More SRT Questions

[MTCInc]

I really want to try getting into some SRT style climbing. I already own most of the gear from over the years, but I am considering getting a Uni. (BTW, is the tethered uni worth the extra dough for Ddrt?)

I guess my biggest question, which I have thought about over and over in my head, is how do you get back from a limb walk? As an example, I would like to hear how this is done with a uni. I just cannot grapple the idea, and how this is considered easier, or less taxing, then Ddrt. It seems to have an element of sketchiness to it.... the inevitable slack in the line as you walk back up the limb to a point where you can hold on to something and pull in the slack. What am I missing here?

The only thing I can think of is to put a handled ascender back online, and use that to climb/pull your way back up... Still, your not getting the 2-1 from a double line. I can see how SRT will be great for some tall conifers, especially getting up Redwoods (which can be sketchy to access..), but can you honestly ascend faster SRT style then footlocking up?

Someone needs to write a good book on this subject, with lots of good photos.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

Hmmm...the book?!?!

I'm doing a webinar for TCIA this month on SRT.

I'll describe a simple 2:1 setup for limbwalking. Fill in the components with your choice.

Waht I'm describing is a slack tender setup.

You're at the trunk or going to head out on a limb walk. Attach a pulley/biner to the rope. any number of configurations...figure it out Put a rope, could be the tail of your climbing line, through the pulley/biner and tie one end to the top eye of the Uni. If you're using a hitch, clip under the hitch. A Revolver biner works great here. Tail the other end of the line along on the limb walk. On the way back in, grab the tail and yard yourself just like on DdRT.

This is over simplified but you can figure out the details. There is LOTS of info in the archives. Take some time to work your way back and find threads that deal with limb walking with SRT.

 

[MTCInc]

Tom

I actually thought of that as a way of doing it, but it's not seeming like a more efficient way of doing it.

My thoughts: first off, I'm most likely going to need a 200' line for SRT. That's a LOT of line to have to pull up to get the tail.

My other option is to have another shorter line with me, correct? Just more gear on me to weigh me down? I mean, if I've got a long, 30' limb to go out on, I'll need a sizable length of rope.

When's your webinar? Id love to see it.

Still, better yet: I think a good book with good illustrations is in order! Maybe even a video?

 

[MTCInc]

I am still pondering this whole SRT thing... I think I am mainly intrigued with it cuz I can go get some cool new gear, and it will be something new to play around with... Nice change up after going Ddrt for 18+ years...

But, I am not really seeing the benefits of it. What are the pros/cons? Why is SRT being considered the future? It seems more gear intensive, has possibly a bit more room for error ( a loaded line in two directions is one thing I think about), requires, from what I am hearing, another set up in tree for long limb walks.....

So, for you guys working this daily, why is this the choice? Other then accessing the canopy, which I have no prob doing by footlocking, is this a superior way of working?

Is it more efficient????

I want to be convinced so I can finally buy a Uni.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

MTC...if you are on the edge...go back and read the threads on SRT. Many other climbers have been in your place and converted to SRT. The groundswell is rising. All of your questions have been answered in many threads already.

The webinar is on 2/22 I think...11am EST.

 

[DSMc]

Buy the Uni if you want to use the most versatile stand-alone SRT tool currently available.

Have you read the thread "Why SRT"? Some pros and cons were discussed. Prepare yourself for possibly a difficult transition. It seems those who are the most comfortable and successful on doubled rope may have troubles taking the time and working through the awkward feelings and moments of the initial transition to single rope. If you are use to working the tree in total control, when you switch to SRT there will be many times when you will feel like a greenhorn scratching your head saying "Ok, what now?"

Rest assured there are ways around all of the perceived problems. Most of them just require you to get use to the different feel rather than true limitations with the system. SRT is very energy efficient and versatile.

When I started I scoured and read everything I could find out about SRT. I was intrigued, like you. In my opinion, it wasn't enough information. You are so right, a book or video needs to be written or made teaching how to use this system. I really struggled and felt quite the fool. But I am glad now that I stuck with it and will not be going back to doubled rope.

Good luck.

Dave

 

[Norm_Hall]

[ QUOTE ]
Is it more efficient????

I want to be convinced so I can finally buy a Uni.

[/ QUOTE ]

It is safer, more efficient and energy saving.

I SRT up 90% of the time and work off it with a weapon on a DRT system. Once I got the bugs worked out, I'll never go back. Secured footlocking takes it's toll after years of doing it. SRT is will eventually be the choice of most climbers.
Haven't used a Uni. I just use a chest ascender (Petzl Croll), a left foot Pantin and the weapon with my DRT system installed while ascending. Once at my desired height, I tie an Alpine Butterfly beneath the weapon. Good to go!