I replaced the straps on one of my summits. Found a set at a military surplus. I don't remember what I purchased to rob the straps.

Give me a 50lb bag of sand, carried on my shoulder, and I’d be cussing in pain after a mile, and it might take me 40min, AND I’d be nearly worthless the next day. Put 100lbs Of sandbags in my Load Sling on my Mystery Ranch pack frame and I can ruck 3.5-4mph, and have rucked 10-15 miles at a time on multiple occasions in training hikes. Even a cheap Eberlestock Mainframe pack will ride nicer without pressure points.

I’ve yet to meet a deer stand which I thought carried well or which was comfortable against my back. I also have water bottle pockets and snack/tool/phone pouches on my frame belt. Adding that 5.5lbs is worth every single ounce compared to rucking the stand alone by shoulder straps.

When I was young enough still to be more foolish, I used military surplus ALICE straps or two cheap Allen gun slings to haul my stands. Mountainsmith makes a set of shoulder straps meant for a lumbar pack which should work well for a deer stand too.

But next weekend, I’m hauling my stands in on my pack frame.

Thanks guys; all great suggestions. I did get a waist belt for it online for about $25. It feels much better but need to carry it in the woods to see for sure. I think a set of new shoulder straps will do wonders though. At 62, i'm with you. Can't do what I used to but not in that great of shape these days either. Gotta get on the bike before gun season and get a little work in. Gettin old seems no fun. Ha, ha.