Using a figure 8 for descending the tree - WesSpur's Niceguydave demonstrates a classic tool

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  • Опубліковано 27 гру 2012
  • Many climbers are familiar with the figure 8 from their background in rock climbing, caving, or mountaineering. This classic tool has largely been replaced in tree work by Hybrid Work Positioning Devices. The figure 8 has the advantage of being inexpensive and compact, and some still like to use if for descending a stationary rope system. A figure 8 should always be backed up with a prusik.
    Basic Installation of the figure 8 on the climbing rope 0:45
    Descending the rope on a figure 8 1:36
    Installing the figure 8 with prusik backup 3:00
    All figure 8s and other descenders available at WesSpur:
    www.wesspur.com/tree-climbing...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 101

  • @christopherjohnson1414
    @christopherjohnson1414 2 місяці тому

    so glad i found this video before i got in a tree . always want to be as safe as possible during not so safe activities . stay safe out there and God bless 🙏

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  2 місяці тому

      stay safe, and feel free tor each out with any gear questions. www.wesspur.com/contact-wesspur

  • @alexmelnua
    @alexmelnua 11 місяців тому +2

    Thanks for useful video about the descender "Figure 8"!
    Have a great day and climb safe!

  • @L2FlyMN
    @L2FlyMN Рік тому +16

    Another benefit or advantage of using the Prusik, above your figure 8, besides the extra safety factor, is the locking feature when you’re working with both hands, previously, I was using the soft lock method, but it’s a pain to unlock under load, or when the rope spins on you.

  • @Kuhtlass
    @Kuhtlass 7 місяців тому +2

    That is sick. Gonna add the prusik to my tether for saddle hunting.

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  7 місяців тому

      Glad it's helpful! We have several camo prusiks we've made up for saddle hunters here: www.wesspur.com/search?keywords=camo%20prusik&page=1

  • @bravo3541
    @bravo3541 3 роки тому +15

    Great demo. Best, simple use of the prusik actually in use I've seen. Thanks

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  3 роки тому +3

      Glad it was helpful, thanks for the feedback! Stay safe.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @chriskoscianski6057
    @chriskoscianski6057 9 місяців тому +2

    Thank you for this video, and showing how to use the prusik for safety. I had been struggling to find something that showed the Prusik with the figure 8

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  9 місяців тому

      Happy to oblige, please let us know if we can help with your gear outfitting! Stay safe,

  • @venadovagabundo
    @venadovagabundo Рік тому +3

    Great! thankyou Dave for uploading this important info.
    Another good benefit of the prusik is that you can use it to ascend. Recently it happened to me, rapelling (alone) from the summit of a two-anchor 60 meter multipitch climbing, that I couldn't bring down the rope when I reached the first anchor, because it got stucked. So I used a prusik to ascend back to the summit anchor. Later I learned that you can also add a second prusik below to use it with your feet.

  • @koori3085
    @koori3085 Рік тому +4

    Best clear explanation, was sure and trust myself, but as the saying goes, trust but verify! Thanks man!

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @felixzayas2024
    @felixzayas2024 Рік тому +2

    Love it

  • @Rudecheers
    @Rudecheers 2 роки тому

    Your video's are always straight to the point. Good info, thanks. Greetings from Belgium

  • @MrMurrekatt
    @MrMurrekatt 3 роки тому +6

    A very informative video! Had not had to buy an expensive decender for my aborist work, could have used my figue 8

  • @krustysurfer
    @krustysurfer 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you Dave for more essential information.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @alexsoul247
    @alexsoul247 4 роки тому +14

    Thank you so much for explaining. After watching numerous videos on the same subject - this is by far the best explanation of this system. Really appreciate your help

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  4 роки тому

      Glad it was helpful, Alex! Stay safe.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr 3 роки тому +1

      Alex Soul Don't install the figure 8 in mid air. You might drop it and end up using a munter hitch to get down.

