Description
The Distel Hitch is a directional friction hitch that is often employed by arborists. It is used to attach a carabiner to a rope, allowing a climber to ascend or descend.
History
The Distel Hitch is credited to a German climber named Uli Distel who, it has been said, attempted to tie the Schwabisch but neglected to change the direction of the split-tail when he made the turns above the bridge. As it turned out, this arrangement worked well for climbing!
Structure
The cord wrapped around the main line is often referred to as a 'spliced eye, split tail friction cord' and has permanently sewn or spliced loops at each end. In absence of this specialty cord, a pair of Double Overhand Noose knots is sometimes used.
Strength/Reliability
The Distel tends not to jam or slip when set and dressed correctly.
Warning
Verify tying technique with a skilled instructor where knot failure could cause property damage, injury, or death.
Common Uses
- grip a rope for climbing up or down a tree.
- create a sliding hitch that locks under load in one direction.
- adjust position on a rope while tree climbing.
- back up a descending system with a friction grip.
Found in
