Directional Figure 8  The Directional 8 or in line 8 is one of several knots in the family of eights. It is tied in the middle of a line for an attachment point intended to bear a load that is unidirectional [in line with the direction of pull]. Check out the step by step photos...

Fall is in the air and what better way to spend a week than playing with ropes in a technical rope training  on Donner summit. With the King fire looming close at hand at rapidly growing, we had some interesting weather patterns. This group of ski patrollers, fire-fighters, and coast guard swimmers did not shy...

The Purcell Prusik System A set of Purcell Prusiks is one of the handiest tools available to the rescuer. It has multiple uses, the primary one being to serve as an ascending/descending means. The Purcell Prusik System is only one of many types of ascending/descending systems, but is probably the most versatile, lightest in weight,...

Edge protection is a huge issue that affects technical rope rescuers in a steep to vertical environment.  One of the rescue tools that has become popular in the past few years is the rescue tripod.  These are specially engineered to withstand forces applied by a rescue load going over the edge.  However, these tripods are...