Instructions for Rigging the Totem The original Totem is the ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of rigging devices. Deceptively simple looking, the Totem is remarkably versatile. Use it for belaying, releasable rigging and hauling systems, or as a rigging plate. Use it for rappelling – it’s simple to add friction mid-rappel and simple to lock off. You…
Canyon Primer Booklet Download the free PDF This booklet was one of the first projects undertaken by the American Canyoneering Association; within one year of the organization’s inception. Written by Rich Carlson and Matt Smith, with input from many members of the canyoneering community. More than 3,000 copies were printed and distributed thanks to some…
American Canyon Ratings Download the free PDF Check out the Canyon Ratings episode of the Canyoneering Karma Podcast for a discussion on rating systems and how to use them. Check out the Podcast Episode
The 6 Heuristic Traps Heuristics are a fundamental part of how humans make decisions and judgements. They are intuitive mental shortcuts used to solve a particular problem. Using trial-and-error and rule-of-thumb are examples. Heuristics are helpful because they allow us to quickly make sense of a complex environment, but there are times when using them…
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…
Video: Rigging Tail Up In this episode of the Art of Ropework, Rich discusses rigging for rescue situations where hauling is the most likely method. He explains the concept of tail down and tail up rigging and when each is appropriate. He demonstrates various rigging techniques, including using friction wraps, progress capture devices, and mechanical…
Video: Static Twin Rope In this episode of the ART of RopeWork, Rich discusses twin rope systems and how they can increase efficiency in rope work. He explains the difference between double rope systems and twin rope systems, highlighting the benefits of using twin ropes for rappelling in a group. He explores various methods of…
Video: Static Blocks In this episode, Rich discusses static blocks in rope work, their advantages, and some cautions. Static blocks are rigging systems used for rappelling using an object that is too large to pass through a rappel ring. The advantages of static blocks include efficient use of rope, the ability to hold reserve rope…
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…