How to Shoot a Rope into a Tree for Climbing

Once you've decided on that perfect tree for climbing or installing a rope swing, you're faced with the challenge of getting the rope high enough into the tree to reach a strong branch. The trick is to complete this task in two steps, using a lighter line to get over the branch and then placing the rope.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Fishing line of 15-lb. strength
Work gloves
2-oz. lead sinker weight
or
Bow and target arrow

Step 1

Tie a sinker weight to the end of the fishing line, or tie the line to the tail end of a target arrow.

Step 2

Throw the sinker weight over the desired tree branch or shoot the arrow with the bow over the branch and allow the arrow to fall to the ground.

Step 3

Detach the fishing line and tie it securely around the end of the rope.

Step 4

Wear work gloves while hauling the rope up and over the tree branch by pulling on the fishing line.

Step 5

Repeat the process as necessary to wrap the rope several times around the tree branch.

Step 6

Tie a loop in one end of the rope, thread the other end through it and pull down on the rope to secure the loop to the tree branch.

Step 7

Swing hard wtih your full weight on the rope to check for a secure hold before climbing.

Tips & Warnings

Tie an overhand knot at regular intervals along the rope as a climbing aid. Every three to four feet is a good distance for spacing the knots.

Article Written By James Clark

James Clark began his career in 1985. He has written about electronics, appliance repair and outdoor topics for a variety of publications and websites. He has more than four years of experience in appliance and electrical repairs. Clark holds a bachelor's degree in political science.

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