If you want to face the tree, go with the Summit 180. I too swear by summit. I had a tree lounger originally, good stand, a little heavy though. I also love the summit loc system.

Go with the Equalizer. You can adjust the angle while in the tree with a crank handle and lead screw. I would recommend the sling seat option. The seat that comes with it is not good for all day hunting!

www.equalizertreestands.com

Just watched the video on the Equalizer stands. They seem to be a great idea and at 20 lbs. it looks like an even better idea. They list the Equalizer with the optional safety bar (shooting bar) as $335.00 and I wonder how that compares to the Summit... or maybe there is no comparison. Summit and Equalizer owners what are your thoughts? Anybody own both?

SUMMIT is a great brand. I have owned my viper for four years and use it all the time. When the time comes I'll buy my son a summit also.

SUMMIT

I've never owned a Summit but do own an API Grand Slam and the Equalizer. At first I thought I made a mistake buying the Equalizer because I wasn't happy with the seat and my API is very comfortable. But after installing the sling seat on the Equalizerit is very comfortable! And it's great being able to adjust the stand while in the tree! We've all been there climbing a treeand you get to a knot and you you're having difficulty because you put the stand on too tight. Well with the Equalizer you just give a couple cranks and open up the stand till your past the knot and then readjust. I don't work for Equalizer orown stock in Equalizer, just one hunter to another it's a great stand (with the sling seat!!).

Rivers Edge

Summit Viper, haven't tried the Equalizer

I love my Summit Viper but the Equalizer does look intriguing. I definitely would like to try the Equalizer for the heck of it.