How to Make Tree Climbing Spikes
For the easiest way to climb a tree, consider a set of tree spikes that allow you to climb like a bear. Strapped to the lower legs, tree spikes have metal projecting out from the inside of a booted leg that penetrates the bark and inner layers of pulp. This allows the user to support weight on each penetrated spike and leg as they ascend to the desired height. Utilizing these tools can eliminate dangerous climbing situation where there is no support from contact with the tree that is being climbed.
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Things You'll Need
- 10-foot ¾ steel rod
- 2-foot ¼ steel rod
- Acetylene torch
- 4 6-by-24-inch rawhide leather
- Leather thread and needle
- 2-by-6-foot rawhide leather
- Electric grinder
- Electric welder
Instructions
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1
Measure the length of your lower leg, and the width of the two areas which will be attached to the spikes using the 2-inch rawhide leather straps. This will allow you to proper construct the leather portions of the apparatus. Mark these measurements on a sheet for future reference.
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2
Cut two pieces of ¾-inch steel rod into matching lengths 14 inches longer than the lower leg measurement. Using the electric grinder, grind one tip on each steel rod to a fine point. After grinding is completed, beware of the points at all times to prevent any injury.
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3
Use the acetylene torch to make two 90-degree bends in the rod. One bend will be placed at the length of steel rod that cradles under a booted foot, and extends under the foot towards the inside. Another 90-degree bend, and ends in a loop, with the pointed end extending inside of the foot. The pointed end should be curved enough and at the right angle to be easily inserted into the tree when climbing. The bends and curves of the steel rod will place the pointed end at an advantageous position for use in tree climbing.
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4
Shape 4 loops of ¼-inch steel rod and weld them to the shaped rods at locations where the leather straps will be places around the ankle, and above the calf muscle, below the knee. It is important to place these attachment rings properly so as not to affect long term use.
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5
Stitch together 2 6-by-24-inch rawhide leather pieces and 2 2-inch straps of leather to construct a double-ply sheet and strap adapter to be used to protect the inner leg and to attach the apparatus to the lower leg. The straps and leather should go through the loops of the attachments welded to the climbing pikes, while the leather sheet will go in-between the leg and the steel rod.
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Tips & Warnings
These spikes are to be used with care, and do not match some of the high-grade equipment manufactured by professionals.
