| Use Coupon Code JRB15 for 15% off: https://www.apecanyon.com/ |
| Use Coupon Code JRB10 for 10% off: https://www.rocknarbor.com/ |
Every system needs friction hitches, which are constructed with Cord. Different suppliers might call it “Utility Cord”, “Prusik Cord” or “Hitch Cord”. Just be sure that the product chosen is correct for the application.
Rope vs Cord
There are similarities and differences between rope and cord. Cord is typically more bendable and will make better friction hitches. This article provides good information as well: Rope vs Cord
Cord:Rope Ratio
When tying most friction hitches, including all of JRB’s original designs, the diameter of the cord diameter should be smaller than the rope diameter. The difference ratio in the table below is calculated as the cord diameter divided by the rope diameter. The ideal ratio varies with the hitch, rope, cord and its stiffness. 70-75% ratio is a general recommendation for most friction hitches including the Longhorn Agile. However, the Longhorn Zenith hitch prefers a 60-65% ratio. Note that the actual diameter of a rope or cord may differ from the stated diameter. The table below simply calculates the ratio for the specified combination. Not all combinations are recommended for all friction hitches.
| Rope Diameter | Cord Diameter | Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| 8 mm (5/16″) | 5 mm | 62% |
| 8 mm (5/16″) | 6 mm | 75% |
| 8 mm (5/16″) | 7 mm | 87% |
| 9.5 mm (3/8″) | 6 mm | 63% |
| 9.5 mm (3/8″) | 7 mm | 74% |
| 10 mm | 6 mm | 60% |
| 10 mm | 7 mm | 70% |
| 11.1 mm (7/16″) | 7 mm | 63% |
| 11.1 mm (7/16″) | 8 mm | 72% |
Length
The length of the cord needed varies based on the application. See the Length Spec’s page for details and links to pages on specific knots and hitches.
Cutting and Sealing Cords
When cutting nylon or polyester cords, melting the ends using a flame for about 10 seconds and then smoothing with a rag is recommended. Heat resistant cords (anything with Technora, including Sterling TRC) will not melt and can be sealed with and of the following methods. See Shopping List for related product recommendations such as:
- Heat Shrink Tubing
- Rope whipping sealer
- Tape
Cord for Friction Hitches
Browse Ape Canyon Cordage here:
8mm cords
Teufelberger Ocean 8mm cord is very bendable and has a course sheath which grips well:
Sterling Flex 8mm Cord:
7mm cords
Sterling 7mm Accessory Cord is made of Nylon, bends well but is not as rugged as the 6mm TRC. It’s also great for practicing your knots. Consider getting a 50′ length. You will put it to use in practicing.
7mm Sterling Cord is also available on Amazon:
6mm cords
6 mm Sterling TRC is a very rugged cord, JRB’s all around preference in his own systems for both the Longhorn Agile and Longhorn Zenith on 9.5 mm ropes. It also is great for the Longhorn Agile on 8mm ropes.
6.5 mm Bluewater Dynamic Cord This is nylon cord which is dynamic (stretches) and has an MBS of 9.3 kN (2100 lb)
https://www.hikingshack.com/bluewater-dynamic-prusik-cord.html
Note: in side by side testing, the TRC and Bluewater Dynamic cord performed identically. TRC was slightly more ‘grippy’. Both are fine choices.
6mm Nylon cord. This cord is not recommend for life safety applications. Consider your application carefully and use at your own risk.
Sterling 6mm Cord on Amazon
5mm cord
Teufelberger Tech Cord is a Polyester sheath over a Technora core. It is fairly stiff and has a fair amount of ‘memory’ (holds its shape after removal), which is characteristic of Technora core. A caliper measurement by JRB came out at approximately 5.5 mm, which is noticeably thicker than the cords below. It has an amazing 20.9 kN (4700 lb) MBS. JRB has tested it with good results on 8mm ropes.
Bluewater Nylon Cord (from Amazon) This has a 6.1 kN (1371 lb) strength, bends well and easy to work with. This cord had good performance in testing, but had surprisingly even more ‘memory’ than the Teufelberger. Although JRB tested it in single rope applications, the strength profile is questionable, but adequate for DSRT.
Bluewater Titan 5mm Cord (from Amazon) It’s really strong, but is stiffer and even more memory than the ones above. Not JRB’s favorite. Strength: 13.5 kN (3,035 lb)
Sterling Nylon cord has a 5.1 kN (1146 lb) strength. It is extremely flexible. Sterling does not recommend it for Life Safety applications.
Prusik Loops
When it comes to a backup, if you don’t feel comfortable tying your own loops, consider a Prusik Loop.
6 mm Sterling TRC Sewn Prusik Loops, for tying the Hedden Knot on 8-11 mm ropes. JRB recommends the 19″ length:
Paracord & Rigging Cord
Paracord is approximately 3mm in diameter, and stretches under load. The paracord and utility cords listed below are not for life safety applications; but can be used for utility applications including:
- Rigging a rope into a tree
- Constructing the JRB End Loop
- Creating “paracord presets” which are left in the tree
Paracord
328′ – Green, Plastic Spool, w/Cutter
Accessory Cords
Retrieval Cords
4mm or 5mm static utility cord makes a great retrieval cord. 30 feet is a good general recommendation, allowing retrieval of a tie in as high as 35 feet.
Cord Inspection / Replacement
Be sure you inspect and replace cords as appropriate. Even with moderate use in a hunting system, it’s a good idea to replace your friction hitches every season, and inspect them regularly.