I searched through here and didn't turn up a whole lot and thought I would do a brief review of MY thoughts on the stand. I have recently went to about 90% lock on and my other stands (Leverage and something else) left A LOT to be desired. I had heard great things about how comfortable the M100U was, so I purchased one on our annual 'tax free' weekend.
First off,
I want to start with the stand specs.
Capacity: 300 lbs
Weight: 11.5 lbs
Platform: W 20” D 38”
Seat Size: W 20” D 17”
Seat Height: 17”
The stand came with the chain receiver. I asked about that before and also purchased a ratchet strap receiver. To test both to see what I liked or didn't.
I took it out of the box and was pleased to see that it was hunt ready. Absolutely no assembly required. After reading all the hype about comfort, I strapped the chain link receiver to the first tree I could and put my rump in the seat. Initial impression: WOW!!! I am not a guy who can sit all day, but I definitely could in this stand.
The next time my rump found itself in this stand, it was in a hunting scenario. Set up was as easy as anything ever. I love the receiver system where I don't have to fight the stand the hang it. I simply wrap the chain around the tree and hook it back in. slide the receiver down a little to create tension, then set your stand in. some guys take the time to use a ratchet strap around the bottom, but I have not taken the time yet. I simply set the stand in and start climbing in. **i have read where the stand would shift if you stepped on the side as compared to the middle if the bottom wasn't strapped in, so I was sure to step as middle as possible**.
Once in I never felt like it was unsafe or un-secure in the least bit. the stand never shifted, never slid, etc. Have I mentioned how comfortable this stand is?
A few more added features that I really liked. I love how the platform is so far from the tree. With the seat being wider, that is essential. I could take a shot on an animal that is on either side of the tree right behind me. When the seat is in the UP position, there is a piece of shock chord that keeps it in place. With it in up position, the seat was the perfect height for me to take a little weight off by resting on it.
I much prefer the ratchet strap system to the chain, but I do believe both of them have their purpose. I left the chain receiver hanging in AR and its nice to know that it for sure will never be a liability. I wouldn't have the same confidence with the ratchet strap after a year of it hanging there.
Now for the bad(not bad though).
I didn't like how the main beam of the stand was hollow. It helped magnify noise should you hit it walking in or hanging the stand. This is really one of the only complaints I have. It's a minimal complaint imo and I plan to combat it by putting some spray foam in it to see if that helps.
Overall, I am VERY pleased with the stand and have already looked into getting another. I am interested in seeing how the lighter versions like the M7 are in the comfort category. I really like the full Chair that the one I currently have has.
I hope this was helpful.
Daniel