Friction hitches. Unlike a fixed loop which can move around if we tie it around an object, anchor hitches cinch in place and are more stable. This knot allows for ascending or descending a rope safely. Featuring a patented tension chain system and friction cone ball housing, these hitches provide unmatched stability for smooth towing. Most of the friction hitches are tied with a separate piece of Prusik cord, but sometimes a tail end of the climbing rope is used. THE AUTOBLOCK KNOT is a quick and easy-to-tie friction hitch commonly used to back up rappels. Friction Hitch: Longhorn Agile Assuming that you are not using a mechanical device, the overall best performing friction hitch is the Longhorn Agile. JRB recommends using the recommended length of cord and using the “stable” finish option. This page covers basic hitches used to affix a rope to a small host like Overview This page contains all the details and length specifications for the Longhorn Agile Hitch, a novel friction hitch introduced by JRB which works well in SRT, DSRT and MRS/DRT applications. The Klemheist, or Machard Knot, is a derivative of the original Prusik knot. Nov 26, 2021 · Let's run through some fundamental friction hitches that every arborist would know, or at least should know. Sep 19, 2023 · A friction hitch in an adjustable, yet firm, type of knot. The pattern of braid(s) below decides how the friction is presented to the climbing line. It is used to attach one rope to another in a way that is easily adjusted. Klemheist Knot. Shop now and get the highest quality products delivered to you. A prusik (also known as a friction hitch) is a short piece of cord which can be wrapped around your climbing rope to add friction. The two most popular friction hitches in climbing are the autoblock and the prusik. It’s composed of three components: A loop knot that creates an eye 3:1 Purchase Two Half Hitches to secure the hitch Let’s learn it Friction-based sway control hitches can fall short. Mar 16, 2025 · Prusik Knot A friction hitch, the Prusik Knot is commonly used for climbing and load-bearing applications. Apr 6, 2025 · The Super Munter Hitch is an advanced variation of the Munter Hitch, providing additional friction for controlled descent or belaying. They can slide up and down easily, but lock around the rope when weighted. It is similar to the Prusik Knot which has three wraps not two. Giving you everything you want from a friction hitch with hardly any weight or bulk added. This is desirable to level the trailer and truck, and required when nearing or exceeding (not recommended) the truck’s rated tongue capacity. Call us today for more information on Climbing School by Stone Adventures. The evolution of the hitch is captured on the YouTube playlist of the same name: Longhorn Agile Playlist. The top 3 Advanced friction hitches, the follow up in our friction hitches series. Email me at carterrocks11@gmail. To make it easier to install the descender, install the friction first and pull rope through to create slack. However, the Longhorn Zenith hitch prefers a 60-65% ratio. The Michoacan Hitch, what is it used for? You can use the Michoacan Hitch for saddle hunting or many other climbing purposes. The optimal cord The Farrimond Friction Hitch is one of the BEST Knots / Hitches out there for Camping, Hiking, Bushcraft, and anything Outdoors. I'm trying to get everything dialed in before my 1st climb. NOTE - I tie this DIFFERENT The top 3 easy friction hitches, easy to learn, good to know and extremely handy. Im just asking for advice. Climbers and hikers use it for rappelling as a safety back-up knot. It also appears to be identical to the knot described by Ashley for securing a loop to a vertical pole. It’s versatile, functioning as a self-locking mechanism under load but sliding when tension is released. They are very practical in a variety of setups, but they truly shine in rescue scenarios. Dec 17, 2024 · We Arborists rely heavily on a variety of knots in order to safely, and efficiently, climb and rig tree sections down. MBS of 1/8 Technora 13kn or 2,900 pounds Dec 3, 2012 · I'm wondering what the strongest friction hitch is, and some recommended hitch cord that would work well with 1/2 inch stable braid? Also, how to get it to self tend smoothly with the larger opening on the block? Feb 15, 2023 · A prusik hitch is another friction hitch commonly used in rescue scenarios and as a third hand or backup in rappelling. 1-800-940-8924 to order Reese accessories and parts part number 58512 or order online at etrailer. Friction Hitches What hitch does everyone use with their rope wrench? I've been experimenting with different hitches, and a couple different 30" cords. As The Bear Essentials explains, “When you pull on [a friction hitch], it’ll hold tight, but without friction it’ll freely slide. The 6. Also I was wondering, is there a general rule of thumb for cord length? How to tie the Blake's Hitch animated and illustrated. 