New climber, got some questions about gear (zigzag setup)

[blue pine]

Hi all,

I'm new to climbing, got myself a harness, few carabiners, a 30m rope for ddrt, & a zigzag (I know that might be anathema to not start on a hitch, but the arborists I used to work with used that and I just like the idea of using a mechanical device).

When ascending, I want to generally be facing the tree, and the zigzag gets pulled into funny angles as I'm climbing, because branches are all at different angles as I climb up (when alternating between my lanyard and climbing line for support).

Does anyone use a swivel type device to prevent this? Or any tips to be orientated properly? Maybe it's the carabiner setup I use, which puts it in an awkward position?

Have attached a picture below. Any tips on general zigzag use would be appreciated chaps.

 

[AdkEric]

You could use a swivel on your bridge rather than a ring. That should help keep everything oriented correctly.

 

[Winchman]

A twisted clevis or shackle between the ZZ and harness ring will keep the ZZ so the release is away from you all the time.

Look for a Wichard 8mm on Ebay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Twisted-Type-long-Shackle-with-Captive-Pin-8mm-WICHARD-1424-/253617177684

This item at Amazon is similar for less, but you'll need to put some kind of locking device (a split ring works) on the screw: https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Steel-Twist-Shackle-Marine/dp/B071FV331L

Wespurr used to have one as item HAR220, but it doesn't show up on their site any more.