If there's one thing I didn't appreciate enough while in, it was learning things like repelling while overseas in the pacific jungles. I was lead repel, carried the rope and was in charge of setting up the rigs. 6 years out and just now I'm researching and buying the gear to get back into it.
Love this channel. It’s completely changed my mindset and outlook on life. After I was hit by a reckless driver and was stuck on the side of the road for hours I felt like sucking my thumb and waiting for a miracle. Not anymore, I’ve got the tools and got some training (although I’ve still got ALOT to learn) so thankyou Karl and everyone at Tactical Rifleman for prepping my mind for these scenarios and helping me be a better shooter/adventurer/human being
Karl, you don’t just continually provide good info... you’re also quite an enjoyable character! Thanks for the content, and thanks for your singular personality! Another great video! 👍🏻👍🏻
@@f308gtb1977 Karl and Instructor Zee are awesome, the Rock Castle facility is great, and it is always enriching to spend time with like-minded people. I've done a fair amount of training, and theirs is buttoned up better than any other I've been to. I will be going back.
@FOAML8X 82 huh? I got that left nut crushed in 78. Sad part is that it wasn't a jump but in that Gd'ed mockup to have the picture taken. Feels like a lifetime ago but if I dwell on it long enough it still hurts!
I watch a lot of TH-cam channels and there are a lot of good content and TH-cam personalities but I’ve honestly watched a lot of Tactical Rifleman lately, mostly of Karl and this is by far the best content in my opinion, simple, to the point but with a sense of humor.
its been several years since my last class on rappelling, BUT its always that first step out that gets your mind thinking "Am I sure I done everything right" LOL the last class was rescue others from their mistakes!! being in the basket being lowered down by others with no control on my part was a true test of faith!!! im still here to talk bout it tho!!!LOL thank you for the great videos!!
I've done plenty of rock climbing and caving but I learnt something new watching this vid, I always do with this channel. outstanding guys thanks yet again ! P.S. having caught my junk in the seat harness while caving I know what your talking about Karl lol
Hey Guys - love the channel, and I promise I'm not trying to troll here, but I want anyone potentially experimenting after watching this video (and Carl) to be safe. Knowing what correct rappelling looks like, this does not look correct to me. Carl passes his bight up through the hole in the figure-8 from the bottom. That means, when connected to his harness, he has to lift up to brake (increasing the wrap of the rope - and the resulting friction - on the figure-8) and push down to release the friction and increase his descent rate. That's the opposite of what you want. Pass the bight down through the hole in the figure-8, then complete the connection the way he shows it. That makes down your braking direction and up your release direction. Down is always supposed to be your brake. First, which one can you do more of, pushups or pullups? You don't want your arm to fatigue to the point that you can't brake anymore. Second, you have a much greater range of motion pushing down/forward if you need to brake harder, while you're extremely limited in how far you can pull a rope up behind your lower back (you will need a LOT more brake force if you're rappelling with a pack on than you would without a pack). Third, a "down" brake means you can wrap the free end of the rope around your leg to lock your brake in place and free your hands to do other things (help an injured or stuck person, sort out a gear issue that's interfering with your rappel, or rest if you're tired or injured and can't reach the bottom in one single move). If you're going to experiment with this after just watching a video (which I'm not recommending), I beg you to test it on a gentle slope to compare an "up" brake with a "down" brake before you get into anything even close to vertical. With a proper set-up, you won't need the second wrap of the rope around the figure-8 to control your speed - the brake will work much more powerfully if it's set up correctly. Stay safe!
This should be pinned at the top. Thank you, as this is also how I was taught. I remember using the leg brake to rest option intentionally, in case I was ever on the Rockies (I live at the base of the Tetons) and needed to extend my endurance. Good old scouting. We also were taught the same method in my rock climbing course held at the local public facility.
Gents, I was taught both techniques, up and down, and both have merit. We used "from below" while we were training CQB, as we could quickly lock in by running the rope behind our back and running OVER the top of the exposed head of the figure-8. THis allowed us hands-free for placing charges on windows. As for the "Second Wrap" I never use it with regular rope, but wanted to ensure it was included because we have some subscribers that are rather large/heavy. I have had to use the second wrap, with body armor & Quicki-Saw on my back. Again, not saying what Stephen is saying is wrong, and if any viewer is reading this reply, understand BOTH ways work, however your technique for braking and locking are slightly different. Thanks for watching, TR
I highly recommend joining a local cave grotto if there are any in your area. You will have access to 'vertical practice' for free. Of course if there are public climbing wall gyms (some YMCA's also have climbing walls ) that works as well. Regarding field expedient methods of anchoring, I know of some guys who have even used sage brush. Sounds crazy, but it worked, they used up about 30 to 40 feet of rope running around the base of a bunch of brush.
I'll never forget a vietnam era green beret master sgt. in jungle boots and camo yelling in my year "Get OFF my tower Schlageter" as I hesitated in ROTC before an australian rappel back in 1980. :) Then the sinking feeling after getting off the ropes at the bottom hearing "get up here and do it again" :(
between the Marine Corps, and the SWAT team I used to repeal a lot. Haven't done it in years my friend. Fun watching you though keep up the great work.
