To answer some questions:
1) The ladder on this is shorter than a tripod stand. One of the main users is partially paralyzed. He could manage what you saw in the pick, but he can't do a normal ladder.
2) You do get in from behind under the seat.
3) We hunt from static positions AKA "sitting on your ass" because it is safer that way. We have a very dense situation-- lots of deer and hunters. It's better to be in one spot than wandering around the woods. I agree that it is somewhat limiting. I prefer not to hunt with a roof over my head-- only do it when it's raining.
4) The only place where I've seen these stands used is Germany. The design seems to be popular over there.
