I started hunting using tree limbs until my father in law got me hooked on using boards wedged in between trees. Paul Brunner peddled a stand like this in his Screaming Eagle catalog once. I take a 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 board, put 2 stainless threaded rods through the short side for reinforcement and cut v notches on the ends to lock against trees. Securing the boards to the trees is done using rope. The biggest advantage is the amount of cover you have between a couple trees and the 360 degree shooting options. The biggest setback is the lack of a seat. The stands weigh next to nothing and cost next to nothing to make. I have not had one fail yet. I am currently using Fin Board that really heavy duty rot resistant plywood shoring material used for underground excavations. I purchased from a rental supply that rents safety equipment. I just epoxy two sheets together and put carpeting on one side, and paint the other side camo brown and gray. Anyone use this type of stand?