Note: This page was created Nov 2024 and is still under development and will be updated with more info ASAP, and supporting videos when I can get them done. The team prefers the term “Convertible” over “Hybrid” and so that change was already made. We are also working on a kit and I would like the video to match the kit contents. – jrb
Page Contents:
Overview
An SRT system is a minimum length system which can be used for SRT and potentially other climbing methods. The first step is learning, so please ensure that you are familiar with the supported methods before attempting to build a system.
- SRT, using a canopy anchor only
- Hitch Climbing
- No-Slack Stick Climbing
Key Decision
A key planning question that needs to be answered by the climber is if you are willing and capable to tie a life sustaining knot at the climbing site, specifically the Maverick Hitch and Longhorn Agile Hitch.
If the answer is NO, we have two options to consider:
- Build a Universal System instead. In the majority of trees, it can be used in SRT mode without tying any knots.
- Build a system for SRT only. See the section below for the READY SRT System. Additionally and optionally, if Hitch Climbing or Stick Climbing is also desired, a separate JRB Cinch system can be constructed for it. See: JRB Cinch System. However, consider that having two systems has limitations in that we don’t want to carry two systems. That route is only wise if we know what tree we are climbing on a given day.
If the answer is YES, we will construct a system which is adaptable to the situation and be capable of all the methods listed above. See the section below for the CONVERTIBLE SRT System.
How much rope?
For systems which will be used for Single Rope Methods only, including SRT and Hitch Climbing (NOT DSRT), JRB recommends a rope length of:
- Max crotch height + 10′
- A minimum of 40′
Consider these examples:
- Example 1: If have climbed to 24′ off the ground (the height of our platform), we need an additional 6′ above our platform to reach the location of the anchor. An 18″ diameter tree has a 5′ circumference. A Maverick Hitch anchor requires an additional 5′. Adding it up: 24+6+5+5 = 40′.
- Example 2: An SRT climber has a rope over a crotch which is 30′ high, but requires a couple feet to go around the crotch and 5ft for a Maverick anchor: 30+2+5 = 37′.
Planning and Shopping
Regardless which variant we are building, the components for building an SRT system can be found on these pages.
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′.
Building a “Ready SRT System”
“Ready” is the name of this system because all of the knots are tied in advance and therefore, the system is always READY to be climbed. This video outlines the details of the recommended system. Related videos are included in the description of this video in YouTube. Ensure that you TEST and PRACTICE on the system before trying it on a hunt. Some details on the knots used and why:
- Scotts Locked Bowline was chosen instead of another secure end loop is because of its advantage in orientation.
- The JRB Ascender was chosen over the Longhorn Agile because of its more sleek profile, which needs to be passed through the Bowline loop.
Check back for more details, coming soon.
Building a “Convertible SRT System“
This system is both an SRT system and a Hitch Climbing System in one, simply converted over on the spot, which may involve removing or installing friction hitches or anchors. The primary difference between this system and the Universal System is that this system is too short to allow DSRT.
Rather than duplicate the content on the following page, building a system is the same as building a Universal System (link below), but:
- Use a shorter rope (40′ is recommended).
- Skip the two hitches used for DSRT.
SRT climbing on the Convertible System
( a video will be forthcoming on this)
- Step 1: Choose a preferred canopy anchor
- Step 2: Rig the Rope and set the anchor.
- Step 3: Tie the Friction Hitch
- Step 4: Climb
Hitch Climbing on the Convertible System:
One Stick Climbing on the Convertible System:
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.