Page Contents:
Overview
JRB characterizes an SRT system as one which is dedicated to SRT climbing method only. SRT systems are typically minimum length systems, where the rope is only long enough to form a canopy anchor and reach the ground with minimal spare rope. Get familiar with the SRT Method before attempting to build a system. See:
Consider a 3 Hitch System
JRB recommends that unless there is a reason to build a dedicated SRT system, hunters should consider the 3 hitch system design instead. Even if the initial goal is SRT, a 3 hitch system will also enable the Hitch Climbing Method, which is applicable where the use of a throwball is not feasible:
Rope Length
When building a dedicated SRT system, the amount of rope needed varies with the maximum height of our anchor, the type of anchor used, and if we want to also use our climbing rope as our haul line for gear (recommended). For systems which will be used for SRT only, JRB recommends:
- Max crotch height + 10′
- 40′ is the minimum, 50′ is better.
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
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.
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 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.
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.