I am becoming a bigger and bigger fan. Absolutely thank you for showing and sharing what you do. It is an inspiration and motivation to keep evolving and growing.
I doubt you'd want to carry it up the tree with you but since you mentioned a first aid kit I thought I'd mention that liquid skin bandage stuff is super nice on flexible areas like knuckles.
Oddly enough I have yet to try that stuff, but I've heard people say it works well. I'll put some on my list. Thanks man. I can never have too many ways to stop the bleeding! :)
Very nice video, Spencer. Thanks for putting this together. I like your approach/creativity/resourcefulness. I used to farm over on the old Blue Heron Farm over in Lodi back in the day. Miss your neck of the woods! Hope you have a great summer.
There have been a few small changes as lanyards have worn out and been replaced -- things like that. The biggest change is that I moved into another saddle (petzl) mainly for comfort on longer jobs. I also now carry a simple first-aid kit in the middle of my harness/rear -- it's pretty much focused on big injuries like severed arteries and veins. climb safe buddy!
I enjoyed your video, I got into tree climbing to remove a large branch in 70 yr old oak tree in my back yard, I bought that exact same elcheapo harness you (black & red) have for $18 off Amazon, was not comfy at all so I bought the notch harness with seat and sliding bridge like the one you have (I saw the sale they had on them for $50, I was bummed cause I paid $150), did some DIY work to it to add lower D’S where stitching is in a circle did what you did to add d’s to rock climbing harness, just went under seat then stitched real good creating loops to receive the Petzl open ring, it is much more comfortable to lanyard in there than side d’s good stuff guy, stay safe!
10:50 Hey just have to chime in here... I was in the other room at this point of the video so I had to come back and see what you were talking about... but I pretty much knew! lol I also have one of these and I just dremeled flush the notch where the gate locks on this thing last night! holy crap was it annoying... I'm sure it will be alot better!
The single tie in point on your BD rock harness is a belay loop. By design, your tie-in point is both the leg loop risers and the waist belt. If you just got a proper tree harness to begin with, you wouldn't have 5 different harnesses that all suck for canopy work. Careful and have fun.
I've had a lot of belay loops on my rock climbing harnesses over the years, but never one quite like that ... interesting! It's cool that you know so much about climbing gear
So the old harness with modded rings was good because it was comfortable, but what drove you to look for something else was a search for something comfortable?
I have an "industrial" sewing machine that's pretty wimpy so close to normal. I use a heavy duty thread (something close to this) www.sailrite.com/Thread-V-92-Polyester-Black-UV-4oz-1-050-Yds ... and generally follow a multi-bar pattern. I haven't had them tested or anything but I've tested them myself plenty. Of course, doubling them up makes them stronger but I don't do negative rigging with them or anything like that. I could make a vid on it if you're interested
@@metaspencer thank you for responding. I got into your channel because of the tree cutting you do. it would be awesome if you can make a video on how to make those slings, I never thought of that, and you make it look so easy working with those things.
When sewing your slings what thread do use. Thinking about making my own just trying to figure what thread to use really lol. Thanks for the great video🤙🏻
The thread is super important ... I use Bonded Nylon or Bonded Polyester thread, making several bars. You can find tutorials on the approach on various climbing gear channels. Most people recommend at least three bars of stitching.
@@waynegriswold8953 sewing machine, lots of back-and-forth creating tight bars ... if you haven't done it before there should be some vids on here about maaking climbing slings
Hey Spencer, I know you pride on the non-DIY vibe, which I totally dig. But I’m curious how you made your DIY slings. Do you have a video or few tips on how to construct them? Thanks bro! Love the content as always
I haven't cracked out a video on making slings, but it's pretty simple: tubular webbing and strong thread (v-70 or stronger ... you can look online for thread types and sources for sail thread). I tend to go with 4 bars when sewing. Check out some sling break tests if you're looking for the toughest stitch patterns. And then for biners I use all kinds of different ones for different conditions: locking steel, obviously, are the toughest. good luck with it!