Someone mentioned rappelling with a riggers belt. I definitely wouldn't use one alone. I carry arc'teryx leg loops when needed. Easily fits in a pocket and combined with an appropriate riggers belt makes a great seat. I am no pro, but it seems to work well and is very expedient. I have heard some horror stories about people just using belts. Ripped right through their belt loops and slid into the armpits. No fun.
5:30 read about suspension trauma. Also dyneema is as slippery as teflon, sounds really sketchy to control. and all of these fibers cut about the same under tension. Glad to hear you recommending training at the end.
I agree 100%. Again, this is only a skill to have Incase you need to Rappel in an emergency situation. If I think I might even have to Rappel, I’ll bring my actual rappel gear. This is just a technique to keep in your mental toolbox. Thanks for watching, TR
@@TacticalRifleman I subscribe to it and share your videos in the militia and preppers groups I am in. You are a good teacher. Explain things clearly and appreciate that.
Awesome vid! I totally bombed the cliff phase at Sapper I'm so afraid of hieghts... Sure jumping out of planes I kinda got over but man my legs just shook and shook couldn't control them, I made it down the cliff but not without getting major minuses for messing stuff up! I'm gonna work to get over it and try again this year
Definitely like the problem solving focus of this video and always good to have extra tools in the tool kit. Re the choice of gear you need to be super careful about abseiling on straight dyneema cord, as you pointed out it clearly isn't rated for the application but the most concerning thing is the lack of heat resistance. Very interesting to watch you using the 3mm dyneema and it worked better than I would expect however it's ridiculously dangerous because heat build up on your descender could easily melt right through it. If you want the lightest abseil setup best to look for cravasse rescue rope or fire fighting bail out rope. Lots of dyneema cored rope rated for abseiling there. If you're determined to use something lighter than what is available that is rated for abseiling I would sooner use a climbing specific accessory cord because at least it has a proper sheath and heat resistance. Not trying to be negative, it's a great video and a fascinating topic, just would hate for someone to come unstuck not realising that there's a lot more to rope selection than just breaking strength. For anyone keen to learn more about the lightest ways to descend safely the book 'Down' by Andy Kirkpatrick and/or pretty much anything on alpine caving techniques would be good options outside of seeking actual training.
1/2 inch 6 or 8 feet of nylon rope for a Swiss Seat like the way they taught it in Air Assault School in the old days. I still have the old military issue snap links which we carried always in the field.
Another pointer for rappelling off a cliff is to tie the end of the rope so when you chuck it off, you have no chance of rappelling OFF the rope (and fall).
Remember, this is only for emergency Rappels in expedient situations. It is not comfortable at all. However, it will get you down the cliff every time. Thanks for watching, TR
Improvised harness sucks for your balls, learned that hard way LOL. been carrying custom made rigger belt with leg loops since that accident :) . though im thinking of buying at least 100ft of that amsteel. its pain in the ass to carry 100ft of climbing rope EDC...
"Using hooks from the shower curtain....bedsheets" LOL Btw, start with the large hole clipped onto the carabiner so you'll never lose it. Have fun and stay safe.
Sometimes called a diaper or hasty harness , there are a few variations on it. Works well tubular webbing too, which you can also use to move a casualty in several different ways.
Great video. Which is better in high heat situations? Let's say there's an earthquake, or a fire, shtf scenario, and I'm stuck in an urban structure like a three or four story building. Like if I had to use 100 feet of __mm cordage (Spectra Line, amsteel, paracord, paramax, dynaglide dyneema, kevlar, ??) to rappel out of a burning building in an absolute emergency, what would be the best, 2nd and 3rd choice that will hold up against heat, that had been sitting in a bug out / get home bag the last year?🤔 And which mm of Spectra do you recommend?
I know this is a year old but when your figure 8 hit that rock I cringed 😬. You can usually get those X-Ray’d at your local hospital at no charge for police fire ems and rescue to make sure there’s no fractures. I love rappelling! Great video brother! Wtg Chad from filming half way down!
Ah, YESSIREE! I remember the Good Old Days bouncing off of mountain sides. Of course that was well before the advent of dedicated dome protection so, Yeah, that tells you I'm an old Fu*k, doesn't it?!? LMAO Some of the best times in my younger, Bullet Proof, (??) Days. Back when Boo Boo's healed seemingly overnight. NOT like nowadays when it takes weeks or months. Cheese and RICE! Aw, to be young, dumb and full of Cu*m again! Take Care, Be Safe and.... Overnout
@FOAML8X I remember those days! Bloody nose, tongue bitten and a swollen bump as a reminder to do it right next time (nobody really knew what a concussion was anyway)... and you would hear SUCK IT UP AND KEEP MOVING!!!
You need either ring and lanyard or to loop the rope over to retrieve your anchor. Figure 8s work but using a GriGri will auto brake if your hand slips.
