Buying guides

Straight answers to the questions climbers and crews ask before they spend money on gear.

Tree Climbing Gear: The Complete Checklist

Everything a working climber carries, why each piece matters, and where it makes sense to spend more.

Two 70cc Husqvarna workhorses, one classic and one modern, compared the way a removal crew would use them.

Five popular Silky saws, what each one is best at, and how to pick the right one for your saddle.

A practical guide to picking a climbing line that works with your hitch or device and lasts.

How each option protects you, where each makes sense, and how to choose leg protection you will actually wear.

Two common chainsaw plugs that look alike on paper but are not interchangeable, plus how to gap and read them.