    • @adriendraven6409
      @adriendraven6409 2 роки тому

      i guess Im asking randomly but does anyone know a trick to log back into an Instagram account??
      I stupidly lost my password. I love any help you can offer me!

    • @bjorntoby3320
      @bjorntoby3320 2 роки тому

      @Adrien Draven instablaster =)

    • @adriendraven6409
      @adriendraven6409 2 роки тому

      @Bjorn Toby thanks for your reply. I got to the site on google and im trying it out atm.
      Takes quite some time so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

  • @williamb2339
    @williamb2339 3 роки тому +2

    Awesome video very informative and easy to understand 👍

  • @trimbaker1893
    @trimbaker1893 Рік тому +2

    Nicely done.

  • @cheesyascot
    @cheesyascot 3 роки тому +1

    This was great and kept to the point. I've always been a fan of shopping wesspur but didn't realize there was a YT channel. Thank you.

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  3 роки тому +1

      Thanks! Yes, there's lots of videos. Feel free to let us know if there is something you would like to see covered in a video.

  • @Billster1955
    @Billster1955 3 роки тому +2

    Thanks Dave, great info.

  • @MIKO_MDG
    @MIKO_MDG 8 місяців тому +1

    Thanks Dave! When I descend SRT static after climbing w/ascenders like a Petzl Texas system, i've been backing up the Fig. 8 w/a Munter hitch below, tied to one of my saddle hip rings. I'll give the prusik a try👍

  • @12gauge1oz
    @12gauge1oz 4 роки тому +2

    Excellent presentation.

  • @gerardusjony440
    @gerardusjony440 3 роки тому +3

    Thank you

  • @TheConrad100
    @TheConrad100 7 років тому +8

    Hi Dave, love your videos! Simple, to the point, and always answer all the questions that might come up. I really like the way you mention in this one that though you could rappell with just the device, the prusik backup is the proper technique. Your video on lanyard choices and operation is a gem as well, thanks so much!!

  • @r.g.3636
    @r.g.3636 Рік тому +2

    good job mr. Dave.....
    roy...mendo

  • @Dev_Anand_C
    @Dev_Anand_C 2 місяці тому +1

    Thanks for sharing

  • @levi-316
    @levi-316 3 роки тому +1

    This was super helpful. Thanks!

  • @osuclassof88
    @osuclassof88 3 роки тому

    thank you for sharing

  • @KM-jp2wx
    @KM-jp2wx Рік тому

    Thank you for sharing this guidance.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @CamanoRick
    @CamanoRick 2 роки тому +1

    Very informative - thank you!

  • @mariotheunissen8523
    @mariotheunissen8523 4 роки тому +2

    great tips thxs for the video

  • @pappysproductions
    @pappysproductions 9 місяців тому

    Excellent

  • @outbackenduro7418
    @outbackenduro7418 2 роки тому

    This is where I learn the soft lock. So imp to me. TY! Prusik bac up on rapell, the other thing I wanted to know about. Great ! :)

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @prestonjoyner8344
    @prestonjoyner8344 2 роки тому +2

    thanks for sharing makes scents.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому +1

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @ediambrocio6629
    @ediambrocio6629 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks u, u video is really helpful

  • @somasekhar957
    @somasekhar957 3 роки тому +1

    superb

  • @savage22bolt32
    @savage22bolt32 3 роки тому +1

    I'll try this. I gravitate towards simple techniques.
    The only method I ever used is the 4 carabiner / opposing gates on a double rope. Learned that 45 yrs ago.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs
    @Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs 3 роки тому +5

    I ALWAYS use bent eared descenders because they prevent the rope from creeping up and over the "0"and locking you into a rappel

    • @yawningdog9894
      @yawningdog9894 3 роки тому

      Yeah but if you're using a standard 8 and it locks cant you just tie a foot loop above it and unlock it so theres a solution to the problem (if it ever happens)

    • @Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs
      @Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs 3 роки тому +3

      @@yawningdog9894 I suppose you could, but I have never had to do that because I don't use a standard 8, ever.

