Steve Bullman

DMM have issued a safety recall on all items using the swivel units below. Full details can be found here.

When it comes to efficient rope climbing arborists are all too aware of the reliability of US brand HAAS. Following in the footsteps of the original HAAS is the new Velox Ascent System that’s now available from importers and distributors Carr’s Billington Safety. Foot ascenders have grown in popularity amongst arborists, and those working at height, for increasing efficiency and speed when ascending a single rope. The fastest and most efficient way to ascend rope is to use both legs and the HAAS Velox enables this “rope walking” technique by using a knee positioned ascender on one leg and a foot ascender on the other that enables the climber to ascend the rope in a similar way to climbing the rungs of a ladder as demonstrated in this video. Carr’s Billington Safety stocks two versions of the HAAS Velox – the Ascent System and the Clip n Go. HAAS Velox Ascent System - RRP £220 (incl VAT): Made in Ohio, using a Climbing Technology ascender, this fully integrated, one size fits all, Velox Ascent System requires no set up. The one-handed adjustable foot strap locks around the boot and a bungee quick clip easily attaches to the harness bridge or prussic pulley. It extends 30” under load, eliminating any set up time and creates no dead spots in the return action. Designed to maximise friction reduction the bungee terminates at the top of the Velox and travels down a channel to the bottom where it wraps around a pulley with stainless steel sealed bearings housed in a machined aluminium block. The bungee can be easily replaced in under five minutes with no tools required. What’s more, the fully integrated knee ascender and adjustable foot loop enables a smooth ergonomically correct ascent that evenly works core muscle groups, reducing fatigue and stress. HAAS Velox Clip n Go - RRP £220 (incl VAT): This model carries all the specifications of the Velox Ascent System detailed above but has been specifically designed to clip into the ascent system foot loop on Clip ’n Step Boots using a carabiner. Combine the rope walking capabilities of the HAAS Velox with Climbing Technology’s Chest Ascender, Quick Step A Foot Ascender or Quick Tree Foot Ascender with Quick Tree Spurs for use with Panther Spikes. Whatever your preference Carr’s Billington Safety stocks a full range of quality rope ascending kit.