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

Representative photo for Fiddle Block Set without Rope Mechanical Advantage

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

Gap Arborist Supply

Fiddle Block Set without Rope

A pair of fiddle blocks without rope, for crews who want to choose their own line.

$170 Typical price. Retail prices change, so check today's price before you buy.
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  • Pair of fiddle blocks, no rope
  • Reeve with your own line and length
  • Replaces blocks or builds a custom system
  • Compact for the truck

RiggingGround

This set of fiddle blocks comes without rope, so you can reeve them with the line diameter and length that suits your work. It is also the right buy when the rope on an existing set has worn out and the blocks are still good.

Why buy the blocks alone

Plenty of crews already have good rope on hand, or want a longer or shorter system than the ready-made sets. Buying the blocks alone lets you reeve them with the right length for how far your anchors usually sit from the load, and replace just the rope when it wears.

Choose a rope that fits the sheaves properly. Line that is too fat will bind and wear; line that is too thin can jump the sheave. Our mechanical advantage section has complete sets if you would rather start rigged.

Rigging and inspection

Reeve the blocks so the rope runs without twisting, and test the system with a light pull before putting real load on it. Keep the crew out of the line of pull, and think about what the pull is doing to the anchor, which sees more than the haul team feels.

Check sheaves for cracks and grooves, axles for wear and side plates for bending before each use. Rigging gear is for moving wood, not for life support. Match every component to the load with a working margin, follow the manufacturer's ratings and ANSI Z133, and make sure the crew is trained in rigging before relying on it. Note when each piece went into service, so worn gear gets retired on time instead of living on the truck for years.