SRT is Single Rope Technique, a Stationary Rope Climbing Method. See Playlist: JRB SRT (Non Mechanical)
Why Use SRT?
In most situations, JRB prefers to use DSRT. However, the following reasons are valid reasons to consider SRT:
- Less Rope. Many saddle hunters already have a rappel rope of approximately 40′ length which can be converted into an SRT (and Hitch Climbing) system. If minimalism is a priority, the climber may prefer SRT.
- Horizontal branch. The selected crotch is viable but horizontal or sloping downward from the trunk. This poses a danger that the climbing rope might pull away from the trunk and is a situation where we want to capture the trunk. See Scenario 4 below.
- Branches between the lines. The throwball went up and over a crotch which had one or more branches directly under it causing the rope strands to be separated by those branches. In this situation, it’s easiest to execute a basal anchor and SRT climb. Note: This requires a longer rope AND a strong crotch given that DOUBLE our weight will be placed on the crotch.
- Change the position we are facing. If a hunter wanted to face a different direction than we would be in if we climbed up under a crotch, there are a couple of ways to do so. As demonstrated in Scenario 8, a Basal Anchor on a wide crotch allows us to climb on one side of the crotch instead of in the middle of it. And using a canopy anchor which captures the trunk and the crotch (scenario 4) can be rigged to face any direction we want. Note: This technique can be complicated by the presence of branches lower on the tree, depending on number and location.
- Crotch is too high. Consider a scenario where the climber is using a Universal System which is 60′ long. If the first crotch in a tree (or the crotch of interest) is over 30′, the system is too short for DSRT, but can be switched into SRT mode, enabling the use of crotches up to 60′ high.
- No Viable Crotch. The tree has no viable crotches within reach of a throwball, only dead branches or small branches and therefore the anchor must capture the trunk. See scenarios 5 & 6 below.
- Easier Ascent. Because we are moving one hitch instead of two, many climbers who have tried SRT and DSRT feel that the rising move in SRT is easier to master. However, also recognize that in SRT, our entire weight is on one hitch, which can be more difficult to tune and operate.
In order to execute an SRT climb, the rope must be anchored to the tree. There are two types of anchors for SRT.
- A Canopy Anchor is typical, whereby the anchor is up in the canopy, either in a crotch or around the trunk. The Maverick Hitch is JRB’s preference for a canopy anchor, but you may prefer to purchase a Quick Link.
- A Basal Anchor is placed at the base of the tree with one end of the rope, and the rope goes up and over a crotch in the canopy and back down to the climber. Obviously, we need more rope for this configuration. The JRB Hitch is JRB’s preference for a Basal Anchor. Important: This configuration DOUBLES the load on the crotch and should not be used on a questionable support point. See video:
Components
Depending on the design chosen, the components for building an SRT-only system can be found on these pages. The Garda Hitch is used in all designs.
Redundant bridges. Although we CAN execute a climb on one bridge, JRB recommends 2 bridges. JRB has published several options. See dedicated page for the: Bridge, and plan if you need any extra rope or cord.
Rope Considerations: 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.) The length of rope needed depends on the kind of system we are building. But at minimum, if building a canopy anchor SRT system, don’t purchase less than 40′ of rope, ensuring we can climb to 25′ (depending on tree diameter). JRB prefers a minimum of 60′, allowing the system to be used as a Universal System, which is capable of DSRT also. Basal anchor systems should be longer, at least 80′.
Specific SRT Scenarios
There is a growing list of SRT scenarios on the channel which illustrate the various reasons, situations and systems in which we might use SRT. Not that there is no one single SRT system. There are many possible combinations. Viewers must decide which is best for them and accept responsibility for the use thereof.
Introduction
This introductory video was merely intended to convey the message that non-mechanical SRT is POSSIBLE and its EASY. It was not intended to convey that this is the preferred SRT configuration.
SRT Scenario 1: Knots tied in advance
This video shows the system which was used in the introduction. JRB used this system for a while, but given the EASE of tying the newer friction hitches (such as the Longhorn Agile hitch), he is no longer using it.
SRT Scenario 2: Minimal Complexity System
If tying a Maverick Hitch or creating a JRB Cinch is not desired, a traditional canopy anchor with a sewn eye and a quick link can be used.
SRT Scenario 3: Maverick Hitch Anchor
The Maverick Hitch can be used as a canopy anchor an will allow passing the end of the rope through the hitch as it runs up the tree. This is how JRB runs his SRT systems.
SRT Scenario 4: Capture the trunk
When the branch used for the throwball is the first branch on the tree and it does not have an appropriate upward angle, we can’t risk pulling our anchor away from the tree as we approach it.
SRT Scenario 5: Flip rope over the branches
This is the same as scenario 4, but if the tree and the adjacent woods allows it, we can flip the rope over the branches to get it into position and capture the trunk.
SRT Scenario 6: Houdini Rigging
This use of the Maverick Hitch is quite useful, especially in pine forests.
The video above used this rigging technique:
SRT Scenario 7: Mechanical Advantage System for Leg Disability
SRT Scenario 8: Three Situations for a Basal Anchor
The 3 situations which may warrant a Basal Anchor configuration are: 1) branches between the lines 2) can achieve a preferred position/direction in the tree 3) risk of getting a throwball stuck in a messy tree.