| Use Coupon Code JRB15 at: https://www.apecanyon.com/ JRB Tree Climbing Collection |
| Use Coupon Code JRB10 at: https://www.rocknarbor.com/ |
All About Ropes…
Your life is literally on the line, so take time to educate yourself before making a purchase. Rope used for climbing must be designed for the application, and from a reputable brand and supplier. Be wary of online deals for “climbing rope” with unknown (or possibly counterfeit) branding. Ape Canyon is a premier supplier and you get a 15% discount with the JRB15 coupon code.
A Tether is too short
A “tether” is a popular device in saddle hunting, yet most saddle hunters don’t even consider that they could get STUCK on a tether, if the event of a loss their footing. JRB recommends a LIFELINE instead. Think of it as an extra long tether, which can always provide a rappel path to ground.
Rope vs Cord
Cord and rope are similar but different. Don’t use cord as a rope. This article summarizes it well: Rope vs Cord. See dedicated page for cord, which is typically used to form friction hitches on our rope.
Static vs Dynamic Rope
Tree climbing applications are typically performed with minimal slack and therefore, static (low stretch / low elongation) ropes are preferred. In contrast, in the rock climbing industry, it is typical for a rope is to absorb a fall, and therefore, a dynamic (high stretch) are preferred, because they deliver less ‘impact force’ to the climber. Saddle hunters using static ropes are urged to minimize or eliminate slack at all times. JRB recommends static ropes for no slack and low-slack climbing. However, however, if the climber is not properly managing slack, and therefore capable of a fall of more than a foot, dynamic rope should be considered. Here’s a great reference from the Rock Climbing industry about dynamic Rock Climbing Ropes and ratings: LINK
This article describes the international standards which apply to Climbing Ropes, including low stretch static ropes: UIAA Rope Standards
Ropes used in Rescue often adhere to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) standards. This cites and summarizes relevant info and standards: NFPA article
EN 564 is the standard which applies to Accessory Cord, but might also show up on some static ropes. EN564 Abstract
In summary, there are multiple potential standards and ratings which could be relevant to the rope we wish to choose. Do not let that obscure the recommendation that the rope should have evidence of a relevant rating.
Half / Twin Ropes
It is the responsibility of the climber to ensure that they are using a rope of a reputable brand and from a reputable supplier. Be wary of online deals for “climbing rope” with unknown (or questionably counterfeit) branding. Ape Canyon is a premier supplier and you get a 15% discount with the JRB15 coupon code.
Selecting Your Rope
Besides obvious things like color (which a hunter would care about more than a recreational climber) when selecting a rope, consider:
1. Single or Double Rope Application
Single rope applications are those where the climber is supported by single strand of rope, such as a Lifeline (tether), SRT, JRB Hitch Climbing and Single Rope Rappel. Doubled rope applications are those where the climber is supported by a balanced set of two strands, formed by a doubled rope, which is typically a rope folded over a crotch in the canopy. DSRT and MRS(DRT or DdRT) are Doubled Rope Applications. Some ropes are rated and adequate only for Doubled Rope applications. As a rule of thumb, if it’s adequate for single rope applications, it’s more than adequate for doubled rope applications, but the opposite isn’t true. If you are buying your FIRST rope, JRB recommends getting a rope suitable for SRT. You can always get a thinner rope later if you want to build a system just for DSRT.
2. Length
In choosing a rope length, remember that even if we only want to climb to 20′ (the height of our platform), the TREE might not offer a crotch at a perfect 26′ height; it might be much higher. Therefore, the ideal rope length is driven by the forest and the trees, not our target hunting height.
SRT systems: 40-50′. This is for a system which will be used for SINGLE rope methods only, including SRT and Hitch Climbing, but NOT DSRT. Consider this example: If we want to be 25′ off the ground, 25′ is the height of our platform, so we need an additional 6′ above our platform to reach the anchor. An 18″ diameter tree has a 5′ circumference. And we need 5′ for a Maverick hitch. 25+6+5+5 = 41′.