    • @yawningdog9894
      @yawningdog9894 3 роки тому

      @@Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs good for you then by the way are there any disadvantages to the horned figure 8 or is it better?

    • @Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs
      @Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs 3 роки тому

      @@yawningdog9894 I like it because I can tie off my rope and be stationary if needed and have both hands free. The disadvantages are being slightly bulkier and heavier.

    • @yawningdog9894
      @yawningdog9894 3 роки тому

      @@Xtreme_Airgun_Slugs Thank you for the info

  • @kb9826
    @kb9826 2 місяці тому

    @kb9826
    I guess the backup prusik would grab quick enough if a person panicked for some reason and lost the control \brake end of the rope, right hand in your case, because the natural reaction for most would be to grab the prusik \climbing rope tighter with the left hand, no?

  • @PescadoAzure
    @PescadoAzure 9 років тому +1

    Great video, thank you for your time and instruction. What is the best way to install a figure 8 descender if your weight is already on the rope? For instance, if you didn't have two separate lines in the tree what is a good method to install a figure 8 device, like if you needed to come back down while ascending on a single rope?

    • @PescadoAzure
      @PescadoAzure 8 років тому

      Well yea. Thanks.. I guess the scenario I was thinking about would be needing to come down while ascending away from the trunk or any limbs. Since February though, I've learned the Munter Hitch for descent and I've started single-lining with a rope runner, eliminating the need for a figure-8

  • @treeghost1978
    @treeghost1978 8 місяців тому

    What about rappelling short distances say 18'-20' with a soft lock in place? Then taking a 2nd soft lock to hold yourself when stopped?

  • @spaceman8839
    @spaceman8839 11 місяців тому

    Thanks for the post. I have heard a downside to this device is that the rope can slip up creating a hitch. Is there a way you can positively secure that from happening with this device? I just bought 2 of these then heard about the hitch thing. Thank you.

  • @stewartj3407
    @stewartj3407 2 роки тому +1

    We didn’t get to see the struggle to free that prusik

  • @jstretch
    @jstretch Рік тому

    How do you swap to Rappel and get off your backup prusik when you have no footholds?

  • @freshpootube
    @freshpootube 5 місяців тому

    I bought one of these for descending trees, but I'm finding I just rappel with the prussic/hitch-climber. Should I be using a figure8 for a smoother rappel perhaps? I've also got a fall arrest device (Petzl ASAP) so it's getting kind of cluttered down there.

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  5 місяців тому

      The figure 8 is more of a legacy tool for tree care. Like you've found, it's easy just to come down on your hitch. A figure 8 or a U-rack, J-rack, or other friction device sees action on very long descents, when you would be generating a lot of heat on your hitch from all that friction.

  • @maxdow8704
    @maxdow8704 4 місяці тому

    To do the hard lock, do you need to do the soft lock first and use them in combination?

  • @paulguido6663
    @paulguido6663 3 роки тому

    Where can I find a prusik with that splice like he's got? Maybe I'm just not using the correct name trying to find one...?

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  3 роки тому +1

      Hi there, Paul - you can find several options for loop and bound-loop prusiks on our prusiks page here: www.wesspur.com/prusiks/heat-resistant-prusik-cords.html
      Please feel free to get a hold of customer service if we can help you find anything - 800-268-2141 or orders@wesspur.com.
      Stay safe!

  • @klikitzsmith8416
    @klikitzsmith8416 3 роки тому +1

    Just a question, but if you do panic with the prusik above won't that cause a reaction to grip the prusik? Or will it still grip unless you got superhuman strength?

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  3 роки тому +1

      The prusik can be released if a panicked user grabs onto it. Some people do prefer to have the prusik below the 8.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @Marread
    @Marread 7 місяців тому

    Thinking of getting an 8 as using my ascender for descending it gets so hot. Does an 8 generate less heat?

