How to use a ROPE WRENCH: SRS (SRT) Basics | 2023

[@ryobrown-mcclain805]

Very helpful, and a clear explanation

[@davidanderson5736]

Thanks Ryo. I need to make more videos. I'm working on a few so fingers crossed.

[@LSQ30]

Definitely the best video I've ever watched, best explanation on a particular subject. Thanks for the great video.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

¡Lauro! Fantastic words and thanks so much for the support. I need to get into the trees and film more videos for you all.

[@davidanderson5736]

I appreciate the comment and glad you liked the video.

[@Frontireadventures]

Absolutely the best video so far. I'm trying to learn this.

[@arielmercado2245]

Where to buy that rope wrench sir?

[@house_church]

You have a great gift of teaching from the Almighty. We are truly blessed to learn from you. Much thanks!

[@briancrossley1710]

Super clear explanation, clear, concise and good camera angles.

[@angeladangela500]

Best video I’ve ever seen about this subject!!! Seriously, such a perfect video. Even has time stamps and your equipment list as an added bonus!! Thank you so much!

[@davidanderson5736]

Thanks Angela! We try to be thorough and explain things well.

[@subsonicelf9271]

I started in arboriculture 10 months ago as a groundy. I worked hard, payed attention and became apprentice climber after 6 months. Just today got my first SRT climb. Thank you for covering the rope wrench setup, It was very useful. Quality video 👌

[@benjaminchen1964]

Absolutely the best video on SRT i have watched - was looking for this years ago but couldn't find anything close. Even learned a couple of new things, too! Very clear explanation of SRT!

[@philosborn1840]

You have a talent for teaching. I like that tip on testing your hitch cord. I climb on MRS, and I will try that next time out. 👍🏻🇨🇦🇺🇸

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

I'm glad that was helpful. We need to add more content soon!

[@josiah513]

Same, ive only climbed drt but srt is so crucial for getting up in the tree to get set up. debating on getting a zigzag so I dont have to replace hitch cords as they wear out.

[@philosborn1840]

@@josiah513, yes zigzag is what I have been looking at too, especially when I think that hitch cords are life support!

[@DiamondTreeCompanyFortCollins]

@@josiah513 I was told that a zigzag will wear out quickly if not used in conjunction with a Chicane... you can feel the ZZ take on a lot more stress when just using it with a rope wrench.

[@aviator1243]

Probably one of the best vids on the rope wrench I've seen. Very educational.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thank you very much. I'll take that compliment!

[@kostin3]

Clear explanations, proper filming angles so that you can clearly see what is needed and unlike most of the tree climbing videos, you also explained and shown how you descend from the tree. Thank you! You've shown the foot ascender but not enough about the knee ascender... maybe you have another video for that? Foot ascender + the knee ascender seem to be a must have combination for SRS.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thanks for that suggestion. I'd like to go out soon and film that.

[@emgab]

This is one of the best instructional videos, no matter what topic - you should definitively do more videos - it helped me in an quick and straight forward way to under stand how to use the rope wrench and the hitch cord - you got another fan - best regards from Mannheim Germany, Mike

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thanks Mike! Is there another topic you'd like to see? I'll take your vote and get on it.

[@emgab]

@@CanopyWatchInternational Thank you for your kind feedback, i‘m basically interested in climbing technology - not doing any professional work though, just hobby, but acknowledge and adore your work - so anything is highly apreciated, regards Mike

[@hankhansen2828]

Cool, thanks for the instructions!

[@tomlausch]

Great video! Thanks for taking the time to make this. Good, simple, and safe information.

[@micahbelliston]

You Sir, are a very talented teacher!

[@davidanderson5736]

Well, thank you! We are always looking for more opportunities to teach.

[@treeboss5626]

Your good on video w the explaining

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

I appreciate that!

[@NYSaddleHunter]

Thorough breakdown of Ropewalking 👍👍👍

[@davidbesosa8989]

Excellent instruction. You're a natural teacher

[@davidanderson5736]

Thank you very much! Great thing to hear in the morning.

[@jimisnotunique]

Awesome video. I've looked all over for an understandable SRT video. This is the first one I've found.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

I'm glad you liked it. Is there another topic you'd like to see us film for you?

[@jimisnotunique]

@@CanopyWatchInternational , Thanks! A video on how to tie the VT hitch would be great. In the video here, it doesn't show how to tie the VT hitch. You mentioned there's another video from you-all on that, but I couldn't find it. The KZbin videos I found on how to tie the VT hitch are not clear, and experts tie it differently, e.g., under/over sequence for the braids. So, there's a need for a good video on tying the VT hitch.

