I have these things strapped to a tree for nearly two weeks now. Despite the weird looks from neighbors, I have several hours logged standing on them, moving around on them and just bouncing on them. They have been out in almost zero degree temps, rain, ice and a couple of snow storms. They have not budged, or cracked or showed any signs of failure. The felt on the sides seem to provide plenty of protection to keep them quiet, although long term my 3M spray probably will not hold. Stuffing each one in some old socks may work just as well, if not better. That will be the next test.
For sh!ts and giggles I tried a pair of Steps as a platform. I have gotten fairly proficient in setting them, so the pair was easy to do. Rock solid, but I am not sure they are any more comfortable than the brackets. I finally bit the bullet on eight more Steps, so I will see how hard they are to set as a platform when it is three or more.
I am really looking forward to hearing what others who ordered the brackets think of them. I ordered a bunch more so I will be able to set up three or four permanent platforms during hunting season. Imagine, spending only 25 bucks to set up a tree vs. $100 for decent permanent stands. I should have made this change years ago. I think my climber and other stands are going on craigslist soon.
