Time to learn some new techniques ?

[Grais]

Hey gang, on the advice of J.C. I am reposting this post that I misplaced in roping and rigging, so here goes.....

[ QUOTE ]
Hello all you tree junkies, I am a long time gaff climber who is interested in learning some of the newer techniques for climbing. I'm curious about the split tail technique I keep reading bits about, but no one I work with has any experience with anything aside form the classic, taut line hitch on the climbing line, don't get me wrong, I love the simplicity of the set up, but its basic use is just too descend out of the tree. Vertical movement is facilitated with the use of the gaffs.
Essentially this is the way it is done as the trees are 90% of the time removals(hazard trees for Utility companies is most of my work) so really the gaffs are not the issue, I am curious as to the advantages of the STT, and would like to hear any and all ideas/thoughts on the subject.
For instance would I gain anything by trying to incorporate some newer ideas. Hopefully theres some veteran out there who've done a lot of removals,(well.. of this I am certain there are many) and can give me some real insight.
Occasionally I have to trim/prune trees that are not removals so this is where I thought I may gain some ground with some fresh approaches.

Gotta say it......really love the site, this is my first post, but Ive been lurking for a few months and finally bit the bullet. Great to have a forum where a guy can ask advice or just shoot the woodchips with fellow Arborists'. As evidenced, obviously, I'm a long winded SOB, so please, I beg forgiveness for that, and I appreciate any and all who take the time to read, and hopefully comment.
Keep your saw, and most important your mind sharp, and stay safe.
ALWAYS.
- Mike 'Grais' Latimer.

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks again, and really, just love this site, I cant seem to log off, every time the little woman sees the PC these days its stuk on TB, like I tell her, lots worse 'pursuits' I could be 'pursuing'
Peace,
-Grais.

 

[jomoco]

Hi Grais,

Bodyline slack tending micro pulley's are a pretty cool way to modernize an oldschool climbing setup.

It's a good start anyway.

Welcome aboard!

jomoco

 

[treehumper]

Start with a blake's hitch. Then move up to an open system with a VT, XT, distal or any other. Sign up for a climbing course through ISA or Arbormaster or whomever is offering it in your area.

Don't put the spurs on when your pruning. You'll be able to get around fine if not better without them.

Nice location, ever been to Lee Creek? Some great log homes there.

My nephew was born at the Salmon Arm hospital and grew up at Lee Creek.

 

[mikeyott]

hey mike try keeping your spurs in the truck as much as possible it will make you a better climber some removals i wont even wear spurs i cant stand them maybe just havnt got myself the right pair yet neways yesturday i did a 60 cm man maple removal all without spurs youll get use to not wearing them not only that its funner finding an alternate route goodluck

 

[treehumper]

Mike, gotta love those mannies. Other than standing on the stem the spurs aren't really that advantageous in a removal.

Work with Jamie Gardiner? Went to school with him, good kid.

 

[Grais]

Thanks again everyone. Been going over the articles, lots of great stuff. Obviously spur less is the future of tree climbing, still in the area I live in they are still in vogue, but I thought maybe I could be one of the first in these parts to offer a spurless tree service, lots to learn of course, and some new gear to gather.
Thanks again gang, will be back with more questions be assured of that.
Stay safe.
-Grais.
PS @ TH, yes sir I have been, and even lived for a short time in Lee Creek, well TBH just a clik or two down the road in Scotch Creek but they are right in the same area of the Shuswap.
If Y'all have never been to the Okanagan Valley, your missing a real jewel.
I know I am a bit biased, but it is truly a beautiful part of the world. With a LOT of friendly people, a great place to vacation. Ive lived in the big city and found I always miss the human contact of the smaller towns, anyhows take care all.

 

[Colin]

i've been climbing with a new convert lately. he loves it. took him a minute and we'll probably get him a micro pulley on a dog snap. he was fast now he's faster. my advise keep it simple you know your system split tail and a micro pulley thats all you need. good luck pal and thanks for dropping the gaffs the trees just all took a bow!

 

[mikeyott]

i dono about that jeff theyre making systems that will save your body and energy more and more every year im about to get into climbing on a 3 to 1 eye to eye michocaun hitch with a pulley personally i think its all about educating yourself and keeping up to date with these systems for climbing and rigging and adapting to change this industry has changes left right and center so in my opinion dont keep it simple keep up to date.
cheers!

 

[treehumper]

Keep up with new stuff and adopt it as you progress in your skills. Once proficient with one system you'll peak and not see anymore gains. That's the time to check out the latest technology and see if it's right for you and the work you do.

Staying on top of the changes will help you stay engaged and excited about this business.