Page Contents:
Overview
The device that Saddle Hunters commonly refer to as a “Lineman’s Belt” is an adaptation of a now obsolete device that had been used by utility workers who climb utility poles. Arborists use similar devices, referred to by many names including a “positioning lanyard” or a “flipline”. The reason it is obsolete is because (contrary to popular assumption), a Lineman’s Belt does NOT provide reliable protection from a fall or adequate protect from injury if you lose your footing. In modern day, utility workers are required to climb with a device which cinches onto the pole.
Lineman’s Belt Dangers
A lineman’s belt is a positioning device. It’s great for helping us remain balanced when using our hands for a task. However, a lineman’s belt is not an anchored tie-in to the tree. In the event of a loss of footing:
- We could fall a short or a long way, and are likely to be injured either way.
- If we cannot regain our footing, there is no easy way to get to the ground.
- We could experience a crushing impact of the trunk onto on our groin.
- We could be cut or impacted by any sticks or branches below us.
- We could be scraped by the tree itself as we exercise an instinct to grab it.
JRB has interviewed actual climbers that have experienced a loss of footing when using only a Lineman’s Belt. One climber was cut badly and although was able to get to the ground, needed to be rescued. One climber was so uncomfortable from the impact of the tree on the groin and the leg straps cutting into the same area that he intentionally cut his lineman’s belt knowing he would fall. The fall caused a back injury.
JRB urges all climbers to always have a cinched, choked, anchored lifeline in the tree and on little slack. If a Lineman’s Belt is desired as well, that is fine, but recognize that it is a positioning device only.
Ape Canyon Products
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https://www.apecanyon.com/product-category/climbing-gear/lineman-belts-tethers/
JRB’s Designs
The sections below outline the designs JRB has introduced for a Lineman’s belt, both of which perform other functions, and can be considered Multi-Function Devices (MFD).
MFD with Rotational Redirect
All the details are in the video, with supporting details in the video description.
DIY Lineman’s Belt
Because JRB rarely needs an LB in a hunting situation, he has designed one that can server other purposes. We can create an inexpensive LB which can also serve as a “gear hanger / bow hanger” and as a “rope deflector” for our climbing rope or lifeline. The resulting device is just over 8′ in length, (including the carabiners). The design is “non mechanical” in that it uses a friction hitch rather than a friction device, yet still provides reliable one-handed operation.
Items required for DIY design:
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Item 1: 14 feet of cord, which is cut into two pieces, a 10′ length and 4′ length, creating a device which is just over 8′ in length, including the carabiners. Use more or less cord as appropriate for a different finished length. Recommended cord:
Item 2: Two Carabiners – Recommended:
Item 3: A single link of chain with approximately 1/2 inch inside dimension… or a Quick Link from Amazon.
Item 4: Hook – A bow gear hook of your choice.