Tree climbing knots. com! DISCLAIMER: I am NOT an expert .
Tree climbing knots Jun 15, 2023 · Whether you're learning how to climb rocks, cliff faces, or trees, there are certain rope knots every climber should know. It doesn’t matter how you CAN climb; it matters that you are ALWAYS SAFE, no matter what could go wrong. How to tie knots. Friction hitches are typically constructed out of cord /cordage which are wrapped around a rope in such a way that they hold (in one or both directions) allowing the position of the friction hitch to be moved along the length of the rope when not loaded, and holding under load, held in Demonstration & innovation in tree & rope climbing, knots, knot tying, climbing safety. Jan 29, 2022 · Learn how to tie six useful climbing knots w/ step-by-step photos and videos. The Tree Climber's Knotbook is an essential collection of tree climbing knots - including a few exotic and uncommon versions. Find out which knots are essential, safe and reliable for different purposes and situations. com Business enquiries Books & Videos Tree climbing books and videos are great training tools arborist can use to learn how to climb trees - whether you are a beginning tree climber eager to learn, or an expert arborist looking to climb more efficiently. It's quick, provides strong grip, and smooth adjustment. If you are working in the tree care industry or are interested in knots, this book is a must have! Knot tying video tutorial. View our large video library of knot tying specifically selected for applications within arboriculture and tree climbing Apr 25, 2024 · Our Arborist Knots rope knot cards are designed for tree workers and tree climbing enthusiasts, allowing them to easily master essential arboreal knot-making skills. One important caveat: while this knot symmetric, carabiners are not. . The Schwabisch (pronounced "sway-bish") hitch is most commonly tied with a short (60-80 cm length) 8 -10 mm dia. In this example below, the free end is then tied into an Overhand on a Bight with a rappel ring inside. Climbing Knots. It is used by arborists for ascent and descent and the strain should only be taken on the line below the hitch. This National Tree Climbing Guide 2015 Electronic Edition The Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has developed this information for the guidance of its employees, its contractors, and its cooperating Federal and State agencies, and is not responsible for the interpretation or use of this information by anyone except its own employees. Information about tree climbing, tree climbing gear, tree climbing training, and more from the world’s first school and organization for recreational tree climbers. Jun 20, 2025 · Tree Work Knots Guide: Essential Ties Every Woodworker Should Know As someone who’s spent countless hours in the woods, felling trees, bucking logs, and prepping firewood, I can tell you that mastering essential tree work knots is as crucial as owning a sharp chainsaw. The optimal cord A channel dedicated to knots, tree climbing, friction hitches, gear and so much more! Questions? Comments? Ideas? Wanna talk? Email me at knotorious. This arborist friction hitch was first documented by seven-time International Tree Climbing Champion Bernd Strasser of Germany. American Arborist Supplies your #1 source for tree care, arborist supplies and tree climbing and safety equipment. Nick from TreeStuff. In this video series, we show some of the ways each knot can be tied and explain some of the uses, advantages, and limitations of each knot. info@gmail. Failure to tie this knot correctly can Mar 7, 2018 · No climber should leave the ground without knowing it because in an emergency you may need to set up a “three knot system” and use it to descend out of the tree. Think of your Lifeline as a long tether which can also act as a rappel rope or a climbing rope. Mar 28, 2025 · Step-by-step guides for climbing knots: The Trace Eight, Prusik, Clove Hitch, Ring Bend, Double Fisherman's, Girth Hitch, and Figure-Eight On A Bight. Knowing how to tie and use these knots correctly The JRB Cinch was redesigned 2024, using a Moose Hitch. Follow me on Instagram @biking_arborist Website: matt-glynn. How to tie 35 climbing knots: step-by-step illustrations, easy-to-follow directions, when to use and not to use, and expert advice on selection and care of ropes. A simple photographic guide to tying each knot is also included. Climbing and aerial rescue classes for professional arborist and recreational tree climbers. Educate yourself, get yourself safe, and then help a friend. Flopper