Page Contents:
Overview
This page characterizes SRT systems as minimum length systems, specifically where the rope is long enough to form a canopy anchor and reach the ground, but is generally too short for DSRT, MRS or basal anchor SRT. (If you want to be able to use a those methods, use a “Universal (80ft) 3 hitch System.)
An SRT system can be configured in different “modes” and used for these single rope climbing methods. Get familiar with the supported methods before attempting to build a system. Refer to this page for more about SRT:
Three Hitch System
Unless there is a reason to build a dedicated SRT system, JRB recommends that hunters consider the 3 hitch system design instead:
Rope Length
For systems which will be used for SRT only, JRB recommends a rope length of:
- Max crotch height + 6′
- 40′ is a good recommendation
Remember, even if we are only climbing to 18′, the tree may not have a crotch exactly where we want it. Be prepared; be versatile.
Planning and Shopping
The components and relevant information for building a dedicated (Canopy Anchor) SRT system can be found on these pages.
Redundant bridges. Although we CAN execute a climb on one bridge, JRB recommends 2 bridges. JRB has published several options on the Bridge page. When shopping, plan if you need any extra rope or cord.
Rope Diameter: In SRT, because all of our weight is on one friction hitch, with less total surface area, JRB prefers a larger diameter rope for SRT than DSRT. (See information on the Rope page.)
Cord and Friction Hitch: Plan on using the Longhorn Agile Hitch, with the Optimal/Recommended Length and the Stable Finish.
Modes
The same “Basic SRT system” can be configured into different “modes”, detailed below:
- Elementary SRT Mode
- Pre-configured SRT Mode
- Hitch Climbing Mode
Elementary SRT Mode
Regardless of the various possible canopy anchors employed, in Elementary SRT Mode, the rope has NO friction hitches on it at the start and is configured for an SRT climb at the climbing location after setting the canopy anchor. JRB originally referred to this as a “minimum complexity” system. Steps:
- Pull rope up / over the crotch using the throwball or paracord loop.
- Pull it through the anchor on the way down.
- Attach retrieval line to the anchor as it goes up.
- Set the canopy anchor (multiple choices)
- Attach the friction device
- Climb / rappel
- Retrieve via reversal of the steps.
Preconfigured SRT Mode
Preconfigured implies that ALL of the knots are tied in advance and therefore, the system is always READY to be rigged and climbed using Canopy Anchor SRT. In order to pass a friction hitch through a running anchor in midair, the system needs a large loop at one end that can be properly positioned.
The disadvantage of this method is that the rigging of the rope is a more precarious operation, given that we need to pass a friction hitch (hitch #1) through a loop in mid air (“threading the needle”).
In this video, JRB demonstrates a Preconfigured SRT system using a Longhorn Agile Hitch and a JRB Bowline.
This (older) demonstration used the Scotts Locked Bowline as the running Loop and the JRB Ascender Hitch rather than the Longhorn Agile. Although the newer system is preferred, this system and the info in the video remains viable and relevant.
Hitch Climbing Mode
When configured for Hitch Climbing, which is an SRT technique, the rope needs only two friction hitches (hitches #2 and #3), tied in the opposite directions, allowing climbing towards the end of the rope. The presence of another hitch (#1) which is slid to the end and not used is simply a detail. In this mode, the system is identical to a “Hitch Climbing System”. See:
Testing & Practice
Don’t take any chances…
Before attempting to execute an unsupervised climb or hunt on ANY system, ensure that the system has been tested. Before even climbing, connect the system to a tree and start with your feet on the ground and test everything. Bounce around, make sure you know how the system behaves. Make it earn your trust. If you are going to have a problem, have it here with your feet on the ground. Your first climbs should be executed with supervision, and please consider wearing a helmet. Never attempt to climb alone by any method until you have mastered it, and ensure that you have taken all possible precautions and have all foreseeable emergency supplies. On every climb and on every hunt, be sure you have a communication plan in place and have shared your location information as appropriate.