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

I had mine cable locked to a tree. I know you're not supposed to do that but there was plenty other trees to climb in the area if someone else wanted to hunt there. It wasn't a public land goer though. It was someone off the neighboring hunting club I'm about 95% sure. They had to use bolt cutters to cut the cable and take it. That 180 max is almost $400 too. I'm still mad about that. Mostly at myself for leaving it, but you live and you learn.
I sharpen the "spikes" on my climbers so they bite better in the tree so I don't have a need for those straps. But I do like the bow carrier for walking in and out that converts to a gear holder once you get up. Much easier than fighting the screw in holders.