24d • Shared techniques
Redirect options
D.R.T. (Doubled Rope Technique) or MRS (Moving Rope System) climbing is a popular method for arborists and recreational climbers. When you're using this system, a key skill is knowing how to "redirect" your rope to a new, higher anchor point. This is crucial for accessing different parts of the canopy and managing your rope's friction and position.
There are several options for redirects, ranging from simple to more complex, often categorized as either natural redirects or hardware-based redirects.
1. Natural Redirects (The Simplest Method)
This is the most basic and common type of redirect. It uses the natural features of the tree itself.
* How it works: While you are securely attached to your primary climbing line, you simply throw a bight (a loop) of your climbing rope over a higher, solid branch (a "natural crotch"). You then untie and re-feed your climbing line through the new crotch, and then re-attach your system to your harness.
* Pros:
* No extra gear required.
* Quick and straightforward.
* Minimal friction on your rope if the crotch is smooth.
* Cons:
* Can cause friction and wear on your rope and the tree's bark, especially with repeated use or on rough bark.
* The redirect is not retrievable from the ground. You have to climb back up to that point to retrieve the rope.
2. Hardware-Based Redirects (For More Advanced Use)
These methods use specialized equipment to create a more efficient and less damaging redirect.
A. Non-Retrievable Redirects
These systems are more permanent and stay in the tree until you climb back up to them. They are often used for a specific work area.
* The "Basket" Redirect:
* How it works: You use a sling or lanyard (often a soft loop like a webbing or rope-based cambium saver) with a carabiner or pulley. You wrap it around the new anchor point in a "basket" configuration (like a choker hitch) and clip your climbing rope into it.
* Pros: Reduces friction on your rope and the tree's bark.
* Cons: The hardware stays in the tree. It's not designed for retrieval from the ground, so you must climb back to it to get your gear back.
* Pulley-based Redirects:
* How it works: Similar to the basket redirect, but you use a small pulley instead of just a carabiner. This greatly reduces friction and makes ascending and descending much smoother.
* Pros: Minimizes friction, very smooth climbing.
* Cons: Not retrievable.
B. Retrievable Redirects
These are more advanced and are a great option for professional arborists. They allow you to set up a new redirect and, when you're done working, retrieve all your hardware from the ground.
* Mid-Line Retrievable Redirect:
* How it works: This is a popular option that uses a specialized piece of equipment (often a short rope sling with a small ring and/or a quickie or trigger snap). You can attach it "mid-line" (in the middle of your climbing line) and deploy it from the ground with a throw line. Once it's in the tree, you can climb on it. To retrieve it, you simply pull on a specific part of the system, and it releases, allowing you to pull the whole thing down.
* Pros:
* Highly efficient and versatile.
* Saves time and effort, as you don't have to climb back up to retrieve your gear.
* Protects both your rope and the tree.
* Cons:
* Requires specialized and more expensive equipment.
* Takes practice to master.
* The "Ponytail" Redirect:
* How it works: A very clever technique where you leave a bight or a "tail" of your climbing rope near the trunk while you climb. As you climb out onto a branch, you use this tail to lift your entire climbing system over a different, higher branch.
* Pros:
* Doesn't require any extra gear.
* Allows you to make significant directional changes in the tree.
* Cons:
* Can be complex and requires a good understanding of rope management.
* Can get the rope caught on branches if not managed correctly.
Important Safety Considerations:
* Always Lanyard In: Before you disconnect your main climbing line to set up a new redirect, you must be securely attached to the tree with a secondary system, like a lanyard. This is your primary safety rule.
* Test Your System: Always test your new redirect by putting some of your weight on it before fully committing to the system.
* Know Your Equipment: Be fully trained in the use of any specialized climbing equipment before using it in the field.
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Redirect options
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