Vt prusik vs hollow block. 8 mm HollowBlock 2 loop is a friction hitch and autoblock that can be used as a prusik or Klemheist knot on ropes 7 mm or larger. Lastly, three wraps on a prusik (aka the “improved prusik”) is best practice on thinner ropes, or if you’re traversing an area on a single strand fixed line. Used to tie: Symmetric Prusik, Asymmetric Prusik (Schwabisch/Distal), Valdotain Tresse, French Prusik The VT performs well when used for ascending, self-belay while rappelling, as a traveling rope grab or in conjunction with a prusik minding pulley in haul systems. Ryan called me up asking if I had any VT Prusiks to do some testing with. This makes it useful in canyons for progress capture and applications where you need "on and off" fricition (e. g. The core in this kernmantle design keeps the VT from flattening and binding up. I was a bit concerned about this and started to discuss with another buddy Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. There exists confusion over the term “VT” because Bluewater Ropes sells their aramid eye to eye hitch cord as the “VT Prusik Cord”. The VT prussik is one of those methods that in my humble opinion, I believe is superior to many of the other methods out there such as autoblock and regular prussiks. The autoblock is a particularly popular rappel backup because it is very quick to set up. Scroll down to see the Animated Prusik Knot. What are the pros and cons of each? Why/when would I choose one over the other? Jul 11, 2025 · A prusik in rappelling is a motion-resistant knot designed to tighten up when weighted. If you have any questions about possible uses or anything else, ask it in the comments!! Edited by I use a hollow block and recently switched to vt prusik but we use back ups all the time in canyoneering and its helped out quite a few times! Here's rich Carlson's video on the vt prusik (he invented it) Aug 16, 2019 · The “VT prusik”, invented by canyoneering expert Rich Carlson, is increasingly popular with SAR teams and riggers. MBS: 13 KN Key Benefits • 100% Mar 7, 2025 · The 7mm VT Prusik was designed for use on smaller diameter ropes. It's gripping ability comes from the unique hollow-braid construction, for use as a prusik or Klemheist knot on Valdotain Tresse How to tie the Valdotain Tresse Knot. I was looking for the best, aka highest breaking strength friction hitch cordage to work with that. The HollowBlock will grip ropes from 7mm in diameter & upwards. The Technora® fiber material also provides increased abrasion Product Overview A bestselling friction hitch and autoblock has been redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber. Teams operating in remote environments with longer ingress/egress distances often favor lighter weight, multi-purpose systems and devices as Learn how to use the VT Prusik with this detailed step-by-step tutorial. Making Prusik Loops: Prusik loops may be constructed by joining together the two ends of an accessory cord (5 or 6 mm) using a Double Fisherman’s Bend (or a Triple Fisherman’s Bend). MBS: 13 KN Key Benefits • 100% May 19, 2011 · Overview Used as a friction hitch or auto block and able to grab onto rope efficiently when used as a rappel backup on ropes 7 mm or larger. Compared to the standard Prusik Knot, it offers a stronger grip with fewer wraps due to its asymmetrical design, making it ideal for high-tension systems. Learn the two key knots, some applications, and see a video on all the ways to use it. The 6. Among the different backup knots, the Prusik stands out for being easy to tie yet effective. We often get the question “how are sewn prusiks and slings measured? End to end or the total length of material?” The answer is end to end. The Hollow Block is a unique sewn prusik or climb heist made from our RIT Dec 17, 2015 · Both effectively do the same job, grip a rope as an auto bloc or an ascender. Farrimond Friction Hitch vs. Hi! During the past weekend we've done some multiplepitch and while rappelling I've noticed that a member of another party was using a standard 16mm nylon sling for the friction hitch for the back up. Alpine Butterfly vs. A solid black version of the 8mm VT for tactical and military applications. Made with aramid fiber and sewn with Sterling's proprietary sewing pattern, this ultra-strong cord is designed to provide excellent griping power on climbing ropes with diameters of 7mm or larger. Amazon. 8mm Endless Prusik Loop, 15" length, 25kN /5600Lbs, made of 100% Technora for increased durability and performance, 16-strands hollow braid offering power grip to main ropes, used to tie friction hitches, including prusik knot, autoblock, Klemheist knot in mountaineering, climbing, canyoneering, caving, rope rescue, tree care by Don’t use a sling for anything except a prusik after using it once as a prusik. Teams operating in remote environments with longer ingress/egress distances often favor lighter weight, multi-purpose systems and devices as The top 3 easy friction hitches, easy to learn, good to know and extremely handy. Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Wear and tear from friction means that climbers tend to keep a particular sling just for this purpose that can also be used in progress-capture in hauling systems or belay escapes. Most commonly, friction hitches function as a rope grab that you combine with a progress capture (which can also be a friction hitch) to create a hauling system. Uses: The principal use of a Prusik Knot is allowing a rope to be climbed – ascending or “ Prusiking “. Made with aramid fiber and sewn with Sterling’s proprietary sewing pattern, this ultra-strong cord is designed to provide excellent griping power on climbing ropes with diameters of 7mm or larger. Perfect Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. Built from Sterling's RIT 900 cord, the Hollow Block 6. If you’re double strand rappelling, two wraps is an adequate backup and will make your actual rappell more smooth, less choppy. 8 mm HollowBlock2 is made of 100% Technora® fiber for increased abrasion resistance and improved durability. Are there any reasons you would want the auto block below the device and only holding the brake strand instead of above it as a completely independent Apr 29, 2023 · The prusik knot and autoblock block are also commonly applied to haul injured or stuck climbers in rescue scenarios. Sep 21, 2020 · Back to oplux or rescue tech, that is 8mm rope. It slides when unweighted but locks under load, making it a reliable knot. Aug 17, 2019 · Meaning, a person could use a prusik or french prusik hitch for their autoblock? If that is the case in my testing the Hollowblock did not grab the Oplux at all using a french prusik no matter how many or few wraps I used. A Prusik that Grabs! The Sterling HollowBlock prusik loop is made from 100% super durable & heat resistant aramid fibre. I said, "yep, what size?" He responded, "there are different sizes?" I laughed and said, "yes, 7 and 8mm. g; prusiking up a wet or icy rope), it’s better to use two different types of friction hitch (and a full strength back-up, of course). Valdotain Tresse Knot Tying Instructions Make 4 wraps around main static rope with a hand tied or sewn prusik or spliced eye Symmetric Prusik, Asymmetric Prusik (Schwabisch/Distal), Valdotain Tresse, French Prusik The VT performs well when used for ascending, self-belay while rappelling, as a traveling rope grab, or in conjunction with a Prusik minding pulley in haul systems. Ideally have a carabiner hanging about chest level for the hitches and then the friction hitches with all your supplies on a table right next to you. It's gripping ability comes from the unique hollow-braid construction, for use as a prusik or Klemheist knot on ropes 7 mm or larger. It is popular with arborists. Jun 6, 2017 · Dakota, of Live Rogue, walks you through one way to rappel with a personal backup. 5 Jan 20, 2024 · was looking at the blue water vt prusik cord I have 9 mm canyon elite and they have 7 mm and 8 mm and they both say good for 9mm so which one will work better? I have some hollow bloch loops but really like to get some eye to eyes so I can tie some different prusiks and plus what chord works well if I decide to make my own eye to eyes? May 12, 2021 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. Feb 15, 2023 · Discover the difference between Autoblock and Prusik knots for climbing. Originally designed for canyoneering, the VT Prusik has applications in other rope-related disciplines as well, including tree climbing, rock climbing, mountaineering, caving, rappelling and technical rescue. Our primary curiosity was to assess the VT Prusik as an alternative to the Nylon Tandem Prusik Belay system (TPB). There is also a snippet that inserts the various VT prusiks that are included with vRigger. A computerized large gauge sewing machine is used to bar tack a devilishly strong stitch with our custom Technora thread. Use to tie: Symmetric Prusik, Asymmetric Prusik (Schwabisch/Distal), Valdotain Tresse, French Prusik The VT performs well when used for ascending, self-belay while rappelling, as a traveling rope grab, or in conjunction with a Prusik minding pulley in haul systems. - If using prusiks in conditions where they might fail (e. The auto block doesn't stop half as good as the prusik, so use a prusik! 