That looks like a horrible anchor point. Our guidelines for choosing a TIP would call for a minimum of 4" diameter, preferably around the main stem, and no more than 30 degrees past vertical. We also require a canopy anchor before cutting and a two person, static load test.
The union up to the...
Great post, Jeff! Its easy to have headlines make things look more dire than they really are.
My interest in the zigzag has still dropped off the cliff (no need to feel sorry for me!). I'm pretty confident in my ability to work a friction hitch!
But the fact that so many, of multiple generations have broken, makes me think that it isn't a very robust tool for tree work. It is amazing and all, but I'm equally leary of it.
Couple of hairs to split... presumably, the device failed because of either misuse and/or manufacturer defects.
The climber fell because of bad decision making. Primarily, not taking care of their kit (poor maintenance), poor gear selection (kit that either hadn't been inspected or had and...
Barbicide kills microorganisms and isn't corrosive to metal tools (not AS corrosive). Soak for 10 minutes for complete disinfection.
Its also availables in an aerosol container. Lysol is another readily available alternative.
Spraying is convenient, but not as thorough as soaking.
The 2020 Kentucky TCC will be in Louisville, KY this year.
Date will likely be October 10th OR 17th.
Park to be announced.
No ISA insurance means KY might get a little weird... stay tuned.
An adjustable friction saver... how revolutionary.
They previously called it the Buck Squeeze. If you have a couple drinks you'll understand why they changed they name.
It takes two to tango. Working with a crane is a huge collaboration and the people on either end of the boom should be confident in the plan before pulling the trigger.
This line of work can have a very steep learning curve. Sometimes you only get one chance. Unfortunately, the crane operator...
Like Eric said, the young "Geezers" get younger. I definitely fall into the "young" Geezer demographic and really appreciate a competitive TCC, but the Geezers I first knew was a lot easier for older climbers to feel comfortable with. No Belayed Speed. Ascent was 25' (and not at night with...
Depending on the situation and the rope configuration this can be a realistic option for an access/rescue line. The whole "counter balance" aspect of climbing on the retrieval side can get weird once the rescuer is in the tree, so to avoid complications, I think it could wise for the rescuer to...