I have hunted from a saddle since approximately 2008. I did the climbing sticks with a ring of steps for a while. I then single step climbed, rappelling down from the tree at the end of the hunt.
For the last few years I have been using a hybrid system, which has allowed me to adapt very easily to different situations, making me more successful. I single step/SRT climb to the proper height, and then set up an XOP Retrograde stand with no seat section (to save weight). My current saddle is a Cruzr XC. For climbing gear I use 35 feet of 9mm climbing rope, several carabiners, cord hitches (prussics), and an ATC device. The mix of a small stand and the saddle is very comfortable, effective and safe.
The most important reason I climb the way I do is safety. I am tethered (not just a lineman’s belt) to the tree for the entire hunting event. No slack line during climbing, tight line during the hunt, and a safe rappel to get down to the ground. I would have to experience a major equipment failure to experience a fall now.
What ever system you develop for tree stand hunting ensure it is safe. I did experience a fall in 2005. “Luckily” I only fractured my jaw, broke my nose, had a concussion, lost a finger nail and some superficial cuts/scrapes. No long term injuries.