I don't own one yet, but today(tuesday) I tried both at a MN dealer. (yes he has an actual place outside to try them) I didn't think I wanted a hand climber but once I tried it I really liked useing it going up the tree, very very easy! Going down was alittle harder. The sit down was slower but pretty easy going up or down. The weight diff was minor. I think they are very high quality stands.

Good Luck!