I want to add though I agree with JRB 100% that backing up a mechanical device is good practice. These devices aren’t designed for true hands free operation and if we stop to take our platform off the tree or a stick ect… we are removing our hands from the rope and device. Even though you “can” sit in the Madrock hands free without a hitch back up, doesn’t mean you should. So I agree with John, hitches are stronger lighter and less expensive, Backing up your device is important. He’s right on all accounts there. I just don’t understand the double rope, hitch and garda climbing on micro lines. The ropes are cheaper, lighter ect… he says he shows arborists and other climbing professionals his methods all the time. With the “ease of use” and cost savings, why aren’t any of them endorsing his method or teaching it in climbing schools? I’m asking him, not to stop someone from innovation, but out of pure morbid curiosity. He’s putting a lot of time and effort into this system and he tags his videos in nearly any knot, rope, or climbing post on this forum and was doing the same on saddlehunter nation until last year. With all this extensive testing, rope knowledge and exposure, it seems like someone would have picked it up and ram with it by now. He would gain a ton of legitimacy and potentially reach a larger audience if he had the International brotherhood of tree climbers, or Cornell college endorse and certify his method.