Great platform Dave, your always on the hunt for a better way. I was shocked to see xop selling all the individual parts, thanks for the heads up. So is the actual weight 6lbs? If you are going to rely on the rope to support the weight of the platform, than you could probably go back to regular tubing and not experience the denting. A standard lw stand stick would probably work as well and be lighter, but you might experience rope fraying.
I actually prefer the XOP with the built in leveling for the rope - just simplifies one more thing. Although, I am building a smaller platform based upon my first design but using rope and a ropeman 1 for the platform adjustment. I actually tested this platform out some more this weekend and it is definitely the one I plan on carrying most of the time. It is quiet, semi lightweight, ample foot room and rock solid when set right. Also, it is like standing on a mini lonewolf - I can turn completely on the platform 360 degree. It basically took all the good points from all the other platforms I have built and put them all into one.... now if I could get XOP to build a 12 inch stick with leveler.........