Knot This original creation makes a secure end loop with a lot of bulk, which is perfect for flipping around a large tree trunk. Tying the correct climbing rope knots could be the difference between life and death, so it’s critical you know how to make them tight and secure with every climb. For novice, advanced and all levels in-between use our site as a tool to resource, practice and master your Arborist skills. Jun 19, 2025 · Master wood processing with these 5 expert hitch climber knots. Nick Bonner explains the pros and cons of four different Sep 4, 2017 · Knots are so important, whether you’re an Arborist, Rigger or in Rope Access. Prusik knots (also called friction hitches or climbing hitches) are one of the foundations of climbing and work positioning for arborists. A well-tied knot can mean the difference between safety, danger, and frustration. com offers a free comprehensive video library of knot tying, tree climbing and rigging techniques (basic and advanced). These knots will keep you safe when it matters most! Aug 26, 2025 · Master safe climbing with our Arborist Rope Guide. Retrace the knot with the end, making sure to leave enough tail. Overview The JRB Ascender Hitch is a friction hitch devised by JRB which is suitable for single and doubled rope applications. Choosing the correct knot for each task is just as important as tying the knot properly. This page originally contained the LENGTH SPECIFICATIONS for JRB's designs, but they have since been moved to these pages for specific items: Garda Hitch Footloop JRB Cinch Bridge Rope Cord Longhorn Agile Hitch Longhorn Zenith Hitch JRB Ascender Hitch Mar 16, 2025 · Securing knots are designed to hold something firmly in place and are considered reliable for attaching ropes to objects or securing loads. Uses: The re-threaded Overhand on a Bight is useful for tying the end of the webbing to objects such as trees, rocks, bolt hangers and rappel rings. Easy step by step instructions in this simple guide. Discover 5 essential knots every climber must know for efficiency and security. Learn knots like the Blake's Hitch, Prusik, Climbing Hitch, and more with step-by-step animation and videos. Enhance your safety and efficiency with these go-to loops for professional tree work. This knot is an excellent option to tie one rope to another for the purpose of pulling a rigging or climbing line into the tree. This is the classic set-up for beginners getting into tree climbing. com offers a free comprehensible video library of knot tying, tree climbing and rigging techniques (basic and advanced). Mouse over the name of the knot below to see a description of that knot. Both aspects of knot knowledge are given equal time: knot construction (tying the knots) and knot application (using the knots). I’ll break down each knot, explaining its purpose, how to tie it, and some tips for ensuring it’s tied correctly. She covers the Clove Hitch, the Double Fisherman’s Bend, the Figur Books & Videos Tree climbing books and videos are great training tools arborist can use to learn how to climb trees - whether you are a beginning tree climber eager to learn, or an expert arborist looking to climb more efficiently. Learning the basic knots for tree work means you can get working as an arborist right away. Leaving a climbing rope in a tree for any length of time is not recommended. Specifically designed for climbers who are not comfortable tying knots at the climbing site, and used in methods like JRB Hitch Climbing and Stick Climbing, the JRB Cinch is an alternative to the Maverick. It should be part of the arsenal of every tree worker’s climbing knots and rigging knots. Tighten to set the knot. Knots at Work by Jeff Jepson is a field guide for the modern arborist. com! DISCLAIMER: I am NOT an expert Jan 1, 1998 · 1998 National Outdoor Book Award winner. The Schwabisch holds securely. line against 11-13 mm host life support lines and forms a "closed Blake's Hitch is a Friction, or Slide and Grip, hitch. You can earn two CEUs* by completing the workbook test answer sheets, returning them to ISA for grading, and receiving a score of 80% or greater. Note that ESSENTIAL does not May 11, 2013 · While most of our trips or classes do not require previous knowledge of knots, climbing, or anything technical, some folks like to show up knowing a thing or two about this stuff. Feb 21, 2018 · In our last article on basic tree climbing knots, we focused primarily on the hitches, but in this article, we aim to give a more comprehensive overview of knots that are used in a wider variety of situations. A