First time using SRT to get into a tree

[Axman]

Hello everyone, I don't post here much, but I do need a quick answer from the experienced climbers here.

I have a Red Oak I have to trim some limbs off of that are overhanging a clients prized River Birches. With the ususal amount of deadwood, neighboring trees, and a tight spot I'll be lucky to get a throwball up into the tree without getting it stuck , let alone trying to get a rope isolated for double rope footlocking.

This seems to be a good time to try some SRT to get into the tree. The question I have is since I don't have any mechanical hand accenders, does a Kleimheist work as good on a single line as it does a doubled line or should I switch to another knot like a six coil prussic. I'm also going to use my old split tail for a backup. I'll probaly hoof it up by footlocking or get fancy and use a Pantin.

A couple quick replies would be appreciated, thanks

Larry

 

[Tom Dunlap]

The K will work fine with the usual disclaimers

You'll have to figure out how many wraps and the diameter cord to work for you. When I use the K for ascending I get in the habit of flipping the bight that comes down from the top coil and goes around the attachment bite. That allows the K to slide up without rolling and getting messy.

A good safety procedure for all climbing and especially with new techniques is to tie stopper knots every few feet. Tightly set slip knots work well. If you are careful to tie them right they can all be stripped out by someone on the ground.

Have fun! I'm always excited when there's a new convert to SRT

 

[Axman]

Thanks Tom, I know have many said this before, but your willingness to help and give information so freely does not go unnoticed, add me to the list.

Tried the SRT today, the Kleimheist worked real good, SRT definately has advantages to other techniques, it took me a little bit to get used to as it has a feel all it's own and my climbing gear wasn't quite fine tuned for SRT, that will not be a big problem to solve in the future.

Now that I have had a little hands on with this, it is definately a keeper for the future.

Larry

 

[Treelimbjim]

Since I spent a day exclusively SRT about 8 months ago, I opt for it for most of my work climbing. Unless there's a clear shot to bring both ends of the rope together it just makes good sense for quick setup.

One benefit is I am more sensitive to movement of the tree. The loading is doubled. The more static ropes, my Fly and Bluewater II and soon some KMIII probably contribute to this, too. It becomes an asset since 10+mph gusts of wind won't slingshot me out of position.

The possible time when I don't use SRT is when its the 3rd or 4th climb of the day and a 2:1 system seems to conserve on the muscles. That's not really a good justification for DdRT, since in its case the trade-off is the energy expended in between thrusts stablizing and balancing happens twice as often, and picking through obstacals, too.