Probably not the first thread but can someone explain climbing gear like im a child??

[HusqyStihl]

Ive recently been offered to take on a groundie/all aroundie job by an Arborist. I can fell trees, buck, split wood, service and rebuild saws (love that. I inquired if they had any groundie jobs, maybe learn a new trade. Got an immediate response "start right away by servicing and repairing 2 Husqs & 2 Stihls and can you climb or willing to learn?"

Basically ive read alot of "climbing gear" threads on here.

Maybe someone can explain the basic "must haves" and what they do/are for?

Then maybe the "optional equipment" that is preferred.

Talk to me like a child lol im 6'4" 225lbs. And recommendations for certain brand gears would be awesome also. Ive already got basic PPE (Hardhat w/mesh screen & built in hearing protection, safety glasses, chaps, logging steel toes & gloves) but anything to do with climbing i do not. And i know alot will have different opinions but open to all suggestions. Personally i'd rather start in a bucket truck which ill be doing in the next couple of weeks on my own terms. But still need to make a list of climbing gear to acquire...

Any help appreciated!!

Thanks, Moose

 

[BC WetCoast]

This is better in the 101 forum, but whatever. Before you get carried away with buying climbing gear work your groundie job for a while. Learn how the work gets done, watch the climbers, ask questions of them. It makes a lot more sense watching, holding gear in your hand etc than trying to understand what someone is typing on a forum.

As I said, learn your groundie job, work hard, don't stand around and gawk and get some respect from the experienced people and have them teach you. Once you learn the basics (and doing them is harding than reading about them), then a discussion about gear is warranted.

 

[HusqyStihl]

Thats what blew me away is this company wants me to start climbing right away. I figured id start as a groundie till i learn alot but first thing is they want me up in the trees. Doesnt sound right to me

 

[HusqyStihl]

And i apologize about forum placement. Saw the 101 after i submitted this thread

 

[tidy]

I would be careful mate, climbing is something you should be able to ease yourself into and with available time/expertise for on the job training,

 

[HusqyStihl]

Well im not one to be pushed when it comes to training. I understand deadlines need to be met but not at the price of someones life. And if they implied otherwise, they wouldnt be someone i'd respect, let alone work for. I pick up things quickly but i also dont let complacency get in the way. I may start off slow to make sure i get into the swing of things but EVERY SINGLE job ive ever had can report that i have never (knock on wood) had a safety violation and also say that i was the fastest and most efficient worker theyve ever seen/had. I take pride in my work ethic and if something seems unsafe or i dont know something.. "The only stupid question is the one thats not asked". Given the opportunity i will and have suceeded at everything ive done. Sounds cocky but i make sure i know what im doing AND what others are doing before i make a safety related decision. Everyone on the same page is ideal. I may not get any respect as a green guy but as with everything ive done, it comes with time. Youre correct, time, patience and practice is the only way.

 

[imagineero]

See the colorful ropes and shiny metals things? That's what daddy uses to kill trees with. Now go play with your dollies.

 

[JRoland]

They won't send you up a tree without you being comfortable with your equipment and at least having an idea of what to do when you get up there. I am thinking you are over thinking it a little. If you really know your saws and want to learn to climb, work your ground job to the best of your ability while watching and learning from the climber(s) that are already there.

 

[Zale]

Thats what blew me away is this company wants me to start climbing right away. I figured id start as a groundie till i learn alot but first thing is they want me up in the trees. Doesnt sound right to me

There is a difference between learning to climb and production climbing. If this company expects you to production climb right off, be very cautious.

 

[defensiblespace]

If they want you climbing right away, I'd stay far away from that company. I can't imagine the guys that are climbing for them now have much experience either. Sounds like a dangerous combo all around.

 

[treeseer]

The more gear you buy, the less $ you will have.

 

[HusqyStihl]

I was just cruising a couple sponsor sites and checking out combo packages. Reason i asked was i was curious to weed out what was needed and what was optional. I've got many guides to study including the Tree Climbers Companion and many many others so i'll start there. Then move on to find a local supplier of gear to try on prior to purchase. I joined (as a student) the NYS ISA and have been asking many questions. I appreciate all the feedback and within the next couple of weeks i will be starting to meet up with some local climbers to observe and help out a little just to get a feel for what a typical day is like high in the sky.

Thanks again everyone,
~Moose