Rope Installation
Rope installation is an essential part of tree climbing techniques and tree care. To securely anchor the climbing ropes needed for ascent in the tree, thin, long throw lines are thrown into the higher branch forks. This can be done either by throwing a throw weight or throw bag made of filled textile fabric, or by using a throw bag launcher. The throw weights are attached to thin, tear-resistant and highly visible throw cords specifically designed for rope installation. Safe rope installation is crucial for a successful and hazard-free climbing process.
What you need for reliable rope installation
- Throw line: Robust lines made of polyethylene or Dyneema, especially from brands such as Edelrid, Liros, FTC and Teufelberger. A throw line forms the initial connection to the tree.
- Throw weight: High-quality throw bags such as the Harrison Rockets from KiwiTree, with variable weights for different tree heights.
- Throw bag launcher: Precision devices like the Big Shot, which can launch throw weights up to 40 metres high.
- Cambium savers: cambium savers from ART, FTC, Edelrid and Teufelberger to protect both tree and rope.
Applications and functions
Throw line and throw weight form the basis for rope installation. The Big Shot greatly facilitates placing the line. Cambium savers reduce friction and protect the tree’s bark. Particularly efficient are ring cambium savers and pulley cambium savers, depending on the application.
Lightweight, abrasion-resistant throw lines made of polyethylene or Dyneema, for example from Edelrid and FTC, are characterised by high visibility and glide performance.
Throw Weights
Weighing 200–350 g and available in various designs, throw weights from Libre or KiwiTree offer a wide range of applications.
Devices such as the Big Shot from Notch and the Slingshot from FTC are ideal for precise throws to great heights.
Cambium savers protect the tree and the rope from wear and are available in many variants from ART, FTC, Edelrid, Petzl and Teufelberger. Anchoring equipment is also indispensable for certain installation situations.
Proper storage
Throw lines should be stored knot-free in throw line buckets such as the foldable bucket from Edelrid. Pouches and rope bags from Courant, FTC or Edelrid ensure order and durability of your climbing equipment.
Storing throw lines
When stored clean and dry, throw lines remain durable. Special throw line bags help with tangle-free storage.
Storing throw weights and launchers
Store throw bags and launchers separately, in a dry place, and protect them with suitable pouches from dirt and damage.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to consider during rope installation?
A suitable anchor point in the tree and the use of standard-compliant PPE such as helmet and safety glasses are mandatory.
What length should a throw line have?
At least 60 metres to safely reach tall trees. Longer lines require more handling experience.
How long does a throw line last?
With intensive use, about 2–3 years. Visible wear is a reason for replacement.
Discover throw lines from Edelrid, FTC & Co., throw bags from KiwiTree, throw bag launchers such as Big Shot and Slingshot, as well as ring cambium savers and pulley cambium savers. We also offer anchoring equipment and robust rope bags for transport and storage.
Additional tips
Regular practice
Only through continuous training with throw line and throw bag launcher will you achieve the necessary safety and precision.
Equipment care
Clean throw weights and lines after use, replace damaged components and store everything in a dry place.
