nice work you will enjoy the extra length it gives more of a real tree feel. I wanted the length cause then i did not have to cut the 12 foot boards.....lol less cutting the better Remember if that stand is 8 foot tall the legs on your stand need to be at least 5 foot wide to prevent tipping when you are hanging from the top! I dont think mine is fir probably pine but the wood when finished is slick buddy oh is it slick you might want to use a speer wrap with straps to prevent any sliding of your suspension unless you can get rough hewn wood which would be great. I wish i could have gotten cedar......