Uploaded instructions for Basic Rappelling Methods using the Totem.
The Totem is a very versatile rappelling device. This Tech Guide describes a few of the most common methods - standard figure eight, vertaco and throttle modes - plus how to add friction on the fly and how to lock off mid-rappel
These photos show the Totem in use in a lowering system during a practice rescue operation conducted as part of a Rigging for Rescue course in Ouray, Colorado.
The rope was rigged on a Scarab in low-friction mode with a Totem rigged behind it in plaquette mode. The Totem provided an auto-locking mechanism. Hands off and the Totem locks off. Lever the bottom end of the Totem to release and lower. Lowering speed can be easily controlled using the lever.
The blue rope in the photos is the anchor rigging. The dark blue cord on the lower left in the upper photo is a prusik standing by for converting the lowering system to a haul.
Uploaded instructions for Rigging a Releasable Block using the Totem.
Rigging the rappelling rope with a releasable block provides some distinct advantages: (1) setting the rope length allows for simple disconnects at the bottom of the rappel, (2) the releasable system can be used to lower a rappeller from the anchor if the rope is not long enough to reach the bottom, or if hair or other material becomes stuck in the rappelling device.