[@DucatiMTS1200]

A well explained video with point after point clearly addressed. Much appreciated.

[@josiah513]

GREAT video! Subscribed!!!

[@chuckdales4522]

Good stuff! Great explanation, and good climbing for an old fella!

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thank you so much Chuck! I'm behind on posting material, but glad you like it.

[@jtaylor-fi5bd]

Everybody else making videos should watch this and learn this the way to make videos simple and easy thank you

[@i9mm2]

Thanks

[@tonyk9722]

Very straight forward explanation, easily to follow and very clear. Good stuff👍. I have been rec. climbing for a couple of years now and I always love watching new videos on tree climbing. Always something to learn, everyone climbs their own way. And the gear you can collect is crazy. I love buying new gear. What about a video on just gear that you collect. Ropes and hardware. Keep up the good work you do and keep safety your number #1 thing at the top of your list. Climb safe and enjoy the trees. 👍🌲🌲👍🇨🇦🇺🇸

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

I like that suggestion Tony. I have been thinking of filming a video about some favorite pieces of equipment on my harness.

[@miguelangeltovar606]

Yeaaaah Master Excelente, saludos y bendiciones desde Jalisco MX

[@davidanderson5736]

Hola Miguel Ángel! Me alegro que te gustó el video. Tenemos en el canal varios videos en español. Búscalos. David

[@markarnold5410]

Best video I've seen on the rope wrench. Thanks!

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thanks Mark! Nice to hear.

[@daveoseas]

Many thanks

[@Palmetto705]

Excellent video thank you very much.

[@RC-Heli835]

Man I really enjoyed this video! I have the ISC Apex Rope Wrench and a foot ascender ordered with the shorter Chipmunk tether and 28" prussik.

[@davidanderson5736]

Sounds good. Remember to go low and slow when learning new techniques. I know everyone has a different preference for hitch cord length, but I really love 28 inches.

[@RC-Heli835]

@@davidanderson5736 Will do and thanks for the tips!🙂

[@croweniii]

This is one of the best I’ve seen as to what to expect when someone has bought the gear… and as to the common basics they need to know. Really intuitive. I would love for you to point me to a video that more carefully constructs the process of the hitch friction knot, assuming I have bought all the gear, and am not quite getting it right. Also. I am expecting to get on a ladder with my cord and weight, and throw box, and try to get up to where I want to go. I would appreciate advice there. But also, assuming I don’t get my line all the way to the best V in the tree, I intend to use a flip line to get me the few feet to the next one. If I don’t have to carry a heavy flip line, and you have a better suggestion in working your way to the top (and the gear to install to not have to do it again, on a permanent basis), that would be great. Assume this is for antenna minimization and also maintenance… goal being. Permanent materials. Easy access. Easy repeatability. I very very much appreciate the time you have taken in your selfless tutelage.

[@arycave]

Nice demo. Watched to refresh it before new season starts. Thank you for sharing.

[@davidconnors8830]

Good instruction, thank you.

[@Rudecheers]

Good info on the initial test of the knot on itself, will do that from now on.

[@davidanderson5736]

Rude, true story. A lot of climbers don't know about this test, but it's essential to do before climbing on the rope wrench.

[@johnsmyth9123]

Great video! I have watched so many but this one made some aspects so clear.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thanks John I like to hear that.

[@jeffdeluca1153]

Very educational - thank you. Simple but effective

[@robertmccormick8989]

Outstanding video, helpful, complete, informative, clear; and I like the tip on how to ck before going too high! Thank you.

[@WatertownFilms]

I was always curious to know why you needed that as part of your system for SRT. Thanks for the video, super helpful.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thank you Watertown. Let's go climbing soon.

[@marlonbuchanan3470]

That was awesome thanks

[@davidanderson5736]

Thank you, Marlon.

[@jimisnotunique]

@Canopy Watch International, FYI, this video is great, but hard to find. Putting something like "SRT/SRS" in the title would probably bring a lot more views, which it deserves. It's still the best SRT video I've found.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thanks for the suggestion. I added "SRS/SRT basics" it to the title.

[@stefanedentorp1946]

Excellent explanation. I rather connect the carabiner to the hitch climber pulley from the left to the right though. When You finally spin the carabiner around the gate opening are facing down and it is easier to connect to the bridge if you are right handed. My personal preference. All the best.

[@davidanderson5736]

Thanks Stefan. I should try that and see how it works. David

[@MountainManThan]

This is literally amazing. Thank you so much for this information!!

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

You're so welcome!

[@MountainManThan]

@@CanopyWatchInternational what brand and size is the swivel on your harness bridge?