Line diameter depends on a bunch of things, such as whether or not you're using a device. Devices demand/require specific diameter. If you'r using a Blake's hitch, which is a great way to start, I'd go with a thicker 3/4" line because it's better in the hand. 100' of line should be plenty for starting out as a longer line gets in your way. Don't skimp on quality when it comes to ropes -- your life depends on that rope
With all that gear and the way you cut from the top and lower logs you're never going to have a video of a tree crushing a house or vehicle! Where's the fun in that? Kidding. Keep up the good and safe work.
Not sure if u or anyone has ever seen what I'm trying to find, instead of climbing spures have u ever heard of foam used instead of spures, when I go hunting and hang in a tree saddle, I'm trying to figure out easy ways to climb that doesn't hurt trees, I think I could make something for aggressive bark but smooth bark won't grab as good, and depends what kind of foam I use. Probably isn't anything but thought I would ask, thanks for videos.
What I've used and seen variations on are climbing sticks. It's not a super fast method but is effective, gets you up there, and doesn't hurt the tree.
@@metaspencer I have climbing stick's, but was thinking of a quicker way of climbing, still use ropes around tree as I climb but foam pads would be hard , depends on position of it on foot or inside side leg, last few months I gained weight and getting old so that won't help, I know I could have ropes hanging it throw ropes but u never know if varmints chew on them.
@@nicod1886 I use a tree saddle hunting sometimes, it's a cloth seat u hang from in the trees for hunting, some trees are harder to hunt in because of branches , so if I attach foam on the edge of my feet and knees that is tough and plyabl would it grab the tree enough to climb, I would think so, it wouldn't hurt the trees by spiking, I haven't made anything yet but I might, and I need to lose 30 pounds, that would help I'm sure. I am open to ideas.
I hook the Rope Runner up on double rope from time to time and it's good, but I haven't run the ZigZag so I can't compare. I should probably set up a double rope setup more often than I do, as it's easier to move around in the tree, but I'm typically running a single line with redirects.
@@metaspencer I've been working with single rope for the last few years. I do admit i prefer double rope still quite often. Guess I'm still old school. Been climbing since 1993. I have zigzag and its my goto single or double. I use rope runner pro. the unicender is great for my 11 year old daughter. Climbs about 70 ' now. I like the unicender for doing spare work. Its small and compact easy on easy off but its a little jumpy.
I’ll have to try those other devices when I get the chance. I prefer the price of the Blake’s hitch over these fancy tools if ya know what I mean. Great to get the kids involved!
thanks for the video Spencer, your setup is actually pretty similar to mine (Except I have three of my 3d printed shembiners) I guess I need to start hanging hammers on mine or something, mine is nowhere near 13 pounds lol, not to hate on your frictionsaver, but it looks a little sketch the one Dan sent me (The adjustable one) is awesome, you need one btw what do you think of splicing an untra sling out of old dyneema winch rope? I made one, havent tested it yet but it seems like itll work for light rigging
Afraid of that quickie bought 2 but can never get it open .strugg le to open it..must need finger nails. I thought it would be cool but.never use it..maybe good basil tie .but
Gotta go with what works for you. Those quickies have been easy for me to use and I like that they're small and steel -- but if they don't work for ya, that makes sense
As usual... I am always learning a thing or two... Mind you some of those belts are realllllllllllllllly geto...ish...😜😜😜.. keep the vids coming.. I am starting to twitch... neeeeeeed 🎄 climbing tutorials ..😁😁..
I’m assuming you’re taking this stuff up situationally correct there’s no way you’re climbing all day with all of that stuff on right that would be crazy
"I kinda like mine better then the store bought one better because its thinner and lighter" please climb safe and its best to always test diy equipment to meet standards.
Anything affiliated with Arbor is crasy expensive. 419 for a Rope Runner Pro, 150 for a rope and you still need a climbing saddle and all the rest of these items.😲
I am becoming a bigger and bigger fan. Absolutely thank you for showing and sharing what you do. It is an inspiration and motivation to keep evolving and growing.
Thanks man. Ya made my day
I doubt you'd want to carry it up the tree with you but since you mentioned a first aid kit I thought I'd mention that liquid skin bandage stuff is super nice on flexible areas like knuckles.
