Can't go wrong with a fixed Gorilla stand. The King Kong hang on is quiet and very roomy and only $90 at Cabelas. The 2" thick seat is very comfy and has lasted me 7 seasons!!! I feel much safer perched up 18-20 feet in a larger stand. Say 24"-30", the larger the stand the heavier to put up is also a consideration to think about. I have a fireman's harness that enables me to use both hands to screw in steps. I also have a Rivers Edge fixed stand that came with a removable gun rest. It makes a little bit of noise when it gets really cold out though.