Bolt question

[Fingerlakes257]

Hey All,

I have a question and hope I can gain some insight from someone who has experience with climbing with grade 8 bolts.

I practiced drilled a tree in my backyard today with the tree hopper powerdrill bit. I then placed a bolt in the hole I drilled. I noticed the bolt slides in and out pretty easily. Is this normal? Or should it be more snug? Does anyone ever find the bolt slipping out?

My concern is climbing down after a hunt and God forbid one of the bolts comes out and I lose a step.

would appreciate any advice. Thanks guys!

 

[Hinkelmonster]

I bought a bit brace on Facebook for $10 just to see if I like the bolts. I then bought 3/8 x6” grade 8 bolts and then dipped in plasti dip 3.5” to eliminate noise and to make sure I got them all the way in when climbing.

I have not had any come close to coming out. There are times when I have to almost unscrew them.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Buckhole75]

When stepping down or up you are not pulling out They ain’t coming out My absolute favorite methid

 

[Fingerlakes257]

Awesome. Thanks guys.

 

[bodark]

It’s fine. Just drill at a slight angle so they don’t fall out

 

[Rustystud]

I have used 6" x 3/8" grade 8 socket cap screws for over 20 years. I weigh 235 lbs. Have had a few bolts woller out holes in pines and populars. Broke one bolt off at surface of a hard tree in cold weather by stomping the bolt. Still think it is the best way to climb trees.