Big Jim's
Big Jim's Hitch Breaker
A small tending aid for climbers who want a friction hitch that releases cleanly.
Hitch Cord & Split Tails
Representative photo. Check the retailer listing for the exact model, color and size.
Photo: Walt coiling the rope at the summit by Tristan Higbee, CC BY 2.0
An 8mm polyester loop with a thimble eye for prusik and hitch setups.
The Teufelberger Ocean Polyester thimble loop is an 8mm polyester prusik loop with a thimble that protects the eye where it meets hardware. Climbers and riggers use loops like this for friction hitches, short tethers, and attachment points.
A thimble keeps the eye of a loop open and gives a carabiner a smooth, hard surface to bear on. That cuts wear at the point where soft cord meets metal, especially on a loop that gets clipped and unclipped all day. An 8mm polyester loop is a handy size for prusiks on rigging lines, a short attachment for a pulley, or a backup hitch.
Polyester stretches little and stands up to abrasion, which suits these jobs. Compare other cords and loops in our hitch cord and split tails.
Rigging crews use short loops like this to attach a pulley or block to a sling, or to tie a prusik onto a lowering line for a mechanical advantage setup. Having a few spares in the rigging bag saves time on the job.
An 8mm loop is not a substitute for a climbing hitch cord unless the maker approves it for that use with your rope. Check the rated strength, test any hitch on the ground first, and never exceed what the loop is rated for.
Inspect the cord, the thimble, and the splice or stitching before each use. Retire it after a shock load or if you find cuts, glazing, or a deformed thimble. Follow the maker's instructions and ANSI Z133 practice.
| Type | Prusik loop with thimble |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 8 mm |
| Material | Polyester |
Specs are from the manufacturer's published figures where available. Confirm against the product listing before you buy.
Only if the maker approves it for that use with your rope. Most climbers use a dedicated hitch cord closer to their rope diameter.
It keeps the eye open and protects the cord from wear where it contacts a carabiner or pulley.