I will be using the HSS Ultralight for the first time. Rather than hook my tether directly to the tree strap (Having to undo the tree strap and attach the tether every time) I thought I could use these. Anyone else do something similar? Hook on the tether end and Quick Link attached to tree strap. Seems like it would still be safe? ..... .
I wouldn't trust the one in the first pic to break my fall. But I have several of the others hanging out there ready to hook to when I get in the stand.
I do the same thing only I just use the HSS clips that come with the harness (you can also buy extras) and attach that to the tether strap and leave all season, I don't use two clips. As long as the clips are rated for sustaining a fail and holding your weight you should be good. I also use some I got from an hiking store that were on sale that are made for rock climbing.
You need to use climbing/rappelling rated carabiners. I leave mine on my harness so it is always there regardless of where I sit.
Thanks, so you use the carabiners that are meant for the linesman climbing strap and attach to the tree strap?
I have an aluminum climbing caribener on my harness so it goes with me to any tree I visit. I think it cost about $15. Much better than the steel screw-lock clip that came w/ the harness.
I suggest using the right tool for the job..... This is where I get all my rigging/climbing gear! Carabiners & Quickdraws | Backcountry.com .
Those carabiners are meant both for the linemans' belt as well as the tree strap tether. They can be used interchangeably. Also, I typically use the lineman's belt as my tree strap when I'm hunting a set that doesn't have a LifeLine in it. You can use it the exact same way you use the standard tree strap. In my case I keep the lineman's belt with both carabiners in my pack at all times. This way if I need to adjust a set or hang a new set I have it with, and in the event I need a tree strap I can use it for that. Definitely comes in in handy.
I just picked up a couple new climbing carabiners at Gander for $13 each. Along with a couple more lifelines.
If your'e looking for more carabiners I would recommend the ones from Hunter Safety System. 2 pack for $20 and they're very light weight. I picked up a couple and swapped them out on my Lineman's belt. What a difference. Locking Carabiners - Replacement Carabiners - Hunter Safety System - Hunting Safety - Treestand Safety Carabiners
Being a ropes specialists for the fire department, I am VERY familiar with this equipment. Your best bet is to build a system you can leave on the tree. Take all your rigging equipment (ie carabiners) with your when you leave. You can buy stuff from tree stand companies but they are WAY over priced. When buying carabiners for climbing or keeping you in the stand make sure you buy one with either a screw closure or a one handed twist lock. With that being said make sure it is also marked with a "G" for general usage. Most of them are rated in kn. Try go to the firestorm.com or rock-n-rescue. You will get much better equipment for less money then the tree stand companies sell there stuff for. Just my 2cents Just something for you guys if you didn't know it, when you put your carabiner on what ever system you are using make sure that you flip the carabiner so the screw closure screws down. That way your safety closure will never fail. Jason
Just another thing to add, we have to retire lift safety rope every 10 years no matter if has has been used or not. Most of the time we just throw it out. There is nothing wrong with it, our regulations just require this. If you have a paid dept close by, go ask them if they have any they are getting ready to toss. In most cases they will give it to you. Most of the time if it is a rural volunteer department, they usually don't have this advance equipment so I wouldn't even bother.