Mostly agreed. Remember that grigris are good for one strand only and the issue with them is that they let you go faster if you panic and pull harder. The perzl ID will lock out. I usually recommend a prussik when using an 8, munter, ATC so you have a backup. It's shown here: th-cam.com/video/RVoze1IpdVI/w-d-xo.html
Ok clearly that tree held you with no issue. Just a note when I took my anchoring class we were told to avoid trees that were rotting. That tree seemed a bit sketch at the base .
Carl as a guy who has rappelled many miles you are potentially exposing the anchor carabiner to side loading and it is not designed for that. Is it good to go? Probably. But it is improper. A running bowline or figure eight of some type is a much better option and can be retrievable as well. Love it though. Amsteel is the bees knees for sure.
On a slow rap it shouldn't be a problem but fall factor or dynamic drops could cause it to fail. A good biner is rated for 7-10kN cross loaded. More than strong enough I'd guess.
when I went to encampment, (boot camp for teens) we got to rappell off a 75 foot tower. one guy in my flight somehow flipped all the way upside down and had to go down that way 😂
I do not want to knock you as you may have never been well trained and therefor do not know. But this video is better to show you everything not to do to stay alive. I rescue many people per year form accidents such as this video and most said they learned tips from youtube. You dropped your aluminum Rescue 8 (Not D-Ring or Figure 8 as stated in video) You used no edge protection (Leading cause for all on rope accidents is rope cut or broke at edge) You never tie an overhand in line to mark the middle as it reduces the overall strength by 71% Never use rings from shower curtains in place of a carabiner, they are made from pot-metal or plastic You should always tip your carabiner down so vibration screws it closed People often rappel off the end of a rope when it is just doubled, one side will move faster than the other making you run off of one end before reaching the bottom or the other end of the rope. Always tie a knot in the bottom large enough to not pass through the rescue 8. Two anchor points should be used for basic rappels A minimum of 5000 pound tinsel strength is needed for the basic rappel line. If you do not have a belayer, you should have a mechanical belayer or prusik to act as your belayer.
Always. A length of rope and 2 carabiners should do it, minimalist style. Now if I'm caught in a rap battle then I ALWAYS carry full Biggie Kit with Motown molle setup.
Hey there I’m looking at throwing together an emergency rappel kit consisting of just a rope, a carabiner, and a rappel ring. Trying to keep it as small as possible so if I ever do fall into a situation I’m more likely to have it. I can’t seem to find any videos of people using a rappel ring leaning against a carabiner, most videos of people using a figure 8 rappel device. Could you possibly make a video on rappelling with a rappel ring or bare minimum materials
Karl. what do you think of using a rigger's belt to rappel with? If I didn't have my harness I would probably use it, although it's quite possible the belt loops would give out and I'd be wearing it like an inner tube, along with sporting a nice rope rash. : (
Several companies make leg straps that will slide on to a regular Rigger Belt. I have a set, but have never carried them outside of testing. THey work great, but I just carry too much crap as it is. A high quality Rigger Belt WILL hold you. A crap Korean copy will NOT hold you. I like my "Loop Seat" as it will always be there for me. TR
Karl when I learned to abseil they taught us how to go down backwards but also front first. I could never really understand why, just meant I could see exactly when I was going to face plant (needless to say I wasn’t great at it). Is there a time or instance you’d actually choose to or need to go down front first or no?
In the US, we actually call that an “Aussie” Rappel. The Aussie rappel is great for speed and when you are running down the side of the hill/cliff/building. It allows you a better view to what is in front/below you. Conversely, the standard rappel method allows you to face where the rope gear connect, in case you have an issue, allows for adjustments such as using Accenders, and keeps your head higher above your heart. I like to Aussie off a good open tower, but I would use it on a jagged cliff. Thanks for watching and your continued patronage.
Lots of companies make rappel seats. I have never personally used a Blackhawk rappel seat. However, as all their gear is now made by the lowest bidder, I wont be using any of their "life-support" gear.
Sorry brother. Many of the links posted in past videos are either no longer active or incorrect. However, please note that I have over 300 videos and there is no way that I can keep all links in all videos current. If I didn’t put links in new videos, people would bitch. Again, sorry about the incorrect link.
@@TacticalRifleman No worries Superman. I actually tried this today and that spectra line is slick as hell! Had to take three wraps on a rescue descender just to do some 65° slope and killer 2’ drops.
Which technique are you talking about? I know several “body rappels” but don’t really like any of them for vertical cliffs when wearing a rucksack. Again, curious which technique you are talking about. TR
You just suck it up and deal with the itch. Really though, there are products that you can coat your skin with ahead of time. Best thing is to wash with a degreaser (like Dawn) immediately after exposure to get as much of the oil off of your skin as possible. There are catabolic steroid shots and pills that give temp treatment, but as soon as the steroid wears off you bumps literally pop right back up. Also, the steroids are super bad for you. Best bet, just use anger from the inside to beat the pain back. Thanks for watching, TR
@@TacticalRifleman I know this comment is a bit old, but for me a Tide pen lives in my boo-boo bag for this exact purpose. Real easy to carry, use the pen on the affected area and flush thoroughly (and carefully, dont just spread it) with water. Not perfect, but seems to improve outcomes. Only problem is that you need the water to properly use it, since the anionic surfactant (the actual detergent component) needs water to be effective
How about type 4 750lb paracord? Would that be suitable? I know you brought up 550 because it's by far the most common, but if I have my 750 on me, would you recommend that?