[@stephenagace3452]

Great video. When you first get a friction hitch is really stiff and hard to wrap? Mine is so stiff, I can't get it to grab the rope. It's a CM hitch 8mm on Yale Bandit 11.5mm.

[@jerrysbs777]

How do you tie the VT knot? I am new to SRT and rope walking . It looks like the best way to go up the rope into a tree.

[@Derwentmole]

Nice one. Clearly explained. It would be great to see different Prussics shown too if you’re looking for work 😉😆👍👌. Cheers man.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

We have a video for that! Look for "6 friction hitches."

[@OptimalOpinion]

using the knee ascender setup

[@jancut883]

De Diametre static rope please, and is it work on 11mm rope diametre? Thanks

[@tuberider1171]

great step by step explanation for someone who has yet to go SRT - just out of interest re the knee ascender, I notice you left it attached? Is that normal or does ones put it away when working the tree?

[@davidanderson5736]

Now that's a great question. If it's a quick climb without a lot of limb walking, saw work, or dense branches I leave it on. If things get serious then I take it off. It is awkward to have strapped to your leg. ;)

[@TheHiddenBooger47]

How about reviewing the Cat Cordless Chainsaw ??

[@fasedmiller5914]

What is a good length for the prussic, eyed cord?

[@EvandMo]

Depends on the girth of the cord and the weight of your body.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

That is a good question. We have a video on that in Spanish and we should do one in English too. The length of the cord depends on many factors: diameter and jacket material of the rope; diameter and jacket material of the cord; weight of the climber; length of the rope wrench tether; height and reach of the climber. All of these affect your choice of friction hitch to tie. My preference is 28 inches and 10 mm. You could start there and experiment to find what works for you.

[@vkarabin]

Great video for a newbie!..question is it hard to pull the rope wrench out when limb walking, does it hang up at all?

[@davidanderson5736]

Pulling on the rope wrench takes a little more umpf than some other devices but it isn't a problem at all.

[@hi_lo574]

Best know how video , not much nitty gritty like the others . Do you have the list of the hardwares you can post on the video to purchase to build the system 👍

[@derelictfpv]

I'm learning to climb trees to recover my FPV drones which I get stuck all the time. So far I've been lucky with throw bags but I want to be ready! Plus I used to free climb trees in my younger days and I'd like to do it as a side hobby/business. I'm taking it slowly and want to do things as safely as possible. This is one of the best, to the point, clear and concise videos I've come across on the SRT technique. Thanks.

[@davidanderson5736]

Learning to climb will definitely help you get your drones back, and climbing on a rope will keep you safe! Good luck.

[@derelictfpv]

@@davidanderson5736 Thanks David. Yeah I'm taking the time to educate myself and going to start off really low. What we used to do as teens free climbing to the top of a 50ft tree was insane! lol. This is looking to be a side hobby for me as a recreational climber and to motivate me to get in better shape. Flying the FPV drones gives me the adrenaline rush I always sought but lacks any physical benefits other than better coordination. I lost 10 lbs so far in 2 weeks so hopefully I can get into climbing shape by the time I get my gear together. Cheers brother. 🍺🍺

[@ericgansauer708]

When i am setting up i will put the biner and pulley on the mini biner on the chest harness. That way it is right where i need it when it is time to install them rather than fumbling on my harness with them. I also prefer the Climbing Innovations Footie to the CT foot ascender. Climb safe.

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Thanks for the tips, Eric. I like learning from others, so having this exchange is good for us all.

[@RAMTreecare67]

Hey, i am new in this Job. Is it enough with ropewrench , prusik and hitshclimber ecentric to climb in all Positions for treecare? Your Video is very good to learn something about savety

[@davidanderson5736]

Some people use this system for all of their tree access, but you always need a lanyard or flipline also. Some climbers use this system to access the tree, then use MRS (or DdRT) for lateral movements. But yes, this will get you anywhere.

[@ezchoke]

Good Video on rope wrench. I just climb as a hobby but I noticed many people (including this video) use the VT with 4 wraps on top and 1 to 3 braids. I watched another excellent video on tying the VT with 2 wraps on top and 3 braids. I tried both ways of tying without actually climbing and the 2 braid system seems to catch better and always works (without actually climbing), while the 4 wrap system doesn't seem to always grab properly. Just wondering, why do almost all explanations on tying the VT (especially with the rope wrench) use 4 wraps on top ? Maybe because it's easier to grab 4 wraps when descending, not sure ?

[@davidanderson5736]

Hi Fred, the 4-wrap version of the VT is pretty traditional and widespread. It catches well when you switch to descent. The number of braids depends on the length and diameter of your hitch cord, rope diameter, and climber weight, more than anything. Try several hitch cords and find the one that works best with your rope.

