I have an early Summit Viper tree stand I have had for years. I didn't get a chance to hunt with it all last year but finally got a chance to get my flintlock out with it a couple nights ago. I couldn't help but notice it doesn't want to go up the tree very well now? I flailed away for what seemed like 20 minutes and then to my horror realized after all that work I had left my pack on the ground Fortunately I was only about 18" off the ground so was able to get off and retrieve my pack. I have decided I can see pretty well now at about 5 or 6' up the tree......