sheet bend is not a load-bearing knot, nor is it to be used to create a longer rope. While the Valdotain Tresse is important for all climbers to learn, executing it properly is essential. We also have a ' How to Tie Friction Hitches ' webpage for further learning. Learn how to tie various climbing knots for rock, tree and mountain climbing. Applications include: hunting, recreational climbing, arborist, rock climbing, caving, rope rescue, rope access. Climbing Knots Here is a list of knots that are essential for climbing, animated and illustrated. Apprenticeship • Language of the Ropes • Basic Jobsite Skills • Knots • Climbing Basics • Chainsaw Basics • Mechanical Advantage • Felling • Tree ID • Pests and Diseases • Extras • Blog • EducatedClimber on Instagram • EducatedClimber on Youtube Jun 22, 2025 · Master essential tree rope knots for logging with our guide to 5 pro techniques. They are essential tools for fastening, binding, and stabilizing objects across various applications. This article unveils Dec 17, 2024 · We Arborists rely heavily on a variety of knots in order to safely, and efficiently, climb and rig tree sections down. The evolution of the JRB Ascender hitch is captured on the YouTube playlist of the same name. The latest gear from the best suppliers. Other uses include minimalist rigging where you want to incorporate progress capture into a system but you only have the rope used for tensioning. Aug 15, 2025 · Master essential climbing knots with ease! Discover the top 7 knots every arborist needs for safe and efficient tree work. What’s a Lifeline? JRB recommends that all climbers use a lifeline, specifically a rope that safely connects you to the tree at all times and provides a route to safety on the ground. This page originally contained the LENGTH SPECIFICATIONS for JRB's designs, but they have since been moved to these pages for specific items: Garda Hitch Footloop JRB Cinch Bridge Rope Cord Longhorn Agile Hitch Longhorn Zenith Hitch JRB Ascender Hitch May 29, 2024 · The Valdotain Tresse Knot (also called Valdotain Hitch) is common in rock climbing for ascending and descending ropes by friction. Jun 18, 2025 · Master essential arborist knots for climbing with our expert tips. What are Climbing Knots? Climbing knots are the knots you'll use when tying and using rope during your Jun 20, 2025 · Discover top climbers hitch knots for arborists. A common question is if a Scaffold Knot or Poacher’s Knot can be used instead. Make sure the load strand is closest to the spine of the carabiner; failure to do so is likely to reduce the carab Double Fisherman’s: for tying cord together, or for tying ropes together Dec 17, 2024 · Knots, hitches, bends – what’s the difference? In the vast world of Arboriculture, the ability to work with ropes is a fundamental skill. See the Safety page for additional info: Which knot is used to climb up a tree? Bowline, Marlin Spike, Figure Eight, Double Fishermens, Figure Eight on a Bight, and Figure 8. There are so many tree climbing knots to know. Spliced rope termination is up to 50% stronger than knots and easily attaches and detaches from climbing and rigging systems. This information is not intended to be an onli Essential knots One of the most common inputs from new saddle hunters is something like this: “I want to be safe and I want to learn to climb using ropes, but there’s just too many knots and it’s all overwhelming”. There are many types of knots that are commonly used in the pursuit of rock climbing, ice climbing, and general mountaineering, the most popular of which are listed below. Munter: if you don’t have another way to belay, use this emely useful at belay stations. In our Tree Climbing Systems Video we also show how to advance a prusik using a pulley and other techniques. Mouse over a knot name in the list below to see a description of that knot. There are plenty of good practice knots to choose from, also very informative for the professional arborist! The Blake's Hitch tied with the tail of your climbing line - it just doesn't get any simpler than that. Perfect for beginners and exp Progressing Your Prusik Knot After you have learned and mastered the basic 4 wrap prusik, we suggest learning the Distel and Swabisch knots, then the Valdotain Trusse. As discussed below, “You must be sure of tying your knots correctly, and the best way to learn them is through repetition. The use of trade, firm, or In this video, Miranda shows you how to tie five of the most commonly used climbing knots. In this 184-page field guide, more than 50 different knots are presented. Oct 