As long as you're not a real big guy, or a puss about heights, they are great. It climbs differently than a normal stand, but it's not a bad thing once you are accustomed to it. It locks in very stable when you lock the straps down. It's actually secure enough to stand on the top section. I was doing that, glassing some deer in Kentucky. Obviously it is very easy to carry. It isn't the most comfortable, but if you will buy the lumbar support to strap to the tree, it's not bad at all. I've done many 6-8 hour sits in one. Just stand up every now and then.