First Impressions of Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit is a crucial piece of safety equipment for any hunter or outdoorsman who spends time in treestands. Tethrd is a well-known name in the saddle hunting world, and this kit aims to provide a reliable and secure connection to the tree while climbing. I’ve been using climbing sticks and hang-on stands for years, and while I’ve always prioritized safety, I was looking for a more streamlined and comfortable system than the standard harness tethers I’ve used in the past.
For years, I’ve relied on the generic, bulky safety harnesses included with my stands. The constant adjustments and feeling of restriction always detracted from the hunt. I needed a system that offered both security and freedom of movement.
Upon unboxing the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit, my first impression was positive. The rope felt robust and well-made, the carabiners looked strong, and the prusik cord seemed durable. Compared to the basic rope and carabiner setup I considered building myself, this kit offered a professionally assembled and tested product, giving me greater peace of mind. It was a toss-up between this and a competitor’s kit, but Tethrd’s reputation for quality and the inclusion of two carabiners sealed the deal.
I was immediately excited to put it to use. This looked like a simple, yet effective kit that would increase my safety and comfort in the woods.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit was during a scouting trip in early September in preparation for deer season. I was hanging trail cameras and checking stand locations in a heavily wooded area with varying tree sizes. The conditions were relatively dry, but the early morning dew added a touch of moisture to the bark.
The kit was surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. The 8-foot rope provided ample length for maneuvering around limbs, and the prusik cord slid smoothly, allowing for effortless adjustments. I did find myself wishing for slightly larger carabiners to accommodate thicker gloves during colder hunts. There were no major issues, but I did notice that the rope could get a bit stiff in tighter bends initially.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use throughout the hunting season, the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit has proven to be a reliable and valuable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the rope. The carabiners still function smoothly, and the prusik cord maintains its grip.
Cleaning the kit is simple; I just wipe down the rope with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or sap. Compared to my old harness tether, the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit offers significantly greater freedom of movement and feels much more secure. It has exceeded my expectations, and I now feel safer and more confident when climbing.
Breaking Down the Features of Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit
Specifications
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit includes an 8-foot rope, two ultra-lite carabiners, and a prusik cord. The rope is a 1/2″ x 8′ double braid, boasting a 5,000 lbs strength rating. It also has a 2″ factory-spliced/sewn loop at one end.
These specifications are critical for safety. The 5,000 lbs strength rating provides a significant margin of error, ensuring that the system can withstand the force of a fall. The factory-spliced loop is a crucial safety feature, as it eliminates the risk of a knot coming undone or weakening under stress.
Performance & Functionality
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and reliable connection to the tree, allowing for safe climbing and stand installation. The rope is easy to adjust, and the carabiners are quick to clip and unclip.
The kit’s main strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. The only area for potential improvement would be to offer a carabiner option with a slightly larger gate opening. Ultimately, the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit meets and exceeds my expectations for a lineman’s belt system.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit is excellent. The rope is made from durable materials that feel strong and resistant to abrasion. The overall design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills.
The kit is lightweight and comfortable to use, even for extended periods. There is no real learning curve; the system is intuitive and easy to understand.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction suggest that it will withstand years of use with proper care. Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning and inspection are all that’s needed to keep the kit in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit comes as a complete system, including the rope, carabiners, and prusik cord. While there aren’t many customization options directly from Tethrd, users can easily replace the carabiners with other models that better suit their needs. The rope itself is compatible with various prusik knots and climbing hardware, offering some flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit
Pros
- High Strength Rating: The 5,000 lbs strength provides ample safety margin.
- Easy to Use: The simple design allows for quick and intuitive operation.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight and Compact: The kit is easy to carry and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
- Complete System: The kit includes everything needed to safely climb trees.
Cons
- Carabiner Gate Size: The carabiner gate opening could be slightly larger for easier use with gloves.
- Rope Stiffness: The rope can be a bit stiff initially, especially in colder temperatures.
Who Should Buy Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit?
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit is perfect for hunters, especially saddle hunters or those using hang-on stands and climbing sticks. It is also well-suited for tree workers, arborists, or anyone who needs a reliable and secure lifeline while climbing trees. Anyone prioritizing safety while working at height will benefit from this kit.
Someone who primarily hunts from ladder stands or enclosed blinds may not need this particular kit. However, even those hunters might consider it for setting up stands or performing maintenance. If you’re already comfortable with a different system or find the Tethrd name too expensive, then you may want to look at cheaper options.
A good upgrade would be a larger, auto-locking carabiner, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion on Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit
The Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit is a well-designed, durable, and easy-to-use safety system that provides peace of mind while climbing trees. Its high strength rating and complete system make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values safety and performance in the field.
The price is justified by the quality of the materials and the peace of mind it provides. I would highly recommend the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit to any hunter or outdoorsman looking for a reliable and secure climbing system.
Invest in your safety and get the Tethrd Linemans Belt Kit today!