Decending racks

[woodworkingboy]

Anyone have a pic of how the rope threads through the rack? Thanks.

Recently, have been working with some guys who use these Petzl stops. They appear to work quite well, but are somewhat heavy. The rack sure seems simpler.

 

[sotc]

Here you go Jay, upside down to how we used it but there is no eye on this one

 

[wiley_p]

Wille, what do you mean by upside down. That's connected properly in the pic. It's just a U frame instead of a J-rack.

 

[woodworkingboy]

Cool, thanks Willie!

 

[sotc]

Sorry, theres no big pics of racks! I guess J racks are what we used then, like the 2 with an eye to clip into

 

[stig]

Greg, you need to be introduced to the shorty friction hitch backup set below the rack/eight. Ask some of the WCGTG folks how they like that system.

That one is pretty much standard around here.
At the forestry school, they won't let you descend without.

I think anyone who has seen the video of a caver going into free fall, will appreciate the system.

 

[woodworkingboy]

Is it recommended to still be tied in with a friction hitch when using a rack?

 

[sotc]

Yes Jay, the friction hitch below the friction device allows you to let go of both stopping you midline. To get started again just requires pulling on your knot. Just be sure your knot can't run into the bottom of your device!

 

[darkstar]

Yes Jay, the friction hitch below the friction device allows you to let go of both stopping you midline. To get started again just requires pulling on your knot. Just be sure your knot can't run into the bottom of your device!

That is a very good trick for wet and or icy ropes.

 

[NeTree]

Or long descents where your arms and hands can get tired.