😁Please like and subsc Cons: More complex to tie and adjust than the Prusik Knot. Jul 10, 2025 · The Prusik Knot (ABoK #1763) is a friction hitch used for climbing and rappelling. Use to tie: Symmetric Prusik, Asymmetric Prusik (Schwabisch/Distal), Valdotain Tresse, French Prusik The BlueWater VT performs well when used for ascending, self-belay while rappelling, as a traveling rope grab, or in conjunction with a prusik minding pulley in haul systems. Jun 1, 2016 · The Sterling HollowBlock is a handy tool for climbers and guides. Description Built from Sterling’s RIT 900 cord, the Hollow Block 6. I created the following guide to teach everything you have to know to use one. In this video I show how to tie a prusik and an auto- block. Hi guys and girls, I was wondering what width of prusik cord you all use to make yourself safe when setting up top ropes and… The BlueWater VT Prusik is a versatile open-end Prusik. A prussik knot is one of the easiest and most important knots that you can tie while rappelling. That led to Bluewater vt-prusik cordage and getting a custom length. If you’re not familiar, the HollowBlock is a unique hollow braid sewn-prusik cord made from aramid fibers and used for backing up rappels and lowers and performing load transfers. Sep 17, 2020 · I like the VT Prusik better, but they both function well for an autoblock imho. That being said, in the canyoneering community which I am far more involved with, almost everyone I know uses a VT Prusik. 8 mm HollowBlock’s gripping ability comes from its hollow braid cord construction composed of strong, durable aramid fibers. The VT is a versatile open-end prusik that can be used to tie: Symmetric Prusik Asymmetric Prusik (Schwabisch/Distal) Valdotain Tresse French Prusik Specifications The VT Prusik is a versatile open-end Prusik. So, a 1 foot sling would be made from 2 feet of 24 votes, 29 comments. The Hollow Block is a Type of friction hitch known for its compact design and increased friction capabilities. Overall length: 33″ BlueWater Ropes 7mm VT Prusik Khaki 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 VT knot is a prusik that moves easily when needed, but locks up when you taken your hand off of it. Pairs well with Hollow Block 2 Prusik Cord Sterling Rope from $32. " He said, "bring em both!" And then said, "would you be interested in doing a video about VT's?" So here we areI was introduced to the VT in a canyoning course I did with Rich Carlson and since then have seen the Our bestselling friction hitch and autoblock has been redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber. It’s possible this This rescue fundamentals series dives deep into basic technical rope rescue concepts to prepare for or supplement practical hands-on rope rescue technician t The Sterling Hollow Block is a great option for tying friction hitches due to its ability to bite rope and withstand abrasion and heat. The overwhelming top answer for why is that it is far easier to unweight without removing after it becomes weighted compared to a more classic prusik. Sterling … Jul 19, 2022 · 7mm VT Prusik in 4 over 1 asymmetric prusik config works well but it is not as quick to set up as a hollowblock. Durable, light, and better handling means extraordinary performance in all conditions. The 6. This thread/stitch combination Sep 6, 2017 · Also do note that there are some commercially available friction hitch loops or auto blocks like the Sterling Hollow Block or the BlueWater VT Prusik which are anecdotally known to perform better than the nylon cordage based prusik loops. Prusik Knot Pros: Creates a secure, load-bearing loop in the middle of a rope. Oct 25, 2022 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. The “VT”, Valdotain Tresse Knot is a friction knot used to ascend and descend on ropes. Tying them to your rope and attaching them to your harness will catch you in the event that you fall while rappelling. This specialty design features a tough, heat resistant Technora aramid sheath over durable nylon core strands. Looking into backups, really like the potential versatility of the Prusik for ascending and being able to have it above the belay device as well, but I've only actually seen the autoblock in person. Click on the link here to see the revised user instructions that come with the HollowBlock. There are many ways to do this, but this one we have found is redundant and makes our team happy and confident Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. The Sterling Hollow Block is a unique sewn prusik or climb heist made from our RIT 900 cord. The rule supposedly is that you want a friction hitch to be 3mm smaller than the diameter of rope you are trying to grab and to use 3 wraps. The unique hollow-braid construction gives it greatly increased gripping ability over traditional nylon cord when used for a prusik or klemheist knot on ropes that are 7mm in diameter or larger. A computerized large gauge sewing machine is used to bar tack a devilishly strong stitch with custom thread. Nylon Accessory Cord: Various lengths and diameters Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. Perhaps because the VT Prusik is such a simple, yet versatile tool. This The BlueWater 8 mm VT Prusik has a nylon core in an aramid sheath, making