re: climber gear check/help

I own a Summit and love it. I think the Summit is better for pine trees, since it has less biting teeth that allows for easier and quieter climbing. They also spray foam the inside of the frame so there is no noise if pieces bump together. Other stands with sharper teeth/nail grips, like the Old Man etc are better for slick/hard trees such as gum and oaks. I always look for a pine first though, because the stand sticks like glue. I've never had an issue and I pack mine in and out most times I hunt. As far as harnesses go, the one's you get with the stands will suffice, but they aren't as intuitive as some others you can get. I have one of the old seat-o-the pants harnesses and really like it now that I'm used to it. I get mine on before I leave the camp, but it only take me two minutes tops to put on anyway. I'd also look into a lifeline for climbing.

ETA:

Also, I assume you tied off the two sections. Big part of it. Summit has a bungee strap that comes with it to do this.

Another benefit to the Summit (I have the 180 Max) is that I can reverse the seat so that the tree is in front of me. I do this if I'm more in the open for additional concealment. The stand is so comfortable that I fight falling asleep a lot of times. Your back right quadrant will be a tough shot for a right handed shooter, so be prepared to stand up in those situations.