-
Mechanical ascenders are a simple way to ascend a rope quickly. Following the instructions outlined by the manufacturer, simply clip them to the rope, one above the other.
Prusik knotting is a bit more involved. It is often easier to carry a light, tied loop of 6 to 7mm cord on a harness rather than two heavy mechanical ascenders. To make the prusik knot, tie the two ends of 25 to 50 inches of cord together to create a loop of cord. You need to have a thorough understanding of climbing knots before you attempt to do this. Next, hold the loop of cord behind a rope that is hanging and anchored above. Then, utilizing the knotted end, wrap the loop around the hanging rope three to four times. Make sure you are wrapping the knotted end within the loop of rope. Finally, cinch the knot down by pulling the knotted end through the other end of the loop cord. Repeat this process again for the second knot, placing it below the first. -
The next step in ascending ropes is the utilization of locking carabiners to attach your mechanical ascenders or friction knots to etriers (ladder-like devices used by climbers to stay upright while ascending a rope). Locking carabiners are important to use because you want to make sure that the gate of the carabiner won't open if (really when) something hits it. Locking carabiners will keep you secure to the etriers. For added safety, you will also need to connect a sewn or tied loop of webbing from the locking carabiners to your harness. Once attached, you can take advantage of your mechanical ascenders or friction knots.
The etriers also must be attached to the person ascending the rope. The person ascending must have a proper and safe climbing harness that is connected the etriers with a piece of sewn or tied webbing. There are various ways to connect the webbing to the harness. A locking carabiner can either be attached to the belay loops and leg loops of the harness, or the sewn webbing can be girth hitched to the harness. The other end of the sewn webbing should then be attached to the locking carabiners on the etriers. -
When ascending the rope, you must step into the bottom etrier in order to release pressure from the upper etrier and knot/mechanical ascender. You can then push that upper knot/mechanical ascender up the rope. Then, unweight the upper knot/mechanical ascender and push the lower knot/mechanical ascender up the rope.
Climbing webbing can be used in place of 6 to 7mm cord, but it is not recommended for frequent use because the webbing can burn with frequent friction is created by it rubbing against the rope.