Oddly enough I have yet to try that stuff, but I've heard people say it works well. I'll put some on my list. Thanks man. I can never have too many ways to stop the bleeding! :)
I love it. Thank you Meta!
i have not been subscribed to your channel very long but is cool to see the evolution of your climbing and gear
stay safe stay healthy
trying to keep evolving and growing :) thanks man
Same here. He’s clever and creative, and he works clean.
Really enjoyed. Thanks
I like what you did here. It was a help for sure.
Just ordered my first saddle! And fixing to get some 1/2 in rope!😃
First saddle! Exciting. Ya starting on a Blake’s Hitch?
@@metaspencer Ya blakes hitch. Unfortunately I got screwed on the saddle. supershopn offered a Weaver WLC 700 for 59 bucks and I fell for it.
@RC-Heli835 maybe you can resell it
@@metaspencer I never received any saddle of any kind. I have them reported as fraud to the credit card company.
You can use rolling rock for bridge adjuster..on your rigging paws on saddle
Or add a petzl ring open ...thanks
Great ideas man
Very nice video, Spencer. Thanks for putting this together. I like your approach/creativity/resourcefulness.
I used to farm over on the old Blue Heron Farm over in Lodi back in the day. Miss your neck of the woods! Hope you have a great summer.
Blue Heron Farm! Nice place. Thanks for checking out the video and good hearing from ya :)
Wonderful overview Spencer! Just love listening to you!
Good to hear and thanks for your encouragement!
Great video and excellent editing.
Thanks for that
2 years later still a great share. Thanks. Any update or changes to your set up since this?
There have been a few small changes as lanyards have worn out and been replaced -- things like that. The biggest change is that I moved into another saddle (petzl) mainly for comfort on longer jobs. I also now carry a simple first-aid kit in the middle of my harness/rear -- it's pretty much focused on big injuries like severed arteries and veins. climb safe buddy!
Thank you for the walk thru.
Good stuff
Stay safe
The harness is an ever evolving thing, ya know how it is :)
I enjoyed your video, I got into tree climbing to remove a large branch in 70 yr old oak tree in my back yard, I bought that exact same elcheapo harness you (black & red) have for $18 off Amazon, was not comfy at all so I bought the notch harness with seat and sliding bridge like the one you have (I saw the sale they had on them for $50, I was bummed cause I paid $150), did some DIY work to it to add lower D’S where stitching is in a circle did what you did to add d’s to rock climbing harness, just went under seat then stitched real good creating loops to receive the Petzl open ring, it is much more comfortable to lanyard in there than side d’s
good stuff guy, stay safe!
I’ll have to try that! Thanks for the tip
Very nice overview of the tools you use up where us meer mortals fear to go
Oh now, you're a grand explorer of these times my friend
That's me. Searching the wastelands for intelligent life. The Mad Max for the roaring 20s v2 🤠
NICE ! n here I thought there are not too many of us who sew are own slings , totally modify our own tools RT ON ! great tool line up .. Joe
Good to hear it man. If it's not tweaked a little bit, it's just not right :)
@@metaspencer yes !
Nice shot! Throw bag expert!!! 😂 I look forward to watching your channel
First shot! lol... thanks man
I love the notch saddle but dang it can get your acorns in a pinch
You said it man ... too many pinches and I switched to a Petzl ... less pain, more gain :)
10:50 Hey just have to chime in here... I was in the other room at this point of the video so I had to come back and see what you were talking about... but I pretty much knew! lol I also have one of these and I just dremeled flush the notch where the gate locks on this thing last night! holy crap was it annoying... I'm sure it will be alot better!
Dremmel for the win! I'll have to do that to mine too ... I quit using the hook for that reason but maybe I'll get back to it. Thanks man
The single tie in point on your BD rock harness is a belay loop. By design, your tie-in point is both the leg loop risers and the waist belt. If you just got a proper tree harness to begin with, you wouldn't have 5 different harnesses that all suck for canopy work. Careful and have fun.
I've had a lot of belay loops on my rock climbing harnesses over the years, but never one quite like that ... interesting! It's cool that you know so much about climbing gear
nice
So the old harness with modded rings was good because it was comfortable, but what drove you to look for something else was a search for something comfortable?
