RIGGING SUPPLY YOU CAN DEPEND ON

Professional Tree Anchoring Equipment

Throw Weights & Throw Bags

Weighted bags used to propel throw lines over branches to establish initial anchor points. Essential for accessing the tree canopy before climbing.

Key Features:

• Various weights (8oz, 12oz, 16oz, 20oz) for different heights
• Durable construction withstands repeated throws
• Bright colors for visibility in canopy
• Streamlined shape for accurate throwing
• Attachment point for throw line
• Sand, steel shot, or lead-free fill

Weight Selection:

• 8-10oz: Lower branches, light throws, beginners
• 12-14oz: Medium height, general purpose, most common
• 16-20oz: Tall trees, windy conditions, experienced throwers

Throw Lines

Lightweight, slippery lines designed to be thrown over branches with throw weights, then used to pull climbing ropes into position.

Key Features:

• Slippery coating for easy branch passage
• High-visibility colors (often fluorescent)
• Lightweight for easy throwing
• Strong enough to pull climbing ropes
• Typical diameter: 1.75mm-2.2mm
• Common lengths: 150', 180', 200'
• Dyneema or similar high-strength fibers

Tree Slings & Anchor Straps

Webbing or rope slings that wrap around branches or trunks to create secure anchor points for climbing systems, rigging, or support.

Key Features:

• Wide webbing distributes load and protects bark
• High-strength rated for climbing and rigging loads
• Various lengths for different tree sizes
• Sewn eyes or continuous loops
• Durable materials resist abrasion
• Color-coded for easy identification

Common Types:

• Cambium Savers: Protect tree cambium from rope damage
• Anchor Slings: Create attachment points for rigging
• Whoopie Slings: Adjustable length rope slings
• Webbing Slings: Flat webbing for maximum tree protection

Rope Snaps & Quick Links

Hardware used to connect climbing ropes to anchor points, allowing quick attachment and detachment.

Key Features:

• Quick attachment to anchor slings
• Rated for climbing loads
• Easy to operate with gloves
• Durable construction
• Various sizes for different applications

Throw Line Storage & Accessories

Equipment for organizing, storing, and deploying throw lines efficiently.

Common Items:

• Throw Line Cubes: Collapsible storage prevents tangling
• Throw Line Bags: Portable storage and deployment
• Line Winders: Organize and store throw lines
• Throw Weights Pouches: Carry multiple weights

Basic Throw Line Technique

1. Select Target Branch: Choose a strong, healthy branch at desired height
2. Prepare Throw Line: Attach throw weight to throw line, ensure line is untangled
3. Throw Weight: Throw weight over target branch (underhand or overhand technique)
4. Retrieve Weight: Pull throw line until weight comes back down on other side
5. Attach Climbing Rope: Tie climbing rope to throw line
6. Pull Rope Into Position: Pull throw line to draw climbing rope over branch
7. Install Friction Saver: Optional - install friction saver for rope protection
8. Set Up Climbing System: Attach climbing system to rope and begin ascent

Anchor Point Selection

Choosing the right anchor point is critical for safety:

• Branch Health: Select healthy, living branches without defects
• Branch Size: Minimum diameter typically 8"-12" for climbing anchors
• Branch Angle: Avoid steep angles; horizontal or slightly upward is best
• Crotch Strength: Union should be strong with no included bark
• Height: High enough for work access, not unnecessarily high
• Multiple Points: Consider backup anchor points for critical operations

Key Considerations

• Tree Height: Taller trees require heavier throw weights and longer throw lines
• Frequency of Use: Professional daily use requires more durable equipment
• Skill Level: Beginners may prefer lighter throw weights for easier handling
• Application: Climbing vs. rigging requires different anchor strengths
• Tree Protection: Wide slings and cambium savers protect valuable trees
• Portability: Consider weight and bulk for carrying to job sites
• Visibility: Bright colors help locate equipment in dense canopy
• Durability: Quality equipment lasts longer and performs better

Safe Anchoring Practices

• Inspect Anchor Points: Visually assess branch health and strength before loading
• Test Before Loading: Apply gradual load to test anchor before committing full weight
• Backup Systems: Use redundant anchor points for critical operations
• Proper Equipment: Use rated equipment appropriate for your loads
• Regular Inspection: Check all anchoring equipment before each use
• Avoid Shock Loading: Apply loads gradually, never drop or jerk on anchors
• Tree Protection: Use wide slings and padding to protect tree cambium
• Weather Awareness: Avoid climbing in high winds or storms

