I have a generic climber and it came with three ten inch strapes that are used to hold the top and bottom pieces together while your walking through the woods. These straps start to loosen during a walk from bumps and such, as they loosen the top and bottom pieces start to rattle and make noise and i even worry they could fall apart. Do any other other climbers have better sytems than this, I know I read of one awhile ago that had built in prongs on one piece and holes they slide into on the other, that sounded very ideal. How do your climbers piece together?
Most cheaper climbers aren't going to be very good at packing in and out due to the reason you mentioned and weight. (Most cheaper climbers are steel) Of all the climbers that I have the easiest to pack is the Equalizer. The two sections fit together perfectly. Whenever tightened down with the rope that comes with the stand it doesn't rattle at all. You could try a ratchet strap or two to help tighten the sections down.
I have a old summit that we hold together with two bunggie cords one on the top and one on the bottom. Its not great but it does the job and keeps the stand secure
I second the Equalizer. The cinch rope that comes with it can be bought at home centers, ie Home Depot and Lowes.
I have a summit viper also. no problem with the straps holding in place, and it must be at least 12-15 yrs old. I do use bungee to hold other things from making noise, back pack etc. Be sure to tuck stuff in, if it hangs it will make noise.
I have a new summit and the two pieces fit together nicely and then I just use one strap that came with it. It stays together tight while I'm walking with it and it does not move at all.
I looked at that Equalizer it looks like an awsome stand but with all the money I plan on spending on the comming bow season I know my wife would throw a fit. I think I'll go to lows and find those straps you guys mentioned here, maybe next season I'll be able to get the Equalizer.
