CEM Releasable Knot
The CEM (for Cañonismo En Mexico) is a releasable knot, similar in function to the macrame. It can be used around natural anchors, especially trees, when insufficient webbing is available. CEM Instructions PDF Document
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. … Read More
Totem Instructions
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 … Read More
Tail Up – Prepared for Rescue
<br We know it makes sense to rig releasable contingencies when we anticipate a rescue will likely involve lowering. But what about those times when rescue is more likely to involve hauling? An example might be rappelling into a pit … Read More
Static Twin Ropes
Rigging twin ropes can improve efficiency dramatically for a well organized group descending from a climb or moving through a technical canyon. Check out this video for a some rigging ideas from Rich. If you think these videos will be … Read More
Static Blocks
A static block is a type of rigging used primarily to set rope length. In this video Rich explains the appropriate use and some of the limitations. If you think these videos will be beneficial to others, please share them … Read More
Rigging Glue-In Bolts
There are basically two categories of bolts used for anchors – mechanical and glue-in. In virtually all situations, glue-in bolts will out-perform mechanical bolts … by a wide margin. Unfortunately, they are not very common, so when people do encounter … Read More
Quick Links, Bolt Hangers, Bailout Rings
Words like “Always” and “Never” apply only when we look for rules instead of learning to apply good judgment and develop the ability to discern for ourselves. If you think these videos will be beneficial to others, please share them … Read More
Overhand Knot
An overhand knot is an overhand knot is an overhand knot. NOT! Watch this video as Rich explains the critical difference between an overhand knot and an overhand bend and the appropriate uses for each. If you think these … Read More
Munter-Mule-Overhand
Your partner is stuck on the rope or is at the end of a rope that doesn’t reach the ground. What do you do? If you had the fore-thought to rig a releasable contingency system the solution would be simple. … Read More
Flat Overhand – European Death Knot
The flat overhand knot, AKA the European Death Knot (or EDK for short), is a very popular way of connecting two ropes for long rappels. It has been the subject of much misinformation leading many to have misgivings about its … Read More