Load Sharing Anchors
Load Sharing Anchors, often called LSAs, are a core standard in technical rigging. Outside of strict industrial settings—where you might rely on fixed beams or embedded eye rings—LSAs provide a dynamic, adaptable way to manage anchor loads across multiple points.
They are essential in wilderness rescue, rope access, canyon systems, and backcountry operations. LSAs allow you to combine available anchor points into a working system, even when no single anchor is bombproof on its own.
What Is a Load Sharing Anchor?
A Load Sharing Anchor distributes the applied force between two or more anchor points. While the goal is to share that force equally, perfect distribution is rare unless the load stays perfectly aligned and still. That said, a well-rigged LSA reduces peak loading on individual anchors and increases the overall resilience of your system.
Why Use an LSA?
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You’re working with natural or variable terrain
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No single anchor point is fully reliable alone
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You need redundancy and reduced point loading
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The system must stay simple, fast, and field-adaptable
LSAs allow you to create an effective anchor platform using rope, slings, webbing, or cord—whatever materials your environment and kit provide.
How to Build One
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Identify Anchor Points
Choose at least two solid anchors. They don’t have to be identical, but they should be stable and capable of supporting part of the system load. -
Select Your Connection Material
Use slings, webbing, cordelette, or rope to connect anchor points. Hardware (e.g., carabiners or rigging plates) may be used to organize the master point. -
Create a Focal Point
Tie or clip all anchor strands into a central master point. This is where your working or belay line will attach. -
Manage Angles
Check the angle formed between anchor legs. As angles increase, the force on each anchor increases. Keep this angle tight—ideally under 90 degrees. -
Pre-Tension If Needed
In some cases, a light pre-tension between anchor points can help maintain even load distribution.
When Load Shifts
Load sharing assumes the system remains balanced. But when the load shifts—such as during movement, haul transitions, or environmental change—vector forces may shift too. This can cause one anchor to take more load or even all of it.
That’s why it’s critical to:
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Monitor the anchor alignment
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Limit the angle spread
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Keep slack out of your system
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Pre-plan for load redirection or change
Not a Bombproof System
A load sharing anchor is not inherently bombproof. It’s a calculated compromise—turning a collection of strong points into a functional platform. That’s why clear inspection, good knot work, and vector awareness matter.
Final Thought
LSAs are a technician’s go-to solution when no single anchor is ideal. They’re fast to build, easy to adjust, and highly adaptable. However, they also require judgment. Understand your vector forces, build clean focal points, and anticipate how movement will affect your setup.
This is the work of a thinking rescuer—not just a rope handler.
Peace on your Days
Lance
