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A climbing system is what we use to climb, which is different than a climbing method(how we climb). Understand the methods before building a system:
Consider Your Priorities
Besides safety (the top priority) individuals may have different priorities. Consider: Weight, Bulk, Cost, Speed, Simplicity and Versatility. For example:
- JRB prefers to carry more rope than some saddle hunters, accepting that the need for Speed, Versatility and Simplicity is worth a little bit more cost, bulk and weight.
- Some hunters prefer to carry the absolute minimum amount of rope for the smallest bulk, weight and cost, and accept the sacrifice in speed, versatility and complexity.
- Regarding complexity, some hunters are ok with tying knots in the woods and some are not. This may affect the system we choose.
3 Hitch System
In 2025, JRB released the concept of a 3 hitch system. This same hitch configuration is used with the Basic, Hybrid and Universal Systems.
The three systems use the same design, with the exception of the rope length:
- “Universal” is the name of the 3 hitch system which uses 80′ of rope. Supports DSRT in crotches up to 40′ and all recommended methods and scenarios. Uses the Garda Hitch Footloop.
- “Hybrid” is the name of the 3 hitch system uses 60′ of rope instead of 80. Supports DSRT in crotches up to 30′ high. For crotches over 30′, need to switch over to SRT. Uses the Garda Hitch Footloop.
- “Basic” 3 hitch system uses 40′ of rope. Can be used for SRT, Hitch Climbing and no-slack stick climbing. Generally too short for DSRT. Uses the Garda Hitch Footloop.
2 Hitch System
If hitch climbing is the primary method, some climbers prefer the “2 hitch system” (with a variety of trunk anchors), and which can be used in SRT mode:
Hitch Climbing System
If hitch climbing (or stick climbing) is the only method planned (no SRT), a dedicated Hitch Climbing System is effectively the same as a 2 hitch system, but has an alternat footloop option:
Other Climbing Systems
The following climbing systems are viable options, but less popular than those above:
Dedicated SRT System
SRT System – An SRT system is a basic system which is DEDICATED to SRT methods and not configured for other methods.
JRB Cinch System
This older system was created before the 2 hitch system evolved and was the first version of a 2 hitch system. It can be used with the Garda hitch footloop or can be built with dedicated footloops. This system is preferred by someone who does not want to tie knots at the climbing site AND who does not use a throwball or paracord presets.
DSRT System
A dedicated system for DSRT only is a simple option when all scenarios utilize either a throwball or paracord presets. Uses the Garda Hitch Footloop. Because weigh is distributed on 2 a doubled rope, can use thinner diameter ropes.
System / Method Matrix
A matrix of the compatible Systems (columns) and Methods (rows), as well as maximum crotch height.
| Methods | Universal 3H System (80′) | Hybrid 3H System (60′) | Basic 3H System (40′) | 2 Hitch System | DSRT System | Hitch Climbing or JRB Cinch Systems |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSRT, max crotch height | 40′ | 30′ | 20′ | — | 1/2 rope length | — |
| SRT, canopy anchor | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | — | — |
| SRT, basal anchor | Yes | If low | — | — | — | — |
| Hitch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | — | Yes |
| Stick | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | — | Yes |
| MRS/DRT, max crotch height | 44′ | 34′ | 24′ | — | 1/2 rope length | — |
JRB’s pick
JRB uses and recommends a 60′ or 80‘ Three Hitch System because it can be used with ANY of the recommended methods. But if your circumstances or preferences are different, all of the systems cited above work as intended.
No matter what you build, give yourself TIME to Learn, Plan, Shop, Build, Test and Practice.