Independent arborist gear picks · Typical prices shown, checked at the retailer

Representative photo for DMM Focus Swivel Swivels

Representative photo. Check the retailer listing for the exact model, color and size.
Photo: Tree Pruning in RVA (Carytown, Virginia) by Gamma Man, CC BY 2.0

DMM

DMM Focus Swivel

A compact swivel that keeps twists out of your climbing system.

$55 Typical price. Retail prices change, so check today's price before you buy.
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  • Compact swivel from DMM
  • Lets the system rotate freely
  • Helps keep twists out of rope and hitch
  • Small enough for daily climbing use
  • Inspect bearing and eyes before use

ClimbingPro grade

The DMM Focus swivel is a compact swivel that lets your climbing system rotate so twists do not build up in the rope or hitch. It is often clipped between the saddle bridge and the climbing system or used on an SRS setup.

Why use a swivel

As you work around a tree, you turn and spin. Without a swivel, those turns go into the rope and hitch, which can make the system twist up, kink and stop tending well. A swivel lets the parts rotate independently so everything stays aligned.

Climbers often put one between the bridge and the device or hitch, or below an SRS device. A compact swivel adds little length, which keeps the system tight.

On a single-rope setup the rope hangs straight below you, so any spin goes straight into it. A swivel keeps that from turning into twists and knots in the tail, which makes the rope easier to manage and less likely to snag. The compact size also matters, since every extra inch between you and your device takes away from your reach on each advance and your comfort when working in position.

Use and inspection

Make sure the carabiners on each side are correctly loaded and that the swivel turns smoothly under load. Keep it clean of grit and sap so the bearing stays free.

Check before each climb for cracks, deformation and play in the swivel. Use it within DMM's ratings and instructions, under ANSI Z133 practice and after proper training. See more in swivels.