Got my Sladder and absolutely love it!!
I've climbed with a couple different applications over the past 4-ish years, most recently with 3 steps and an inline/offset clip-on ladder.
I got 8-10 climbs in with the Sladder, trying the climbs with a tether, and then with the lineman's rope. Both work great, with the lineman's being a bit more efficient, but I've gotten comfortable over the years with the safety of using the tether to climb and will likely stick with that. As with any system, there is a slight learning curve and figuring out what works best for you... but very minimal and looking forward to using it this year - or should I say this weekend - haaa.
I am 6' tall/215-ish lbs and ordered the 8' version. I was able to get 20'-22' up in 3 movements, which was a big thing for me, and not have to worry about picking up steps on the way down. Attaching to the tree is very simple and the bottom detaches with a couple quick jerks from the top. One thing I did learn was not to attach it as tight as possible. It needs to have some slack so that it will release when pulling up on it from above - great design.
The material and workmanship appear to be top-notch and durable, and it will definitely be reducing weight and bulk getting in and out of the hunting areas.
Oh, and also recommend the 3' daisy chain extension.