Do you currently have a selection of web sites you frequent? If not I have acquired a few which deal with DRT and SRT climbing techniques, rigging formulas, ascending and descending tools, flip lines, redirects, friction hitches, split tails,closed eyes, lanyards, self tending friction hitches, rope specs and applications, loopie slings, whoopie slings, harnesses, gaffs and so much more. What all pertains to the schooling involved in being an certified arborists, is extensive.. So be careful when you use that word on the forums,,,for they become quite defensive.
As a personel note: An old oak of mine died a couple years back. Being 82" from the cornr of house and 182"from neighbors, above ground pool, cedar fence row, and storage shed, all in the way, led to a 5,000 bid on job. Figured I could buy equipment get on line and learn a little and tackle it myself. 24" dimeter oak has quite a large canopy, and all had to be sectioned and lowered to the ground by rope. Got this baby down to about a 25 ft. standing trunk,,,one section from being able to fell it when things went wrong. Bad rigging decision (inexperienced) led to 4 breaks between knee and ankle (2 tibia,,2 fibia)..Luckily I was able to lower myself with my "Blakes Hitch" and wait on EMT.Been healing since Dec. 13.
It can get rather hairy relying on new techiques as you try them for the first time. Best done at low altitudes until confident in your techniue. Would highly recommend joining these tree climbing groups (recreational) to build the confidence and skill level required to effeciently manuever. I`m just over 50 yrs. and wish I had found recreational tree climbing years ago, for I find it exhilerating, and may not be able to pursue it once healed. I second all thats said above,,paricularly proper pruining techniques and the cost effeciency involved. I`d be happy to help with any questions I might have the knowledge of. (limited)
