For getting in and out of my stand I have a safety line that runs from above the stand all the way to the ground. There is a prusic knot and loop attached to it that I clip into when going up or down. For those who use the same system what size climbing rope do you use for the safety line??
I bought mine from a climbing supply shot and used their recommendation.
I think my life lines are around 7\\16" maybe slightly smaller.
I use 8 mm neutral color climbing rope. I use 24 inches of black 6mm for the prussic. I attach a small carabiner to the loop in the prussic and away you go. I feel so much better about tree stands after using this system. I am never unattached when climbing or hunting.
I put a loop in one end of the safety line and run it through itself at shoulder level while standing on my platform. The other end I tie to the lowest step on the right side at base of the tree. As I climb I reach over and slide the knot up all the way to the top. It stays attached while hunting and the reverse on the way down. Super safe!
I use 7/16" Assault line for the main line and 7 mm for the prussic. I prefer a static line rather than dynamic.
I do nut hunt in a stand, and have not used ropes in that way.
I spent years rock and ice climbing, and used ropes in that way, For my personal satisfaction, and as a licensed guide.
I'd use ay least an 8mm anchor line (plenty adequate for strength), and a significantly smaller diameter prussic line ( if I used a prussic), or more likely what I have on hand, and am accustomed to using... a 10mm -11mm anchor line, and standard prussic diameter of 6 or 7mm. The smaller diameter of the prussic cord is part of it's ability to cinch on the anchor line.
Hope I said that in a way that makes sense.
I contacted the experts at Knot and Rope Supply (Google them). They set me up with enough rope to make lifelines for all my stands and the right size rope for the prussic loops too. It turned out to cost me about $25 each. They are very knowledgeable and know exactly what you need.
QuoteOriginally posted by Jock Whisky:
For getting in and out of my stand I have a safety line that runs from above the stand all the way to the ground. There is a prusic knot and loop attached to it that I clip into when going up or down. For those who use the same system what size climbing rope do you use for the safety line??
Jock,
I use this method everytime I get in the stand. The diameter of the rope is not very important, the strength of the rope is what is important. Your best bet(in my opnion) is to get on the big auction site(e bay) and type in "Kernmantle static rope". You will be able to get about 50' of rope for under $30tyd.
As far as a prussic goes, I use the same rope, but the only rule is that they prussic rope has to be smaller diameter for best results. I have some 7mm rope that I use on 7mm rope and if you fall, if will slowly drop you to the ground, it will not catch and completely stop like a 5mm rope would on the 7mm rope.
I hope this helps.
Daniel
1/2 inch diamond braid rope
Correction - I meant 5 or 6mm cord for prussics.
Also should have added: A prussic is not usually relied on as a primary safety. There are a number of ways that can slip. A mechanical ascender is much more positive. A prussic is often used as a backup above the device.
http://tbwpodcast.com/video-28-making-your-own-lineman-belts-and-tethers/
here is a video i did on making tethers and lineman belts.
In place of the prussic knot, I use a Petzl GriGri II self belaying devise attached to the back/top of my climbing harness. This attaches to the safety rope (mine is 11mm static climbing rope) allowing me to ascend & most importantly descend to the ground incase of a fall.
QuoteOriginally posted by tippit:
In place of the prussic knot, I use a Petzl GriGri II self belaying devise attached to the back/top of my climbing harness. This attaches to the safety rope (mine is 11mm static climbing rope) allowing me to ascend & most importantly descend to the ground incase of a fall.
Me too
11mm static and 9mm for the loop. I don't use a prussik, I use a klemheist knot. only grabs in one direction so its 'easier' to ascend without the loop grabbing on the static line.
11mm static safety line, 7mm prussic rope
My lifeline will freeze up in cold weather.
Any one else have that problem.
George