I would say yes it's definitely worth it from my experience especially on public land. You put at least 5 hours of practicing on different types of trees. This just my opinion but I think the best tree saddle system is using a platform with a ring of steps for two reasons. It takes alot of strain of the back. The second reason is you use the tree to block the deer view of you (of course smaller trees would be the exception). Carrying multiple climbing stick is noisy more clunky not for me. I also highly recommend getting a framed backpack it make more because you can quarter out a deer.
agree with the ROS with your platform. Heres what i feel like makes it worth trying and using effectively:
1. use your rappel as your tether (more rope is more weight and more steps) When i started i tried using my tether to climb and pulled my rappel out when ready to get down and doing this i would say i had a similar situation as Noonespecial where i tried it and instantly was like nah this is too much im going back to 3 sticks.
2. have a stick with a cam cleat. Those guys you see fumbling around and making noise are the guys fiddling with straps and versa buttons...with the cam cleat you pull up on your stick and rope comes right out easy peasy and no noise.
3. Having a platform as your top step. When i set that stick at height,thats it,ready to hunt, no fooling with an additional platform. Me personally and depending on the tree, i will probably throw that ROS around with 2-3 steps so i can step to the side just a bit easier and setting that up takes nothing
4. use a linemans belt! Guys, i see all of you using nothing but your tether and letting yourself go higher than its set. I keep my linesman attached to my left loop at all times, quick to whip it around and be rock solid to adjust my tether higher.
These are mine and work for me, lets all share what ever tips helped you make that transition easier as its the little details that help make you more effective and more quiet.