I am a hard core LW stand user when I use a tree stand. Used them for so long I can’t remember what year I bought them, early in the 2000’s I know that..I’ve been using the assault and climber, deciding based on situations..my best days, best bucks, and best set-ups period have always been from a stand I set that morning or evening. It’s extra effort, but the deer really don’t have any idea someone just hooked in above them, there’s no history of anyone sitting where I sit.
I got the LWCG stand and sticks, thought I’d post what I’m thinking so far...
The design of the actual stand, seat, and all is awesome, even in packability. All the modifications and “complaints” I used to have, they’ve seemed to have fixed them...very cool...I sewed “saddle bags” for my assault for transport, no longer necessary, had to bind it to be quiet, now its quiet by design. I had fashioned a belt and strap carry system, and now it’s designed for them and you can get them with it. Allows for carrying pack and clothing without shoulder strain.
It’s really light, thin, and quiet, and the color is less noticeable. Seat adjustment is better, easier as well, as is the platform adjustment. Most screws can’t generally back out because the nuts are locked in place by design..
I always only used one strap for attachment, LWCG comes with 2, and you can use with one or two.
Sticks are well made, really nice to use, and fold flat..
Here’s my issue at this point, the grommets do hold the sticks, but not all that well, I still need to bungee everything down so I don’t lose anything during transport. Also, I’m finding that I have to remove the straps from the lower stand strapping point, as well as all of the sticks in order to keep everything quiet, and allow it all to nest together properly. In the videos it all looks great, but in reality, if you keep the straps and buckles on the sticks, it just won’t work. This means I have to figure out where to keep those straps to pull out and use as I’m climbing..so maybe a cargo pocket or something I haven’t decided, although this will likely be the case.
They got rid of the versa button, so the straps go on and off easy enough, but it’s just another step.
Also, I’ve played with the “one trip up” theory. I think I have it figured out. The first two sticks are removed and basically the first is placed on the tree from the ground, the second is carried up to place next, easy enough. I then leave one stick stuck in the grommet on the left and one on the right of the stand. I reach back pull the third stick, attach the belt to it, and up it goes. Same for the next one. Just have to be careful not to nock one off during this process or off it will go to the ground..
Once up, stand comes off, hang the top strap as always, and add second strap if the tree requires it or you feel better about it. Good to go...so one trip up does work, IDK if the sticks are lighter than the original ones, but I do like the design better.