Wow....thanks for all the advice everybody. I've pretty much done what you guys are saying. All but the harness thing....I just use the one that came with my stand. It's a pain. I've been looking at the vest types though....$85 seems pretty cheap for some piece of mind.


Deerslayer.....I can tell you from experience a climbing stand is a LOT better than a hang on. I say this because, in my case anyhow, the place that feel the most vulnerable is when I am going from the ladder (or steps) to the stand, and from the stand to the steps. For the most part once I'm in the stand I'm ok, as long as I don't have to stand up.

With the climber you are in the stand, and most I've seen even have a bar around them, from the time you leave the ground. Also...when you think your high enough....you are!! Stop when you are comfortable. I like my climber. Once again....as long as I don't have to stand up.[:'(]