Rappelling Question

[Idobbq]

In the act of rappelling down a tree, I’m swinging all over the place - I feel like I’m constantly fighting the natural decline. In other words, if I have my sticks on one side of the tree, for whatever reason, when I start rappelling, I’m always on the wrong side - typically on the opposite side of the sticks. Is that a function of how I have my rappel rope cinched to the tree? Or, is the natural fall a function of the lean of the tree. I’m using res-tech rope with a sewn in loop.

 

[Hall17]

Gravity pulls straight down. Hard to fight it. It happens

 

[Idobbq]

No - I get that. I’m dead tired and probably didn’t word that question very well. What determines which side of the tree you’re going to naturally rappel? Somehow, I start going down one side and for whatever reason that I can’t figure out - I’ll end up somewhere else.

 

[Hall17]

Yeah where you put your rope can make a difference but just depends on tree lean. I don’t fight it. How many times have you rappelled down? I can usually set my rope up and come down where I need to, maybe not where it’s best but just relax and come down. Now if you are exerting a lot of energy holding on to the tree etc I’ve already used my linesman to keep me close

 

[tmhaz1]

I find the rope position does matter to an extent. Do you shorten your bridge for your descent? That and going slow give you more control.

 

[Dmathews87]

Rope position for sure. Generally speaking,the direction of my quick link is where im headed...granted i may swing just a bit

 

[Weldabeast]

Pay attention as u lower ur weapon and it'll give u an idea of how gravity gonna swing u....u also need to pay attention when taking a leak ....u don't wanna land in a puddle or have golden showers from the little tree u tinkled on earlier

 

[KYRanger]

I tend to position the rope / quick link slightly to my right to rappel on the right side of my stick(s). As mentioned, a shorter bridge and going slow really helps. If you are trying to get down In a few big hops, it can get squirrelly. Just walk down the tree. Sometimes a tree is leaning more than you think and you need to not fight it, just slowly descend with the direction gravity is taking you. Give it some time and you’ll figure out what works.

 

[Buckhole75]

Thats a good point Weldabeast LOL Especially for guys like me on BP meds and who drink too much coffee

 

[Shapeshifter]

I was having the same issue when I first stated repelling. Now I simply move my delta link around so that it's over my sticks before I start to repell down. Always make sure you're climbing on the upside of the lean also. Now when you move your link over your sticks and start repelling you will be on the upside and gravity will naturally pull you toward a the tree and your sticks.

 

[Weldabeast]

I've had quite a number of stinky showers......hahahaha

 

[bfriendly]

I was having the same issue when I first stated repelling. Now I simply move my delta link around so that it's over my sticks before I start to repell down. Always make sure you're climbing on the upside of the lean also. Now when you move your link over your sticks and start repelling you will be on the upside and gravity will naturally pull you toward a the tree and your sticks.

This^^ Your rope will fall perfectly straight down from the tree when it comes out of its attachment method (like a delta link) Moving that point left to right just a few inches, makes a huge difference. Pay attention to that next time and see if it helps. Also wrap a leg around the tree for stability when necessary.