5K What is the Michoacan Hitch? The Michoacan Friction Hitch is another friction hitch that can be used in your tree climbing system. Buy or make an friction hitch / autobloc cord. 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. Free expert support on all Reese products. Apr 6, 2022 · Here's an interesting variation on the Klemheist knot, the “FB” friction hitch. These knots are commonly used in climbing as part of single-rope technique, doubled-rope technique and as "ratchets" to capture progress on a moving rope, most typically in a mechanical advantage system such as a Z-drag. May 11, 2015 · Climbing Hitches Among the many knots that are regularly used in climbing, hitches are among the most common. It slides when unweighted but locks under load, making it a reliable knot. Feb 12, 2025 · In conclusion, friction hitches are essential tools for climbers looking to enhance their skills and safety on the rock. Friction hitches like the prusik, klemheist, autoblock and bachman can be used to backup rappels, ascend a fixed rope and to haul a struggling or injured partner. Knot Tying Click the images to watch videos of the best and most commonly used friction hitches, termination knots and mid-line knots used by Arborists. Performance characteristics vary greatly amongst friction hitches, but in general, they can ‘jam’ (get tighter) if we use them as the single source of friction in a rappel, which could cause the climber to get stuck. Key Benefits • 100% Technora Construction Overview A hitch is a knot which secures a rope or cord to an object or host. Jul 27, 2014 · Im new to tree climbing and i need to know many hitches to climb safley. So far I'm liking the Catalyst, and VT hitch. ) Friction hitches are used typically used as a rope grab in a mechanical advantage haul system, and as a tool for emergency rope ascending. Quick to tie, and dependable, the Blakes Hitch has been an industry standard for several years. A well-tied knot can mean the difference between safety, danger, and frustration. Hitches are sometimes described as “anchor knots” because a rope must be secured onto the ring of an boating anchor. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different hitches can help us select the right hitch for the right situation. It’s also sometimes referred to as the Triple Sliding Hitch. It has a few advantages over the traditional prusik hitch. The evolution of the JRB Ascender hitch is captured on the YouTube playlist of the same name. These hitches are a simple and cheap alternative to mechanical ascenders. Sold as a set of 4 (2 per side) and includes four mounting scre The WLR friction hitch is small, compact, and clean. Apr 14, 2023 · Prusik knots and other friction hitches will continue to play an essential role in my recreational climbing and professional guiding work. There are a variety of hitches, and in this video series, we show how to tie common hitches and explain some of the uses, advantages, and limitations. The schwabisch is known to bind more so than other hitches, but has its benefits (easy to tie, slow running, good for beginners). Sep 9, 2024 · Here are six hitches that I turn to most frequently along with a discussion of their pros and cons so that we can better match a hitch to a need. The diameter and type of cord used to make a friction hitch must be selected according to the rope it will be used on. While it wouldn't be my first choice, I'd expect hollow 16mm webbing to work for a third hand backup to a descender, though I'm sure choice of knot is important. May 15, 2025 · The Schwabisch Hitch is a directional friction hitch used in climbing and arborist work. Sway Control Kit and Components Diminishes lateral trailer movement in windy conditions and from passing vehicles. It then cinches the rappel rope when the climber stops. Hitch Knots. Friction hitches every climber should know | beginner climbing | how to tie knots for tree climbing Strider Trees 40K subscribers 3. It’s a directional hitch, meaning it grips when weighted in one direction but slides in the other. English Prusik Other names: Standard / common prusik, prusik hitchUse: DdRT onlyPros: Very safe, easy to use and recognis Schwabisch Hitch Knot Tying Instructions Make four wraps around main static rope with a hand tied or sewn prusik or spliced eye split tail friction cord. Watch our free video tutorial on Friction Hitches, along with other instructional videos on anchor building, knot tying, and other rock climbing skills. ” Bachmann knot is a friction hitch that grips the rope and provides support in climbing. Here’s a guide to some of the most fundamental knots every arborist should know Overview The JRB Ascender Hitch is a friction hitch devised by JRB which is suitable for single and doubled rope applications. The Autoblock knot is also known as the French Prusik knot. Farrimond Friction Hitch Details Found in: Hitches, Scouting, Slide & Grip Origin: The Farrimond Friction Hitch is attributed to the British actor Barry Farrimond who apparently demonstrated it in 2008 at the Yellow Wood Bush Camp, Wales. But it is still fundamentally the same: a double rope climbing method with a non-anchored but stationary rope, and highly efficient ascent profile. Its reliability makes it indispensable in rescue operations and 4 replacement pads for Reese SC Weight Distribution kit numbers 66151, 66153, 66155, 66157. Be sure you understand the method before building a system. 