no groundman? no problem!

[mattbc]

[ QUOTE ]

Since the force of a limb dropped can easily reach 4x the actual weight, I'd stick to something no more than 700lbs.

[/ QUOTE ]
Just a note about heavy weights with this system:
the ability to retrieve the sling is hindered with more weight. Sometimes the sling can get twisted under the piece and won't want to come back to you. If you are lowering anything heavier than you can actually lift back up with the rope I would carry a few more slings and not even try to retrieve them. It can be a wicked pain in the neck! It is great with smaller limbs though.

 

[Raven27]

I need a video of this. I have some smaller trees that I really could use something like this on, but flat out don't get it

 

[Raven27]

Never mind, I get it, DUH!

 

[btstree]

That gives me a little better idea. I figured their must have been other restrictions other than just the capacities of the system. Thanks Matt.

 

[Fixit490]

Why not use a small steel ring in place of the pulley cheaper!

 

[AuburnArborist]

The system of lowering off of a bight is really useful.
I have been doing this for a few years when I am pruning smaller branches(1-4") over a structure and dont have the clearance to pull limbs away from structure. Be careful of rigging off large branch ends but you can set-up the simplified system(without retrieval pulley) temporarily throughout a climb and lower branches slowly on to a roof. I dont always use a friction device if the branch is small and the work positioning is awkward. Once finished pruning, redirect yourself to the roof and throw branches off yourself. Plan ahead and bring 1 sling for each branch.

I like the retrieval system twist! I guess you would have to be careful of rough barked trees or stubs catching the sling and not allowing it to slip off, right?