I recently went on a tree climbing event and now wondering if anyone has advice on getting climbing kit and roughly how much a basic prussik or equivalent set up should cost? Is it advisable to buy second hand gear and any advice on how to recognise heavily worn equipment? Are there any testing labels/standards I should look for when buying equipment?
I never used a prusik.
I used hooks(gaffs or climbing spurs),saddle,buck straps and a rope.
Tied a friction knot in the actual rope instead of using an extra piece like a prusik or mechanical brake. The less pieces in a climbing system the less chance of something failing. Mainly used a taut line hitch or Blake's hitch.
I havent had to climb a tree in over 8 years.
I used to do line clearance on utilities.
Always inspect every piece daily/prior to use.
The tags on certified equipment should have an ansi# on them.