One thing I would add is that bolts are legal in some/much of Ontario's crown land. You should look at the specific county forests and municipal regulations that might apply, but where I hunt (which is let's say Yonge & Bloor) bolts are legal - I have spoken to the forest manager directly on the point. If that is true, then they are the cheapest and lightest way to go. I run bolts and a ring of bolts on trees where they are legal so I don't have the need for a platform. That saves a lot of money.
I also have WE stepps and a strap on ROS for areas where bolts are not legal. That does not save money.
In terms of which saddle to buy, that is really hard to say. If you are around the Hamilton area, you are welcome to meet up and give my Kestrel a try (no farting allowed).