Planning for some gear upgrades, and I’d like the OB’s thoughts

API climber, but it's old. Not sure if the new ones from BOSS are as good. One of the few things I own that's not for sale.

Summit Goliath or viper for climber with foot rest. Millennium lock on

You hunting private or public land? If private land and are leaving loc ons all season, definitely look into milleniums for comfort. I use a big game loc on thats like 10 lbs and muddy sticks, but if you're leaving them and not packing in and out, weight doesn't make much difference. Summit viper climber is also my climber of choice.

One investment I made this year for my stands that stay out is life lines. Absolutely worth every penny! I've been wearing harnesses for the past couple years, but they wouldn't do me much good when I'm climbing up or stepping into my stands. I would always strap in when I get in the stand. Now I'm attached before I leave the ground.

I use a Summit Viper, about 6 years old, the newer ones have some upgrades to them that I'll likely make.


After looking at some replacement parts for my worn out seat and cables, I've discovered that I've not been using it as designed, which would make it even more user friendly.

I hunt public so I use a summit specialist sd open front because it's like 15 pounds and with the replacement seat, it's very comfortable. If I was on private land, I'd get a summit 180 max climber. Had one and some a-hole stole it out of sherburne. By far the most comfortable stand I've hunted but it's a little bulky.
Thinking about adding a few accessories from third hand to my setup thanks to the OB on the bow holders thread
I use the hunter safety systems vest harness that Yellerhammer posted above and it's legit. One of the best hunting tools that I've bought by far. I recommend it to anyone.

I use two totally different types of climbers and each has it's purpose.

For shorter hunts(3-4 hrs.) I use the Summit Goliath SD

In an area that I know I want to sit all day,(5 hours or more) I will use my Gunslinger

I have a Millenium M100u and an M60u. I like them both but I prefer the 60 for bowhunting.

I use a cheap ladder style stick for stands that will be out most of the season. For run and gun setups I use Hawk Helium sticks.

I have a Summit Viper, but I’ve all but retired it in favor of lock ons. If I was going to buy a new climber it would be an XOP or Lone Wolf sit and climb.