9/16" Dead Eye Sling for Rigging

A dead eye sling is a length of rigging rope with a spliced eye on one end and a plain tail on the other. Pass the tail through the eye to choke it around a spar, then hang a block or tie off your rigging line. At 9/16 inch, it suits medium rigging work.

How a dead eye sling is used

The dead eye sling is the quickest way to make an anchor in a tree. Wrap it around the stem, pass the tail through the eye to form a choke, and tie a secure hitch to attach a block or tie the rigging line. It works for setting a lowering point, a redirect or a natural crotch backup.

Choose the sling length to suit the stem diameter you usually work, and keep a few lengths on the truck.

Dead eye slings are also handy for setting a temporary anchor on a spar during a removal, or as a sling for a lowering device on the trunk. Rotate slings through use so one is not taking all the hard loads.

Working loads and inspection

Rigging loads are dynamic, and the forces on an anchor can be much higher than the weight of the piece. Size the sling to the loads you will generate, use the manufacturer's rated strength, and stay within a sensible working load. Never use a rigging sling as life support.

Inspect before each use for cuts, glazing, crushed sections and a worn splice. Retire slings that have been shock-loaded hard or show damage. More options in heavy-duty slings.

Store slings clean, dry and out of the sun. UV, grit and chemicals all weaken rope over time.