Mechanical Descenders & Ascenders Used for Tree Climbing

Ascenders

Mechanical ascenders are popular with professional arborists using rope techniques and recreational climbers as well. And on this page, you'll find all the names that you trust. Petzl, CMI and Kong are all represented here! We have standard handled ascenders for use with SRT (single rope technique) systems, including the Petzl Ascension Left and the Petzl Ascension Right. For those using a dual rope system, check out the Petzl Ascentree Double Ascender or the CMI Expedition Twin Ascender, which is uniquely designed to allow one-handed use on a DdRT system. Use the on page filters to find the ascender, descender or modern friction device you've been looking for!

Descenders

Self-braking mechanical descenders such as the Petzl Rig (for up to 7/16" rope) or the Petzl I'D L (for up to 1/2" rope), allow users to maintain a nice, smooth rate of descent and establish a working position quickly and easily. However, such devices are expensive and some users prefer a simpler, more economical approach, such as a Figure 8. When properly tied in, Figure 8's apply friction to the rope and allow the user to control his or her rate of descent. They are simple, affordable and effective, but not self-braking or "anti panic".

Friction Devices

Over the last few years, there have been several new friction devices brought to the market, and they have been met with a very warm welcome. Devices such as the Petzl ZigZag Plus or the Rock Exotica Unicender allow the user to move around efficiently in a tree using classic Prusik pulley system technique. The friction chain provides precision and fluidity when moving, and you end up with one slick device that allows you to ascend, descend and position with greater control and ease.