Treescapes Rotorua Ltd have utilized these frames in tree and big hedge work for approximately eight years almost on a daily basis.
Whilst our 3D frame has a free swinging spiked foot (which we find invaluable for foot security on hard and especially soft surfaces) we have also used the wider footed lockable foot on occasions and both feet provide excellent stability in the situations for which they are designed. More often than not the ground on which we are working is not level.
Once the 3D climbing frame has been set up vertically the bottom step is obviously not parallel to the ground and so the climber is automatically aware that the bottom step spacing will not be the same depth as subsequent steps. (Absolutely no problem in practice).
The 3 Dimentional shape of the frame enables the top end to "wrap around" upright trunks, branches etc., and it is rarely that our careful and trained staff see a need to tie the top to the tree to secure it (unlike a straight top rung ladder) which is rarely secure except on straight surfaces such as buildings, and then only when the ground is level.
The 3D shape besides adding to the structural strength also gives a climber the security of having the steps at right angles to his feet whilst working to either side of the frame, also when using a climbing frame you can climb & stand hands free. Occasionally we will invert the frame, which thus offers the side rails as knee or handrails on either side of the body, offering a more secure stance "in" the frame. We also have no qualms about using the frames as a bridge or semi bridge as occasion requires, or as a "plank rack" on the outside of our high truck sides as a working platform.

Regarding the positivity of the locking catch: When the original nylon return spring failed on our frame we continued to use the frame for some time relying only on gravity to "click the clicker". We then installed our own spring, which the manufacturer has since emulated as a design feature, also having the locking device above eye level is a very decided advantage when setting up or moving the frame -

A     It is less likely to be fouled up by branches or undergrowth.

B     It is constantly visible as one is looking up directing the top of the frame to its resting place.

C   The raising/lowering rope is always under tension ensuring there is no slack to get tangled
       in objects or feet.

D   The positive click at every step indicates audibly and visually when the frame is locked, 
      and upward height adjustment can be accomplished using only one hand.

In conclusion we heavily used and abused our 3D climbing frame over an eight or nine year period, completely destroying sections of it on more than one occasion. Should alignment distortion occur due to impact, it is usually a simple matter to dismantle the frame and realign. Failing "do it yourself' the manufacturer has never failed to give us excellent repair service and or supply alternative frames as required.
We feel strongly that the extra production from staff, the added comfort and confidence and the much greater versatility, reliability and speed of set up of the Scorpro 3D climbing frame when compared to the traditional " flat" extension (or non extension) ladder, quickly repays the greater financial outlay involved and certainly reflects in users confidence and sense of well being as well as energy conservation e.g. the user not being required to "balance" the ladder when in use is able to move the head of the frame or reposition it without having to descend and reset the foot.

Treesapes Rotorua Ltd : Phone 07 332 2611 Mobile 021 961 397 Fax 07 345 6325