Abstract: Designs for a flexible component to be wrapped around a tree as part of a tree stand is provided. Designs of the present invention utilize a length or loop of cable. Segments are threaded onto the cable for the entire length. Significant features of flexible components of the present invention include the provision of adequate tensile strength to support the weight of the stand and the user. The flexible component is preferably flexible so it can wrap around the tree, but yet it preferably is also rigid enough so it does not sag when pressure is removed. It preferably also can be easily adjustable to easily accommodate different size trees.

Abstract: A strap assembly having a least one strap or belt secured to a retaining mechanism. The retaining mechanism includes a cinch clamp configured to enable the length of a tensioned portion of one of the straps to be manually adjusted and a tensioning lever engaged with one of the straps configured to move the strap a distance when the lever is moved from a first position to a second position to adjust the length of a tensioned portion of the strap.

Abstract: Golf clubs are disclosed that exhibit at least one marking indicia on the surface of the shaft and extending along at least one of the lateral sides of the shaft. The marking indicia is preferably a series of lines that are parallel to the edge of the shaft and separated by a distance sufficient to be revealed or hidden as the club face is opened or closed by small angular increments.The golf shafts in clubs according to the invention include:a shaft having a circular cross section and comprising (a) a tip end for attaching a club head to the shaft, (b) a butt end for attaching a grip to the shaft, and (c) at least one linearly oriented first alpha marking indicia positioned on the exterior of the shaft within an angle, .alpha., about 45.degree. to about 135.degree.

Abstract: Golf clubs are disclosed that exhibit at least one marking indicia on the surface of the shaft and extending along at least one of the lateral sides of the shaft. The marking indicia is preferably a series of lines that are parallel to the edge of the shaft and separated by a distance sufficient to be revealed or hidden as the club face is opened or closed by small angular increments.Golf shafts according to the invention include:a shaft having a circular cross section and comprising (a) a tip end for attaching a club head to the shaft, (b) a butt end for attaching a grip to the shaft, and (c) at least one linearly oriented first alpha marking indicia positioned on the exterior of the shaft within an angle, .alpha., about 45.degree. to about 135.degree. from a clockwise position relative to top dead center of the shaft and extending up the shaft away from the tip end for a distance sufficient to allow a golfer to view the marking indicia and discern an angular position of the club face of up to about 15.