Nope. Even a slow static rappel has jerky motions that can really increase the dynamic load 10 fold. Maybe one time in a life or death emergency, but not to be brought for deliberate use. My personal opinion. Thanks for watching, TR
"You don't need to do any crazy, crazy repelling... unless you want to." *cowabunga it is*
"dont try this at home kids!! I'm a retired professional!!"
That had me laughing
If there's one thing I didn't appreciate enough while in, it was learning things like repelling while overseas in the pacific jungles. I was lead repel, carried the rope and was in charge of setting up the rigs.
6 years out and just now I'm researching and buying the gear to get back into it.
Love this channel. It’s completely changed my mindset and outlook on life. After I was hit by a reckless driver and was stuck on the side of the road for hours I felt like sucking my thumb and waiting for a miracle. Not anymore, I’ve got the tools and got some training (although I’ve still got ALOT to learn) so thankyou Karl and everyone at Tactical Rifleman for prepping my mind for these scenarios and helping me be a better shooter/adventurer/human being
Karl, you don’t just continually provide good info... you’re also quite an enjoyable character!
Thanks for the content, and thanks for your singular personality! Another great video!
👍🏻👍🏻
He's even better live. Truly a great instructor.
Curt White, good to know, thanks! I intend to get out there some time, it’s only 4 or 5 hrs. for me.
@@f308gtb1977 Karl and Instructor Zee are awesome, the Rock Castle facility is great, and it is always enriching to spend time with like-minded people. I've done a fair amount of training, and theirs is buttoned up better than any other I've been to. I will be going back.
Curt White, awesome 👍🏻
I almost forgot about that one ball caught in the harness leg strap!😫Thanks Karl.
@FOAML8X 82 huh? I got that left nut crushed in 78. Sad part is that it wasn't a jump but in that Gd'ed mockup to have the picture taken. Feels like a lifetime ago but if I dwell on it long enough it still hurts!
Dog: yeah, sure you did!?!
Here's your 1 year reminder lol
@@ghostanime84 Lmao
@@dogpatch1826 annual reminder.
I watch a lot of TH-cam channels and there are a lot of good content and TH-cam personalities but I’ve honestly watched a lot of Tactical Rifleman lately, mostly of Karl and this is by far the best content in my opinion, simple, to the point but with a sense of humor.
Thanks for the support. We put out a new video every Friday, and have started doing a Live Stream Video every Tuesday. TR
A Marine can execute the same maneuver using dental floss and a keyring.
Great for them, they can also eat crayons
And their boyfriends under wear.
@@jscarpa2002 lol good one.
Don’t doubt it.
Yes, ensuring job stability for a Corpsman eager to give him a silver bullet.
its been several years since my last class on rappelling, BUT its always that first step out that gets your mind thinking "Am I sure I done everything right" LOL the last class was rescue others from their mistakes!! being in the basket being lowered down by others with no control on my part was a true test of faith!!! im still here to talk bout it tho!!!LOL thank you for the great videos!!
Thanks for watching, TR
I've done plenty of rock climbing and caving but I learnt something new watching this vid, I always do with this channel. outstanding guys thanks yet again ! P.S. having caught my junk in the seat harness while caving I know what your talking about Karl lol
Thanks for watching, TR
Just remember no matter who you are “ Survival is in your heart, so always be prepared” Cpt. Arma
Yea nice video Carl, truly a necessary skill to have. Thanks again.
Hey Guys - love the channel, and I promise I'm not trying to troll here, but I want anyone potentially experimenting after watching this video (and Carl) to be safe. Knowing what correct rappelling looks like, this does not look correct to me. Carl passes his bight up through the hole in the figure-8 from the bottom. That means, when connected to his harness, he has to lift up to brake (increasing the wrap of the rope - and the resulting friction - on the figure-8) and push down to release the friction and increase his descent rate. That's the opposite of what you want. Pass the bight down through the hole in the figure-8, then complete the connection the way he shows it. That makes down your braking direction and up your release direction. Down is always supposed to be your brake. First, which one can you do more of, pushups or pullups? You don't want your arm to fatigue to the point that you can't brake anymore. Second, you have a much greater range of motion pushing down/forward if you need to brake harder, while you're extremely limited in how far you can pull a rope up behind your lower back (you will need a LOT more brake force if you're rappelling with a pack on than you would without a pack). Third, a "down" brake means you can wrap the free end of the rope around your leg to lock your brake in place and free your hands to do other things (help an injured or stuck person, sort out a gear issue that's interfering with your rappel, or rest if you're tired or injured and can't reach the bottom in one single move). If you're going to experiment with this after just watching a video (which I'm not recommending), I beg you to test it on a gentle slope to compare an "up" brake with a "down" brake before you get into anything even close to vertical. With a proper set-up, you won't need the second wrap of the rope around the figure-8 to control your speed - the brake will work much more powerfully if it's set up correctly. Stay safe!
