How Do I Make a Rope Shock Absorber?

When using ropes for climbing or rescue purposes, it is handy to know how to make and fasten a rope shock absorber. These pieces of modified cord absorb energy and stress off the rope during a fall or "whipper" when accidents occur. When a rope is placed under stress, it has a set amount of give before it snaps, creating a potentially lethal situation. Pre-made absorbers are available, but if you want to save money, fashion one on your own and tie it off on the climbing rope.

Things You'll Need

  • Length of dynamic bungee cord - 8mm
  • Utility knife
  • Lighter
  • Two carabiners
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a 6-foot chunk off the 8-mm bungee rope. Hold the lighter flame at the cut end to reduce frays and melt the tip.

    • 2

      Fold the rope in half and make a loop (bit) at one end. Wrap the working end --- the non-loop side --- of the rope around the base of the loop, leaving a 2-inch loop at the top of the cord. Wrap the loops so the working end has room to thread through and down the length of the rope once you reach two-thirds of the length of the cord.

    • 3

      Bring the working end back to the loop and thread it down and through the wraps. Pull the working end tight once it passes through the last wrap, locking it into the wraps and tightening the wraps in the process.

    • 4

      Tie the working end of the sock absorber to the rescue rope (or rope needing the absorber) using a double fisherman's knot.

    • 5

      Clip a carabiner to the loop on the top of the absorber and use the second carabiner to tie off to an anchor or harness.