I am really happy with my SUmmit Viper XLS. I received a tip from a friend about the stirrups. Instead of the ones Summit has, I added my own. Use a pinky finger size bungee cord. I will see if I can post some pics here.

Another view.....

How in the world do u use that? Do ya put your feet in the grooves where the bungee cord is? What happens if you lose your footing do u have a rope tied to your waist?

TURKEY FAN,

You place your feet between the bungee and the side braces. This uses the same principle as the rapid climb stirrups from Summit. I have the Rapid Climb Stirrups and have found them much easier to climb with than Summits old setup. As for losing your platform, you should always have the platform and the climber portion of your stand tied together to prevent dropping your platform.

Jerry/NJ,

I saw those pics over on AT. Thats a darn good idea....I almost did something similar with some aluminum but thought I would give the stirrups a try. Do you like the set up? I feel like I have much more control over the platform now with the stirrups installed.

I do not own a Viper but I do own a Revolution and am very happy with it. If I were to get another climber then it would probably be either the Viper or its backpacker version the Bullet. Both look to be great stands.

It's an excellent stand and one that I am sure you will be happy with. Summit climbers are excellent overall and you got a great deal as well.

I have the Viper and a Cobra top to go with it.I thought that I would like to try bowhunting without the bar.I use the Cobra top exclusively now for bowhunting.However,the viper top makes climbing way easier and is definately more versatile.You can't beat the comfort of these stands.Ron

Thank you for all your responses and I cant wait to get up in the tree with it.