I did some research on hammock stands after being told in a camping area to remove my hammock from their trees, as it leave scars, and if everyone did it that the trees would be destroyed and scar up the campsites for future campers - I agree.So, I went out looking for a hammock stand that I could use like I use a hammock.with more than a single person! Take a look at the competition.most are rated for 250 - 300 pounds at best.a typical husband and wife combined weight is more than 300 pounds, then add a kid or two and you are on the ground with a failed apparatus and a tailbone injury.This puppy is built with steel tubing you can measure and easy push tubing release buttons for quick dis-assembly! Yes it is heavy, but when I purchased it shipping was free!We took it camping last week for my pregnant daughter to relax in.she's expecting next month.no problems or issues even with the nieces and nephews on board.This is the only hammock stand you'll ever need to buy.it is engineered and designed to last more than a single use!It even comes with instructions and cautions for the novice hammock user that are not insulting and written in the English I learned in America during the 1960s.Enjoy this item.we are!