RE: Which type of tree stand?
I have 2 Gorilla stands IMO they are the best hang on stands.
1 is the Silverback Lite which has a 18"x24" platform but is perfect if you have to hike a long way.
The second is the Silverback it has a 21"x27" platform.
I also have 2 sets of Gorilla climbing sticks.
1 set has 3x3' sections that I pack in with Silverback Lite the other set is their stacknsticks 4x4' secrions wich is better suited for a perminant stand.
At the moment BassPro has them on sale I seen that they have the Silverback Magnum which has a 24"x30" platform for about 89 bucks