ass was dropped in a factor 2 fall (distance of fall equals twice the length of the rope). None of the three knots failed to stop the fall but the Machard tresse slipped about 10 inches before stopping. The dynamic test showed again that the Machard tresse is able to absorb energy. Thus this knot is not potentially dangerous on a tensile strength point of view, even with a relative small diameter. To the contrary it shows very interesting and unique features. The potential danger is more in the lack of education and care. The Machard tresse doesn't only have advantages, it also has weaknesses you should consider and be aware of before making it your knot.I'm now working with a Schwabisch Prusik. I learned it from Bernd Strasser who came up with it. Its strange name comes from the area where Bernd lives in Germany: the Schwabisch land near Stuttgart. It is basically a Prusik made out of a single strand (split tail) which allows you to have only one lap on the bottom and three laps above. I find it to be a very good alternative. It can also be made of the same diameter as the climbing line. Things will probably keep on moving forward. The main idea being able to reach the highest standards possible for comfort and safety. We have to keep an open mind to new ideas and to test them before use. Enhancing communication within the "tree world" should be the key.Francois Dussenne is from Avelines, Belgium. He is a three-time French Champion Tree Climber, and is well known as an innovator in tree climbing techniques.Frederic Mathias, of France, is an active member of the International Tree Climbing Championship committee. Fluent in several languages, Frederic often serves as an announcer and interpreter at international competitions.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------By Mark J. ChisholmWhenever a new technique, system, or piece of hardware come along it demands careful consideration to determine wheth...
