Well guys i must have been good this year becuase santa brought me a viper. This is my first climber and was curious if you guys had any thoughts, opinions, or suggestions. As i get more serious about hunting the more realized that a climber was needed.

The Summit Viper in my book is the top of the line when it comes to climbing treestands. I bouth one 3 yrs. ago and it's probably my second best investment (other than my Mathews Switchback XT) that I have in hunting equipment. The Viper is built strong, quick and easy to use and very safe. You'll love it!

I bought one, first.....and went back out to the market after my first year using it......thinking I could find something better.

In my opinion.....that doesn't exist. It's an EXCELLENT climbing stand. congrats on your gift.

I have but one complaint. I simply CANNOT stay awake in it!! God only knows how many world class bucks have walked past me, and I just don't know it because I'm sleeping!!

All kidding aside, it's a very secure stand that's very simple to use. One of the very best made.

I was pretty pumped about it, i am just a little nervous about climbing. I have it set up and ready to go, one of my dads freinds is coming over tomorrow to give me some pointers and im going to start practicing in my backyard. Did you guys find climbing to be difficult when you first started?

It's a little awkward at first, but no big deal. Just remember, don't start w/ the stand level. Have it angled up. As you climb, the tree gets narrower, creating more slack in the cables, and the stand will level out.

Bring along a portable alarm clock!

Nice a got a viper for christmas too. Its my second one. It seems pretty good to me but, not trying to hijack the thread or anything but when i was any in it i felt like when i was turning around if i kicked the climbing sturrip or side bar by accident the bottom would slip out. This hasnt happend yet but i kinda worries me and i was wondering if anyone else noticed this or had this happen to them or if im just paranoid?!?!

this is why it is very important to tie a rope between the two sections so it doesn't accidently fall down the tree. i strap the top to the tree when i am in place so that doesn't slip down and bang into the bottom
the viper is a very good stand . most comfortable i have used. it is a good idea to practice climbing in your yard to get very familiar with setting it up and climbing. do it as if your hunting with your hunting clothes on and pull up the bow to to take a some practice shots

Great stand DON'T FORGET THE SAFTEY HARNESS. This is a must