4: The Friction Hitch Warning: Do not attempt to use friction hitch as a Rappel Device. Friction and sap from the tree plays a factor as well. Jul 20, 2024 · The Klemheist is one of three friction hitches every climber ought to know. A friction hitch is a kind of knot used to attach one rope to another in a way that is easily adjusted. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different hitches can help us select the right hitch for the right situation A friction hitch for descending on a Ddrt climbing system. Jul 10, 2025 · The Prusik Knot (ABoK #1763) is a friction hitch used for climbing and rappelling. The autoblock is often made using either a factory-made or temporary loop which grips in either direction and can slide freely over the rope during a controlled descent. 8 mm HollowBlock2 is made of 100% Technora® fiber for increased abrasion resistance and improved durability. Apr 29, 2023 · In addition, via friction hitches, friction allows you to grip the climbing rope, which is super useful in various contexts like hauling and ascending. They are invaluable tools for backing up rappels, ascending ropes, and hauling climbers. There are many configurations for each friction hitch, but as ever, when trying new tools, stay low until you are truly competent with the system before advancing to greater heights. Complete list of mainstream friction hitches and friction hitches that I've created as well! There's a lot to learn here! Enjoy! You can reach me at knoto Nov 28, 2021 · The Michoacan friction hitch is an other friction hitch that can be used in your tree climbing system. Bachmann Knot How to tie the Bachmann Knot. Mastering said knots is a foundational skill that ensures safety and enhances productivity on the jobsite. These devices work best when tended with a lightweight, compact chest harness. Oct 24, 2023 · Prevent trailer sway with a weight distribution sway control hitch! Find out how the various forms of sway control work and which one is best for your trailer. The friction hitch is the central part of the climbing system, which allows you to move up the climbing line and descend when required. rockfall, knots in rope). Blake's Hitch is a friction hitch, or "slide and grip" hitch. These devices allow climbers to transition smoothly between ascent, descent, and work positioning. com. Dual friction brake pad system provides constant and adjustable sway reduction. Note: for trails 24' and longer, the use of both right hand and left hand sway controls is recommended. The Klemheist is handy because you can tie it with either cord or a sewn sling, and you can easily The top 3 easy friction hitches are displayed here! Find out which ones are the most-knows and learn how to tie them yourself. A distel hitch is very similar but binds less. Jun 27, 2019 · AMGA Certified Rock guide Elaina Arenz shares how to tie and when to use Autoblock, Kelmhiest, and Prusik friction hitches. I've descended on stiff-ish 12mm rope tied around itself as a friction hitch (blake hitch) with no additional friction device in the system (arborist DRT style) with no issues. The need for a round cross-sectioned carabiner to tie the knot visually differentiates it from the Prusik knot. It’s most commonly used in rock climbing and mountaineering for ascending a rope and belaying. Holding power and ease of release can be adjusted by changing the number of wraps. Not recommended for use as a tether. . Slide and grip knot intended for a load in one direction only. Mechanical Friction Devices for Tree Climbing Mechanical friction devices used to augment or replace friction hitches provide many options for the climber. After fourth wrap bring wrapping tail down and make an additional wrap at bottom of other wraps in opposite direction while tying a half hitch around other rope. The coils at the top of those hitches are where the friction is concentrated. The term Prusik can also be used as a verb. Uses Andersen Hitches has the best trailer hitch and tow hitch parts to safely pull heavy loads. I devised a new and better friction hitch, the JRB Ascender Hitch, and switched out my Michoacan’s for it. g. Sep 9, 2024 · We use friction hitches in many different circumstances in climbing. Nov 11, 2023 · In this illustarted