6, 2021 · Learn 10 basic arborist knots for tree climbing! From bowline to figure 8, master essential knots that ensure safety and efficiency in your climbing work. Hitches, such as the Blake's Hitch are useful for aerial work in trees. Click hereto learn more about tree climbing knots. com gives an easy lesson on tying a few of the basic knots used in the tree care industry, including a running bowline, alpine butterfly, Jun 22, 2025 · Master the art of tree climbing! Discover tips and learn 5 essential arborist knots for a safe, efficient Prusik rope setup in your next adventure. From boating and climbing to everyday utility, they each have their own unique functions and advantages. Jun 21, 2025 · Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the seven essential climbing knots every arborist should know. Here’s a guide to some of the most fundamental knots every arborist should know Page Contents: Overview Books Ashley's Book of Knots Tree Climber's Companion Essential Knots Basic Knot Types Bends Hitches Fixed Loops Stopper Knots Climbing Knot Types Friction Hitches Adjustable Loops Trunk Anchors Canopy Anchors Floating Anchor Overview There are potentially thousands of knots that we COULD use. Climbing Knots That Tree Climbers HAVE TO MASTER Bino H 36. he Basic Arborist class is built for individuals looking for instruction on professional tree care training and on climbing with a rope and saddle. This knot can be used to tie down a rope that is too long to be tied down by Nov 6, 2025 · The Blake's Hitch a friction knot used for climbing. Enhance safety and efficiency in your logging tasks today! Specifically designed for climbers who are not comfortable tying knots at the climbing site, and used in methods like JRB Hitch Climbing and Stick Climbing, the JRB Cinch is an alternative to the Maverick. She covers the Clove Hitch, the Double Fisherman’s Bend, the Figur This illustrated workbook accompanies the Arborists' Knots for Climbing & Rigging DVD set . Knots for arboriculture Arborists use a huge variety of knots for climbing, aerial rigging, attaching hardware and many other work tasks. It works with ropes and pulley systems and is used by mountaineers, rock climbers, arborists, and search and safety teams. Whether you’re climbing, running ropes on the ground, even securing an unstable load, understanding the meaning of what a knot, hitch, or bend does is essential for choosing the right rope connection for the task at hand. If y Aug 26, 2022 · Climbing arborist and tree surgeon from the North of England. Master everything you want about Arborist Knots with Knotspedia. Learn how to tie various knots for tree climbing and arboriculture using step-by-step animations. Knot knowledge is particularly useful Overview What’s a Friction Hitch? A friction hitch is sometimes described as a ‘slide and grip knot’. May 29, 2024 · The Valdotain Tresse Knot (also called Valdotain Hitch) is common in rock climbing for ascending and descending ropes by friction. Some highly recommended tree climbing books are The Tree Climber's Companion and The Tree Climber's Knot Book. Tree climbing knots ensure climbers’ safety, facilitate easy tree ascension, and provide a necessary grip on the tree branches. All of these knots are shown in our How to Tie Climbing Prusik Video. You'll learn how to make a bowline, blake's hitch, alpine butterfly, running bowline, and a Feb 2, 2025 · Here is a selection of arborist knots, including illustrated hitches like the Blake's Hitch and the Basket Hitch for aerial tree work. Clear step by step knot instructions plus animated knots for boaters, scouts, climbers, search and rescue, arborists and sailors. Jan 22, 2024 · This is a hitch that I created, developed and tested over 2 years ago and, currently, it is still my number one choice for climbing trees! In this episode, I will discuss the hitch (it's benefits over other hitches), show a quick climbing demo, and also show everyone how to tie it so that you can use it yourself with your own climbing systems! This video illustrates some of the knots used in the Cornell Tree Climbing Institute's instructional classes. The running bowline is a workhorse for tree workers. Besides physical strength and a passion for scaling heights, understanding the art of knot tying is essential. In our video tutorial above, we cover step-by-step how to tie various tree climbing knots such as the Bowline with a Yosemite finish the Running Bowline, the Alpine Butterfly, or the Blakes Hitch. They’re the tools you carry in your mental toolbox, that help you to get