I use the sticks, but I screw 4 steps in at 180 degrees apart about 10 inches above the top of the sticks, if you adjust your strap out to a sitting position then stand you will find it alot more comfortable,kinda puts you at a 40 degree angle back away from the tree while standing and you can go to a sitting postion with your knees against the tree, get the tree saddle knee pads,and you can also switch your weight from one leg to the other, alot of options and all are comfy,also quickly and quietly go to shooting position completely around tree.It takes some practice, now is a good time to start