I have tried a few different tri pod stools and the lighter versions of 1 lb or less will wear out in few years. I think the camp time stool comes in at 14oz which is the lightest I have found. Mine is still going strong. They are a good product and I think it is kind of neat that you got to tour their shop Ben.

I have also been eyeing the camp time chair with the back rest which weighs 2.5 lb. Eventually the "right" trip will show up and the chair will be worth the extra weight.

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I find the little stool not only a plus for cooking since it is not so high off the ground but it is a major plus when breaking camp. I sit to stuff bags, tents and pads. I think early in the morning is not a good time to be constantly bending over or squatting. Your body is probably a little tight from the previous days work and the morning tends to be a little bit cool anyways......bad combination.

Just remember it is a tripod, if one leg goes into the ground you will become acquainted with a new and different perspective that you wouldn't ordinarily choose.  ;)