I BROKE MY Petzl Zig-Zag (but I'm OKAY)

How strong are the links?
You decide.

[@lakotamckinney9135]

August and company! I don't think I can describe how appreciative I am for all the content you guys create. I've been climbing for 3 years now and, not to brag but, I've had seasoned professionals (20+ years experience) compliment my climbing style and proficiency in the tree. I would like to personally thank all of you for the seemingly limitless amount of information you put out there for others to learn/ take advice from/ emulate. Many thanks guys. Someday, I'd like to shake hands with you all. Peace be the journey.

[@ItsFishh]

I felt like i needed safety glasses just watching this 😂 Great video

[@leifvejby8023]

Not me, got a screen made of Gorillaglass!

[@ImCruise]

i flinched after the first test lol

[@marshalltjones]

I'm a metallurgist. I'm not surprised that the aluminum body broke before the swivel. The swivel is steel, has easily twice the strength of the aluminum. High strength Aluminum like that which would be used in the body also has limited ductility (

[@AugustHunicke]

Thanks

[@falfield]

Yes, good comment - and in addition, the force of the ball (which pushed the casing apart to break it) was acting as would a wedge, and so was being increased.

[@Cam-fz1if]

Is the swivel definitely steel? Looked close at mine and it looks like aluminium to me..

[@gregoryensminger4410]

I use my zigzag quite often and after watching this video I have a lot more confidence in it now! Thanks

[@iannewman20ify]

I wasn't even going to watch thr video 😂😂 didn't want a bad thought in my mind but I will now cheers 👍

[@jimhubbell8364]

Very interesting. Your comments about the relative pros and cons of the different devices and hitches are very helpful as well.

[@user-rt6tj4kt8e]

Seen the title, I was like ahh shit, now I gotta throw out my zigzag. Watch the video and am now happy with my bomb proof zig zag. Awesome video

[@j.debolt]

I've had a couple zig zags for probably the last 8yrs., been climbing on the unicender for years now but after watching this vid a time back, I broke out the zig zag and absolutely love it for drt/drs, not so much for srt/srs... thank you, cause of this video I feel fully confident in this device now and moving thru the trees easier then ever.😀

[@betternfred]

Most entertaining break test I have ever watched. Thank you!

[@brianmerkerson2414]

Richard Mumford also does some great videos on breaking strength of different gear

[@1975dbryant]

After witnessing these experiments, I am obliged to say, I am proud to be an owner of the "ZIGZAG PLUS". Thank you Petzl and Thank you August👏❤🇺🇸😉😁👌

[@raestipher9789]

🎉Thank you

[@terrycahhal5897]

Thanks for the video. I always had confidence in mine. But it’s nice to see it was well placed.

[@shawnablake5102]

You got me. I thought you fell. I was like, Really? The Monkey Beaver fell? Nope! Glad you're still alive and well.

[@cayman9873]

Its the guy on the phone that feeds your line in the chipper that will hurt you.

[@ButterBallTheOpossum]

I'd imagine it's probably designed to slip in order to absorb a little bit of energy in case of a high fall and sudden stop.

[@benjamindaigneault9436]

Slips at 2000 pounds in drt, if you fall and have it slip, you probably won't feel good, ☠️

[@lindaarbogast6499]

Wow the zigzag was stronger than expected. The rest was a surprise! Didn’t expect it to tear so quickly!

[@SolidStateH2O]

Cool thing about the engineering behind it…if intentional or not. It slips at the point that a fall and sudden stop would over G and hurt you. It slips and slows you down before coming up tight! 👍

[@christopherderycke3603]

I’ve used the little zigzag for about 8 years. Not the same one but love it. That’s a reassuring test

[@letsdomake]

Me, too, man. I've been staring at that little shaft (stop laughing) for years, wondering if it's going to kill me. I heart my zig zag. I actually bought the one w/o the swivel when it came out, but had I seen your video.... Cheers from San Juan Island.

[@420fro1]

Please do a side load under tension on the links . As if u cross loaded them going around a limb. And with the chicane please cross loadings going over a limb. U guys are amazing.

[@osagejon8972]

And to think the first time I used my zigzag I had a blakes hitch above it because i wasn't so sure of its integrity.

[@wilsontv4578]

Hey August loved the vid. I’m pretty curious how much load the prusik hitch can handle and maybe different variant hitches knots have more load or start to slip. Would love to see it!

