Just stumbled across this thread.
I turned 65 last year and retired. So, I had plenty of time to try various climbing methods...all summer.
I have the Muddy Pro (original 32" long with 3 fixed steps) climbing sticks and I modified one of them to attempt "one stick" climbing. I liked it, but the time I spent on the ground after rappelling, wrapping up rope, string and packing it all away, made it less enjoyable.
When I was using 3 climbing sticks, I could be on the ground, have my sticks packed up and be on my way in less time.
I tried the 2TC method and found some interesting aspects about climbing with that system, but it felt like more physical work and/or effort than other methods.
During all this, I learned a lot about tying different knots, rappel gear and how to cut carry weight with my gear.
In the end, I added a single loop rope aider to the bottom of each of my Muddy Pro sticks and went back to packing 3 sticks.
I made weight cuts in other ways with my gear and continued to use this system thru this past hunting season. If I know where I'm hunting and the trees allow the use my Summit climber, that's typically what I use. If I'm hunting a new area, I always take my Cruzr XC tree saddle that way I don't get caught in a tree situation that doesn't allow for a climber.
I changed from using a backpack to a gear bag for my hunting/climbing accessories and that made a huge difference in carry weight and comfort. I strap my climbing sticks directly to my Mission platform and added rifle slings to the platform for packing and it works great.
As for age being or becoming an issue, it pays to stay in shape throughout the year, so that I can enjoy the hunting seasons in the fall. 100%
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