I have a similar climbing tree stand with a bar in front but i use the harness once i get up to the spot im gonna hunt from. I agree with you on harness being expensive the harness i have was $135 and the camo is complete @#$%^ but its really easy to put on and comfortable to wear but you get what you pay for with a harness they sell cheap ones at walmart $30 or $40 but they are annoying to put on.