it an ideal climbing accessory for ascending, self-belaying when rappelling, or for use as a traveling rope grab. First, a hollow block is a type of cordage which is designed to bend really well and to maximize the surface area on the rope. A prusik has tons of different uses!! here is how 3 different versions of the same thing work. This hollow braid cord is made of 100% aramid fiber, giving it added strength, durability and gripping power on rope 7mm and larger. Cons: Less reliable for heavy loads or climbing compared to the Prusik Knot. com: vt prusik 8mmCheck each product page for other buying options. Learn how to use the VT Prusik with this detailed step-by-step tutorial. NewDoar 6mm (1/4") Prusik Cord Pre-Sewn 12KN/2700lb Aramid Auto Block Cord High Strength Prusik Arborist Rope for Outdoor Climbing Arborist Rescue Mountaineering-30cm/12''/1pc The Prusik knot and Klemheist knot for a rappel backup are both great choices, but there are some key differences to consider. VT Prusik for Rescue Belays – Abstract Rope rescue teams typically operate redundant two-rope systems with inclusion of a failsafe mechanism for fall arrest. Jun 27, 2019 · AMGA Certified Rock guide Elaina Arenz shares how to tie and when to use Autoblock, Kelmhiest, and Prusik friction hitches. We did a bunch I’m completely out of my element when it comes to ice climbing so there’s that disclaimer. Scroll to see Animated Valdotain Tresse Knot below the illustration and tying instructions. Other configs are probably faster and similar performance to the standard lazy hollowblock wrap, but I have not tested them. VT Prusik for Rescue Belays - Abstract Rope rescue teams typically operate redundant two-rope systems with inclusion of a fail- safe mechanism for fall arrest. Features of the HollowBlock2 prusik include:- Available in two lengths 34cm (13. 5in is designed to function as a pre-sewn prusik or climb heist. Redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber, the Sterling 6. The VT hitch knot-pass technique is described on p. Tie a Girth Hitch around the main rope. The BlueWater VT Prusik was designed in conjunction with Rich Carlson. Prusik Hitch Knot Tying Instructions Make a sling of cordage (no more than 1/2 the diameter of main rope). Features • 100% Technora The Prusik Knot is one of 23 essential rope knots included on the waterproof Pro-Knot Outdoor Knot Cards - click to see. 8 mm HollowBlock2 is made of 100% Technora® fiber for increased abrasion resistance and improved durability. The VT Prusik utilises the heat and cut resistance of Technora to produce a very strong, compact, light-weight, incredibly versatile tool that can be used in countless rigging and rescue scenarios. 8mm is designed to function as a pre-sewn prusik or climb heist. Jul 29, 2021 · This is great for a knot pass, but that's a pretty specialized use case, and for general purposes it hasn't replaced the lower-profile hollow-block my harness. Sep 26, 2020 · What is the best Rope material for making a prusik? Can we use Dyneema?In this episode I go over some rope materials and their properties to heat. If you don't like how the hollowblock has no core for strength/redundancy, its a good option. 7mm VT PRUSIK The 7mm VT Prusik was designed for use on smaller diameter ropes. It functions as a secondary safety measure and rappelling back up. It has a some big advantages over the traditional perlon cord prusik loop. Unless you do something horrible, a dyneema sling is suitable in a pinch, but shouldn't be your workhorse due to its poor shape for grabbing and concerns about melting. The prusik isn’t meant to take the weight of the climber, just enough to break the rappel while still relying on the rappel device, carabiner, belay loop to bear the weight. Webbing does not work well with a prusik, so if you’d like to use webbing, you should use either the autoblock or the kleimheist instead. If you don’t already have one, you will soon, once you watch this video and see all the things you can do with it. Learn about their features, pros and cons, and the best situations to use each one. AMGA Instructor Team Member Patrick Ormond explains how to tie the auto-block, prusik and Klemheist friction hitches. The prusik loop or prusik rappel backup is a standard, yet you might The VT performs well when used for ascending, self-belay while rappelling, as a traveling rope grab or in conjunction with a Prusik minding pulley in haul systems. 