Tree Spider SPider Wire As Main Tether?

[cloudbaseracer]

I am interested in this safety device but I am unsure of exactly how it works.  Meaning, does one use the device as the primary attachment point?  If so, does it retract back in at all?  It seems like if it is a one time use that it would not retract back. With my current tree strap, I can adjust it a little and lean against it for support even though it is just a static webbing.  Is this possible with the Tree Spider?  If you lean on it to get a shot will it just keep extending and cause you to fall?

I hope my question is clear because I didn't see any of these answer on the manufacturer's site and I wish to order one tonight.

Thanks,

James

[cloudbaseracer]

Please Delete This Double Post!

Thanks

[Flingblade]

I bought one and then changed my mind and sent it back and bought a rescue one cds harness.  The spider is not the primary attachment point.  It goes between the tree strap and the harness tether.  I would think you would be able to lean out against it with some pressure without it deploying.  I think it would take some weight to get it to start letting out strap; otherwise it would lower you too quickly if you fell but I am not sure on this.  It is one time use so I don't think it will retract.  You just throw it away if you use it in a fall.  The rescue one is reusable for two hard falls and as many soft falls as you want to do to practice.  I really like the rescue one and won't climb without it.  I like being able to practice with it so I know exactly what to do and what the harness will do in case of an emergency.  Also; the owner of the rescue one cds company told me that they are certified for 5 years as that is tma regulations but it will last a lifetime.  He has been using his for 13 years.

[cloudbaseracer]

Thanks for your input.  It sounds just about like I thought.  The only thing is that if it goes between your tether you can no longer use that as a strap to lean out against?  I know I sometimes use mine this way.  

The CDS just looks too bulky and hot to me.  I am trying to go more minimal on things and it is a disappointment that there is really nothing great out there.

[Flingblade]

If I lived in Georgia it might be too hot for me as well but it is not a problem here in Michigan.  The rescue one is heavier and bulkier than other harnesses as you have 30 ft. of rope coiled in the back of it but the extra safety measure is worth it to me.  I called the customer service number for the tree spider with another question and they were very helpful.  You might give them a call and ask them if you could lean out against it.

[cloudbaseracer]

I called and spoke with a girl there that answered the phone but she was not too helpful.  She couldn't really understand why I was asking about the product and trying to see if I could put weight on it as I leaned out. After asking the question 5 different ways, I just gave up!  

I may try to build something on my own.  I have some pretty good ideas about a new way to do this.

[Kevin Dill]

I did a good amount of research on harnesses, including the Tree Spider. I like the idea of the LiveWire unit, but haven't opted to buy one yet. I conciously avoided the TS Harness, mainly due to how it adjusts and fits. I looked at Muddy, and ruled them out. I looked at CDS and ruled them out on weight and bulk: I can be as safe (or safe enough for me) with less weight/bulk up there. After running the gamut, I went with the TSS Extreme Harness (not vest).

I'm currently evaluating the LiveWire from TS, as well as going with a fixed climbing/safety line. My gut tells me the fixed line is the better system.

[cloudbaseracer]

I currently have the Muddy Outdoors harness and although it is nicely made and comfortable, I still think it is just too heavy and bulky.  I am going to design my own system. I am not convinced we even need the shoulder straps?

Kevin -
For me the idea on the LiveWire was more of a replacement for the safety line with a prusik. And this is only because of being able to easily lower down. That is the only advantage I can see for the LiveWire.