Haven't hunted in a stand for many years but when I did it was rarely more than 10-12' when bowhunting and many times no more than 8. Rifle was almost always out of a ladder stand so whatever those go to. 16' or so I think. Sometimes I'd leave the bottom of the ladder off if it wasn't needed.

Beware of any old man in a profession where one usually dies young.

Calm seas don't make sailors.