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

Representative photo for ISC Small Rigging Pulley for up to 5/8" Rope Rigging Blocks

Representative photo. Check the retailer listing for the exact model, color and size.
Photo: Carabiners and Pulley by psd, CC BY 2.0

ISC

ISC Small Rigging Pulley for up to 5/8" Rope

A compact ISC pulley for light rigging and redirects on lines up to 5/8 in.

$95 Typical price. Retail prices change, so check today's price before you buy.
Check price at retailer ↗
  • Fits rope up to 5/8 in
  • Compact and light to carry on the saddle
  • Good for redirects and light rigging
  • ISC build quality from a rope-access hardware maker

RiggingPro grade

The ISC small rigging pulley takes rope up to 5/8 in and packs a lot of capability into a small, light pulley. It is the one to carry for light rigging, redirects on pull lines and mechanical advantage setups where a full-size block is more than you need.

Where a small rigging pulley earns its place

Not every piece needs a big block. A small rigging pulley handles light limbs, redirects a pull line around an obstacle, or acts as the moving pulley in a mechanical advantage system for tensioning a speedline or pulling over a small tree. Because it is light, it rides on the saddle without being in the way.

Keep heavier wood on a full-size block rated for the forces involved.

Small pulleys also help on the ground. Anchor one to a stump to turn a pull line so the crew can pull from a safe spot outside the fall zone, or use it to change the angle on a winch line. Having one in the rigging bag saves improvising with a carabiner, which adds friction and wears the rope.

Use and inspection

Clip it to a sling or anchor with a locking carabiner and keep the rope running cleanly in the sheave. Check the sheave and side plates before each use, and retire the pulley after a severe shock load or visible damage.

Rigging gear is not life support. Keep it separate from climbing gear, follow ISC's instructions, and work to ANSI Z133.

Wash out grit after muddy jobs; dirt in the bearing slows the sheave and wears the rope.