Rack alternative for long drops?
Posted: Mar 7, 2012 8:29 pm
This seems to be a tricky question, but is there a alternative device for rappelling long drops? (As in 400+ feet)
My buddies and I have had this discussion a few times but never really got a sure answer. We've looked at professional devices, SRTE for example and other devices some upward of $500. The companies that were contacted, either had no idea of the limitations of their device (probably an employee issue) or were not willing to say; "Sure it will work for x amount of feet".
Looks like the scarab may be an alternative? Seems to work in their tests but that's a very slow rappel, also makes me wonder if you'll be pulling yourself down at the top of a big drop due to rope weight.
Not that I am personally looking for an alternative, I am perfectly happy and comfortable with my 18" rack, just seeing what other peoples experiences are.
My buddies and I have had this discussion a few times but never really got a sure answer. We've looked at professional devices, SRTE for example and other devices some upward of $500. The companies that were contacted, either had no idea of the limitations of their device (probably an employee issue) or were not willing to say; "Sure it will work for x amount of feet".
Looks like the scarab may be an alternative? Seems to work in their tests but that's a very slow rappel, also makes me wonder if you'll be pulling yourself down at the top of a big drop due to rope weight.
Not that I am personally looking for an alternative, I am perfectly happy and comfortable with my 18" rack, just seeing what other peoples experiences are.