The Distel Hitch is a friction hitch used to ascend or descend the climbing rope.
It’s a directional hitch, meaning it grips when weighted in one direction but slides in the other.
It’s tied with a lanyard with loops on both ends and is often combined with a micro pulley system for smooth adjustment.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Distel Hitch Details
Type: Slide and Grip Knot
Other Names: 4 over 1 Distel
ABoK Reference: Not Listed
Quick Guide
To tie the Distel Hitch, you need to form a lanyard with an eye at both ends. This is done by tying the Poacher’s Knot at both ends. The lanyard should be roughly 120cm in length and diameter less than the main rope.
Now, wrap the formed lanyard around the main line 4 times. Bring the tail down and wrap it around the rope. Then, pass the tail through the loop just formed.
At last, bring the two eyes in front of the rope and clip the carabiner.
How to Tie the Distel Hitch
- Wrap the lanyard around the main rope.
- Wrap it 3 more times in the same direction.
- Pass it down crossing over the main rope.
- Feed it through the loop formed.
- Join the eyes and clip them together with a carabiner.
Application and Uses
The Distel Hitch is used as a friction hitch in tree climbing or rock climbing. It lets climbers make slow and steady ascents.
It’s combined with a micro pulley attached to the carabiner which makes it easier to adjust.
It’s also used to descend a rope. But, it’s not recommended for fast descent as this can damage the lanyard.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to tie
- Quick and responsive
- Does not jam or slip when tied correctly
Cons
- Can lock up and be harder to slide than the VT
- Requires an open cord to tie this hitch, not a Prusik loop
Other Variations
The most common variation of the Distel Hitch is the 4 over 1 variation. It includes 4 wraps on the top part of the knot.
Some climbers use 3 over 1 Distel with 3 wraps at the top. Keep in mind that this one might not work with all rope types.
Other Direction Slide and Grip Knots: Klemheist knot, Blake’s Hitch, Valdotain Tresse, Icicle Hitch, Rolling Hitch, and Schwabish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Distel Hitch better than Prusik or Valdotain Tresse?
Yes, in some ways.
The Distel Hitch grips better and gives more control than the regular Prusik. The Prusik also tends to become undressed when being moved.
Compared to the Valdotain Tresse, the Distel Hitch grips better because of the riding turn.
But it’s harder to slide and can lock up if you have overlapping wraps.
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