tracker12
Active Member
For those of you using a figure 8 to rappel what are you using for your ascend. Tether with Ropeman or Kong or something else.
Tether with a prussic. You could use a mechanical ascender as well but they can and will bite through the sheath if you fall on them with slack. The prussic would likely slide some and melt some from the testing I’ve seen. The safety game while one sticking is mitigating slack regardless of what you use.For those of you using a figure 8 to rappel what are you using for your ascend. Tether with Ropeman or Kong or something else.
Or the JRB ascender hitch in soft bridge mode. Self tending, can break under load and no device to mess with at all.Don't forget my beloved Roperunner! Slickest ascending and descending hybrid device out there!
Same boat…..cept I’m using an ATC.This is one area that I need to work on and develop this summer. Last season I used my ropeman to ascend and for use at hunting height. I then switched over to a GriGri for rappelling. I like the GriGri for descent, however for climbing it's not something I'm currently comfortable with as it releases every time weight is let off.
The downside to using a Ropeman or Kong Duck is that if something does happen and you need to descend your adding an additional challenge to the mix. I do carry a lineman's rope with me while ascending, which I figure worst case I would need to transfer my weight to that in order to release the ropeman and switch to the GriGri. I'm also trying to avoid buying another device, however I'm beginning to think that may be my only option as what I currently have work great for what they are designed to do, but don't do both tasks that I'm asking of them.
You carry a screw in or strap on step if that happens. Works well I have practiced it.My only issue with his figure 8 rappel is that it has to be attached to the rope if you want to come down.
If you're ascending and disaster happens (stick falls and you slam into the tree), are you going to be able to create a bight of rope to attach your figure 8 to in order to come down with your hanging weight on your rope?
You may have to practice coming down just on friction hitches alone. With some rope it's not too bad, but other rope can be almost impossible to release under load.
There are ways to do it, you just better have a plan because it takes some thinking.
With the madrock attached already, you just regain your composure and come down the tree.