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Summit Viper SD vs Viper Classic

Discussion in 'Equipment Reviews' started by hugger73hatch, Oct 28, 2013.

  1. hugger73hatch

    hugger73hatch Weekend Warrior

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    So I have a viper classic, but am thinking about upgrading and just wanted to get some opinions. The viper classic is ok, but a little heavy, but it is the only one I have had so I do not have anything to compare it to. I have left it on the same pine tree the last 2 seasons, because I don't like dragging it in and out of the woods.

    So I have been thinking about the Viper SD and wanted to get some feedback to see what others think.
     
  2. eleaf

    eleaf Newb

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    Same stand. Lighter. Quieter.
     
  3. Slugger

    Slugger Grizzled Veteran

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    Nuff said.
     
  4. codyg60

    codyg60 Newb

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    the wife gave me enough grief over the price the when I bought the classic haha. I'd love the new one but my couch isnt that comfortable. The great thing about Summit is not matter what your always going to get a great product.
     
  5. Cledus

    Cledus Die Hard Bowhunter

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    I just purchased an SD this past weekend, and used it for the first time last night. It was super comfortable, and easy to carry in and out of the woods.
    Wish I could manage a Lone Wolf climber, but they were almost double the price.. I'd have to try one before I spent that much money on one.
     
  6. TheHardWoods913

    TheHardWoods913 Die Hard Bowhunter

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    I have used the SD before a handful of times and I owned a older Summit Viper as well. The SD I borrowed from a friend after getting rid of my Viper. It was a great stand and light weight! Another buddy picked up a Lone Wolf and I tried it out and that was it for me. Ordered up the LW Alpha Hand Climber and it has been one of my best investments yet. Packs up to 3 inches and is extremely light weight. Platform is a lot more spacious than the Summit IMO also. If your set on a Summit that's great they make a fine product, but I'd def check out the Lone Wolfs too!

    [​IMG]


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
     
  7. Cledus

    Cledus Die Hard Bowhunter

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    How would you rate the comfortability of the LW to that of the SD?
     
  8. TheHardWoods913

    TheHardWoods913 Die Hard Bowhunter

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    I personally don't see much difference while sitting between the two yet, but I also keep a healthy balance between standing and sitting on stand. The Summit seat pad is thinker and you "sink" into it more than the LW seat pad, but I like how adjustable the LW is. I can easily tighten or loosen the seat to the tree creating different angles for the most comfortability for the given tree I am in. I don't see the padded seat option that LW offers as a bad thing though and can only make an already awesome stand even better, but I currently don't have any comfort issues. I went with the LW because of how small it packs, the roomy platform, how quite, quick, easy and light it is.
     
  9. ckeith

    ckeith Weekend Warrior

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    I've never used a LW climber but if they have the same seat as the hang-ons the viper will be a much better choice. I love the LW hang-ons but i wouldnt trade my summit for all day comfort. But like i said I've never used a LW climber.
     
  10. Ship of Fools

    Ship of Fools Weekend Warrior

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    Complete noob here when it comes to climbers… except for the old baker boards (which might explain my question!)

    What kind of safety strap do you use with these??

    I just use a lifeline with my sticks and hang ons.
     
  11. TheHardWoods913

    TheHardWoods913 Die Hard Bowhunter

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    Hunters Safety Systems Rope Style Tree Strap with a self tightening Prussic Knot, easier to slide it up and down the tree as you climb
     
  12. jakeratt

    jakeratt Die Hard Bowhunter

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    I have a Viper sd for sale right now for $180 like new only used 20 times. I just don't need it anymore. The sd has sound damping metal and it is lighter. This stand is amazing for all day sits and comfort in general. easy to set up and carry and climb I loved it just have no use anymore
     
  13. Henny

    Henny Newb

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    I purchased and used a summit classic for the first time a week ago. Unreal, easy to carry , mine says 27
    Lbs on the box, but as a backpack was easy to carry for me with my gearslinger pack and carrying my bow. 15 minutes from base of tree to 17' ready to hunt. Not bad for my 2nd time using it. The first time it was *******s and elbows. Didn't take long to figure it out though. Ii actually fell asleep in it Tuesday for over an hour! Lol. The safety harness it comes with is also world class. Very comfortable and east to get into and use. Hope this helps.
     
  14. Cledus

    Cledus Die Hard Bowhunter

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    Thanks for the info!
     
  15. hugger73hatch

    hugger73hatch Weekend Warrior

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    I will 2nd that...exactly what i use.
     
  16. CombatHM

    CombatHM Weekend Warrior

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    I have the Specialist SD and it's awesome! It's Super light 14lbs! All I need for bowhunting. It is open though, so you have to get your technique down for climbing a tree. Also to make sure to wear a harness. Hope this helps.
     

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