8mm x 13. They can slide freely up or do Description Our bestselling friction hitch and autoblock has been redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber. Revolutionary friction hitch and autoblock cord from Sterling. Our bestselling friction hitch and autoblock has been redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber. Aug 23, 2023 · In this illustrated guide, we teach you how to tie a Prusik Knot, explain what situations it's best used in, and cover its advantages and disadvantages. It consists of a small, sewn loop that is attached to the rope. Sterling Rope's 6. Purpose-made sewn prusik slings have been around for a while, but Sterling’s Hollowblock provides some unique features in Aug 11, 2017 · A prusik hitch is an invaluable tool when rock climbing, traveling across glaciers, climbing ropes, etc. From the 3 spiral wraps to the criss-crosses, I'll show you every technique. The materials on the VT Prusik are more heavy duty, but for all intents and purposes, the 18” loop from bluewater works just as well. Feb 7, 2019 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. It’s gripping ability comes from the unique hollow-braid construction, for use as a prusik or Klemheist knot on ropes 7 mm or larger. . Through a combination of laboratory style testing, human operated test scenarios, and anecdotal use The 6. Key Benefits • 100% Technora Construction Apr 26, 2019 · Smart climbers use a prusik, AutoBlock or klemheist hitch as a back-up when they rappel. Description Our bestselling friction hitch and autoblock has been redesigned with a stronger aramid fiber. Mar 27, 2022 · Lose that leg prusik! Did you learn in Climbing 101 to always carry a leg and a waist prusik loop so you can ascend a rope in a self rescue situation? Truth is, these are rarely needed, especially in rock climbing. Mar 14, 2023 · Your question was about using a hollow block vs a cord as a backup for a rappel (which is more accurate term than 'belay'). Usage The VT 6/1 Prusik, also known as the Asymmetrical Prusik, is a specialized friction hitch used in climbing and rescue to grip a rope for ascending, descending, or safety backup. May 15, 2023 · GM CLIMBING 6. Aug 17, 2019 · Sterling Rope :: Canyoneering Rope » Hollow Block Shop Sterling Ropes, maker of the highest quality Canyon Rope and most technically advanced Canyoneering Rope for over fifteen years. Jun 25, 2020 · Based on which length of hollow block you buy you will need a 3 or 4-wrap prusik and a stopper knot at the end. You will need access to both ends of a climbing rope for the knots, 2 meters of webbing, a Hollow Block, VT Prusik for the friction hitches. They are extremely strong & heat resistant (chars at 950 degrees). I review three of the more common options below in a long winded rant but threw in a few photos to keep you going. Examples include the MPD, 540° Rescue Belay, Petzl I’D, and Tandem Prusiks to name a few. Mar 19, 2024 · Valdotain Tresse vs Schwabisch vs Distel Hitches The contemporary popularity of eye-to-eye open prusik cords in rescue has raised the question about which hitch a team should use in their rescue systems. Here in Italy in Mountain courses they teach to only use kevlar cords for this purpose due to its higher melting point. However, there are a range of options when it comes to prusik material and of course each has its strengths and weaknesses. Key Benefits • 100% Technora Construction • Significant increase in durability and performance • Same function and grip as the original This file shows how to use the VT Prusik hitch and rope eyes to create a VT hitch. The hollow braid ‘rectangular’ profile & flat surface of the material allows it to grip wet or dry rope extremely well. Prusik Knot Pros: Excellent for adjustable tensioning, particularly on taut lines. Feb 22, 2020 · One final note on the prusik: We only recommend using cord - not - webbing when making this friction hitch. MBS: 13 KN Key Benefits • 100% Jun 23, 2015 · In 2013, Rigging for Rescue began testing the VT Prusik on the drop tower and the tensile testing machine in order to better understand the device qualities and performance limits. Friction hitches are a special type of knot. 386 (diagram 310) of AK's Down. passing a knot). They are typically not sheathed and made out of heat resistant and extremely strong fibers. The knot requires a “Prusik Loop”. A hollow block will last forever but they are $15-20. Perfect for self belays, passing knots on Nov 19, 2021 · Built from Sterling's RIT 900 cord, the Hollow Block 6. The most c The VT Prusik is a very versatile open-end Pruisk. Hollowblock2™ also meets a 10:1 safety factor for aerial rigging. Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. A better approach is to be more creative with multi-use gear you're already carrying. 95 CAD TanBlack Specifications for product Hollow Block 2 Prusik Cord General Info Ideal Use Alpine Climbing, Big Wall Climbing, Canyoning, Ice Climbing, Ski Touring, Sport Climbing, and Trad Climbing Materials Dyneema / Spectra / Aramid. A VT is easily released after being weighted, so there is no concern of it locking up when loaded with the full weight of the person (maybe a regular prusik would jam and be hard to release?). bnrbjz gwaiop degbmsd lxphxngf quzp scf zca ppnyuu mufdc wavrkas