Hitch Hiker
Hitch Hiker 2 Mechanical Hitch Device
Hitch-based mechanical device for smooth MRS climbing.
Typical $279
Mechanical Prusik Devices for MRS
A mechanical prusik for MRS replaces your hitch with a device that grips, releases and slack-tends predictably on a moving rope. These are built for doubled-rope climbing where the rope runs over your tie-in point.
10products7brands
Petzl
Petzl Zigzag Mechanical Friction Device
Petzl's mechanical prusik for MRS tree climbing.
Typical $189
Buckingham
Buckingham Throttle
A mechanical friction device for climbers working moving rope systems.
Typical $189
Rock Exotica
Rock Exotica Unicender
A mechanical friction device that replaces a hitch on MRS and SRS.
Typical $280
ART
ART SpiderJack 2.1 Dyneema
A mechanical friction hitch for moving rope systems from ART.
Typical $279
Notch
Rope Runner Pro
A mechanical friction device for moving rope or SRT with fine descent control.
Typical $359
ART
SpiderJack 3 Replacement Parts
Manufacturer replacement parts to keep a SpiderJack 3 climbing device in service.
Typical $39
ISC
LockJack Sport Replacement Parts
Factory replacement parts for keeping a LockJack Sport in service.
Typical $29
ART
Replacement Parts for SpiderJack 2:1
Genuine service parts to keep a SpiderJack climbing device running right.
Typical $40
Notch
Notch Rope Runner Vertec Aeris Friction Body Kit
Replacement friction parts to keep a Notch Rope Runner in service.
Typical $95
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Buying guide
What to look for
Check the rope diameter range first, then how the device tends slack as you advance, how smooth it feels on descent, and whether you can operate it easily with gloves. Some devices pair with a pulley or chain of links for self-tending. Use each one only in the configurations its manufacturer approves, inspect it before every climb, and get trained on it before you rely on it in the tree.
Why climbers switch from hitches
Many MRS climbers start on a Valdotain or Distel hitch and move to a mechanical prusik as they climb more. The main draws are consistency, since a device does not change with heat, moisture or how well it was dressed, and smoother, more controllable descents. The trade-offs are weight, cost and the need to learn a new set of behaviors. Keep a hitch cord in your kit and stay fluent in tying hitches, because you never know when you will need a backup.
Common questions
Can MRS devices be used on SRS?
Some can be converted with accessories, but not all. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for which systems each device is approved for.
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