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. We are also working on a kit and I would like the video to match the kit contents. – jrb
Page Contents:
Introduction
When asked for a recommendation on the best system to create, the answer is a JRB Universal System (JRBUS). It can get us in the largest variety of trees, using any of these climbing Methods, and can do so with an optimal balance of speed, cost and complexity, never compromising safety.
- DSRT (Doubled Stationary Rope Technique). This method is JRB’s preferred way to get in a tree, but the rope has to get put in the tree with either a throwball or a paracord preset rigged over a secure crotch. In some cases, we might Hitch Climb or stick climb the first time, and then manually install a paracord loop.
- SRT (Single Rope Technique). Like DSRT, SRT requires the use of a throwball or a paracord preset installed with a throwball, but there are a few situations where DSRT is not feasible where SRT is possible or advantageous. For example, there are branches between the strands or the trunk needs to be captured, or a Houdini Rigging scenario, all of which are described on the SRT page.
- JRB Hitch Climbing The use of the Maverick Pole is recommended.
- No Slack Stick Climbing. The use of the Maverick Pole is recommended.
- MRS/DRT – although we rarely need this method, it is supported.
As described in the video, numerous improvements were made since the original system was released in 2023. There is a dedicated Playlist on the channel which covers the entire system and its history: LINK to Playlist.
How much rope?
For a Universal System, JRB recommends: 60′ minimum, 80′ ideal. We carry enough rope for DSRT on most crotches and if an occasional crotch is higher, we simply switch the system into SRT mode. For example
- With 60′ of rope, if most crotches are 30′ or less, we execute DSRT, but when we have an occasional higher crotch (up to 50′), we switch the system into SRT mode.
- With 80′ of rope, if most crotches are 40′ or less, we execute DSRT, but when we have an occasional higher crotch (up to 70′), we switch the system into SRT mode.
Rope installation methods
Make sure you are familiar with the use of a throwball and the Maverick Pole to plan how you prefer to climb in a given situation. Both can be used with a Universal System. Practice these methods in an “easy” tree to get the hang of them before attempting in the woods. See page:
What could go wrong? It’s important to consider. This video is specific to DSRT, but is thought-provoking and outlines what JRB carries in terms of emergency supplies.
Shopping
Make your own shopping list based on what you have learned, what you have and what you need, and then execute your purchases.
1: Garda Hitch Footloop
2: Redundant Bridge. JRB recommends 2 bridges, one of which is long, and one of which is short. JRB has published several options for a 2nd, short bridge, or a new main bridge, or both. See dedicated page for the: Bridge, and be sure to plan if you need any extra rope or cord.
3: Maverick Pole (or a DIY Pole)
4: Rope – JRB typically carries 80ft for a Universal System, and recommends a minimum of 60 ft. A sewn eye is not necessary.
5: Cord – There are 4 Longhorn Agile hitches in the system. If you are building a redundant bridge, you may need more.
6: Carabiners – We need one for each bridge and one for executing a transfer in Hitch Climbing. Large, pear-shaped carabiners are recommended. (If Hitch climbing without a pole and using a Saddle Hunter’s Hitch, consider two more.)
7: Retrieval Cord – Length is about as high as the highest crotch that will be climbed. 35′ of 4 or 5mm cord is recommended.
8: 2 Mini Carabiners – for Rigging the rope into the tree, not for life support. Simply connect a loop at the end of the paracord to the JRB End Loop.
9: Throwball – JRB recommends 14 or 16 ounces and 75ft of throwline.
10: Paracord – Also consider paracord for ‘paracord presets’ which are installed after use of the throwball and left in the tree and used to rig our rope for a future climb.
11: JRB End Loop – With the exception of a tight crotch or a Floating Anchor, the End Loops on each side of the rope are not necessary but they do help with rigging the rope into the tree. They can be made with paracord, but 2mm cord works great.
12: Swivel – Optional, JRB recommends a swivel or swivel carabiner on his long bridge.
Building the System
The system can be constructed in phases, allowing us to get started with one method at a time. At each phase, ensure that you TEST and PRACTICE before trying the system on an actual hunt.
Phase 1: DSRT
See the linked page for details on the DSRT method.
This video was released in Jan 2025 and shows how easily we can create the DSRT part of the system using the Longhorn Agile Hitch:
This video was made with the 2023 system, but is still relevant.
The steps below assume the use of the Longhorn Agile Hitch. If a different hitch is being used, refer to the appropriate page.
- Saddle setup. Install your redundant bridge as described above, ensuring you have a recommended carabiner on each bridge.
- Execute the Garda Hitch Footloop construction.
- As per the vide above, drape the rope over a limb or rafter and tie a Longhorn Agile hitch on each side, which naturally hold in opposite directions, allowing climbing towards the middle of the rope (not the ends).
- The rope can be rigged into a tree by attaching the rigging line to one of the friction hitches. (video below)
- Climb DSRT
Phase 2: SRT
It is recommended to master Part 1 before moving on and adding the SRT capability. This video was made with the 2023 system, but is still relevant. See the SRT page for other possible scenarios.
The steps:
- Install JRB End Loops on both ends of the rope
- Be prepared to install another Longhorn Agile Hitch as necessary.
- Refer to the SRT page for specific scenarios.
- Climb SRT
Phase 3: Hitch and Stick Climbing
It is important to understand why and how a 3rd Friction Hitch and a Pole can benefit us, even if Hitch climbing is not of interest. We can use it to transition into a single rope system, either to reposition at our current height, or to adjust our height, to get over the branch we are tied to. This video was made with the 2023 system, but is still relevant.
The steps:
- Ensure that you are familiar with the use of the Maverick Hitch and Maverick Pole.
- Ensure that you have an extra carabiner, as we need two on the main bridge as we alternate anchors.
- Refer to the pages on these methods for all the details.
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.
History
For reference, the original version of the system had 6 hitches, but the footloops were eliminated in 2024, replaced by the Garda Hitch in transformation mode. The use of dedicated footloops for Hitch Climbing remains a viable option, but lacks the redundancy provided by the Garda.