Originally posted by coonrad
Hi,
I'm going through "The Tree Climber's Companion" and have a couple questions on the details of the split-tail system.
Anything wrong with using a 6mm accessory cord as the split tail? Or is the system normally rigged with a thicker rope for the the split tail? A prusik knot is often rigged with a smaller diameter line than the climbing line so was figuring the same may apply in this case.
As for the swivel snap that attaches to the pulley. Any reason not to use a carabiner instead of a swivel snap?
thanks,
coonrad
For a split-tail tied with a Blake's Hitch it is standard practice to use the same diameter as the climbing rope or slightly less. For the advanced hitches (VT, Knut etc.) climbers like to go less diameter, something like 10mm would be good for a 1/2" climbing rope.
While 6mm accessory rope would work in a pinch, it's not what you'd want to hang your life on day in and day out. With DdRT technique there is quite a bit of friction where the hitch meets the down rope, climbers will often use a heat resistant cord for their split-tails. A 6mm accessory cord would have to be replaced fairly quickly with regular use.
You could use a carabiner to hold a slack-tending pulley but it would be overkill. That would be a good use for your 6mm cord, to attach the pulley to your main 'biner.
Just a note on split-tails and slack tenders... I wouldn't focus too much on this if you're just starting out. It's best to tie in traditional with a Blakes and learn the basic mechanics of climbing DdRT before adding in these more advanced techniques. You may decide not use split-tails ultimately, there is value in having less components in your climbing system.
-moss