guide, we teach you how to tie a Klemheist Knot, tell you what situations it's good for, and compare it with other friction hitches. B&W's Continuum Weight Distribution hitch offers cutting-edge features like exclusive LITEFLEX® composite spring bars that act as a single unit and a hydraulic system that allows for more precise adjustment, the Continuum delivers a game-changing towing experience. Arborists widely use friction hitches when climbing and rigging to provide friction and hold a load while allowing progression up or along a rope. Learn about different types of climbing knots, hitches and bends, and get tips on how to tie them. Oct 2, 2013 · The Friction Cone is a brake-like material that works with the tapered ball and ball housing to eliminate sway. Here are six hitches that I turn to most frequently along with a discussion of their pros and cons so that we can better match a hitch to a need. The friction between the tapered ball and housing allows the hitch to “self-adjust” according to the tongue weight. Weight Distribution Hitch The Andersen Hitches Weight Distribution Hitch line combines advanced sway and bounce control with a lightweight, innovative design. A double fisherman's knot with very fairly short tails (10 - 20 millimeters) works best to connect the cord ends into a loop. Quick Tying Guide: Autoblock Knot Arborists use a variety of knots day-to-day, and each knot can be tied in various ways. Great prices and Fastest Shipping for Replacement Reese Sway Control Friction Pads with Screws. Once tied, pulling on the end will release the hitch completely. Trailer sway can quickly turn from annoying to dangerous if left unchecked. Rope Hitches includes Slide and Grip Hitches; Quick-Release Hitches and Plain Rope Hitches. It is commonly used by arborists for ascent and descent rope work. Accessories and Parts reviews from real customers. The Prusik hitch, Schwabisch hitch, and Klemheist hitch are top choices for climbers of all levels due to their ease of use, reliability, and versatility. As of 9/23/22 the Featherlite linemans ropes features a 1/8" Technora friction hitch. Often used in climbing and rescue operations, this versatile knot enhances braking power, making it useful in high-load situations. Jul 2, 2025 · The Trucker’s Hitch is a go to knot for securing loads on trucks, and trailers or even for tightening the tarps and tent ridgelines. Farrimond friction hitch Description The Farrimond friction hitch is a quick release adjustable friction hitch for use on lines under tension. This configuration offers increased stability and control during ascent and descent. May 21, 2025 · Friction hitches rely on resistance to keep a trailer steady while towing. Apr 4, 2023 · A weight distribution hitch is essentially a contraption that reduces the weight being applied to the tongue of the tow vehicle through the power of leverage. It grips the rope under load and releases smoothly when unloaded. A friction hitch holds the user if they need to go hands free during the rappel (e. It’s tied with a lanyard with loops on both ends and is often combined with a micro pulley system for smooth adjustment. 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. A CURT sway control unit or trailer sway bar helps restrict this motion and can easily be mounted on any CURT weight distribution hitch. This time we take it up a notch and introduce friction hitches that are a Unlike traditional hitch setups or single-eye slit tails, eye-to-eye tails result in a finished friction hitch where both ends are attached to the connector. Sway control is typically a device added to a weight distribution system that uses friction AMGA Certified Rock Instructor Erik Kramer-Webb shows the prussik, kleimheist, and auto block hitches and the differences in how they grab and release. Grabbing hold of the carabiner while unweighting the load on the hitch will Aug 11, 2006 · Trailer sway control mount options Weight distribution hitch CURT offers several weight distribution hitches with sway control units included. Jan 9, 2025 · All friction hitches are based on the simple Prussik, and many friction hitches exist, including the Klemheist, Blakes Hitch, Valdotain Tresse, Bachman, Distel, and Schwabich. These friction hitches will help your progression if you're starting out in the industry. 