This should be pinned at the top. Thank you, as this is also how I was taught. I remember using the leg brake to rest option intentionally, in case I was ever on the Rockies (I live at the base of the Tetons) and needed to extend my endurance. Good old scouting. We also were taught the same method in my rock climbing course held at the local public facility.
Gents, I was taught both techniques, up and down, and both have merit. We used "from below" while we were training CQB, as we could quickly lock in by running the rope behind our back and running OVER the top of the exposed head of the figure-8. THis allowed us hands-free for placing charges on windows. As for the "Second Wrap" I never use it with regular rope, but wanted to ensure it was included because we have some subscribers that are rather large/heavy. I have had to use the second wrap, with body armor & Quicki-Saw on my back. Again, not saying what Stephen is saying is wrong, and if any viewer is reading this reply, understand BOTH ways work, however your technique for braking and locking are slightly different. Thanks for watching, TR
I highly recommend joining a local cave grotto if there are any in your area. You will have access to 'vertical practice' for free. Of course if there are public climbing wall gyms (some YMCA's also have climbing walls ) that works as well. Regarding field expedient methods of anchoring, I know of some guys who have even used sage brush. Sounds crazy, but it worked, they used up about 30 to 40 feet of rope running around the base of a bunch of brush.
I'll never forget a vietnam era green beret master sgt. in jungle boots and camo yelling in my year "Get OFF my tower Schlageter" as I hesitated in ROTC before an australian rappel back in 1980. :) Then the sinking feeling after getting off the ropes at the bottom hearing "get up here and do it again" :(
Funny shit right there. Thanks for sharing.TR
Air Assault School at Ft. Campbell "86. Can still tie a Swiss Seat. Very good information Sir. Safety first but do what a gotta do!
Thanks for watching, and thank you for your service, TR.
Simply OUTSTANDING Carl !!
Another excellent video. Not sure why people actually give it a thumbs down
They just want fast gun pew pew.
Danged internet ninjas! Leave Carl alone! He does know what he's doing.
Yeah! He's fully prepared to do it dynamic plf when he hits the end of the rope!
Ah man, Carl, I had that ball incident in jump school. I learned quickly after that!
between the Marine Corps, and the SWAT team I used to repeal a lot. Haven't done it in years my friend. Fun watching you though keep up the great work.
Thanks for watching
Great video guys! I always look forward to hearing that bell on fridays!!
Thanks for subscribing, TR
Awesome stuff. Think I'm going to do some repelling in Kentucky next week. Good inspiration. Thanks for sharing, keep up the good work!
Thanks for watching, TR
Someone mentioned rappelling with a riggers belt. I definitely wouldn't use one alone. I carry arc'teryx leg loops when needed. Easily fits in a pocket and combined with an appropriate riggers belt makes a great seat. I am no pro, but it seems to work well and is very expedient. I have heard some horror stories about people just using belts. Ripped right through their belt loops and slid into the armpits. No fun.
Agreed 100%. I have a set of similar leg straps made by ATS.
Best channel on the "Tube" by far.
Thanks for watching
5:30 read about suspension trauma. Also dyneema is as slippery as teflon, sounds really sketchy to control. and all of these fibers cut about the same under tension. Glad to hear you recommending training at the end.
I agree 100%. Again, this is only a skill to have Incase you need to Rappel in an emergency situation. If I think I might even have to Rappel, I’ll bring my actual rappel gear. This is just a technique to keep in your mental toolbox. Thanks for watching, TR
Damn good video. Good that you included chart and addressed the 550 cord rope pros and cons. Love your videos. Keep it coming!
Thanks for watching, TR
@@TacticalRifleman I subscribe to it and share your videos in the militia and preppers groups I am in. You are a good teacher. Explain things clearly and appreciate that.
Awesome vid! I totally bombed the cliff phase at Sapper I'm so afraid of hieghts... Sure jumping out of planes I kinda got over but man my legs just shook and shook couldn't control them, I made it down the cliff but not without getting major minuses for messing stuff up! I'm gonna work to get over it and try again this year
Thank you for this very important information. I will utilize these skills.
“Don’t just go and learn how to repel from a TH-cam video..” 😂😂😂 I laughed so hard.
