Updating My Ridgeline System

After relying on the same ridgeline setup for my tarp over many years, I began to notice signs of wear and fraying, particularly around the areas where the Truckers Hitch was utilised. Realising it was time for an upgrade, I decided to explore a new, simpler system. While I value the efficiency of mastering a few key knots for repetitive tasks, I understand that not everyone can recall knots in the heat of the moment.

Inspired by David Canterbury’s improvements to the Rapid Ridgeline, I decided to try it out for myself. I gathered a new length of paracord and a couple of seasoned hazel pieces, approximately 10-15cm long, to serve as toggles. After drilling a hole in the center of each toggle wide enough to accommodate the paracord, I carefully chamfered the ends and smoothed out any rough spots. Although I assembled this in my shed at home, it could easily be done in the field.

Next, I threaded the toggles onto the paracord and tied a bowline knot at one end. I added three Prusik Knot loops between the toggles, though more could be added if necessary. It’s important to offset the knot used to create the Prusik loops from the bottom of the loop to avoid interference with the toggles’ holding ability when tensioned.

The resulting setup is compact, roughly the size of a fist, and doesn’t take up much more space than the coiled cord alone. I usually keep it in a ditty bag along with my tarp and tree straps, though it easily fits in my pocket.

The bowline end is straightforward – pull out enough line to wrap around the tree, slide the first toggle up to meet the bowline, pass it through the loop, and cinch it up. This creates a self-tightening hitch, leaving you free to attend to the other end of your ridgeline.

To finish setting up, leave two Prusik loops about halfway between the anchor points, take the last loop and toggle toward the other anchor point, pass the toggle and cord around the tree, and leave the final Prusik loop about 30cm from the tree. Pass the toggle through the loop, pinch it with the loop and toggle, and cinch it tight.

Attach your tarp to the remaining Prusik loops using twigs through the loops and your tarp pull-outs. Slide the Prusik knots along the ridgeline until tight and positioned as desired.

This ridgeline setup has become my preferred method for many reasons:

1. Simple to set up once created.
2. Great for long-term use, reducing wear on the cordage.
3. Fast deployment and pack-up.
4. Suitable for use in cold conditions or with limited mobility.
5. Suitable for children to use.
6. Maintains a tight hold.
7. No knots to tie when tired or in a hurry, and no tangled knots during packing.

After several months and numerous setups in the field, I can confidently recommend this method. I encourage you to give it a try and share your thoughts on the system.