Thoughts on DMM's Impact Block XS

AndrewNigh

AndrewNigh

Location
St. Louis Missouri
Hey all, looking for a small, versatile, block and DMM's XS Impact Block caught my eye. The design of a compact block that incorporates the hollow axle :estudioso: seems like it would be a useful feature to have. I'd love to hear people's experiences with this device or similar styles. Also, how do you all like omnis, other dmm impact blocks, cmi stainless, rings, etc. in comparison?
Also, first post on TreeBuzz. Just been a consumer to this point. Thank you all for providing insight!
 

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It’s definitely not a fast-opening block like the spring-pin blocks out there. However, it’s built to run a 5/8” line, so it’s versatility is greater than the other small blocks. It runs smooth as glass, and can take a beating (don’t ask how I know). If the price doesn’t give you pause, it’s a strong, lightweight block that will outlast any of its competitors, same as the other dmm blocks.
 
ive have a cmi block 20 + years, i dont think durability is an issue on any of these blocks. What I was really impressed with by with this DMM block is that there is no light of day between the sheave and the sideplates. Meaning, you can pull a throwline through it and not worry about it jumping off the sheave and not allowing you to pass a rope. that is cool. the way it opens not allowing you to hang it on the sling really is inconvenient though.
 
I just use the 3/4 zinc cmi blocks they're pretty cheap and have served me well, for lighter rigging with a half inch line I just use a small pulley that works with a carabiner.
 
AndrewNigh said:
Also, how do you all like omnis, other dmm impact blocks, cmi stainless, rings, etc. in comparison?
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Omniblocks are lovely for positive rigging, and I’d trust the 2.6” one for anything I’d take with 1/2” rope, so long as it’s not being shock loaded. A better name for it in the tree work industry might be Omnipulley. Maybe the big 4.5” one can handle negative rigging, it’s the only Omni made for rope larger than 1/2”, but I’d still worry about shock loading a swivel or any pulley with a built in swivel.


CMI blocks are bomber. Under normal use and maybe even straying a little into abuse, they seem to be indestructible. They’re kinda heavy and not nearly as sexy as DMM blocks, but they’re strong and reliable workhorses.

X-Rings and other brands are great, there’s been alot written about them on this forum, and I got nothing new to add. Tough, inexpensive, jives nicely with easy to splice 12 strand hollow braid slings.
 
https://www.iscwales.com/Products/Detail/RP048-Compact-Rigging-Pulley/

These are my favorite small blocks to use with 1/2 and 3/8 line. I have two of them at all times. They are super quick to open and close. Never had any issues with them. A 5/8 sling will work but a 1/2 makes it easier to get the line in and out.

I have used omnis in several sizes. I like them but they kinda scare me for negative rigging. I should still buy a couple at some point for various rigging situations.
 
I recently purchased one of these https://www.iscwales.com/Products/Detail/rp248-200-series-compact-rigging-pulley/ . I’ve found it to be a really nice block.

The hollow sheeve is cool but I’m not sure how often it actually would be essential.

The compact ISC (RP248) weighs about 600 grams, 2000kg WLL and it takes up to 14mm rope which makes it super versatile. They also come in under half the cost of the DMM.

I guess the DMM XS can take 16mm rope which could be handy. But we just use a ISC Small Block if we need to use larger rigging lines.

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CutHighnLetFly said:
I would buy 2 of those new ISC mini blocks before I spent thr dough on one of those. The isc ones open quick and are super durable for like 200
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I am in your camp Andre. I way prefer ISC blocks. I have owned 2 DMM but hated the screwlocks. Pain in the ass. The new ISC small block looks too sweet. Will pick one up. Most of my rigging is with original xrings though.
 
Noodle said:
I recently purchased one of these https://www.iscwales.com/Products/Detail/rp248-200-series-compact-rigging-pulley/ . I’ve found it to be a really nice block.

The hollow sheeve is cool but I’m not sure how often it actually would be essential.

The compact ISC (RP248) weighs about 600 grams, 2000kg WLL and it takes up to 14mm rope which makes it super versatile. They also come in under half the cost of the DMM.

I guess the DMM XS can take 16mm rope which could be handy. But we just use a ISC Small Block if we need to use larger rigging lines.

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I run mine on 16mm Sirius line. I'd trust that block and sling with anything I'd put on a 9/16 rope. Light weight and compact
 
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