Schwab

The Schwab is an asymmetrical  Prusik with four upper coils and one lower coil. Compare this with the Schwabich which has three and one, respectively.

Cavers generally don't use asymmetrical Prusiks because they cannot be tied with a loop of sling (unless the free end of the main line is available), but arborists often tie their knots using open slings with eyes in each end, and they've found a use for this knot in their trade. Adding coils to the top of a Prusik makes it hold better when loaded, and also makes it easier to release and slide upward.


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©2008, Gary D. Storrick