Page Contents:
This page is dedicated to the creation and use of a climbing system using the JRB Cinch as the trunk anchor. The creation of the JRB Cinch itself (which can be used in other applications) is covered on a dedicated page. It is assumed that the climber already has a saddle equipped with a redundant bridge and carabiners on both bridges. Related info:
The JRB Cinch System
Effectively, the JRB Cinch system is a variation of JRB’s Hitch Climbing System, simply using the JRB Cinch instead of the Maverick Hitch as the anchor. Some advantages and disadvantages of the system compared to a Hitch Climbing system (using the Maverick Hitch):
- Advantage: engaging the JRB Cinch is simpler than tying a knot
- Disadvantage: the presence of the JRB Cinch represents bulk and noise potential
- Disadvantage: Although the system can be converted into an SRT system, it requires more steps and is more error prone.
The following video demonstrates how a system is constructed, and how a hitch climb is executed.
The following video demonstrates how a One Stick Climb can be executed using a JRB Cinch System:
The videos below covers setting, advancing, retrieval, system creation and creating JRB Cinch Systems. We want to avoid removing friction hitch(s) during retrieval and need enough rope to pull the Cinch down to within reach of our hands when we are on the ground.
This video demonstrates how to navigate past branches when using the JRB Cinch with the Maverick Pole.
Retrieval Considerations
As demonstrated in the video above, we CAN attempt to use the Maverick Pole to retrieve a JRB Cinch, but we risk damaging the pole. Therefore, the climber must either accept the commitment to climb up to the cinch in order to retrieve it OR put the retrieval line on before advancing and setting it.
Planning & Shopping
Building a “Double JRB Cinch System” as demonstrated in the video above requires the following components, each of which is detailed in a section to follow. Make a shopping list and visit Ape Canyon for your purchases and make sure to use the JRB15 coupon code.
1. How much rope?
Based on the information presented in the videos above, use this formula to calculate how much rope is needed. Note that this estimate is approximate; a larger tree diameter could affect consumption:
Length = (2 x Cinch Height) – 6′
These examples assume the cinch is set 6′ above the platform.
- Platform@17′, Cinch@23′: (23′ x 2) – 6′ = 40′
- Platform@22′, Cinch@28′: (28′ x 2) – 6′ = 50′
- Platform@27′, Cinch@33′: (33′ x 2) – 6′ = 60′
Bottom line: JRB recommends a minimum of 50′ of rope.
2. Choose a Rope
In general, a 9.5-10 mm rope is recommended. Heavier climbers may prefer an 11 mm rope. Lighter climbers may prefer an 8 mm rope. See this page for details and rope recommendations:
3. JRB Cinches
The details and items needed to create the JRB Cinch itself are covered here. One goes on each end of the rope, so we need components for 2 Cinches (two rings and cord for the mini-tethers) which can be simply cut off the end of the Retrieval Cord (listed below).
4. Cord for 2 Friction Hitches
The Compact Longhorn Agile Hitch is recommended. As stated on the page for the Longhorn Agile, for 9.5 mm rope, use either two 72″ lengths of Sterling TRC or or two 76″ lengths of 7mm cord.
5. Retrieval Cord
Utility cord is recommended for the creation of the retrieval cord (4 or 5mm is great). A 50′ length is enough to create the retrieval line and the construction of the tethers for each of the JRB Cinches, described above. Consider putting a spare carabiner on the end of the line to assist in pulling it down.
6. Maverick Pole
The Maverick Pole is recommended for use in advancing the JRB Cinch. It can be purchased at Ape Canyon Outfitters. See dedicated page:
7. Footloop
A Garda Hitch Footloop is recommended:
However, if the user wants to skip the redundancy provided by the Garda and have a dedicated footloop on each side, simply build another pair of Longhorn Agile Hitches and install a sling of webbing in each. 72″ is a good length. Creating the sling can be accomplished either by: 1) Put the webbing thru the LA loops and close with a Water knot 2) Tie an overhand end loop with each side of the webbing, capturing the LA loops (preferred).
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.