[@timberhitchllc]

See Richard Mumford's channel. He has performed exhaustive testing on tree service specific knots, ropes, and spilces. Also check out HowNOT2 for all sorts of other climbing gear strength and break testing.

[@jarodshaw748]

I've got one of those "little" zig zags. I wouldn't give it up.

[@dukeflem]

I've always liked the ZigZag while climbing but I like the way you can put the Unicender on anywhere on the rope.

[@joshuasoom7960]

i just picked up my first petzl zigzag because of you and i freaking love it!!!! this definitely solidifies my decision was the correct choice

[@HiLineTree]

That zig zag is impressive. Nice work on the test👍

[@shanesouza4303]

I have the same older model w/o chesty hole that comes on the plus. Knowing its rated to near climb line inspires alot of confidence.😁 So ummm ya. After testing that old zigzag, are you sure you want to switch to the uni? 😆

[@javoncarroll1701]

I'm always a little nervous using my Zigzag....but now I'm like I'm Good. Damn the old ones are the size of the Zillion. Dope video Bro and this I'm sure Answered a lot of questions of a lot of people 💯

[@briananderson6758]

I’m pretty old school, did tree trimming in my teens and early twenties, then I got into lineman apprenticeship. We do a lot of crazy rigging still in our trade. Do these “mechanical hitches” ever fail involving injury? Do they clog up with sap or bark/chip debris? I’m just so use to my knots.

[@stevebrough304]

These tests are always cool and interesting. Plus you can write off whatever you test. Your accountant will make use of this information. Nice to see the Monkey Beaver staff in action. Is that Esmeralda laughing in the background lol Laughter is contagious, keep it flowing...

[@AugustHunicke]

Love her laugh

[@adambowhuntz]

Bought one a year ago, thanks for the reassurance video on strength of the zig zag

[@jackberdine]

I like that the new zig zag is bigger.

[@angryjay06]

August ,what rope do you feel works best with the ZigZag

[@Billster1955]

Well that test was interesting. The Zigzag was tougher than I thought it might be. I can't wait to see you make some videos with the Unicender. Is your new Unicender going to have the new drum and wear plate? I saw it in one of Richard Mumford's videos back in May. It looks fantastic now.

[@kevinbprice7448]

Ditto, the zigzag always looked fragile to me compared to the Uni. I have 3 and have never had any issues - just get them rebuilt when they start to show signs of wear.

[@jaredeberly9724]

Update: he doesn’t use a unicender

[@Michael-qj4vj]

Is it possible to side load the links and see what they can take?

[@craigmize4395]

The CC was there on this vid. , I figured it was a Utube thing because its inconsistent on the other channels I watch , Love the new strength test machine !

[@birdisinfire]

So glad you made a video, I’m gonna give my v2 zigzag 5 more years 😂😂

[@terravitamantenimiento57]

Thank You for that breaking video. I can see the limits now.👌

[@billyshumate853]

Very interesting. Stronger than what people said. Take care and GOD BLESS and I'll see you on your next vidja.

[@alancanfield5979]

Thanks for putting my mind at ease..

[@alancanfield5979]

I love my zig zag..

[@danpowell3750]

I don't know if you've seen the test videos out there but I saw one roughly two years ago where they did a break test on the zigzag. I think I have it bookmarked on KZbin. Anyway it blew out exactly like yours did. The swivel ball blew out the side of the aluminum side plate. So from what I'm seeing it's pretty consistently the weakest part of the zig zag in a straight line pull.

[@InDisTREETV]

I am definitely more fond of the older smaller zigzag but only for SRT...now that it has some wear and tear it have purchased the Zigzag plus and I never use it ....bigger isn't always better Awesome video gentlemen

[@thecanopyclimber]

13:12 hahahaha "we'll trying pulling you through there and see...". great test. really helping me with my pro/con list! be safe y'all.

[@Kdot_osrs]

I’ve have my old zig zag a few years and my links are crack. Probably about 4 of them with minor loading. I still use it and it’s fine. Just some slippage from time to time probably from my rope getting worn.

[@williamsolomon1307]

LMAO! “Tomorrow, we’re gonna break the links.” HahahahahHaha! Thank you for breaking the old zigzag August. I’ll feel better climbing with the new one, tomorrow.

