DaveC, I totally agree. I really like my Cobra X4, but not the climbing bar. I don't use the climbing bar and just use the top as a climbing aid. Its not quite as easy to climb with, but not a problem for me. Lighter, and less junk to contend with.

The Razor X5 looks promising. The climbing bar folds underneath you once at height. Pretty cool.

Also, the new openshot looks pretty neat. I got to looking at it more closely and the seat is actually the climbing aid that comes with the clearshot. They just slapped a thick, padded seat on it. It only weighs 14 lbs by the way.

I'm really thinking I may have to purchase a top peice for the openshot to try. I like the fact that you sit up out of the stand more. I have a little problem with the Cobra X4. even with the seat all the way up, I still feel too confined. I like to shoot from a seated position and its somewhat difficult to do with this stand as is.