There are a lot of factors that can lead to “kick out” where the stick becomes unseated and unexpectedly shifts from it’s intended position. A wonky shaped tree that doesn’t allow for both brackets to fully seat, not getting the stick seated down properly, a loose attachment method, such as daisy chains, too much side pressure, slick barked tree, etc., etc. etc.. There are things you can do to minimize it. I prefer shorter sticks, two steps as opposed to the longer 3 step sticks, as they tend to get a better purchase in my experience, especially on trees with abnormal shapes. Pulling out on the bottom of the stick and firmly downward at the same time can also help seat the stick better, especially on smooth barked trees. Using a daisy chain in the “truckers hitch” setup really locks them tight to the tree, even more so than a single rope and cam cleat can.
Kick out can certainly rattle your nerves as it’s never expected. But if you have your tether properly above your shoulders with a good connection, you’ll just get jostled a bit without any major injuries. If your tether is below your waist as you see so many one-stickers doing, then you’re going for a bit of a drop and shock with greater potential for injury, especially as you drop down onto that stick that was supposed to be supporting you.