JRB Cinch systems: 50′ minimum. This is for systems which will be used for Stick Climbing or Hitch Climbing utilizing a JRB Cinch on each end. For details, see dedicated page for : JRB Cinch
Universal Systems: 60′ minimum, 75′ ideal. For a Universal system, even though we prefer DSRT climbing, we carry extra rope to enable it on the highest crotches in the forest. In those minority cases, we have the option to carry less rope and simply switch the system into SRT mode. For example, if most crotches are 30′ or less, we can execute DSRT with 60′ of rope, but when we have an occasional higher crotch (up to 50′), we can switch the system into SRT mode.
DSRT systems: 80-100‘. For a system designed for use with DSRT only, the rope must be at least double the height of the highest crotch you will climb. Don’t limit your opportunities. JRB has a few trees where even 80′ for a 40′ crotch is not enough. Also, if you plan to use your climbing rope to bring up your gear, we need a few extra feet. Consider that an 80ft rope would almost reach the ground on a 40’ crotch, and so when we raise our Garda Hitch up, we would be lifting and bouncing our gear. We need a few extra feet.
3. Strength / MBS / Safety Factor
For climbing systems with zero or minimal slack (always less than a foot) JRB recommends a Safety Factor of 20, indicating that the Minimum Breaking Strength is greater than 20 times the load on the line, considering the weight of the climber plus any gear being carried. Note that a doubled rope application distributes the climber’s weight on 2 strands, which enables the possibility that a rope may be considered adequate for DSRT but not for SRT.
4. Diameter
Suggested rope diameters are contained in the table below, based on the technique(s) under consideration and the climber’s weight. Although thin ropes can be adequately strong for any climber, the hold characteristics and the ability to break a hitch under load can vary based on numerous factors, particularly the climber’s weight. Simply put, ‘thicker’ climbers prefer thicker ropes. The climber is responsible for the consideration of the following:
- The specified weight represents the climber with all of their gear, including clothing, saddle, and anything they are carrying.
- A recommended and performant friction hitch and cord with an optimal number of wraps is in use. Hitch cord diameter should be approximately 75% that of the rope.
- The Safety Factor of the produced system has been calculated by the climber and determined to be adequate.
- The performance of the system created can vary based on materials used, age, and conditions, particularly wet vs dry.
- Climbers assume responsibility for their safety as it pertains to all aspects of their climbing system, including the rope chosen.
Rope Stiffness
Some ropes are stiffer than others and excessive stiffness inhibits their use in forming some knots, and their ability to flow through devices such as the Garda Hitch and Munter Friction Hitch. The bend radius of the rope can be used to measure its stiffness: just pinch a bight with our fingers and see how flat it bends with a moderate squeeze.
Diameter/Weight/Application Guideline
Although thin ropes can be incredibly strong, the surface area of a thin rope is less than that of a thicker rope. Simply put, JRB recommends thicker ropes for thicker climbers. The table below describes what techniques are recommended for different diameters and loads.
Notes: 1) “SRT” includes Hitch Climbing & Universal systems. 2) Consider the total weight, including all gear. 3) This information is just a guideline and is subject to change.
| Rope Diameter vs Total Weight | 8mm | 9.5 mm | 11mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 180 lbs | DSRT, SRT | DSRT, SRT | DSRT, SRT |
| 180 – 260 lbs | DSRT | DSRT, SRT | DSRT, SRT |
| 260 – 320 lbs | — | DSRT | DSRT, SRT |
Recommended Ropes
JRB’s recommended ropes (by the foot) are here:
The full selection of Ape Canyon Ropes is here:
8mm Static Ropes
Ape Canyon Rougarou in 8mm – This Rope has an incredible bend radius. It is soft and strong. JRB has no reservations in recommending it as a top-quality rope.
8mm Teufelberger Resc Tech – This is a great rope for a DSRT system, with minimal bulk. Non-mechanical SRT performance was less than ideal, particularly when wet. After significant use, the sheath will stretch and become longer than the core, requiring maintenance (milking).