70-75% ratio is a general recommendation for most friction hitches including the Longhorn Agile. It can be tied with either a factory made or temporary strop (no more than half the diameter of the vertical rope). Born in Austria in 1896, Karl Prussik created over 70 new climbing routes in the Austrian Alpine Club. (The other two are the prusik and the autoblock, aka French prusik, or Machard. Every climber should know these Prusik Knots: Different Types Explained This article about prusik knots is part of the book - The Trad Climber's Guide To Problem Solving. It is useful when the length of a line will need to be periodically adjusted in order to maintain or adjust tension whilst remaining quick and easy to untie. Note that the actual diameter of a rope or cord may differ from the stated diameter. How to tie a VT friction hitch - Arborist knots · @TPOTTS_TREES How to tie a VT friction hitch - Arborist knots · @TPOTTS_TREES A friction hitch cord made of ultra strong and water-resistant polyester fibers surrounded by a blended Technora®/polyester sheath. It goes below a rappel device and moves down the rope during a descent. Aug 23, 2023 · A Prusik Knot is a friction hitch that stays in place when loaded with weight and moves freely without it. Discover how sway elimination systems like the Hensley Arrow® offer safer, more stable towing. By changing a few key things and learning a few new hitches, this cord can become a far more versatile tool. Easy to untie with one hand. Sterling makes a nice pre-assembled friction hitch cord out of heat-resistant Technora / Aramid fiber, but it's easy enough to make your own friction hitch out of 6mm I removed the 2 nd set of friction hitches and integrated my redundancy into the footloop. The Bachmann knot requires the use of a round cross section carabiner for friction. Most traditional friction hitches are very difficult (or impossible) to move (break) while they are loaded, which is a feature we want in order to initiate rappel. We use friction hitches in many different circumstances in climbing. The ideal ratio varies with the hitch, rope, cord and its stiffness. Recommendation Although this page shows various options, JRB’s recommendation for May 1, 2020 · The term Prusik knot or Autoblock is often used to generalise a number of different friction hitches that we use regularly in climbing. The Michoacan friction hitch is not as well known as the more common friction hitches like Yes, friction hitches bind up time to time depending on the climbing rope, hitch cord, and hitch choice. Remarks The Michoacan Friction Hitch grabs reliable, but might be a bit harder to break free compared to other friction hitches, after it Jun 21, 2024 · An Autoblock knot is a friction hitch that can grip in any direction. Dec 10, 2013 · 1. We also offer the TruTrack™ WD with integrated sway control. MBS of Back Up Line 12kn or 2,800 pounds. This section explains friction hitches, how they work, and key characteristics you need to know for safe towing. Let’s learn it in detail. The prusik is a little bit more finicky to tie than the autoblock but is known to be very safe and strong. We also have a ' How to Tie Friction Hitches ' webpage for further learning. These knots are relatively new. Secures with socket & spring clip connectors. Nov 3, 2024 · Almost all climbers and mountaineers carry a prusik cord with them in the mountains primarily as a rappel backup and for self rescue situations. It creates a theoretical 3:1 mechanical advantage when tightened, though the ratio is much less in reality due to friction. com Thanks A friction hitch is a kind of knot used to attach one rope to another in a way that is easily adjusted. They can slide freely up or down a climbing line but they grab when Friction knots A friction hitch is a kind of knot that relies on friction between the rope and itself to hold securely. The Bachmann Knot is a popular friction hitch with climbers and arborists. Hitch Climbing Stick Climbing, or One Stick Climbing See related pages: Our bestselling friction hitch and autoblock has been redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber. I recommend 6 or 7mm accessory cord, cut to 44" long. We also have a ' How to Tie Arborist Knots ' webpage for further learning. Friction hitches are a special type of knot. Apr 18, 2025 · The Farrimond friction hitch is an adjustable, quick-release knot perfect for camping, tarps, and clotheslines. The CURT sway control kit is compatible with almost all CURT weight distribution hitches, and with virtually any weight distribution hitch with a 3/4-inch diameter sway ball hole. For example, to “prusik” a rope, which means to ascend it using Prusik Loops Overview This page details how to create a system with 2 friction hitches which is dedicated to the use of one of these climbing methods (none of which involve the use of a throwball). Schwabisch Hitch Hitch Cord I prefer to use technora core… May 15, 2025 · The Distel Hitch is a friction hitch used to ascend or descend the climbing rope. The Anti-Sway Ball Housing securely holds the tapered ball and friction cone in place. It's gripping ability comes from the unique hollow-braid construction, for use as a prusik or Klemheist knot on ropes 7 mm or larger. Detaches quickly for storage. The Farrimond Friction Hitch hitch provides a quick and convenient method to tighten a tent ridge line. slwagkpacdphvbkcbmozcvdnfksddpagkgciguxkfsbgregunzaytpesc