Matt; Especially since you're new to the sport, I would 100% for sure buy some sort of a climbing tree stand. I use a tree lounge and am able to go as high as I like with it. The higher the better I feel. You get your scent up out of their noses and you'll strt seeing alot of deer. If you decide to use a blind---you'll have to brush it in really good!!!! Turkeys don't mind blinds and will walk right in next to you----but deer are 100% different---they can pick a blind out a long way away. Plus you have to use a ton of cover scent and no scent in a blind. It's up to you, but I'd go with a tree stand if you want to start seeing alot of deer..... Good luck with your hunting season!!!!