[@dastock1]

Have you tried the Notch Rope Runner pn 51420

[@erlendgreulichfrontierbigw218]

Most tests never test the zig in srt w/out the tether system…great to know, really. The 2019 has more room for the swivel in that configuration (steep angles) without pressing against the alu housing…in essence the zig used this way turns a static line into a dynamic one per se in case of a fall. Very informative- and what I am saying here is in no way suggestive…thanks all

[@sinelocum]

Awesome! Certainly inspires confidence in the equipment. It would be interesting to see the zigzag offered in case hardened stainless with metal-on-metal components treated with RF-85. Perhaps made in a smaller size for smaller diameter ropes, or the same size, but for rescue scenarios with multiple people on the same rope. I’m not suggesting Petzl R&D a new product - just thinking about the metallurgy and the physics in play.

[@TheKde25]

I would love to see how much weight the zigzag would hole without a knot at the end of the links. Can you not a do a test of one, as its supposed to be used DRT??

[@sukaschultz]

can we take a moment to appreciate the zig zag,,,, and how you guys were putting your fingers in a metal hand slicer with 2500 lbs on it... that was balls

[@hickshickory3482]

August I’m a traditional prison climber and I do use a zigzag but looking at the swivel when I’m 80+feet up u know can feel sketchy but this video put some fears to rest the petzel is damn strong brother ty

[@danielhepp541]

I love your tester Did you guys build it if so did you do a a build video what strain gage is being used that talks to your phone really want to see more of the tool

[@AugustHunicke]

More to come. There are other videos on the MonkeyBeaver YT channel.

[@zlinky1113]

Brilliant Video! 😄😄😄

[@nico_albrecht]

Thanks for this interesting experiment. 😅👍

[@HerrAhl]

Please make a breaking test on a quicke 🙏🏻

[@Justatreecutter]

Peace be with you August and with your house.

[@blakegraham3957]

Because you've tied the knot at the base of the link stack, you're only testing the MBS between the knot contact point (bottom link) and the anchor point on the winch side. The fact the rope slips through the linkage prior to breaking anything makes further testing unnecessary, however if you wanted to find the true weakest point of the ENTIRE mechanism you would need to pull from the absolute top and bottom of the device. Great test tho!!!! Thanks for the sacrifice lol :)

[@cvictor1983]

Q:what rope works best with zigzag?

[@BG-vq9fd]

I am glade your title said you were ok.

[@mariomannelli9887]

Amazing bro!

[@travisdadson4448]

So reassuring I’ve been on the same zig for about 4 years was questioning it lately. Solved

[@alfadoofus]

also you might wipe the glass cover down and a couple of led light strips dimmable might help.

[@jamesford9222]

I currently have the latest zigzag. If you don’t mind me asking what made you decide to go to the Unicender?

[@AugustHunicke]

More versatile plus midline attachable.

[@rayclark9643]

OH NO...you just voided the warranty on that Zig-Zag:( LOL!

[@sabarslax]

thank you for making me feel safer.

[@davyoh8986]

A thousand and maybe 10 thousand thank yous... Ramborista bro!

[@sethhaun4440]

That ball joint is what's always concerned me??not the xhain.there's nothing like goid old rope?for assurance

[@christianarcos4333]

Is it ok to buy a used zigzag?

[@sethhaun4440]

Man I want that old one.he he hee.got the mumford drum kit ..it's much diferent wanted the reon, with the tender . seems almost better THE way it was but after one use uni was deeply scored' with out it.pine had that thing locked up in sap.but it grabs no doubt

[@lynntraylor1646]

How close is the actual load in worst condition with a human.

[@jackberdine]

I saw a test where the links were bent and the links were actually the last thing to break. You can find it on youtube if you search it.

[@Deezle_Gaming]

I really love my ZigZag for DRT work but in SRT it's just unwieldy. Love the Unicender in concept but it seems to have a couple poorly thought out design elements that have to be fixed with mods. Roperunner Pro is looking pretty nice.

[@AugustHunicke]

RR No good for pitchy rope. Dealbreaker where I live.

[@Deezle_Gaming]

@@AugustHunicke Yeah I'm PNW too, good point.

[@pfv3462]

2 tons before it breaks! unbelievable, and without a knot in the rope it was not broken. this is indeed a safe device if used correctly, and the new one is even more robust. still nice to have looked at this test, it may not be small in size but it is safe!

[@rogerbamatutz1927]

That was an interesting and fun test August. Will you send it to the Maker?

