This is my second Bison belt. The clamping system works well. It's also easier to release and doesn't chew on the straps, unlike the internal auto-tension vertical pins that are always present. Beating the stars is cost driven. Judging by the materials used, this could be the most popular belt if the price is reduced. However, you will see these harnesses in hiking boutiques, so know that a) they work, b) they tend to cost a bit more.