How do I ascend a fixed 6 mm tagline?

Pete Swrote:

I’m willing to pack a bit more weight and have a safe usable cord.   What’s the equation for near certain death on 6mm? 

Jugging dynamic 8mm cord FEELS like approaching John Harlin status.

So, instead of entering the Dark Arts, you could also let a #BigWallGroupie like me stand nearby and cheer you on, cook you food, haul your junk, and then *I* could trail another cord of girthier quality and probably be the one to bail.....but I guess that would take away from the solo experience??? 

Stileswrote:

Jugging dynamic 8mm cord FEELS like approaching John Harlin status.

Yeah, 1mm away.

Ascending a 6mm cord, eh?  Sounds like a good idea .... 

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...said no one ever.  

YGD.

go for the Blue Water Pull Cord (8mm x 60m or 70m) their recommended big wall tag line.  its a more versatile diameter than 6mm and it allows it to safely fill many roles.  while it is heavier vs a 6mm line it will hands down be worth it if you're planning on fixing and jugging on it.

Patsywrote:

I couldn't resist a little test. I shredded some 6 mm cord with an old CAMP ascender. I attached the ascender to my harness with a single carabiner and clamped it to the 6 mm accessory cord. Then I put my full weight on the ascender and body bounced it. After a few hard body bounces I could hear the sheath ripping and at bounce 8 I totally de-sheathed the accessory cord.

This was enough to convince me that it would be a very bad idea to attempt ascenders on a 6 mm tagline. I was trying to rip it, so maybe in a real situation I would be putting less force on it, but still. I think I would use a different method.

I weight around 165 pounds.

If you want to see the video, send me a message (these are screenshots).

Before

After

De-sheathed

Jesus FC I’m more worried about your rafters than the results of your test!