First practice run using the
@kyler1945 method this weekend. Thought I'd report to help me process my thoughts and see who else is giving this a go.
For those not familiar, the method involves only 2 lengths of the Sladder (initial attachment and one pull up and attach, with no release of the initial) plus a JX3 wide top platform stick and in my case a 3-step aider.
Pros:
1) Plenty of height. 6ish + 6ish + 5ish = feet at 17-18. I don't see a need to hunt any higher than that.
2) Love climbing with an LB, and not having to sit and raise a tether constantly (1-sticking alternative). Safety concerns acknowledged.
3) Very light, packable and easy to deploy/stow.
4) Looks fast/efficient. I was taking my time due to the first climb, but I could already see how this is very likely going to get quite quick and easy.
Cons:
1) LB combined with feet on webbing raises the pucker factor quite a bit. Straight, easy tree and good technique is key. I used Moab hiking boots and it took me a bit to get good at forcing the ball of my foot into the tree to help pull the Sladder out. It definitely works when you get the hang of it, but it takes some focus.
2) Foot loops seemed a bit small. More fiddle factor than I expected getting boots in and out. I wear size 11 and would like these loops to be a bit bigger. I also found it strange to transition from toes in on the steps to ankles in on they loops, but was pleased with how solid and comfortable it is once in the loops.
3) Daisy chains seem too small. I chose what I consider a standard saddle hunting tree (basketball size). The standard chains did the job, but I was using the tie off method and there wasn't much left to work with to complete the truckers hitch. I got it done, but I can't see why these aren't a foot or so longer. I don't need huge extensions, just material to cover standard hunting. Right out of the bag the first thing I thought was how short the chains looked.
4) Not having a constant lifeline to the ground was a little unnerving. Maybe I've just gotten too used to that with 1-sticking. Maybe it was just being new to the method. I definitely felt like "Man, if something goes wrong I sure wish I had my rappel setup ready to go". Related, I felt like at the top I would just like to rappel down and pack up rather than un-tether and LB down again. Granted, going down was easy peasy, and packing up was simple, but I don't struggle with or dislike packing up rappel gear. I'm not sure that I won't keep that option in combo with this method. However I'd like to carry only one of the two items. Problem is I like climbing up one way better, but the other for coming down. Hmm...
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