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

Representative photo for Samson Stable Braid 5/8 in Rigging Rope Rigging Rope

Representative photo. Check the retailer listing for the exact model, color and size.
Photo: coiling by michael pollak, CC BY 2.0

Samson Rope

Samson Stable Braid 5/8 Rope for Rigging

A 5/8 in double-braid rigging line for medium-to-heavy wood.

$420 Typical price. Retail prices change, so check today's price before you buy.
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  • 5/8 in double-braid construction
  • Polyester cover and core
  • Holds its shape under load
  • Common in 200 ft lengths
  • Steps up from 1/2 in for bigger wood

RiggingFellingPro grade

Samson Stable Braid is a 5/8 rope with a double-braid polyester construction, a workhorse middle size for rigging medium and heavy wood. It holds its shape well and runs smoothly through blocks and lowering devices.

The middle size most crews need

A 5/8 in line handles the pieces that are too big for a 1/2 in rope but do not justify hauling out the 3/4 in. It is a good default for removals on residential lots where you are lowering leaders and trunk sections of moderate size.

A 200 ft of rope length gives plenty of reach from a high block to a lowering device at the base, with tail for the groundie.

Samson Stable Braid has a firm, round build that keeps its shape on a capstan or bollard, so the groundie gets predictable friction when letting a piece run. Crews often pair a 5/8 rope with a matching block and sling for medium removals.

Use and care

Plan the rigging, account for shock loading, and stay within the manufacturer's rated values and ANSI Z133. A trained crew member should set up every rigging system.

Inspect the cover and feel for flat or stiff spots before each use. Keep it out of fuel and bar oil, flake it into a bag, and retire it if it is damaged. Never use rigging rope for climbing.

Rotate which end you use for the block so wear does not concentrate in one spot, and spliced eyes should be checked closely since they take a lot of the load.