The ability to quickly and smoothly move through the canopy allows arborists to reach the inaccessible and tackle complex challenges, and the addition of mechanical climbing devices has made that easier. Mechanical devices have several advantages over traditional hitch-based system: they provide consistent friction every time they're used, metal components last longer and wear down slower, and they can often allow for other options like climbing SRS.
When shopping for a mechanical tree climbing device, consider what tree climbing ropes it's compatible with, whether or not it is mid-line attachable, if it uses steel or aluminum wear components, and how it will interact with other elements of your system.
Two types of rope-based climbing systems afford near-infinite possibilities for ascent and work positioning: Moving Rope System(MRS) and Stationary Rope System (SRS). MRS involves pulling yourself up on a rope running over a branch or friction saver in the tree, creating a mechanical advantage that lowers the weight you’re lifting while halving the distance traveled. SRS uses a single line anchored either in the canopy or at the base of the tree. Climbing that line allows for a 1:1 movement, moving the full weight of your body the full distance you’ve climbed.
Explore the wide range of climbing tools that can make MRS and SRS climbing faster, easier, and safer at Sherrilltree, and continue to seek out training and education on how you can improve your climbing skills. Whatever system you use, remember to practice low and slow to test the climbing system and get comfortable with it.