How to Climb a Tree With Spurs
You've seen utility workers use them to climb poles and tree trimmers use them to climb trees so now you want to be one of those guys in the sky. Like anything, it takes practice and the right equipment. In the following steps, you'll find useful information to make your first attempt at strapping on a set of spurs and making your way to the tree tops.
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Instructions
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Use high top boots. Also make sure they have a solid heel. The boots holding up well can be the difference between a successful climb and total catastrophe.
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Rig up your climbing rope and attach it to yourself. Do this before putting on the spurs.
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Put your spurs on. At the bottom of the tree is where you want to do this. Spurs are made for climbing, not walking.
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Inspect the immediate climbing area. Check the tree trunk (as far up as you can see) for soft spots or thick, loose bark. Be certain there are no harmful insects or other critters that could make climbing dangerous.
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Wrap your safety line or harness around the tree. Clip it on yourself.
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Step up the tree. Make one step at a time using your strongest leg first. The stance should be slightly toward the face of the tree, not on exact opposite sides. Since you're new at this, don't keep climbing. Just stand on your spurs so you get used to the feel. You'll want to know how the angle of the spurs feel so that as you climb, you will be less apt to make too shallow of an entry. If the entry is not deep enough, the spurs will kick out and down you will go.
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Start climbing. Step up stabbing the spurs sharply but not multiple times on each foot. That will soften up the surface too much. As you go, keep your chest slightly off the tree. As you climb higher, the tree will get smaller. Adjust your safety line accordingly so you don't get too far away from the trunk.
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Practice. Do this near the base of the tree until you build confidence and become more comfortable standing on the spurs.
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Tips & Warnings
Always check your equipment for tears and cracks before climbing.
Keep your behind in line with your upper body.
Personal lessons are the best way to learn how to climb trees with spurs safely.
Do not walk around with your spurs on. You will rip your straps and possibly stab yourself in the calf.
Avoid standing in the crooks of limbs. If your Spur is in the tree and your foot wedges in the branch, you may not be able to free yourself.
Climbing anything can be dangerous and lead to serious injury or death.
Do not climb alone.
Resources
- Photo Credit http://www.wtsherrill.com/home.asp?idAtype=rec
