I am going to pick up on or the other for this season and was wondering what everyone thought, especially if you have used both.
Haven't used both, but researched the heck out of both before going with the Lone Wolf hand climber. There were some awesome prices on early models from XOP, but they have since aligned a lot closer, price wise.
They are essentially the same design. Lone Wolf founder sold out, and then founded XOP without having to change his designs much at all.
Not exactly what you asked, but hope that helps a little.
I am a 2 decade pretty exclusive LW guy. I looked at the XOP last weekend. The stand AND sticks have some VERY impressive improvements that "up the bar" for LW.
FYI- XOP was like 25% off at Scheels in Overland Park, KS last weekend.
Dan in KS
XOP is being run by Cody DeAquisto, who is Andre's son. Andre founded Lone Wolf. But, last I heard the stands were being made over sea's. The original LW's were made in Andre's shop in So. Milwaukee.
The Air Raid platform is a little larger than the assault. More like the alpha. If you are an average size or taller guy, I'd go with the Air Raid. If you are say 5'-10" or taller, I'd go with the Air Raid. I'm a little over 5' 7" and found it a little long to carry the Air Raid. I had to carry the Air Raid higher than normal so that the platform didn't tap the back of my thighs.
I'll be waiting for the XOP Vantage or getting an older assault if they come up.Quality wise they are about the same and share a lot of the same innovations.
When is the xop vanish due out? I would like it for this year.