[@AugustHunicke]

Nah. They don’t even make that version anymore

[@Daniel_4.27]

So as long as your inspecting your links for cracks and there are no knots in your line it will never break only slip

[@maxburgess2459]

Real test is the strength of a stopper knot!

[@justinjones9255]

Off topic but to sharpen your 1/4p Panther chain do you use a 5/32 file or do you prefer the slightly larger 3/16? Also is there a raker gauge that can be used for the chain?

[@AugustHunicke]

There is a special file. Smaller than 5/32

[@bumpin8833]

This is an old comment. But Stihl recommends 1/8 in file for their 1/4 pitch chain. I would imagine it would be the same for the Panther chain.

[@mikesr3407]

Oooohhhh your going to do it like that ! I kinda want one of them pretzels dealioze ! LOL

[@mikesr3407]

Now I'm sold , wish I could afford 2 so u could break one ! Way cool test ! 👍👍👍

[@ButterBallTheOpossum]

If you like content like this check out How Not to Highline. He break tests all kinds of equipment

[@brandontreecare9542]

Hello cool vid, I actually cracked two different zig zags I was in Virginia and New Jersey, it was heating it up zipping out fast when it was cold outside not side loading

[@brandontreecare9542]

Only one side of the links on one side, Petzl gave me a new one each time with ten year warranty

[@darrengarlough5121]

I always climbed on a lockjack sport. Any thoughts on that?

[@boiledelephant]

Fewer points of failure in the design, but also fewer points creating friction on the rope. I'd be interested to know as well. I suspect it wouldn't have this same slipping behaviour (and that's probably bad, because as others have pointed out, the slipping behaviour is good in a fall for reducing force extremes).

[@magnumtreefalling6400]

I just gave up the blakes hitch for the zigzag. Lovin it

[@torbendk2777]

year mee too I'm order one today

[@rrssmooth6643]

Lucky I never bought that one, though I did get a heads up when I was looking. Bought next generation though.

[@alfadoofus]

Nice break test . how much is that new one ? a slow mo camera would make a good shot

[@AugustHunicke]

It’s on my website, I don’t remember cost.

[@alfadoofus]

@@AugustHunicke on the way I hope it makes it I don't know your address or why there would be a shipping fee, but oh well

[@alfadoofus]

@@AugustHunicke another thought , If one of your crew has one replace the new one with theirs and test that .

[@TravorAhern]

Unicender !!!!!!!!!..... Welcome to the club !

[@ItsFishh]

What have i been missing lol

[@markbeatty17]

You guys are monkey Beaver crazy what were you trying to break next love the video

[@jeffbaker3643]

Can you show the dyno, this kinda does no good if we can’t see the load cell/ dyno??

[@AugustHunicke]

I showed it 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@HiLineTree]

Break a Blake’s Hitch. I’m curious because I’ve used them to hold equipment in position on a hillside. Curious 🤨 Thanks

[@AugustHunicke]

I think it’ll just slip

[@HiLineTree]

@@AugustHunicke I’m hopeful for that but if you could try it I would like to see at what point with a tight knot. I am going to buy some hardware after seeing your test. Thanks. Appreciate the video about your mom. Reminds me of my own who is no longer with us. Family is everything

[@evanhooten4459]

You said you're a buck60. Are you sure? I always pictured you as 6'12" and 395 lbs

[@WetCoaster]

Petzl should be donating a new one for product development.

[@Vic-wi2qx]

That’s awesome like the videos.

[@joshpomponio2993]

I liked mine before the test an really like mine now great test love the results

[@imrox8905]

It hurts to see them braking that zigzag I've been struggling to get one here in las Vegas 😂😂

[@boywithdrone09]

That's not a srt that is a bad way to climb on your Zigzag, you need the chicane for Sr t.

[@manjifera]

Links must be tied end to end with rope and not through inside it.

[@mfahim1995]

Time to dispel all the nonsense regarding mechanicals being unsafe! Thanks August and crew for contributing to the industry. 🤙🏻 Long live mechanicals haha.

[@SLOCLMBR]

'We need 32' 😆 I love it.

[@NancyBryantIdeas]

I screamed, "No, a chess set would be cheaper."

[@arleyvelasquez2393]

Buena prueba de resistencia

[@doublebitoutdooradventures]

I really like my zigzag and definitely like it more now

[@jaxturner7288]

Turns out, the links are the last thing you need to worry about failing as long as you use it right.

[@raestipher9789]

🎉Thank you