Aloft DVD

[Tarzan]

That occurred to me a couple of hours later as a possibility. Positioning indeed. So true, so true.

Thank you for replying.

[Brion Toss]

Hi,
And when you are hauling yourself up the front of the mast (possible if the rake isn't extreme), you can place your feet against the mast and "hip thrust" as you pull. This takes even more weight off your arms. It also puts the stress more onto your back muscles, not just the biceps.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

[Tarzan]

Nice of you to chime in Brion. I am enjoying your DVD's (3) and books (2).

I decided to go with two Harken blocks just in case I need the mechanical advantage: a 1572 ratchet block with becket for the mast head and a 1549 ratchet block attached to my harness.

The blocks are rated for 9/16's maximum diameter line. In the DVD the rope you are using to haul yourself up appears to be quite thick, perhaps one inch and easy to grip. What size is it?

Fair vines.

Tarzan

[Brion Toss]

Hi again,
That's 5/8" Regatta Braid, which feels nice and fat, stows (not coils) nicely in my line bag, and fit's well in those Harken blocks.
Note that, with two ratcheting blocks, plus the extra advantage, pulling yourself will be much easier, so you won't have to grip as hard, so 1/2" Regatta should be just fine. Oh, and you will probably have to turn off the ratchet on the lower block to descend -- that's how effective they are.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss

[Tarzan]

Insightfull & brief as always. Thank you very much.

All the best with knew knee.

Don't rush it. Do what feels right.

Tarzan