descend single rope technique question

[Haplo]

A running bowline around the tree, made from a bight the middle of the rope but only wrapped around one line of the rope, so you descend on a single rope, and then retrieve it by pulling on the other end.

Does anyone else do this?

Just checking to see if you all think this is unsafe for any reason.

 

[Z'sTrees]

I'm assuming you're talking about a bowline with a really long tail or some kind of midline bowline (like a double or circus bowline). If so that's not a problem at all. I usually tie into a spar like that when I'm taking logs or big pieces, just tie enough tail to get to the next cut. If you're descending a whole tree, try an Alpine butterfly, super easy to tie and it's gonna be alot faster than tieing a running bowline with a really long tail

 

[DSMc]

Tying a running bowline with a bite is not a good choice for what you describe. Many SRT lines like static kernmantles, for instance, are terrible at holding that knot. A better choice would be the alpine butterfly and a steel quick link.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

That’s what I started with many years ago. It works with ropes that hold a knot, like David said

There are better ways that add a lot of performance but little cost or increased complexity

butterfly with a delta screw link is my basic go-to

 

[Burrapeg]

. . .butterfly with a delta screw link is my basic go-to . . .

Recently went to this too. Love it. Very convenient to implement and shift when moving the TIP up and alternating with both ends of the rope. I sometimes use a heavy duty steel triple lock biner instead of my Delta link if it is not too small a limb and this is even quicker to work with.

 

[Haplo]

Thanks for the responses. Z's Trees, yes I think that is what I was trying to describe. Basically a "running bowline on a bight" but only running around a single line, the other line for retrieving the bowline.

I was mainly concerned whether it was safe or not because the bowline is only around one of the lines, and would the knot hold since your putting weight on one line and not the other?

 

[Tom Dunlap]

The biner choke oriented and set against a large diameter trunk to avoid ‘bridging’ is adequate

The issue with a choked rope loop knot is the added friction for pull down. Also the running end of the role tailing through the eye can create sheath wear. Both issues are easily mitigated

 

[theatertech87]

If you're chunking down a spar, a screw link/carbiner/quickie/whatever allows you to keep the butterfly/bowline/figure 8 tied and just reattach it at your next cut location. Speeds up the flow through the tree

 

[southsoundtree]

Generally, I find that pulling the rope down and away from the tree starts it moving better than pulling the rope downward, near the base.

A little 'polishing' of the bark before descent with a bit of back and forth with the rope can help if the bark is grippy.

 

[39Buick]

little 'polishing' of the bark

Nice Idea!!!