This page has a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Click on the question to jump to that location on the page:
Climbing Related
What is the best climbing method?
That decision is up to the climber. JRB’s primary concern is that the method (and system used to execute it) is done as safely as possible. See pages:
What is the best climbing system?
JRB recommends the Universal System because it can be used with any recommended climbing method.
Why don’t you stick climb?
Would you ask someone on a bicycle why they don’t have training wheels on their bike? Of course not. Just like training wheels allow a kid to ride a bike quickly, once we master the basics, they just get in the way. Climbing sticks are similar: They allow someone to get in a tree quickly, but can provide a false sense of security. Climbing sticks and their means of attachment are capable of malfunction, which has caused many injuries. The best way to avoid those situations is to ensure that we are tied in and on low slack. Once we have accomplished this, the climbing sticks are no longer necessary. They just slow us down… just like training wheels.
Rope Related
Most of the answers are here:
How much rope do I need?
It depends on the climbing system and methods used. 40′ is a typical recommended minimum, and restricts the climber to single rope applications only. JRB carries 80′, allowing doubled rope applications such as DSRT. Hybrid systems can use anything inbetween. See the Rope page.
What is the best rope?
There are a number of quality ropes and the market is regularly changing. The Rope page has the recommendations.
How do we get the rope in the tree?
The best way is with an arborist throwball. If that is not feasible, we can use the Maverick pole, and set a series of anchors as we ascend.
Why not a Tether?
JRB doesn’t use a conventional tether because it is too short to reach the ground. In the event of a total loss of footing, we need to be able to get to the ground reliably and in adverse conditions. Rappel is the safest way out of a tree; and if we are already connected to the rope, we can’t drop anything and get ourselves stuck.
What about a Lineman’s Belt?
A lineman’s belt is a positioning device. In the event of a loss of footing, we could fall a short or a long way, and are likely to be injured either way.
Saddle Related
Most of the answers are here:
What is the best saddle?
There are a lot of high quality saddles on the market. JRB does not claim to have tried them all. Ape Canyon saddles are recommended based on their industry experience, commitment to quality, quality control and rigorous testing.
What else needs to be on this page? Leave a comment! – jrb