Jail Brake Lowering Device (Jailbreak Rigging Device)

The Jail Brake lowering device, often searched as the jailbreak rigging device, is a friction device that mounts to the tree to control the lowering line on removals. It lets the ground crew add or remove friction to lower heavy pieces smoothly instead of relying on wraps around the trunk.

What a lowering device does

When you rig a piece out of a tree, the energy of that piece has to go somewhere. The rigging block or natural crotch redirects the line, and the lowering device at the base turns that energy into heat through friction. The ground worker controls how much friction is applied and lets the piece down at a controlled speed.

Without a lowering device, crews take wraps around the trunk. That works on light pieces, but it is hard to control on heavy ones, it damages bark and it is difficult to adjust mid-lower. A dedicated device like the Jail Brake gives the ground crew a consistent, adjustable friction point.

How it fits into a rigging system

A typical system has a rigging point aloft, often a block on a sling, a rigging line tied to the piece, and the lowering device mounted to the tree at the base. The ground worker manages the tail of the line through the device. More wraps or more friction slow the piece; fewer let it run faster.

Search terms like jailbreak lowering device usually come from crews comparing it to other friction devices such as port-a-wrap style tools and bollards. The idea is the same: give the ground worker control. Fit, mounting and rope compatibility vary by device, so follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Mounting matters. The device needs to be attached securely at a height and position that lets the ground worker stand clear of the drop zone, keep a good grip on the tail and see the piece coming down. Plan the setup before the climber makes the first cut, not after.

Rigging forces and safety

Rigging forces can be much higher than the weight of the piece, especially when a piece is allowed to free-fall before the line catches it. Every component in the system, including the lowering device, slings, blocks, rope and the tree itself, must be rated for the loads and in good condition. Do not exceed the device's rated working load.

Rigging should only be planned and performed by trained crews following ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect the device before every use for cracks, deformation, grooving and wear. Keep the ground crew out of the drop zone and use clear communication between the climber and the person on the lowering device.

Who should use it

The Jail Brake suits removal crews that rig regularly and want a dedicated friction device at the base. Pair it with a good rigging block, rigging slings and a rigging line that are all rated for the loads you plan to put on them. Browse more lowering devices to compare options.

If you are new to rigging with a mounted friction device, start with light pieces, practice with the full crew and build up gradually. Learn how many wraps or how much friction a given piece needs before you take on big wood.