[@CaliforniaTravelVideos]

Love your comprehensive, thorough video - well done! At 3:56 it says "You have have to test your knot without the rope wrench..." While this certainly makes sense, I've tried to carefully look thru my ISC guide I can't find the reference, nor have I found others quoting this seemingly critical step. Can someone help with a collaborative reference?

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

I haven't looked at the paperwork for the Rope Wrench in a while but I know it's in there. Also, Kevin Bingham who invented the Rope Wrench is a friend and he confirms that this step is critical. I can say from experience that there are times the system will hold with the Wrench in place but will slide when removed.

[@rickdebacker100]

Great video! Is there any adjustment required for the joint where the rigid tether attaches to the Rope Wrench? What keeps the Wrench from assuming too much of the load and not let you descend as you manipulate the hitch? Thank you in advance.

[@kryton7687]

hello, great explanation. One question - from rope access I am used to allways have some backup. Isnt it needed here too ? I dont like the idea of letting my life to depend only on one single device here.

[@davidanderson5736]

Kryton, this is a great question, honestly. In tree climbing we only use one access line to get into the tree. Sometimes we have lanyards and secondary ropes, but for ascending and descending it's on a single rope. Any time we work with any type of a blade - chainsaw, handsaw, pruning sheers, knife - it's best practice to have two points of attachment. Trees have a complicated structure and trying to manage two ropes simultaneously can introduce more danger than safety. In some European countries the regulatory commissions are introducing a 2-rope standard, and it's unwelcome oversight. All of this stresses the importance of constant rope inspection and hyper-vigilant maintenance. Thanks for the question - David.

[@kryton7687]

@@davidanderson5736 Hello David, thanks for the answer! Yes, two ropes seems impractical. I had the rope wrench itself on my mind. If that prusik fails or slips, you are dead I guess. That makes me feel antsy. I was thinking about adding something like Petzl ASAP above the rope wrench (on the same rope). I know it would be out of intended usage, but I am just trying to find something to feel safer while learning.

[@davidanderson5736]

@@kryton7687 the rope wrench is the one tool that is applicable to more climbing ropes than any other. The test I show in the video is to verify the knot is correctly tied to prevent slipping. If slipping is a concern of yours, simply tie a slip knot every 6 feet or 2 m below you; if you slip or lose control out of fear, you will hit the knot and your descent is stopped.

[@Matt-ve2xx]

great video - thanks. I recently bought a zigzag. Do you use a zigzag with a rope wrench? or a petzl chicane?

[@davidanderson5736]

Matt, I use a Chicane with the Zigzag. The Zigzag is super smooth, but can be too smooth, so be careful on the descent.

[@petecorrea8321]

What size of rope are you using 8mm or 10mm and thanks for the video , very informative.

[@davidanderson5736]

That's a Yale Phantom and the diameter is 11 mm. The rope wrench is the most adjustable device for rope diameters. I have climbed on 8 mm to 11.7 mm. You have to adjust your friction cord and hitch carefully for smaller diameters.

[@lukavideo]

can i use instead of solid theater the dynema teater as it is used in FTC freexion ?

[@davidanderson5736]

Hi Luka, I'm having trouble understanding your questions. Can you try me in Spanish or Italian maybe?

[@evapendaki2530]

Very well explained. Thanks Where to buy this (I have to cut branches from trees) Dom

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Two good places on-line to buy all this equipment are WesSpur Tree Equipment and TreeStuff.com

[@frosty_fink]

I have a statement and a question: Phenomenal video! I've been working as a ground guy for a couple of months now and just started climbing. This was very educational. Are you related to Kevin Costner? :D

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Glad you like it, Ethan. Funny question you ask. I actually impersonated Kevin Costner once and got away with it!

[@TheDrMarcos]

if, prior to climbing, the rope wrench slips down just by pulling down on the plastic tether, does it mean that the wrench with squirrel tether is not properly installed or will it be resolved by hanging on the rope with my own weight ? Thank you in advance for your help and consideration

[@davidanderson5736]

That is a GREAT question. Always test your climbing system before ascending. Install the Rope Wrench, pulley, friction knot, and carabiner. Remove the rope wrench from the rope, and with the carabiner attached to your harness, take a jump up and fall. The know should catch immediately and firmly. If it doesn't, retie the friction hitch. Once you have a hitch you trust, reinstall the rope wrench and climb. I always like to climb a few feet (like six) and then rest in the system to make sure everything is holding.

[@pfv3462]

Thanks for the great video! Which system damages the rope the least? a mechanical prusic or this system where there is friction between two cords?