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  7 місяців тому +1

      Friction will generate heat, but 8's are built for descent. For very long descents where heat management may be a concern, you might want to check out the U-Rack or J-Rack from SMC.

  • @nevin3123
    @nevin3123 3 роки тому +1

    ty ngd

  • @raylp4751
    @raylp4751 2 роки тому

    Got no idea how to tied the pressik. Or the soft lock.

    • @AMC-eq3jr
      @AMC-eq3jr Рік тому

      Prusik not required with a figure 9 device: ua-cam.com/video/0Uol4_K0npE/v-deo.html

  • @dannybrowning2068
    @dannybrowning2068 2 роки тому

    where can you get the one eye prusik?

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  2 роки тому

      A bound loop prusik can be found here: www.wesspur.com/prusiks/heat-resistant-prusik-cords.html

  • @stevequimno5960
    @stevequimno5960 5 місяців тому

    what is your prusik length?

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  5 місяців тому

      Hi Steve, I believe Dave was using our sewn loop prusik, which looks a little different now as we've changed the cord over to BlueWater's Dynamic 8mm. It's a 16" pull-to length. www.wesspur.com/CLI366-bound-loop-prusik

  • @vergeltuble5497
    @vergeltuble5497 2 роки тому +1

    😮😮😮😮

  • @user-hk5ss5sg1t
    @user-hk5ss5sg1t 9 місяців тому

    what size rope do you use?

    • @WesSpurTreeEquipment
      @WesSpurTreeEquipment  9 місяців тому

      Hey there, most folks climb trees using 11mm - 13mm ropes (7/16" to 1/2").

  • @TemplarX2
    @TemplarX2 5 років тому +2

    Shouldn't the prussik be on a line of its own just in case rope is caught in the figure of 8 and lock and need to be untied under no tension?

    • @VegaChastain
      @VegaChastain 4 роки тому +1

      the point of the prusik is that you dont have another line, if you had another line, that would serve the same function as the prusik backup and you wouldnt need to have both.

    • @TemplarX2
      @TemplarX2 4 роки тому +1

      @Stevo Reno A year ago I was just starting. Now I'm a master of most variations of friction knots. I learnt on my own mostly. Nowadays I can even glide down a rope head down first like a special force with a figure 8. LOL. I use a schwabisch with anchor hitches to the carabiner to climb now instead of a prusik. Pure friction knots to climb and only a figure 8 to rappel down. I've learned to use pulleys to climb as well. I've still not learnt the technical terms. I'm the type of guy who always throw away the manual. LOL.

    • @mikealob6316
      @mikealob6316 4 роки тому

      @@TemplarX2 If you use a swabisch why do you use a figure 8 to descend? Or do you climb srt with the swabisch then put a figure 8 to descend so you don't burn the hitchcord?

    • @TemplarX2
      @TemplarX2 4 роки тому

      @@mikealob6316 Wtf are you talking about? A swabisch has far less friction than a prusik. And no it will not burn as the rope below the fig8 is not under tension and the swasbisch rope is replaced after 20-30 uses. Never seen a burn mark on them.

    • @mikealob6316
      @mikealob6316 4 роки тому

      @@TemplarX2 I meant it could burn the cord if you climbed srt without a figure 8 to take some friction.

  • @TreeCamper
    @TreeCamper 5 років тому

    wow... not much salt in your hair. 6 years does a lot to a man. stay cool dave

  • @user-mq6hz8cb5n
    @user-mq6hz8cb5n 6 місяців тому

    No es práctico ni uno solo de sus sistemas para usar el equipo

  • @jaywinters2483
    @jaywinters2483 3 роки тому +1

    Can’t see squat- terrible cameraman

  • @clitcrusader4897
    @clitcrusader4897 3 місяці тому

    you remind me of john goodman