Petzl Naja Friction Saver

The Petzl Naja friction saver is a tie-in accessory from Petzl's arborist range that puts hardware between your climbing line and the limb. It protects the cambium, reduces rope wear and makes doubled-rope climbing smoother.

Where the Naja fits

Climbing straight over bark wears the rope, heats it and scars the limb. A friction saver like the Naja gives the rope a smooth running surface, so you climb with less effort and leave the tree in better shape. On pruning jobs where the tree stays, that matters.

It is also easier on your climbing line, which lasts longer when it is not dragging across bark all day. Compare our other friction savers for adjustable and ground-set options.

A friction saver also makes your climbing system more consistent. The rope runs over the same smooth hardware every time, so your hitch or device behaves the same way from one tie-in to the next, instead of changing with the bark on each limb.

Setup and inspection

Install and retrieve it only as Petzl describes, on a sound limb of suitable size. Check that the rope is running through it correctly before you weight it. A friction saver is life-support gear: it must meet the applicable standard, be used within ANSI Z133 and be installed by a trained climber.

Before each climb, inspect the sling and hardware for cuts, abrasion, glazing and grooves. Retire it if anything is damaged or worn. Store it clean and dry with the rest of your climbing kit.