Definitely like the problem solving focus of this video and always good to have extra tools in the tool kit. Re the choice of gear you need to be super careful about abseiling on straight dyneema cord, as you pointed out it clearly isn't rated for the application but the most concerning thing is the lack of heat resistance. Very interesting to watch you using the 3mm dyneema and it worked better than I would expect however it's ridiculously dangerous because heat build up on your descender could easily melt right through it. If you want the lightest abseil setup best to look for cravasse rescue rope or fire fighting bail out rope. Lots of dyneema cored rope rated for abseiling there. If you're determined to use something lighter than what is available that is rated for abseiling I would sooner use a climbing specific accessory cord because at least it has a proper sheath and heat resistance. Not trying to be negative, it's a great video and a fascinating topic, just would hate for someone to come unstuck not realising that there's a lot more to rope selection than just breaking strength. For anyone keen to learn more about the lightest ways to descend safely the book 'Down' by Andy Kirkpatrick and/or pretty much anything on alpine caving techniques would be good options outside of seeking actual training.
Thanks for sharing. Excellent advice.
I think I’m gonna head out to red river and hit the rocks brother…good stuff your feedin us here sir
Keep up the great work, Karl!
Thanks for watching, TR
1/2 inch 6 or 8 feet of nylon rope for a Swiss Seat like the way they taught it in Air Assault School in the old days. I still have the old military issue snap links which we carried always in the field.
reddevilparatrooper Webbing is also really nice to have. It makes the seat just a little more comfortable.
We use 12-14 feet of 7/16 nylon rope in air assault school now
Hell yeah, repelling is freaking awesome!
Another pointer for rappelling off a cliff is to tie the end of the rope so when you chuck it off, you have no chance of rappelling OFF the rope (and fall).
Good info love to repel. Keep the videos coming. God Bless
Remember, this is only for emergency Rappels in expedient situations. It is not comfortable at all. However, it will get you down the cliff every time. Thanks for watching, TR
Improvised harness sucks for your balls, learned that hard way LOL. been carrying custom made rigger belt with leg loops since that accident :) . though im thinking of buying at least 100ft of that amsteel. its pain in the ass to carry 100ft of climbing rope EDC...
No truer words have been spoken...check yer junk! Nothing like 1250’ of trying to climb up the suspension lines!
Amen
That’s really cool ! Thanks for the info and everything! 😎👍👍🇺🇸
Any time!
Right on! "Don't be a dumb ass" Check. Roger that. Now if only we can get that message out to as many Americans as possible.
Glad you pointed out 550 cord. I have rapelled with it in an emergency, but would not recommend it for routine use.
"Using hooks from the shower curtain....bedsheets" LOL Btw, start with the large hole clipped onto the carabiner so you'll never lose it. Have fun and stay safe.
Thanks for the upload
Rappelling was kinda fun in basic. Might try it again.
Swiss Seat looks and feels great!
I was thinking more of like Die Hard with the fire hose. But yeah, this is the reality but better.
This harness looks a lot easier than making a swiss seat. Very cool.
Sometimes called a diaper or hasty harness , there are a few variations on it. Works well tubular webbing too, which you can also use to move a casualty in several different ways.
@@jamesbridges7750 Oh okay, thanks.
Great video. Which is better in high heat situations? Let's say there's an earthquake, or a fire, shtf scenario, and I'm stuck in an urban structure like a three or four story building. Like if I had to use 100 feet of __mm cordage (Spectra Line, amsteel, paracord, paramax, dynaglide dyneema, kevlar, ??) to rappel out of a burning building in an absolute emergency, what would be the best, 2nd and 3rd choice that will hold up against heat, that had been sitting in a bug out / get home bag the last year?🤔 And which mm of Spectra do you recommend?
Really liked this video
Happy Fathers Day Karl,,,,,!
Thanks Brother
I know this is a year old but when your figure 8 hit that rock I cringed 😬. You can usually get those X-Ray’d at your local hospital at no charge for police fire ems and rescue to make sure there’s no fractures. I love rappelling! Great video brother!
Wtg Chad from filming half way down!
Outstanding
Ah, YESSIREE!
I remember the Good Old Days bouncing off of mountain sides. Of course that was well before the advent of dedicated dome protection so, Yeah, that tells you I'm an old Fu*k, doesn't it?!? LMAO
Some of the best times in my younger, Bullet Proof, (??) Days. Back when Boo Boo's healed seemingly overnight. NOT like nowadays when it takes weeks or months. Cheese and RICE!
Aw, to be young, dumb and full of Cu*m again!
Take Care, Be Safe and....
Overnout
@FOAML8X I remember those days! Bloody nose, tongue bitten and a swollen bump as a reminder to do it right next time (nobody really knew what a concussion was anyway)... and you would hear SUCK IT UP AND KEEP MOVING!!!
You need either ring and lanyard or to loop the rope over to retrieve your anchor. Figure 8s work but using a GriGri will auto brake if your hand slips.
Mostly agreed. Remember that grigris are good for one strand only and the issue with them is that they let you go faster if you panic and pull harder. The perzl ID will lock out. I usually recommend a prussik when using an 8, munter, ATC so you have a backup. It's shown here: th-cam.com/video/RVoze1IpdVI/w-d-xo.html
Don't want that "junk" in a bind! 🤣🤣🤣
Ok clearly that tree held you with no issue. Just a note when I took my anchoring class we were told to avoid trees that were rotting. That tree seemed a bit sketch at the base .