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

It depends on a lot of things, including which type of rope you're using. Overall Rope Wrench system is the most gentle on ropes. Some ropes flatten more than other with mechanical systems. The old style Rope Runner is known for flattening some kernmantle ropes.

[@bmeyer2011]

Very nice video. Do you feel like the extended bridge and swivel help the system?

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

The swivel definitely helps because your carabiner is always in the right position 100% of the time. Bridge length is a matter of personal preference. A long bridge gives you a lot of reach in the tree. A short bridge is more efficient while ascending.

[@kingdarkem]

So question...would this work with a croll chest ascender?

[@davidanderson5736]

People do use a croll with a rope wrench, yes. The trick is getting it to fit in your system. If done properly it will help you keep your posture more upright.

[@kingdarkem]

@@davidanderson5736 nice. I was thinking of getting a full body harness with a croll built in as part of my hunting setup. Tired of people stealing my stands. Something that fits in a backpack is very attractive

[@kevinnielsen4321]

👍👍

[@brayanamador14]

Are you able to remove the isc singing tree wrench from the tether ?

[@CanopyWatchInternational]

Brayan, one of the great things about a rope wrench is that it's mid-line attachable. You can put it on the rope or remove in on the ground or while in the tree.

[@Cosmlc1022]

Yes, and you can buy them separately as well.

[@vkarabin]

Will the rope wrench take smaller ropes?

[@davidanderson5736]

That is one of the best features of a rope wrench: it is more compatible with ropes of different sizes and materials than any other device. I have climbed on ropes as small as 10 mm without a problem.

[@easternsuneasternsun171]

Instead of a friction knot, wonder if you could just substitute it with a gri gri ?

[@timegan15]

Would you mind mention what rope this is that you’re climbing on? I saw it my local arbor store but failed to get the name

[@davidanderson5736]

Tim, That rope is the Yale Phantom and I LOVE that rope. It is light weight, flexible (good for knots), low stretch (makes climbing more efficient, especially tall trees), and feels good in the hand. David

[@efet5254]

Where can I buy these equipments. Is there anyone who can send me a list or link ? Could you help me?

[@davidanderson5736]

Hello, in the text of the video there are links where you can buy the products. Did you try those? That's the best place to start.

[@mike-yp1uk]

I climbed without the rope wrench and I had to use my foot asender to relieve the tension and lower myself a couple feet and reattach the foot every two feet down. Lol

[@johnbeardsley7360]

how much does all that equipment cost

[@davidanderson5736]

Hi John, it's several hundred dollars for a rope wrench, tether, pulley, chestie, and foot and knee ascenders, assuming you have a rope, harness, helmet, and the rest. There are links in the video description where you can see the items and costs.

[@graystonegardens1642]

Why not 2 foot acenders...?

[@davidanderson5736]

Wow. That's a great question. I haven't tried using two foot ascenders but I should give it a go. It would change your body movement totally because you would have to lift both feet at once. That was a style in the old days when we climbed on hand-held ascenders (Jumars) and it worked well then. I think that having one foot and one knee ascender makes it easier to step off on branches. It's worth me trying out the two foot ascenders so I can can answer this question in the future.

[@geometerfpv2804]

Why don't they just use an ascender? What am I missing?

[@davidanderson5736]

The Rope Wrench allows ascent, descent, and lateral movement, all on the same device. Most mechanical devices are for ascent only (like hand-held ascenders) or descent only (like a GriGri), and are not approved for lateral (side to side) movements. Climbing on a Wrench is fluid, safe, efficient. You get to go any direction - up, down, sideways - whenever you want. Climbing on a system where you have to switch between devices to go up, down, up, down, etc. is awkward, inefficient, and dangerous.

[@JESUSistheway4.3AD33]

Look of course it's good for new things to be introduced I been an Arborist for 30 years but a prusik a pulley and an ascender and I'm good my buddy uses all the new tech by the time he's set up etc. I'm already in the tree jammin it's over kill in my opinion and I'm one of the best effin climbers not braggin just sayin so people kno where my skill level is commin from cause I critique this.

[@carismaticul]

Doesn't ruin your rope with the prusik coming down every time. Because of the friction

[@davidanderson5736]

Actually it's the opposite. Because the hitch cord remains in contact with the rope but slides down the rope, the hitch cord will eventually wear out. The rope is fine.

[@carismaticul]

Where did you learn all this tree surgeon lessons you teach us? From books? KZbin? I want to learn more , but some of your videos are in spanish , no idea what are you saying, even the subtitle is in spanish

[@MMm-se3ts]

Pfff....