Petzl REEVE: Versatile Pulley for Highline Rescue

The Petzl REEVE carriage pulley is an innovative tool designed to simplify highline rescue systems by combining two high-efficiency pulleys with a rigging plate. This design reduces the amount of equipment needed and minimizes the overall height of the system. Its user-friendly features, such as one-handed operation and multiple attachment points, make it a go-to for technical rope rescue professionals.

Key Features of the Petzl REEVE

1. High-Efficiency Pulleys:
   • Operate on the same mechanism as Petzl SPIN pulleys.
   • Openable with one hand or while wearing gloves.
2. Attachment Points:
   • Five lower holes: Allow for multiple rigging options.
   • Central hole: Perfect for backups or positioning lanyards like the GRILLON.
   • Upper hole: Supports a second track line or secondary control lines.
   • Smooth edges: Enable direct connection of ropes or slings, reducing equipment weight.
3. Compatibility:
   • 19mm holes accommodate most carabiners, allowing free rotation.
   • Large upper attachment hole permits pulley operation even when a carabiner is connected.
4. Flat Back Design:
   • Allows two REEVEs to be used back-to-back in parallel systems.

Common Configurations

1. Vertical Offset on Two Tensioned Track Lines

This configuration uses the REEVE for controlled raising and lowering operations:

• Setup:
  • Attach SPIN pulleys to the inner attachment holes to create a reeving system.
  • Control lines are connected to the outermost holes for horizontal movement.
• Operation:
  • Allows the team to lower the rescuer and raise them back up with a patient attached.
  • Add backups, such as ASAP LOCKs or an independent vertical line, for redundancy.

2. Sloped Highline

For sloped applications, a redundant system prevents the REEVE from traveling downhill:

• Setup:
  • Attach a second control line to the upper attachment hole.
  • Use a large carabiner (e.g., AMD or WILLIAM) to fit over the uphill pulley sheave.
• Benefits:
  • Ensures controlled movement and stability on a slope.
  • Maintains redundancy to enhance safety.

3. Horizontal Offset with Two REEVEs

Using two REEVEs back-to-back provides excellent control and flexibility for horizontal offsets:

• Setup Options:
  1. Use separate carabiners for each REEVE.
  2. Pass a single carabiner through both REEVE attachment holes.
  3. Clip a carabiner to the central attachment point of one REEVE to align the pulleys and prevent tilting.
• Operation:
  • Connect the control and reeving lines to both pulleys for synchronized movement.

Practical Tips

1. Redundancy is Key: Always incorporate backup systems, such as an upper track line or additional control lines, for added safety.
2. Plan for Smooth Movement: Ensure ropes and connections are properly tensioned to prevent snagging or tilting during operation.
3. Adapt to Terrain: Choose the configuration that best suits the environment—whether it’s a vertical offset, slope, or horizontal setup.

Why Choose the Petzl REEVE?

• Efficiency: Reduces equipment needs and simplifies rigging.
• Versatility: Multiple attachment points and configurations make it adaptable to any scenario.
• Ease of Use: One-handed operation and smooth edges enhance usability, even in challenging conditions.

The Petzl REEVE is a game-changer for highline rescue systems, offering unparalleled efficiency and adaptability. Whether you’re navigating a vertical offset, managing a slope, or tackling a horizontal offset, the REEVE simplifies the process and ensures safety.

For more details, visit Rescue Response Gear

Peace on your days,
Lance