Put a Ring on it!

In the ever-evolving world of Arboriculture, new tools and concepts are always on the rise, which means we are not at a standstill, and we are moving forward with the world. Among the various tools that have gained popularity in recent years are Rigging Rings. These tools have been lauded for their simplicity, strength, and versatility, but are they truly worth the hype!? We’ll be taking a closer look at what rigging rings offer and whether they deserve a place in your rigging gear bag.

What are Rigging Rings?

The best way I can describe them; constructed from high strength aluminum in the shape of a large “doughnut” with an outer groove for a sling, or rope, and an inner hole for the rigging rope to flow through. Well, who introduced us to these magnificent rings? The X-Man himself, David Driver of course! As with most new and unknown pieces of gear breaking through the barrier, rigging rings received pushback as we are creatures of habit and changes to things that are tried and true may be difficult. However, as time passed by, these rigging rings gained immense popularity and skyrocketed, being used industry wide! If you wish to hear more about the introduction of rigging rings, highly recommend checking out The Educated Climber podcast where Mr. David Driver is featured.

Why Rings?

The most frequently asked questions, “what is the difference between rings and arborist block pulleys, and what is better”? Let’s look into this a bit more. Arborist block pulleys have a rotating sheave, which means your anchor point will be “friction free” but being friction free means the potential for more force seen at the anchor (if the angle has not been opened up). Rigging rings on the other hand, when the rope runs through the rigging ring, the smooth, rounded surface of the ring minimizes friction and wear on the rope when compared to natural branch rigging. However, since the rigging ring lacks a moving sheave like that of an Arborist block, there is still more friction in the system when compared to a block; it’s like a happyish medium. They are also lighter when compared to an Arborist rigging block and quicker to deploy and attach, that alone sets them apart from the competition!

When do they come into play?

I will use rigging rings when I would like to introduce aerial friction in hopes of strengthening my rigging anchor point. Secondly, if the groundie isn't proficient with a port-a-wrap, I’d introduce rings to my rigging and take out smaller pieces that would be easily managed by one person. However, this could also backfire due to the learning curve associated with rings. As mentioned earlier in this blog, rings add friction to the rigging system and when combined with a port-a-wrap, it could become a recipe for disaster, especially if the groundie has not accounted for the friction added at the rings.

Rings can still be used simultaneously with arborist blocks. In this instance, the arborist block would be the main rigging anchor point, and the rings can be strategically placed in the crown to open up the angle of your rigging rope to distribute the forces seen at the main anchor. This is done to create some compression and strengthen my rigging. While we’re on the topic of redirecting, the rings can also be used to redirect the rope down a straight path, especially when used with a GRCS. Or multiple rigging ring slings can be used to create a fishing pole rigging system down a stem, it’s legit!

I didn’t really immerse myself with rings, but I had received a large rigging ring rated to 300kN – BEEFY – from a friend who didn’t feel he ever had a use for it, and I shared similar thoughts. That is until a great friend suggested using it as a floating/speed line anchor, and the light bulb immediately lit up! Okay bear with me:

For a floating anchor point:

1. Rather than having hollow braid sling material around the outer groove, install your rigging rope through your chosen anchor point.
   
2. Attach the rigging line to the ring by going through the inner groove and securing it.
   
3. Next, attach another rigging rope through the inner groove and secure it.
   
4. Almost there, add your rigging rope right through the inner groove.
   
5. Final thing, hoist it and anchor it down.
   
   

The recipe for a controlled speed line is as follows (not many differences):

1. Attach to the tree via sling, sling through inner groove and back.
   
2. Next add the main “speed line” through the inner groove.
   
3. The control line is then added to through the outer groove.
   
4. Tension your speed line with your desired method and bam, controlled speed line is now in effect!
   
   

One Ring or Multiple Rings?

This is the million-dollar question, is it ok to rig from a single ring or not? Across the tree care industry, this is one of the most discussed topics since the inception of rigging rings, apart from one-handing chainsaws, which is a discussion for another day. We all know the recommended bend radius is 4:1 and even then, the estimated strength loss is fifteen percent and with that knowledge, does a single ring provide enough bend or are two required? Now, the thing with rings – see that, quick rhyme – initially, a single ring was meant to be applied to deviate rope angles, but it quickly caught on as being used for a main rigging anchor.

Double or even triple ring slings were recommended because it was said that the bend radius was now larger and deemed the system correct. However, from my understanding, some rings even when paired with multiple rings the edges of the rings still create a harsh bend, therefore negating the “appropriate” bend radius. That is what was conveyed but if I am getting that wrong, please correct me in the comment section. Information is always welcomed! Anyhoo… certain ring manufacturers have created rings with a smoother finish upon the ropes’ exit from the inner hole, creating the desired 4:1 bend; just use the appropriate ring size for your application.

Rigging rings offer simplicity, durability, and cost effectiveness for a variety of rigging tasks. Understanding the functionality, appropriate use cases, load ratings, and the importance of the bend radius is crucial for using them safely and effectively. When used correctly, rings can significantly enhance your rigging operations