We received a comment on Rappelling on Skinny Ropes—Part 1: Devices from a reader asking about using a Super Münter hitch to rappel on a skinny rope. Let’s break down some basics, and then get into a text thread between Billy Haas, Adam Fabrikant, and Gavin Hess. An updated Intro: We don’t often repost our…
The Skinny Rope Q & A: Rappelling with a Super Münter on Skinny Lines
Das Super Münter on the RAD Line.
Responses
-
Do you put any special consideration into the prusik when using skinny ropes? Possible to also elaborate on a single strand rappel and use of an escaper?
-
Hey Sam, It often takes a bit of care to get a good bite with a prusik/friction hitch backup, especially in a single strand scenario. The escaper is probably worth its own post, but as far as friction hitches, my latest tactic has been using an 8.5″ Blue Water Titan Sling. The flat profile of webbing compared to cord or even sterling hollowblock provides more surface area against the rope so its possible to get a good bit with fewer wraps in the friction hitch. The Blue Water sling is a dyneema/nylon blend, and using it as a rappel backup could compromise its strength due to heat buildup damaging the dyneema, but at 27 kN new, I’m confident it will hold up to rappelling duty for a few seasons.
-
-
Hmm, Fabricino does have a certain ring to it…
Latest Features
-
Boris Langenstein on the first ski descent of India’s Meru Central. Photo: Tiphaine Duperier
A First Descent on India’s Meru Central
Tiphaine Dupérier and Boris Langenstein pull off another small-scale big-mountain descent.
-
Ryan Griffiths, somewhere cold. Photo: Aidan Whitelaw
The High Route Podcast
The Progression Episode with Ryan Griffiths
-
Teton shadows extending toward the Gros Ventre.
Public Lands and the Touring Scene
A look at proposed rule changes in the public lands space that could affect the touring scene.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.