Carl as a guy who has rappelled many miles you are potentially exposing the anchor carabiner to side loading and it is not designed for that. Is it good to go? Probably. But it is improper. A running bowline or figure eight of some type is a much better option and can be retrievable as well. Love it though. Amsteel is the bees knees for sure.
On a slow rap it shouldn't be a problem but fall factor or dynamic drops could cause it to fail. A good biner is rated for 7-10kN cross loaded. More than strong enough I'd guess.
Foot loop ascender and belay device to climb back up. I prefer a prusik backup in case something fails.
Nice show and tell there Karl 🧗 how long did you leave Chad 🥺 hanging there after you walked away 😂👍👌✌️🇺🇸
So Does Air Assault School at Ft Hood count? In guessing the one at Ft Campbell is more classy...
Air Assault School at Ft. Campbell "86. Can still tie a Swiss Seat.
AASLT at Hood is harder than at Campbell IMHO
Aerosol,aerosol,aerosol!! " double zero get off my tower"
@@gmburzynski68 AIR SALT AIRSOFT AEROSOL
Air assault ft hood 1991
when I went to encampment, (boot camp for teens) we got to rappell off a 75 foot tower. one guy in my flight somehow flipped all the way upside down and had to go down that way 😂
Great stuff. Thanks for watching, TR
You have to be upside down looking at the Target and flash bang and then breach the Window. Like in movies
Great video, maybe it will save someones life. I leared during HRT class with FBI.
Very good idea, Thank you very much
Thanks for watching, TR
Love this guy!!!
Before the video was even over, I was looking up rappelling classes near me. Unfortunately don't see much in illinois
Head down to Giant City State Park outside of Carbondale. In warmer months there are plenty of people at Shelter One rappelling on weekends.
It's too basic to teach an entire class on. Take a rock climbing class anywhere and they're going to teach you how to do it properly.
Would suggest (for non-tactical assault) a prussik safety line under your figure 8 in case your brake hand looses grip.
Solid advice
I learn this and more in Boy Scouts thank you DAD!!!
Hey, would like to see that improvised Swiss seat you did with the spectra line. Seems that is different that what I learned in the Army back in 1987.
I will add it to the list
Go buy tubular webbing about 8-10'..water knot..you can't go wrong...used it fd as my bailout harness option in my bailout kit
I do not want to knock you as you may have never been well trained and therefor do not know. But this video is better to show you everything not to do to stay alive. I rescue many people per year form accidents such as this video and most said they learned tips from youtube.
You dropped your aluminum Rescue 8 (Not D-Ring or Figure 8 as stated in video)
You used no edge protection (Leading cause for all on rope accidents is rope cut or broke at edge)
You never tie an overhand in line to mark the middle as it reduces the overall strength by 71%
Never use rings from shower curtains in place of a carabiner, they are made from pot-metal or plastic
You should always tip your carabiner down so vibration screws it closed
People often rappel off the end of a rope when it is just doubled, one side will move faster than the other making you run off of one end before reaching the bottom or the other end of the rope. Always tie a knot in the bottom large enough to not pass through the rescue 8.
Two anchor points should be used for basic rappels
A minimum of 5000 pound tinsel strength is needed for the basic rappel line.
If you do not have a belayer, you should have a mechanical belayer or prusik to act as your belayer.
Solid advice. Thanks
Great to see the difference between military rappelling vs professional rappelling. Honestly love that TR puts out these type of videos!
When would you carry rapping gear on/in your kit?
Always. A length of rope and 2 carabiners should do it, minimalist style.
Now if I'm caught in a rap battle then I ALWAYS carry full Biggie Kit with Motown molle setup.
We carry a 50-70 foot length of 8mm rope, at least 1 carabiner, an 8 foot piece of webbing, and wear a type 1 belt harness for search and rescue.
good stuff
"Don't be a dumbass". Hmmm...I better write that down! ;-)
why you guys dont use kevlar cordage instead of the spektra. great video
Stronger than Kevlar
More pure adrenaline laced manly things to do, I love it ❤️
Thanks for watching, TR
What knot did you use to tie the loop into the end of the line for the hasty harness seat? I suppose it would be some sort of bend knot.
I’m assuming there aren’t many options for a “third hand” backup when rappelling with 3mm amsteel... 👀
Nope
Riggers belts do save lives
Agreed, but they are designed to serve as safety lines on Helos, not as rappelling harnesses
i prefer to wear my riggers belt when out camping, hiking, and what not. and when urban its in my day pack / go bag what ever you want to call it.
good video
Thanks for watching, TR
Hey there I’m looking at throwing together an emergency rappel kit consisting of just a rope, a carabiner, and a rappel ring. Trying to keep it as small as possible so if I ever do fall into a situation I’m more likely to have it. I can’t seem to find any videos of people using a rappel ring leaning against a carabiner, most videos of people using a figure 8 rappel device. Could you possibly make a video on rappelling with a rappel ring or bare minimum materials
Expedient Rappelling, id est, In Extremis Abseiling, Courtesy of SGM Erickson and Tactical Rifleman. " On Belay, On Rappell".
