How to Use a Rappelling Ring

A rappelling ring is a round device, usually made of steel, that is clipped to the anchor from which a rock climber descends. The main purpose of the rappelling ring is to hold the rope in place as they move down the cliff. It's important to purchase a more expensive steel ring instead of aluminum rings, which can buckle or crack more easily under pressure. Rappelling rings help create a smoother descent because the rope feeds easily through the ring.

Things You'll Need

  • Climbing rope
  • Climbing harness
  • Locking carabiner
  • Belay device
  • Anchor
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clip your rappelling ring to the anchor. Tug on it to make sure it is securely attached to your anchor.

    • 2

      Put on your harness. Attach a locking carabiner to both of the front loops on your harness. Feed the rope through the belay device and the carabiner on your harness.

    • 3

      Test your anchor by sitting back in your harness. Check for any twists in the rope on the harness.

    • 4

      Choose a line of descent below the anchor for your rope to fall. Feed the rope through the rappelling ring so that the middle of the rope rests in the ring. Double that check your harness, carabiner and belay device are placed accurately with the rope weaving through the carabiner and belay.

    • 5

      Walk backwards slowly down the cliff. Use your strong hand to hold the rope below the harness at an acute angle and your weak hand to hold the rope above your head. Keep tension on the rope to keep it from getting caught in bushes.

    • 6

      Balance yourself by putting your feet against the cliff. Move slowly down the cliff, letting out small amounts of rope at a time.