Notch
Big Shot Throw Weight Launcher
Pole-mounted slingshot that puts a throw weight into high unions fast.
Throw Weights & Line
Representative photo. Check the retailer listing for the exact model, color and size.
Photo: coiling by michael pollak, CC BY 2.0
A tough, bright throw weight for setting line in big and small trees.
The Notch throw weight is a durable shot-filled bag for launching throw line into the canopy. Its tough shell and bright color stand up to repeat throws and are easy to find in the brush.
A good throw weight flies straight, survives hitting branches and the ground, and is easy to find when the shot goes wide. Notch weights have a tough shell and a ring to tie your throw line to, and come in several weights so you can match the bag to the tree.
Throw weights work best with a slick throw line and a cube or bag that lets the line pay out without tangling. Different weights suit different heights and line diameters, so many climbers carry two. See all options in throw weight and line.
A bright bag is easier to find in leaf litter, brush piles and tall grass, which matters when you're making a dozen shots to find the right union.
Tie the throw line with a secure knot and check the ring and shell for wear before each use. Retire a bag that is split or leaking shot.
Clear the drop zone and call out before every throw. Keep people, vehicles and power lines well clear, and never throw near energized conductors. Once the line is set, pull your climbing line up and inspect the union and the tie-in point before you climb, following ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions.
| Type | Throw weight |
|---|---|
| Attachment | Ring |
| Brand | Notch |
Specs are from the manufacturer's published figures where available. Confirm against the product listing before you buy.
Lighter weights go higher on a thin line in open canopy; heavier ones punch through dense branches. Many climbers carry two sizes.
Tie it to the ring with a secure knot such as a clove hitch backed up or a bowline.