Bill S Why isn't the handle and bottom part sold together?
Frank L This is the way the manufacturer sells them. The bottom brackets are used for another purpose for boats, not just for this application.
CURTIS M I only purchased the product, but I believe it is sold seperately because the support brackets can fit into a track that can be mounted to the side rail of a boat, to hold the tanks while on the water. If you want to use it as a carry aid, then you can purchase the handles. That is my best guess.
LIZA C I wondered the same thing...I have never been able to use the handles because I never bought the base! Suppose I should do that one day.