I use my Viper XLS for bowhunting. The bar does not hamper my shooting. However, I take my shots standing up. If you take some shots sitting down the bar could interfere. You may also want to take a look at the Summit Bushmaster and the new Summit ClearShot. Both of these stands are open in the front too. The looks of the newly designed Cobra X4, with the moveable ez climb bar, make it much more appealing than in years past. I think you will be pleased with any Summit stand you get.