Left hand guide hand, right hand death grip.
Carl, when did SF switch to harnesses and figure 8s. I remember Swiss seats and 2 locking carabiners
We still did Swiss Seats and Carabiners, but certain units also got deep into mountain gear, both for ascending and descending.
Karl. what do you think of using a rigger's belt to rappel with? If I didn't have my harness I would probably use it, although it's quite possible the belt loops would give out and I'd be wearing it like an inner tube, along with sporting a nice rope rash. : (
Several companies make leg straps that will slide on to a regular Rigger Belt. I have a set, but have never carried them outside of testing. THey work great, but I just carry too much crap as it is. A high quality Rigger Belt WILL hold you. A crap Korean copy will NOT hold you. I like my "Loop Seat" as it will always be there for me. TR
@@TacticalRifleman Thank you I'll check into it
Karl when I learned to abseil they taught us how to go down backwards but also front first. I could never really understand why, just meant I could see exactly when I was going to face plant (needless to say I wasn’t great at it). Is there a time or instance you’d actually choose to or need to go down front first or no?
In the US, we actually call that an “Aussie” Rappel. The Aussie rappel is great for speed and when you are running down the side of the hill/cliff/building. It allows you a better view to what is in front/below you. Conversely, the standard rappel method allows you to face where the rope gear connect, in case you have an issue, allows for adjustments such as using Accenders, and keeps your head higher above your heart. I like to Aussie off a good open tower, but I would use it on a jagged cliff. Thanks for watching and your continued patronage.
Imo if you can't climb it's a bad idea to rappel.
I wish you guys had covered riggers belts in this vid (pros cons actual usage ect)
We did record rigger belt discussion, but that section was edited out. Bottom line, you can Rappel with a Rigger belt.
@@TacticalRifleman appreciate it
Usually just used to tether yourself to aircraft. I'd examine the belt loops on your pants if you are going to try it repel with one.
Up 4 days what are we doing now were rappelling off yonah mountain.
dont forget that knots cut the load rating.
The atc works great and doesn't twist your rope
I have a blackhawk rappelling seat. They don't make them anymore. What's your thoughts about it?
Lots of companies make rappel seats. I have never personally used a Blackhawk rappel seat. However, as all their gear is now made by the lowest bidder, I wont be using any of their "life-support" gear.
What about stronger paracord? 750lb 11 strand type IV, 1000lb 12 strand, or 1100lb? Or how about battle cord? It’s 2650 lb.
What carabiners are you using?
I thought that was a dead tree for a second..
do they still teach the Swiss Seat
He mentioned in another comment that they do.
Good video, Carl, BUT... in the video you said 3mm Amsteel and your amazon link goes to 2.5mm..and now I've got a 600' roll of 2.5 sitting on my desk.
Sorry brother. Many of the links posted in past videos are either no longer active or incorrect. However, please note that I have over 300 videos and there is no way that I can keep all links in all videos current. If I didn’t put links in new videos, people would bitch. Again, sorry about the incorrect link.
@@TacticalRifleman No worries Superman. I actually tried this today and that spectra line is slick as hell! Had to take three wraps on a rescue descender just to do some 65° slope and killer 2’ drops.
Rappel without Seat and karibiner...use the method from hundred years ago....by Hans Dülfer...i did IT first time in 1972.....
Which technique are you talking about? I know several “body rappels” but don’t really like any of them for vertical cliffs when wearing a rucksack. Again, curious which technique you are talking about. TR
How do you shoot from a rappelling position?
I know this might seem like a silly thing to ask but...
How do you guys deal with poison ivy / poison oak? Were you trained to deal with it at all?
You just suck it up and deal with the itch. Really though, there are products that you can coat your skin with ahead of time. Best thing is to wash with a degreaser (like Dawn) immediately after exposure to get as much of the oil off of your skin as possible. There are catabolic steroid shots and pills that give temp treatment, but as soon as the steroid wears off you bumps literally pop right back up. Also, the steroids are super bad for you. Best bet, just use anger from the inside to beat the pain back. Thanks for watching, TR
@@TacticalRifleman I know this comment is a bit old, but for me a Tide pen lives in my boo-boo bag for this exact purpose. Real easy to carry, use the pen on the affected area and flush thoroughly (and carefully, dont just spread it) with water. Not perfect, but seems to improve outcomes. Only problem is that you need the water to properly use it, since the anionic surfactant (the actual detergent component) needs water to be effective
How about type 4 750lb paracord? Would that be suitable? I know you brought up 550 because it's by far the most common, but if I have my 750 on me, would you recommend that?
Nope. Even a slow static rappel has jerky motions that can really increase the dynamic load 10 fold. Maybe one time in a life or death emergency, but not to be brought for deliberate use. My personal opinion. Thanks for watching, TR
@@TacticalRifleman Cool, thanks.