Critical Safety Warnings

• Dead or Diseased Branches: Never anchor to dead, diseased, or damaged branches
• Minimum Size: Ensure branches meet minimum diameter requirements for your application
• Included Bark: Avoid crotches with included bark (weak unions)
• Load Ratings: Never exceed equipment working load limits
• Proper Training: Ensure climbers are trained in anchor assessment and selection
• Environmental Factors: Consider wind, ice, and other factors affecting anchor strength

Equipment Inspection

• Throw Weights: Check for tears, leaks, or damage to bag
• Throw Lines: Inspect for cuts, abrasion, or damage to coating
• Slings & Straps: Check webbing for cuts, abrasion, or stitching damage
• Hardware: Inspect snaps, carabiners, and links for damage or wear
• Storage Equipment: Ensure cubes, bags, and winders are in good condition

Retirement Criteria

• Throw weights with torn or leaking bags
• Throw lines with cuts, severe abrasion, or broken fibers
• Slings with cuts, abrasion, or damaged stitching
• Hardware that is bent, cracked, or malfunctioning
• Any equipment that has been shock loaded
• Equipment with unknown history or age
• Any doubt about equipment integrity

Care & Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean throw lines and slings with mild soap and water
• Drying: Dry completely before storage to prevent mildew
• Storage: Store in cool, dry location away from UV and chemicals
• Organization: Keep throw lines in cubes or bags to prevent tangling
• Throw Weight Care: Repair or replace damaged throw bags promptly
• Avoid Contamination: Keep away from oils, solvents, and chemicals

What weight throw bag should I use?

For most general tree climbing, 12-14oz throw weights are ideal. Use lighter weights (8-10oz) for lower branches, learning, or when precision is more important than distance. Use heavier weights (16-20oz) for tall trees, windy conditions, or when you need maximum throwing distance. Many arborists carry multiple weights for different situations.

How long should my throw line be?

Common lengths are 150', 180', and 200'. For most tree work, 180' is a good all-around choice. Longer lines (200'+) are useful for very tall trees but are heavier and more prone to tangling. Shorter lines (150') are lighter and easier to manage for average-height trees. Consider the typical tree heights you work in when selecting length.

What's the difference between a cambium saver and a friction saver?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically: cambium savers are slings that protect the tree's cambium layer from rope damage, while friction savers specifically reduce friction between the rope and tree using rings or pulleys. Modern friction savers serve both purposes - protecting the tree and reducing rope friction.

How do I prevent my throw line from tangling?

Use a throw line cube or bag for storage and deployment. These collapsible containers allow the line to pay out smoothly without tangling. When retrieving your throw line, feed it back into the cube in loose coils rather than tight wraps. Avoid storing throw lines in tight coils or bundles, which promotes tangling.

What's the minimum branch size for a climbing anchor?

General guidelines suggest minimum 8" diameter for recreational climbing and 10"-12" diameter for professional arborist work, but this varies based on tree species, branch health, and load. Always assess each branch individually considering species, health, angle, and union strength. When in doubt, choose a larger, stronger branch or consult with an experienced arborist.

Professional Tree Anchoring Equipment from US Rigging

US Rigging is a manufacturer and master distributor of climbing ropes, fall protection equipment, and industrial rigging equipment located in Santa Ana, California. With over 40 years of experience serving arborists, tree care professionals, and recreational climbers, we offer comprehensive tree anchoring solutions from throw weights and throw lines to cambium savers and anchor slings.

Our tree anchoring collection includes throw weights in various sizes, high-visibility throw lines, durable tree slings and anchor straps, friction savers, and all the accessories needed for efficient anchor installation. Whether you're a professional arborist setting anchors daily, a recreational climber exploring the canopy, or a tree care company outfitting your crew, we have the quality equipment and expertise to ensure secure, reliable anchor points in any tree.

Browse our tree anchoring equipment selection and contact our knowledgeable team for expert guidance. Trust US Rigging for professional-grade anchoring solutions that provide secure access to the tree canopy.