8mm Sterling Oplux – Very similar to Resc Tech; good choice for DSRT. Slightly softer and more sheath stretch. Color is brighter than ideal for a hunter.
9.5mm Static Ropes
9.5mm, Ape Canyon Rogue – This rope is more expensive, but also more bendable. Great for SRT, DSRT or a Universal System. It’s JRB’s favorite all-around 9.5mm rope.
9+mm Canyon Elite is a high quality static rope, popular with Saddle Hunters. Advertised as 9mm, but at least 9.5 on JRB’s caliper. Great for SRT, DSRT or a Universal System.
9.5mm, Ape Canyon Ghillie or Raven – These are effectively the same rope in different colors. Good for a rappel rope, or SRT or a Universal System, but stiffer than the other ropes. In DSRT, stiffer ropes require more effort to get 2 strands flowing through a Garda Hitch in ascent.
10mm Static Ropes
Ape Canyon Rougarou in 10mm – This Rope has an incredible bend radius. It is soft and strong. JRB has no reservations in recommending it as a top-quality rope.
11+mm Static Ropes
This rope was added to the collection recently:
Also refer to the arborist collection at RockNArbor: Arborist Ropes
Dynamic Half/Twin Ropes
As per the rope rating system (referenced above), we should not used half/twin ropes in single rope (SRT) applications. However, JRB has built DSRT systems with Dynamic Half Ropes such as Mammut Aline Dry, Edelrid Skimmer and Petzl PASO Guide. Be aware that these ropes were not designed for a tree climbing application and so the climber must accept any risk associated with that. Note that dynamic ropes are often not specified with an MBS, and generally not available by the foot. Note: 30m = 98 ft. 50m =164 ft, enough for two systems.
Additional Info
Coiling Rope
JRB End Loop
In order to be prepared for any rigging scenario, JRB recommends installing the JRB End Loop on both ends of the rope after purchase.
Cleaning the Rope
With the exception of tar or sap, a thorough washing with water does a good job of removing dirt from your rope. Use a standard washing machine cycle with no soap. Don’t use a dryer or the sun or an artificial heat source to dry it. Simply drape it over a branch in the shade or inside over a laundry rack or equivalent with adequate space between the strands. Depending on ventilation and humidity, it may take a couple of days to completely dry. Error on the side of giving it plenty of time. If you have pre-tied friction hitches on the rope, consider taking this opportunity to remove them, inspect them and either replace or re-tie them.
Confession: JRB has also added a small amount of unscented, hunter’s laundry soap to do a better job at removing “new rope smell” from a new rope. However, I can’t say if that affected the integrity of the rope and have no way of knowing for sure.
Rope Storage
JRB has many ropes and uses a large, antique crate to store them, ensuring that they are completely dry before putting them in storage. Given that hunters are scent-conscious, consider that if you leave a rope in a garage or basement or vehicle, it will absorb odor from that location, and any odor may be detected by a deer’s keen sense of smell. During hunting season, JRB keeps his rope and hunting clothes in a duffel in his vehicle, with the windows cracked to ensure fresh air circulation. Often, a natural scent source will be added to the bag such as some branches from a scented tree like pine, sassafras or viburnum. (Consider what is indigenous to your area.)
Rope Inspection
See the video. Ropes should be regularly inspected for damage, ideally before each climb. As we thread a rope up into a tree, we can feel the line as it passes through our fingers and detect anomalies that we might not see in a visible inspection simply because we cant look at the rope from both sides at the same time. Sunlight exposes a rope to UV which can affect its strength.
References
https://www.vertical-addiction.com/us/blogs/blog/climbing-rope-specs
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ropes.html
https://www.bartlettman.com/blogs/news/using-different-rope-for-different-kinds-of-climbing
https://treeclimbing.com/tree-climbing-ropes
https://www.theclimbingguy.com/ultimate-guide-climbing-ropes/