New HitchHikerXF

While I don't use the HHXF, I do climb using a neck tether with my RRP and rope wrench. I basically wove together 7mm accessory cord into a flat, larger braided piece of cordage (this provides optimal comfort), added a loop of paracord rated for 100lbs and compromised it by cutting it, then by using a lighter to gently re-adhere the loop closed. After much testing, this method, when done properly, will allow the paracord to break at 50-75lb, eliminating most serious strangulation risks. Finally, a DMM XSRE straight gate accessory caribiner was added for connectivity.

I've always preferred neck tethers over chest harnesses. But that isn't to say a chest harness isn't safer, because it is. Just thought I'd share.
1000012935.jpg
 

Specialist ID Bulk 100 Pack - Extra Large Key Rings - 1.25 Inch Heat Treated - Heavy Duty Sturdy Metal Split Ring Keychains​

 
Great advise on this board. Thanks to all.

I came up with the rig pictured below. Weaver suspenders on a Petzl Sequoia SRT saddle. A short length of web was sewn to each suspender strap at the shoulder. I wanted some adjustment so the connecter would not be on my collar bone. Six connecters and 6 yards of web came as a kit from Amazon for $10.

BEYOURD 3/4" Buckles and Straps Set

The barb of the male connecter was filed so it would break-away at about 20 LB. File gently until it breaks. Successive breaks will be somewhat weaker. With both connecters being break-away, about 40 LB could be applied to the HHxF.

The straps were easily sewn to the Weaver suspender straps with upholstery thread.

The tether length is easily adjusted with one hand by pulling on the slack end. Payout slack by lifting one end of the connecter. The connecters do not fit through the eye of HHxF, so an accessory carabiner is required, Climbing Innovations Mini Biner 4KN (hook-less) shown.

TetherRig.png

FileBarb.png
 
Muggs said:
... perfect for rec climbing.
Click to expand...
Help me understand the difference there? The adjustability is important to remove slack or make sure there is tension in my system during a rope walking ascent, also the ability for it to move away from my chest area a little bit while I'm coming back from a steep limb walk using a foot ascender and tending my rope is very helpful. But I'm missing something between doing it for fun or money.
 
It's perfect for rec climbing and work, no different. I just prefer suspenders on my work saddle so I run a chest tether off of them. I like the simplest chest thing possible when I take people on a rec climb so that's where my brain goes when I see this one.
 
Zebco Kid said:
Hello Camdo,

I’m not nearly as experienced as most on this forum…so take this for what it’s worth.

I simply have an elastic rope and clip that goes from the back of my harness, over my shoulder, and on to the HHxF.

Sometimes it slips off when I don’t want it to, but it works well. The length is adjustable so the elasticity and desired tension (pull) work perfectly when climbing.
Click to expand...
I tend all of my devices the same way, apart from using a static cord. Mine does not slip off of the shoulder. This may be due to it being tied at my back left hip and brought over my right shoulder. When not in use I take it off of my shoulder and clip it to my right leg straps.
 
Muggs said:
Does anyone know of any stories of actual climbers who got hurt from a neck tether?
Click to expand...
I've not heard a single woeful tale of a climber incurring either injury nor death from a neck tether.

They were all the rage before chest harnesses. And if you put some thoughtful engineering into a neck tether, you can make it safe. Arguably safer than a chest harness. (But probably not lol)

What if a climber's chest harness get caught on something? And what if they're new to climbing? It won't break off at 50lbs of force like my neck tether does.

However, a chest harness is useful for keeping an injured climber upright during a rescue situation. Whereas a neck tether is useless and unsafe.
 
Last edited:
You can also just tie a knot in the middle of a 120cm sling and put your arms through both openings and connect at the front. That's what I use for my knee ascender. I use both the sling and a neck tether.

EDIT: If anyone wants to see how this is done, I have a video you can watch. Just DM me.
 
No knot needed- put 1/2twist in correct size webbing loop for your chest- making figure 8. cross over on back and one arm thru each loop- clip w carabiner on front for tending.

Unclipped it just rides on shoulders no problem- if you use rated carabiner and sling, you also have a great redirect/ positioning attachment/footloop for awkward footing/etrier/ backup carabiner that can Blake's hitch off your tail
 
SeanRuel said:
No knot needed- put 1/2twist in correct size webbing loop for your chest- making figure 8. cross over on back and one arm thru each loop- clip w carabiner on front for tending.

Unclipped it just rides on shoulders no problem- if you use rated carabiner and sling, you also have a great redirect/ positioning attachment/footloop for awkward footing/etrier/ backup carabiner that can Blake's hitch off your tail
Click to expand...
I can admit when I'm wrong.. You're correct. A simple twist willl suffice.
 
SeanRuel said:
No knot needed- put 1/2twist in correct size webbing loop for your chest- making figure 8. cross over on back and one arm thru each loop- clip w carabiner on front for tending.

Unclipped it just rides on shoulders no problem- if you use rated carabiner and sling, you also have a great redirect/ positioning attachment/footloop for awkward footing/etrier/ backup carabiner that can Blake's hitch off your tail
Click to expand...
thats how i use bike innertube
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

New threads New posts

Kask Stihl NORTHEASTERN Arborists Wesspur TreeStuff.com Teufelberger Westminster X-Rigging Teufelberger
Back
Top Bottom