I wanted different work positioning in the tree.
How did you sew those slings? The green ones? With a regular sewing machine?
I have an "industrial" sewing machine that's pretty wimpy so close to normal. I use a heavy duty thread (something close to this) www.sailrite.com/Thread-V-92-Polyester-Black-UV-4oz-1-050-Yds ... and generally follow a multi-bar pattern. I haven't had them tested or anything but I've tested them myself plenty. Of course, doubling them up makes them stronger but I don't do negative rigging with them or anything like that. I could make a vid on it if you're interested
@@metaspencer thank you for responding. I got into your channel because of the tree cutting you do. it would be awesome if you can make a video on how to make those slings, I never thought of that, and you make it look so easy working with those things.
@@brittanycantu2732 Most excellent. It's on my list :)
I’d be interested in that, I make with the speedy sticher
Cool
When sewing your slings what thread do use. Thinking about making my own just trying to figure what thread to use really lol. Thanks for the great video🤙🏻
The thread is super important ... I use Bonded Nylon or Bonded Polyester thread, making several bars. You can find tutorials on the approach on various climbing gear channels. Most people recommend at least three bars of stitching.
@@metaspencer how do you preform your stitching?
@@waynegriswold8953 sewing machine, lots of back-and-forth creating tight bars ... if you haven't done it before there should be some vids on here about maaking climbing slings
Which carabiner are you using on your slings? The light wire, mini wire? Or another?
Light slings have a black diamond wire gate … heavy slings have a locking steel biner
Good video 👨🔧sunny and warm in edinburgh
Sunny and warm! That sounds great
Hey Spencer, I know you pride on the non-DIY vibe, which I totally dig. But I’m curious how you made your DIY slings. Do you have a video or few tips on how to construct them? Thanks bro! Love the content as always
I haven't cracked out a video on making slings, but it's pretty simple: tubular webbing and strong thread (v-70 or stronger ... you can look online for thread types and sources for sail thread). I tend to go with 4 bars when sewing. Check out some sling break tests if you're looking for the toughest stitch patterns. And then for biners I use all kinds of different ones for different conditions: locking steel, obviously, are the toughest. good luck with it!
New sub here bud. I love this stuff keep em coming.
Great to hear!
What size line do you guys use for limb walking 1/2” ? And how long should I have for just getting started ?
Line diameter depends on a bunch of things, such as whether or not you're using a device. Devices demand/require specific diameter. If you'r using a Blake's hitch, which is a great way to start, I'd go with a thicker 3/4" line because it's better in the hand. 100' of line should be plenty for starting out as a longer line gets in your way. Don't skimp on quality when it comes to ropes -- your life depends on that rope
Ok thanks for letting me know I have a main climbing line but I need another good rope thanks Spenser.
Where did you buy the harness
I tend to get stuff on TreeStuff ... if not there then eBay
With all that gear and the way you cut from the top and lower logs you're never going to have a video of a tree crushing a house or vehicle! Where's the fun in that? Kidding. Keep up the good and safe work.
Good point! I'll have to do a "just one tool" removals. :) thanks for the laugh
Not sure if u or anyone has ever seen what I'm trying to find, instead of climbing spures have u ever heard of foam used instead of spures, when I go hunting and hang in a tree saddle, I'm trying to figure out easy ways to climb that doesn't hurt trees, I think I could make something for aggressive bark but smooth bark won't grab as good, and depends what kind of foam I use. Probably isn't anything but thought I would ask, thanks for videos.
What I've used and seen variations on are climbing sticks. It's not a super fast method but is effective, gets you up there, and doesn't hurt the tree.
@@metaspencer I have climbing stick's, but was thinking of a quicker way of climbing, still use ropes around tree as I climb but foam pads would be hard , depends on position of it on foot or inside side leg, last few months I gained weight and getting old so that won't help, I know I could have ropes hanging it throw ropes but u never know if varmints chew on them.
I use a foot ascender and a rope but that’s some expensive gear
Foam? I’m trying to envision but don’t see what you’re referring.... care to elaborate? I’m curious.
