I am new to the site, but am always trying to optimize my setup, and have been working on the same systems. Using info from this site, youtube and the DIY Sportsman site, I have modified my set up this past year, and also plan to try to incorporate and test the Stepps this year.
My current setup is Lone Wolf sticks with a single rope step (aider) at the bottom of each stick, and a New Tribe Aero Hunter.
For the Lone Wolf rope step, I have used camo webbing attached to the bottom of each stick just above the last step. These aiders are the same distance between the Lone Wolf steps to keep climbing more consistent and safe. I also use ½" rubber gas-type hose approximately 8" in length on each rope to hold the step open, make it easier to find and step into, and to cushion the step on my boot. It works very well, and seems very stable. When I climb with the sticks, I grab the sticks and steps to support myself and prevent kick-out -- I have not had any problems. This set up allows me to climb an extre 60" (5' ) with the same 4 sticks, while only adding several ounces per stick.
Using the New Tribe Aero Hunter this year has really changed my set up and possibilities. I wear the Aero Hunter walking in, which lightens my load significantly compared to a lock on, and is quicker and quieter to set up. I then carry my sticks, and use them to climb to height. I have been using Cranson EZ Steps with rope attachments at the top for a "platform".
I posted a copy of this set up and use on youtube for a friend, and you may find it useful:
or you can search: Aero Hunter R&G Setup
Recently I have been experimenting with the Muddy Pro sticks, and looking at the modifications Based on the DIY Sportsman website and other blogs. These sticks are shorter than the Lone Wolf's and have only 2 steps as opposed to 3, however the steps are 18 inches apart instead of 15 inches, as on the Lone Wolf’s. By modifying these steps and adding an additional rope step to each section, they get close to the height of the Lone Wolf with the rope steps: 4 Muddy Pro + rope steps at 18” between steps = 18 ft; 4 Lone Wolf + rope steps at 15” between steps = 20 ft. The weight between the two systems with four steps each remains the same at the base weight of 10 pounds, with an additional 1 pound for the rope steps. The cost of each system is approximately the same, at $179 for the 4 Muddy sticks and $199 for the 4 Lone Wolf sticks. I have been able to find the Muddy sticks for $130 on Amazon.
The benefits would be that the Muddies ofter quicker and easier attachment using the cam and rope, and also the dual steps on each side of the stick. The Lone Wolfs offer more height. Both are made extremely well. I’m also looking into trying the Lone Wolf's with replacing the strap with a 9mm climbing rope to go around the tree. In addition, I may look into trying to have custom machined steps made for the Lone Wolf's to allow steps on each side, at least for the top step.
I have been looking at the Wild Edge Stepps recently on line, and must have missed then at that Harrisburg Show. I plan to see how they fit into my above set up with regard to ease of use, packing weight, and quietness. I will try incorporating them into all or part of the tree climbing, and also as a platform for standing on top when I am in a saddle.
The Climbing Aider now offered by Wild Edge looks like a may be a good choice (with or without mods) for use with the Tree Stepps, because the rope can be moved between steps at eye level and passed inside the ring of the lower step to prevent kick out.
For aiders on the sticks, I prefer individual aiders for each stick. It would be impossible and dangerous to reach down from the top step to remove an aider from the bottom of the stick and then move it to the next stick up. Further, the rope step aiders are inexpensive and quick to make, and pack very well (as can be seen in the youtube video).
Thanks for the info you have provided, and hope this helps.