RE: Climbing Treestands
 

I believe you guys are all wet when mentioning light. So far I haven't found any climber lighter than the TimberTall Bay Lite. It has a bar around the front, is a sit and climb model, and weighs a mere 12#. But at $345 is out of most guys' price range---mine too.

However. I'm in total agreement with most. I've owned a slew of climbers over the decades and now have a Summit Viper, along with some others. It's about average for weight if you ask me, but about as comfortable and stable as you will ever find.I don't consider 20# light. Also, it's one of the very few that are still made in the USA. An excellent product.

Another one that isn't too bad is the NorthStar climber; the one with the belt.

Illinoisbow, heed what others have said here. Save a few extra dollars and get a good stand. The Viper runs about $230 at Gander Mountain and if you watch their sales you can pick 'em up for almost half that, if they have any left when the sales start. It's a very popular stand and for good reason. You won't regret getting one of the best. It'll be cheaper than buying something lesser and having to get a better one in a year or two anyway. And never compromise safety.

RE: Climbing Treestands
 

Summit! If it ends up costing you more than $200, it's well worth the money. They are durable, safe and last a long time if you take care of it!

RE: Climbing Treestands
 

I wish summit still made the Cobra. It was as comfortable as the Viper but didn't have the bar in front. Mine is nearing the end of its SAFELY usable life.

I wish I bought one of the aluminum models when they came out.

USE A FULL BODY HARNESS!