@@nicod1886 I use a tree saddle hunting sometimes, it's a cloth seat u hang from in the trees for hunting, some trees are harder to hunt in because of branches , so if I attach foam on the edge of my feet and knees that is tough and plyabl would it grab the tree enough to climb, I would think so, it wouldn't hurt the trees by spiking, I haven't made anything yet but I might, and I need to lose 30 pounds, that would help I'm sure. I am open to ideas.
Hey was wondering if you used the rope runner pro in the field with double rope. If so how do you like it compared to the zig zag.
I hook the Rope Runner up on double rope from time to time and it's good, but I haven't run the ZigZag so I can't compare. I should probably set up a double rope setup more often than I do, as it's easier to move around in the tree, but I'm typically running a single line with redirects.
@@metaspencer I've been working with single rope for the last few years. I do admit i prefer double rope still quite often. Guess I'm still old school. Been climbing since 1993. I have zigzag and its my goto single or double. I use rope runner pro. the unicender is great for my 11 year old daughter. Climbs about 70 ' now. I like the unicender for doing spare work. Its small and compact easy on easy off but its a little jumpy.
I’ll have to try those other devices when I get the chance. I prefer the price of the Blake’s hitch over these fancy tools if ya know what I mean. Great to get the kids involved!
thanks for the video Spencer, your setup is actually pretty similar to mine (Except I have three of my 3d printed shembiners) I guess I need to start hanging hammers on mine or something, mine is nowhere near 13 pounds lol, not to hate on your frictionsaver, but it looks a little sketch the one Dan sent me (The adjustable one) is awesome, you need one
btw what do you think of splicing an untra sling out of old dyneema winch rope? I made one, havent tested it yet but it seems like itll work for light rigging
Winch rope is good stuff. Unless you’re negative rigging big stuff it should be good, but then I’m the dude who likes that janky friction saver haha
@@metaspencer its only a small linemans block, im not putting more than a few hundred pounds on it, and no negative rigging (yet)
@@WoodCutr1 I should be fine ... you could probably hang that new Tacoma off that line! :)
Would you mind sharing pictures of your 3D printed shembiners?
@@brittanycantu2732 I want to see some too! I keep hearing about them and they sound really awesome
I took the yellow gate off my petzl carry tool as soon as I got it😂
Makes sense man -- it's just one more way to slow you down :)
Good stuff, prishate it!
Thanks for checking it out
Afraid of that quickie bought 2 but can never get it open .strugg le to open it..must need finger nails. I thought it would be cool but.never use it..maybe good basil tie .but
Gotta go with what works for you. Those quickies have been easy for me to use and I like that they're small and steel -- but if they don't work for ya, that makes sense
GREEN SLINGS TYPE ??
DIY sewn on the kitchen table ... I use heavy duty thread and nylon webbing
@@metaspencer thanks
Interesting...Didn't realize how much you needed to carry. Stay safe and add another 5 lbs if it gets you down in one piece!
I like the sound of that! Safety over weight :)
As usual... I am always learning a thing or two... Mind you some of those belts are realllllllllllllllly geto...ish...😜😜😜.. keep the vids coming.. I am starting to twitch... neeeeeeed 🎄 climbing tutorials ..😁😁..
getoish for sure, but I guess that's just the way I roll :) thanks buddy!
I’m assuming you’re taking this stuff up situationally correct there’s no way you’re climbing all day with all of that stuff on right that would be crazy
yep, climbing all day -- but for me that means done by 1pm most days
The sling cluster and diy saw lanyard are awesome.
Yep, use them every day
🙂!
Always changing the old harness setup ...you know how it is :)
hahaha Brain Bucket lol
Gotta keep those brains in!
micro-first aid kit?? sigh. and you wonder why I worry . . .
a few little Band-Aids and it's all good!
"I kinda like mine better then the store bought one better because its thinner and lighter" please climb safe and its best to always test diy equipment to meet standards.
Great advice. Thanks for that
Anything affiliated with Arbor is crasy expensive.
419 for a Rope Runner Pro, 150 for a rope and you still need a climbing saddle and all the rest of these items.😲
Yup you said it