Urban BOB - Rappelling?

FSCJedi · Sep 1, 2007

Ok, here's something new to try on for size. What about you guys who work in office buildings? Do you keep your BOB with you in your office/cubicle? Does it include a basic rappelling harness and enough rope to get your grounded?

I have anyone thinking?

Ok, check this out. I'm in the Army and we just had a briefing on "future gear" for urban environments. This micro rappelling system was one of the featured items. The rope used is only as big around as a .22 caliber round, but will hold 5000 pounds. The whole unit is already built into a belt: just strap it on, convert it to "harness mode", affix the end of the rope to something secure, and GO!

Wadda ya think? I might just pick one of these up. I'm very impressed with how light/functional it is, and it has a definite cool factor! haha

ironraven · Sep 1, 2007

I think the rope is a little thin. For a short rappel, if I absolutely, positively had no other way of getting out the building without dieing, I'd give it a shot. But in training, I want a stunt man's airbag under me.

My other concern is that I've found some of the superstrong, superthin lines are very picky about what knots they'll take.

I'd rather carry a roll of 1" tubular nylon webbing in my thigh pocket. Not quite as strong, "only" about 4000 pounds, nor quite as small, but easier to use, and a shorter length (10 feet) to rig a swiss seat from.

ghostguy6 · Sep 2, 2007

I would stay away from a rig like that. The cord appears way to thin and could cut easily. If you are bugging out I dont think you will have time to propperly protect your rope from damages. Most likely your rope will be running over a window ledge or some other sharp edge. Also the heat casued by friction will effect a thinner rope much faster. A thinner rope is also much harder to grip with your break hand. With a reduced breaking ability and a thin rope you are asking for the heat of friction to melt through your rope. The cost also seems really high. You can get more for much less at a store like REI or MEC.
Basic harness $40
2 carabiners $10-15
Figure 8 decender $12
10.3mm 50m (164ft)rope $97
For $159-164 CAN you can get a rig that is much more versetile and in my opinion much safer.

syrinx · Sep 2, 2007

I really like the concept of the Micro Rappel Assembly,and within the next few months I will test this rig. I also found A 660ft.of micro rope is $886.99 yikes! not for the faint of heart,I think I'll start with the basic rappel kit.

frediver · Sep 2, 2007

The micro cord sounds like Spectra or something close, it will be tough to cut.
IMO buy an instructor's belt with 2 carabiners a figure 8 and a 10-15 meter length of 6mm ( min dia) accessory cord and you will have a more practical setup.
The instructors belt/riggers belt has an attachment point for a carabiner.

Jenner 515 · Sep 2, 2007

frediver said:
The micro cord sounds like Spectra or something close, it will be tough to cut.

Dyneema perhaps? Maybe that's a brand name.

In Fall Prevention for Construction Safety, they have fall limiters loaded with what appears to be only 4mm stuff.

If I had to get out of an urban high rise setting...Full Body Harness, a Fisk Descender and a whole lot of 1/2" Kernmantle rope.

mete · Sep 2, 2007

Look up something like www.pelicanrope.com ,but it's Technora, developed by a Japanese company ,very strong , doesn't stretch .The covered versions would be better for abrasion resistance.

straitshot · Sep 2, 2007

Windows in modern tall office buildings don't open. If broken out, it injures people below. They are specifically constructed so stairways are fire and smoke rated for the best exiting opportunity. Your best bet when working in a modern building is to be familiar with all of the exit paths and be ready to use them. If you see something like stairwell doors propped open or locked or sticking, report it. When visiting, take notice of the exit plans posted in the halls.

Many of the people I worked with in a highrise had no idea how to negotiate the floors they didn't frequent. Many also assumed all alarms were false and nothing to be concerned about. New employees were never shown the designated areas of refuge designed into the building. Many were afraid of the wrong thing (the elevator!). The list goes on...

If it's an old old building that is not well maintained, all bets are off.

ss.