Friction Control & Load Management
How wraps, line angles and letting the piece run manage peak force on the rigging and the tree.
When to use it
Every removal. Deciding how much friction to apply before the cut.
Step by step
Step 1
Estimate the piece weight from species, diameter and length before you cut.
Step 2
Decide the drop distance. Short drops mean lower peak force — keep them short whenever possible.
Step 3
Set wrap count so the groundie can let the piece run a little instead of stopping it dead.
Step 4
Keep the block directly above the piece so the line does not swing the load into the stem.
Step 5
Let it run, then bleed off speed progressively before it reaches the ground.
Step 6
Debrief after big pieces — adjust wraps or piece size for the next cut.
Cautions
- Stopping a piece abruptly can more than double the force on the whole system.
- Reduce piece size before adding gear capacity. Smaller pieces beat bigger forces.
- Watch for dynamic loading on old, decayed or storm-damaged stems.
Training aid only. Follow ANSI Z133, your employer's policy and the manufacturer's instructions for every piece of equipment.