Tips on Tying the Valdotain Tresse
Reprinted from an article by Shane Wallace Tying the VT is where I see issues that lead to the VT not performing as expected. Tying it isn’t complicated but requires attention to the process. The first part is wrapping the VT 3 times around the host rope. There is chatter about people using 2 wraps […]
Knots for Caving (and Canyoneering)
Presented for caving, but this video provides an excellent introduction to common knots that are also useful for canyoneering. https://youtu.be/vpbyUq8sgXk
Noeud Sanhneux
A cleverly simple blocking knot. It is used at the focal point of an anchor, using a Supplemental Anchor System (SAS). The CRT HauLine works well in this application. With the ends of your SAS connected to the anchor points, pass the focal point loop through the top of a screwgate carabiner. Wrap the loop […]
Scaffold Knot
The scaffold knot is a variation of a double overhand knot that is useful for attaching a carabiner to the end of a safety lanyard that is made with rope. The knot is easy to tie correctly, but there have been a few incidents that involved it being tied incorrectly. Pay attention. https://youtu.be/M9IS9HPk1Ds
Rethreaded Alpine Butterfly
It is possible to tie an alpine butterfly knot directly around or into an object using a ‘rethreaded’ technique. This is super useful for a variety of applications, including tying your safety lanyard directly to your harness. https://youtu.be/Y0WSuaAdGi8 Alpine Bunny Knot The alpine bunny variation can be useful when you want to connect, disconnect and […]
European Death Knot
Video: EDK In this episode, Rich discusses the flat overhand knot, also known as the European Death Knot (EDK). He explains the proper use of the EDK when connecting two ropes for rappelling and highlights the importance of positioning the knot at the rappel ring. Rich demonstrates how to tie the EDK and provides cautions […]
Nudo Mariposa (Butterfly Knot)
https://youtu.be/gbvvzT_OKV0 El nudo mariposa alpino es un nudo para formar un lazo fijo en el medio de una cuerda. Puede ser hecho en una cuerda sin acceso al final de los extremos; esto es una ventaja cuando se trabaja con largas cuerdas de escalada. El nudo mariposa alpino es un nudo excelente de línea media […]
Which bend for joining two ropes?
Which bend for joining ropes? Download PDF Tests conducted by Grant Prattley of Over the Edge Rescue comparing several variations of the flat overhand bend for joining two ropes. Answering the question – Is there a bend that is easy to tie, easy to undo after normal loading, has a snag-free surface while having reasonable […]
VT Instructions
Designed by Rich Carlson and manufactured by BlueWater Ropes, the VT Prusik features a super tough, heat resistant Technora aramid sheath over durable nylon core strands. The core in this kernmantle design keeps the VT from flattening and binding up. The VT performs well when used for many tasks, including: ascending self-belay while rappelling as […]
VT Prusik Video
Video: VT Prusik In this episode, Rich introduces the VT Prusik, a versatile piece of gear for ropework. He explains its features, including the Technora sheath and nylon core, and its strength in different configurations. Rich demonstrates various hitches that can be tied with the VT Prusik, such as the three over one prusik and […]
Single Point Anchors
Video: Single Point Anchors In this episode, Rich explains different types of knots and bends in webbing and when to use them. He demonstrates how to tie various knots and bends, such as the overhand knot, overhand bend, overhand on a bite, and re-threaded overhand. He also discusses the importance of positioning the webbing around […]
Overhand Knot
Video: Overhand Knot In this episode, Rich discusses the differences between overhand knots and overhand bends in rope work. He explains when and how to properly use each type of knot, emphasizing the importance of loading the knot on its major axis. Rich demonstrates examples of correct and incorrect usage of overhand knots and bends, […]