CMI
CMI 5/8" Steel Arborist Block
A steel-sheave rigging block for 5/8 in lowering lines on removal work.
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
A compact ISC pulley for light rigging and redirects on lines up to 5/8 in.
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.
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.
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.
| Brand | ISC |
|---|---|
| Rope | Up to 5/8 in |
| Type | Small rigging pulley |
| Ratings | Marked on the pulley |
Specs are from the manufacturer's published figures where available. Confirm against the product listing before you buy.
Smaller rope will run, but the sheave is designed for larger rigging lines. Very thin cord can jam between sheave and side plate, so use a pulley sized for it.
It is meant for light rigging and redirects. Use a full-size block for heavy wood.