I’ve been one-sticking for a few years now, and have tried a variety of ways to do it. What works for me, may not be what is right for you.
I’ve tried sticks with a separate platform, a scout on top of a stick and ring of steps, a stick and a ring of steps, a UP on a stick a monarch on a stick and both of those with a separate platform as well of ring of steps.
What I’ve found that I like best is, the Slick Rick one-stick and the Big BOB from OOAL. the platform size is just right for my feet, it allows me to adjust the angle, and packs easily. I’ve found that for me, a separate platform is just “one more thing” and I tend to fiddle-eff with extra stuff I don’t really need.
All last year I carried a ring of steps and maybe only used them two or three times with my Slick Rick and Big BOB, but never found a time that I “needed” them.
That’s me, and where I hunt. You and others may have different experiences though. Best I can say is get out and tinker. Find what you like for where you hunt. For me though, one stick with an integrated platform is what works best for me.
Semper Fi,
Mike