Oct
20
2009
Mini 8 Releasable Block
Rock Exotica developed two new figure eight devices – the mini and the micro – for special ops teams. I managed to get my hands on one of each and have been experimenting to see if I can come up with canyoneering applications.
The photo shows the mini eight rigged as a releasable block. Haven’t rappelled on it or lowered anyone with it, but it seems quick secure even without a safety carabiner added.
The loop going over the neck would be the lowering mechanism. I made a twist in the rope on the brake strand before looping it over the two horns. Kinda like a cleat hitch.
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.
