Single Point Anchors

Single point anchors are the foundation of most rope systems. They are simple, fast to deploy, and—when properly selected—extremely effective. Whether using a rope, a sling, or webbing, the goal is the same: create a secure, reliable attachment point that holds under expected load without unnecessary complexity.

There are two basic types of single-point anchor connections:

• Indirect connections — use material like webbing, cord, or straps

• Direct connections — tie directly with the working or belay lines themselves

Indirect Connections

An indirect anchor connects the system to a host object using a separate piece of material, not the main line. This might include:

• Webbing

• Pre-sewn slings

• Cord

• Wire rope (in industrial or sharp-edge environments)

Common indirect methods include:

• Wrap 3 Pull 2: A strong and widely tested anchor, usually tied with webbing

• Basket hitch: Excellent strength, especially with stitched slings

• Girth hitch (choker): Reliable for natural features or structural steel

• Double loop anchor: Formed with doubled webbing or cord tied with water bends or double fisherman’s knots

Indirect anchors are often the default in wilderness and structural environments where anchor materials must protect both the rope and the anchor feature.

Direct Connections

In contrast, a direct anchor ties the mainline itself to the host structure. This is common in:

• Rope access

• Pickoffs and patient contact rescues

• Rapid anchor setups or single-use anchors

Examples include:

• Tensionless hitch: Wraps the rope around the host object 3–4 times, then clips back to itself. This avoids knotting and preserves rope strength.

• Figure 8 on a bight or bowline with Yosemite finish: Fast to tie and commonly used in quick rappel setups

Direct connections reduce gear requirements and are often used when the operator is moving with the load, such as during descent or confined-space movement.

Common Single-Point Anchors

Below are common types of single-point anchors with visuals typically included in training modules:

• Basket Hitch (using pre-sewn sling) – High strength, minimal loss

• Girth Hitch – Simple and effective when tied correctly

• Wrap 3 Pull 2 – Strong, reliable, and time-tested

• Wrap 4 Pull 2 – Offers additional friction and security

• Double Loop Anchor – Built with webbing or cord and secured with proper knots

• Anchor straps – Pre-sewn, fixed or adjustable; typically rigged as basket hitches

These systems are fast, easy to inspect, and often preferred in dynamic environments where rescue setups must adapt to changing terrain.

Single Point Anchors in Rope Access

The rope access world offers a wide variety of redundant single-point anchor configurations. In these systems, multiple slings or connections terminate at the same focal point, allowing independent ropes or tools to operate from one anchor with shared load-bearing confidence.

Redundancy here is not always about backup—it’s often about flexibility and rigging flow.

Quick Anchors & Field Application

There are moments—especially in rappels or personal escape—where a single bombproof anchor is sufficient and time is limited. One strong anchor, such as a tree trunk or steel beam, tied with a bowline with Yosemite finish, may be all that’s needed.

These anchors must still be inspected and validated before use, even under time pressure. Just because it’s quick doesn’t mean it should be careless.

Understanding Bombproof Anchors

A bombproof anchor is one that is unquestionably solid under any anticipated load. But what does that mean, and how do we define it?

Questions to ask:

• Is the natural feature (boulder, horn, tree) large and secure enough that failure is unimaginable?

• Is an AHD (Artificial High Directional) bombproof? If not, why? Is it due to configuration, rating, or misuse?

• What’s the load rating of the feature? Do you have proof, specs, or experience?

• Is a vehicle anchor bombproof? Bumpers? Axles? The frame? The entire vehicle?

Just calling something bombproof doesn’t make it so. Load testing, inspection, and logic must define what qualifies. When in doubt, build in redundancy—or don’t use it at all.

Final Note

This unit focused primarily on indirect anchor connections using slings, webbing, or cord. Direct anchors using the rope itself will be explored in the Personal Skills section.

Ultimately, the strength of a single point anchor comes not just from its components—but from the rigger’s ability to match the connection type to the mission, the material, and the environment.

Peace on your Days

Lance