Extremeophile wrote:I think I'm starting to see the next step in descender evolution. First was the 6-bar rack with no hyperbar, then the 4-bar micro-rack with 1 or 2 hyperbars, then the Scarab with 1-bar and 4 hyperbars. The next thing is obviously the all hyperbar device.
This device gave me the bright idea to try and rappel on a necktie hanger. It didn't work. The metal bent too easily. So I moved on to other assorted stuff lying around the house. I was able to successfully descend 20' from my tree branch with the following items:
Catchers Mask - Using the mitt on the brake hand didn't work very well though.
Coffee Cup - Obviously with the handle rigged in ATC style. Very scary
Deer Skull with Antlers - The connection point of the device (
foramen ovale) disintegrated as I reached the ground.
Wire Clothes Hanger - Doesn't dissipate heat very well
Electric Guitar - Pros: I got a smooth, easily controlled ride out of this one. Was able to tap out Hey Hey, My My with the left hand on the way down. Cons: It's a tad bulky, especially if you're carrying an amp.
Cow Pelvis - Sharp edges did some damage to the rope. Happily I was using a junk rope. Very ungainly.
Also, I was able to frog the same distance using a baseball bat and donut weight as the upper ascender.
This was a rather entertaining way to waste the better part of an evening, and I think it makes, to a
very small degree, a point relevant to this burst of back and forth about descenders. That point, I think, is: It doesn't matter what descender you use. If you are happy with a Simple or Stop or 8 or Rack or Stratocaster, use it. I don't know why experienced climbers feel the need to inform
each other why their way is better. Of course I view descending and ascending rope as a means of transport, not as a hobby ipso facto. I'm happy if I get in and out alive.