the job. Sep 17, 2025 · The Distel Hitch is a slide-and-grip knot used by arborist to ascend or descend the climbing rope. Master essential friction techniques to enhance safety and efficiency in your climbing adventures. In addition, a large range of knots commonly used by climbing arborists are presented and described, and their particular strengths and weaknesses categorised. A good knot can be the difference between a successful, safe operation and a costly, potentially dangerous mishap. The use of trade, firm, or Mar 26, 2025 · These animated knots are designed for climbers, rescue workers, arborists, tower climbers, and others who use ropes in man-carrying applications. Always retrieve your rope and leave a paracord preset in its place if you wish to return to that tree. Below, JRB has compiled the smallest set of the most basic and essential knots which can be used to construct a non-mechanical climbing system. What is the running bowline knot used for? JRB Tree Climbing & Saddle Hunting JRB provides this website as a free service to share best practices in climbing and hunting, with an emphasis on SAFETY. This information is not intended to be an onli There are many types of knots that are commonly used in the pursuit of rock climbing, ice climbing, and general mountaineering, the most popular of which are listed below. Links below to We also focus on climbing techniques, both rock climbing and tree climbing. Features: Holds well, moves well, is breakable under the load of our body, and is self tending Supports the use of carabiner or rings as optional handles. For many outdoor enthusiasts, tree climbing presents an exciting and challenging adventure that creates unique connections to nature. While these terms may seem Schwabisch Hitch How to tie the Schwabisch Hitch Knot. On this page and subpages, JRB focusses on those Arborist Knots Here is a selection of knots for arborists, animated and illustrated. Mastering said knots is a foundational skill that ensures safety and enhances productivity on the jobsite. Failure to tie this knot correctly can How to tie knots. Read now for tips! Arborists use a variety of knots day-to-day, and each knot can be tied in various ways. SRT 1: Knots tied in advance This video shows the system which was used in the introduction, which is focused on eliminating the need to tie any knots at the climbing site: a preconfigured SRT system. Both behave the same way, but the 2024 version is much easier to build, remove and re-build, which is necessary in trees which do not allow the cinch to pass through a crotch during retrieval. Learn how to tie your throw line to your climbing line for tree climbing. The Safe Climbing Book of Knots - Knots and Hitches for Professional Tree Work Compendium of knots and hitches for use in Professional Tree Work: - Basic Nov 22, 2012 · [C]. In this video, Nick Bonner shows how to tie the most basic knots used in tree care and climbing. National Tree Climbing Guide 2015 Electronic Edition The Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has developed this information for the guidance of its employees, its contractors, and its cooperating Federal and State agencies, and is not responsible for the interpretation or use of this information by anyone except its own employees. Tree Climbers International -- Everything you want to know about tree climbing. Jun 29, 2013 · And as important as tree climbing knots and knot tying are to our industry, it should also be pointed out that in many cases a spliced rope termination is the best solution. Follow my life in the canopy working in trees. Climbing Arborist. The knot of choice for joining two climbing ropes together to make a full-length rappel line, the flat overhand bend is ideal because it snags less frequently than other knots. Find out the basic guide, list and tips for different knots to secure, join, rappel, belay, anchor, rescue and more. Figure 8 is the most difficult knot to learn. It is a double fisherman ‘s knot, which means that the two ends of the rope are tied together in a way that makes it difficult to untie. Climbing Knots are for climbers, rescue workers, arborists, tower-climbers, and others who use rope in man-carrying applications. Learn the step-by-step instructions, history, variations, and tips for safe use in arborist tasks. Enhance safety and efficiency in your work with our step-by-step guide. 4K subscribers Subscribe SRT Series Video blog Advanced climbing techniques ClimbingArborist. cwcae mukge sicjxv rwxcv hwmp zbhco fcqesoy zgm ezqrvk pdauvyf uaspj nyqh qpaahyt rnm kofnl