This will be my third season rappelling, regardless my climbing method. I bought a black diamond ATC (double) because I have a long rope going over the crotch in the tree or that big branch above and rappel on a double rope. It makes retrieving the rope so much easier. As a backup, I have a rescue 8 in my bag.
Here the reasoning: I can use a double ATC on a single rope, but not the other way around! There is no rope spec required for an ATC, any size rope in my possession will work. I put an autostop below the ATC as backup and to let me remove the platform on my way down. Again, there is no spec for the rope as long it’s in the ratio. Using a double rope, nearly any size of rope will work with the autoblock. The same goes for the rescue 8. Any size of rope will work. Play around with different methods and go with the one you feel most comfortable and safe. Use the information from this side and find your way. Stay safe!
