Some of those tools in JRB’s toolbox are standard knots and practices in climbing, and some were introduced by JRB. Below are a list of Climbing Innovations which were conceived and published by JRB. Next time somebody says anything less than supportive about what we are doing here, ask them who else is providing this much free innovation…. or any at all.
1. JRB DSRT, a Doubled Stationary Rope Technique, with advantages for Saddle Hunters over both MRS/DdRT and SRT, in a unique and innovative system. For example, the climber doesn’t need to set an anchor, or tie any knots at the climbing site and climbs without the loss of friction of a moving rope. Introduced Sept 2020. See playlist and page: (YouTube Playlist)
2. JRB Garda Hitch Footloop, a reliable footloop which can be used in both single and doubled rope applications. Addresses reliability issues in traditional Garda designs with a cinching Bull Hitch variant. Also incorporates a 2nd point of attachment (AKA Best Friend), creating a redundant connection to the Climbing Saddle. Introduced Oct 2020
3. JRB Hitch, a strong, secure exploding hitch, tied in the bight, self jamming under load, easy release. (New knot submission to IGKT, Jan 2021). (Playlist)
4. Saddle Hunter’s Hitch, a strong, secure, either-end loadable hitch, tied in the bight, and secured with a carabiner, several variants, including remote release option. (New knot submission to IGKT, Jul 2021)
5. JRB Hitch Climbing Method, a ‘no throwball’ rope climbing method utilizing the other hitches introduced by JRB. (Jul 2021) (Playlist)
6. Double Michoacán, a friction hitch assembly and prusik alternative, consisting of two Michoacán friction hitches in a balanced assembly, with unparalleled ease of handling. (Aug 2021)
7. JRB Ascender Hitch, a novel friction hitch, with an optional carabiner, which acts as a handle. Can be rigged in ‘bridge mode’ and loaded on 2 loops, or soft bridge mode for one-hand tending operations. Also can be tied in a compact variant, offering auto tending. (New knot submission to IGKT, Oct 2021) (Playlist)
8. Buffalo Hitch, a variation on the Bull Hitch with additional security and potential as a Poachers or Scaffold knot alternative (testing pending). (New knot submission to IGKT, Dec 2021) (Video)
9. JRB Cinch, a cinching, easily moveable and remotely retrievable anchor, built using a Buffalo Hitch, a rappel ring, a carabiner and a cord to connect the carabiner to the assembly. (Introduced April 2022, and redesigned in Aug 2024) (Playlist)
10. JRB Ascender Footloop, a footloop for a single rope, moveable with one hand operation, created using the JRB Ascender Hitch in soft Bridge mode. Options for one or both feet. Can also be tied with the Compact JRB Ascender Hitch, requiring an additional carabiner and webbing loop for the foot. (Video)
11. Longhorn Hitch and Soft Shackle, representing two innovations published as one. (Nov 2022) (Video) (Tying video)
12. Agile Friction Hitch, a novel friction hitch, tied with a loop of cord, and incorporating the optional use of carabiners as handles. (March 2023) (Video)
13. Maverick Hitch, a running, retrievable canopy anchor, with optional remote release, and locking feature to prevent release when locked.
14. Longhorn Agile Friction Hitch, an auto-tending friction hitch which can be used in applications such as a lifeline/tether, lineman’s belt, lanyard or SRT. (Video)
15. Longhorn Friction Shackle, a friction hitch and a soft shackle in one. (Video)
16. Midline Munter Loop Knot and Emergency Footloop (April 2023)
17. Blakes Hitch Tensioner (April 2024)
18. Maverick Pole, a telescoping pole used to advance, set or retrieve an anchor. Introduced May 2024.
19. JRB End Loop, a sleek loop installed on the end of a rope, allowing easy rigging of the rope into a tree crotch, false crotch or floating anchor. Dedicated page: JRB End Loop
20. Longhorn Zenith Hitch, a friction hitch, built using the Longhorn Loop. (July 2024)
21. Moose Hitch, an anchor knot for a ring or a carabiner, an an alternative for the Poacher’s Knot, Scaffold knot and Buffalo Hitch. (August 2024)