New guy.

[Andrew W.]

Hello everybody, my name's Andrew, I worked for a tree service out of chiefland, Florida, I was a groundsman, I handled anything that came off the tree, if the saws needed fuel/oil, I took care of the work from the ground.

Now I am a professional groundskeeper at a campground in Ohio, its "ok" work but it's just not the same, I applied at a local tree service, an I am awaiting a call.

The main reason for this post is so people know who I am, I have been on other forums b4 so I know to watch my tongue, per say, and not to troll.

Now, I am looking to become a climber, I know I know, it's been said b4 you just don't go and climb up a tree, I want to start small, I have only done free climbing up and down trees, as careless as that sounds it's exhilarating, any recommendation on a sadle, and line, would be much appreciated, thank you.

 

[Zale]

Welcome. How much ya got?

 

[Andrew W.]

Welcome. How much ya got?

I have the ability to save for just about anything, however for my first saddle, I was thinking 350$ and under, I like the looks of the Buckingham puma, and for only 250$ it makes my wallet happy.

But most of the people I've seen, and read about are wearing the, treemotion, ergovation, sequoia, etc, these are all high dollar saddles, maybe there is a reason for that, comfort, and features I assume, would it be worth it?

 

[R2D]

I might be able to help you out : )
Contact me privately through a conversation/pm.

I learned to climb not to long ago. well.... enough to not kill myself. Most important advice I got here, but did not truely believe when it was given to me, is: find yourself a local mentor. Hands on training. I offered my labor in exchange. Plus, I refer his business, to this day, for large jobs or jobs I can't handle.

Mike

 

[treesmith]

Treemotion, secure (doesn't pull down with a saw on), comfortable, adaptable and very adjustable to get the perfect fit, also has two sets of D's, replaceable bridge, you can put tools loops wherever you want, just love it. Sequoia is good, treemotion is better, guess it depends on what you're doing and how long you'll be in it at a time

 

[Andrew W.]

Treemotion, secure (doesn't pull down with a saw on), comfortable, adaptable and very adjustable to get the perfect fit, also has two sets of D's, replaceable bridge, you can put tools loops wherever you want, just love it. Sequoia is good, treemotion is better, guess it depends on what you're doing and how long you'll be in it at a time

Well for right now it will be recreational climbing, until I can seek out more experienced help, hopefully at the tree service I applied for, they may teach me?

 

[treesmith]

If your worth having on the ground, do everything you can to make the job easier for everyone and make an effort to learn, chances are they'll teach you. Get your kit and there'll be days where you can get climbs, we have learners at work, they climb at every opportunity, evenings and weekends, the boys see them putting effort in and they get to go up the occasional tree, everyone is happy

A good groundie is worth fighting over, and a good groundie should also make a good team playing humble arborist, they're the best ones.

 

[Zale]

I have the ability to save for just about anything, however for my first saddle, I was thinking 350$ and under, I like the looks of the Buckingham puma, and for only 250$ it makes my wallet happy.

But most of the people I've seen, and read about are wearing the, treemotion, ergovation, sequoia, etc, these are all high dollar saddles, maybe there is a reason for that, comfort, and features I assume, would it be worth it?

$350 gives you a lot of options. I use a saddle from Sierra Moreno. Don't recall the name. Don Blair makes them. This saddle is bullet proof and takes a beating. The design is probably 20+ years old but has everything you need. I believe it was one of the first saddles with a floating D. Today, the design would be considered old school but I find it comfortable. I've been climbing for 25 years and have owned 2.

 

[Pelorus]

I also use a Sierra Moreno saddle, purchased from Don B. at probably the last TCI Expo he ever rented a booth at; at least 6 years ago. and it looks like it will be good for at least another 6. As Zale said; bulletproof and comfortable.
I'm 54 and can afford to buy a "better" saddle, but when I'm eating steak at home, why would I buy a hamburger? (thanks, Paul Newman). Actually, I bought a (new model) Sequoia last year, thinking I would use it for trim jobs, but honestly I find the Sierra Moreno more comfortable, easier and quicker to put on.
If you could try a couple of saddles first, you would be ahead of the curve. Find a Vermeer store in your area or something where you can hang in a saddle and see if it pinches things that should never get squeezed...

 

[Andrew W.]

I also use a Sierra Moreno saddle, purchased from Don B. at probably the last TCI Expo he ever rented a booth at; at least 6 years ago. and it looks like it will be good for at least another 6. As Zale said; bulletproof and comfortable.
I'm 54 and can afford to buy a "better" saddle, but when I'm eating steak at home, why would I buy a hamburger? (thanks, Paul Newman). Actually, I bought a (new model) Sequoia last year, thinking I would use it for trim jobs, but honestly I find the Sierra Moreno more comfortable, easier and quicker to put on.
If you could try a couple of saddles first, you would be ahead of the curve. Find a Vermeer store in your area or something where you can hang in a saddle and see if it pinches things that should never get squeezed...

My local Vermeer is an hour drive one way I thing I will try the puma saddle first