn't climb in any of the lightweight modes.

I really like the Goliath. It is very comfortable to sit in for hours. Sets up easy and is fairly quiet if you are careful. Once in position, when you strap down the top portion it is rock stable. It is not lightweight but is fairly comfortable to carry and again it's quiet if you are carefull.

I wish there was an easy way to 'strap' down the foot portion but I have gotten use to it.

I would recommend it and my friends that use the XL Viper like their's also though I'm told the Goliath is more stable.