Abstract: An exercise device. The exercise device includes an elongated member with a pair of grooves disposed at opposing ends. A pair of tension screws are utilized to slidably secure a pair of clamps to opposing ends of the elongated member. The pair of clamps slidably adjust along the length of the elongated member by traveling along the grooves. The clamps secure the elongated member to an opening, such as a door frame. The elongated member further includes a pair of recessed portions. The recessed portions are configured to curve around a soleus portion of a user's legs. A pair of straps affixed to opposing ends of each recessed portion removably secure about a front of the user's legs. In one embodiment, the elongated member is hingedly divided into two parts, wherein each part includes a clamp slidably secured thereto and a recessed portion, thereby providing a storage configuration.

Abstract: An ascender device is disclosed that includes a base plate having a base top, a base bottom, a base rear surface, and a base front surface, wherein the base front surface further includes a first side and a second side; a plurality of pawls that are rotationally biased and secured to the base plate, a plurality of teeth on the plurality of pawls, wherein at least in part, the teeth are opposed to each other to form a gap that extends between the teeth and wherein the gap is configured to receive a rope therein and can be increased and decreased in size via pivoting of the pawls to releasably engage the rope, a plurality of strap supports extending from the base, an upper gate adjacent the base top and having an opening for receiving the rope therein, and a securing mechanism for securement to an article of footwear.

Abstract: An arrangement allowing a person to climb up and/or down an object, such as a high-voltage mast, the arrangement including an elongate, rail-type profiled element that is provided with at least one guiding part extending along the profiled element, and a part for absorbing force transmission. A climbing aid is also provided, comprising two climbing consoles with one respective foot supporting area and a guiding section that embraces or grips the guiding part and a holding section which at least partly rests against or on the profiled element opposite the guiding section.

Abstract: A lightweight pad system for a climber is disclosed having a bracket with a curved portion in the shape of a “C” and ends including elongate slots for receiving a strap. The bracket has a recessed columnar channel extending below the lower edge of the plane of the plate, the channel forming an angle with the lower edge in a range of between seventy two degrees and seventy five degrees. Hook and loop fastener is affixed to the “C” shaped plate between a first end and the channel, and a strap passes through the bracket for adjusting the fit of the pad assembly. Inside the bracket is a removable pad having a “C” shape corresponding with the curved plate, the removable pad having a back surface comprising complimentary hook and loop fastening material cooperating with the first hook and loop fastener material to achieve a releasable attachment with the bracket.

Abstract: A two piece climber includes an upper calf bracket portion and a lower “J” shaped stirrup bracket portion permanently or removably interchangeably connected together. The lower “J” shaped stirrup bracket portion includes an upper slotted portion for receiving the lower portion of the upper calf bracket portion. The lower “J” shaped stirrup bracket portion also includes a bottom grooved or knurled grip portion to provide traction for an arborist walking across branches.

Abstract: A foot lock ascender for ascending along a rope including a swivelling gate and attachment portion including at least a first passage for a first strap to pass through and to be adjusted, and at least a second passage for a second strap to pass through. The first strap is inclined by a predefined angle with respect to the throat, the angle is between 40° and 75° so as to keep the bottom of the throat parallel to the path of the rope when ascending.

Abstract: The invention provides an ascender or other rope-gripping device which is separated form its handle by a connection of length such that when, in use, the ascender is attached to a single rope suspended from above with a second, handled ascender below it. The second ascender can be lifted up along the rope to a position where its associated handle is above the handle of the first ascender.

Abstract: An upper shackle assembly for a steel pump jack for a wood pole includes a u-shaped shackle component to receive the wood pole. The assembly includes a crank handle that extends through the shackle component and engages the pole to lower the pump jack down the pole. The assembly includes a brake attached to the shackle component to engage with the pole if the crank handle fails. A method for installing a steel pump jack to a wood pole includes the steps of placing a u-shaped shackle component about the wood pole. There is the step of closing a brake with the shackle component to engage with the pole if a crank handle fails. There is the step of extending the crank handle through the shackle component to engage the pole. A steel pump jack.

Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method have a speed-limiting braking mechanism. The apparatus may use a leash to limit a velocity of movement of a pet relative to a velocity of movement of a user of the apparatus. The speed-limiting braking mechanism within the apparatus may prevent the relative velocity from exceeding a predetermined threshold without abruptly stopping unwinding of the leash. The speed-limiting braking mechanism may have a rotatable pinion component connected to one or more brake shoes. The leash may be connected to a spool. Unwinding of the leash may rotate the spool, and rotation of the spool may rotate the pinion component. If the relative velocity exceeds the predetermined threshold, the one or more brake shoes may engage a braking liner to maintain the relative velocity at the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A tree stand is provided, the tree stand including a platform support, first and second clamps rotatably attached to the platform support, and a platform attached to an upper portion of the platform support. Also provided is a climbing portion adapted to allow a user to enter and leave the tree stand. In some aspects of the invention, the various components of the tree stand can be easily assembled and disassembled for transporting and setting up the tree stand. The first and second clamps include openings for fasteners, which are used to secure the clamps to a tree.

Abstract: A treestand apparatus has a frame having a first end configured to engage a tree and a second end configured to support a user's weight, a double locking cinch including a first toothed belt attached to the frame at first and second points, with a portion of the first toothed belt between the first and second points being configured to extend around the tree and a second toothed belt attached to the frame at first and second points, with a portion of the second toothed belt between the first and second points being configured to extend around the tree opposite the first toothed belt. At least one of the points of the frame includes a mechanism configured to selectively adjust the length of a portion of the double locking cinch, with mechanisms located ideally proximal to the tree.

Abstract: An improved safety harness and method of using same that allows for self-rescue and suspension trauma relief from either a vertical or horizontal anchor, such as a tree or an overhead beam, the safety harness having an adjustable front tie-in assembly whereby the distance between the waist strap and the thigh straps can be adjusted. The wearer is able to change from rear suspension to front suspension after a fall without the necessity of completely detaching from a safety line.

Abstract: A multipart rail-like profile comprises at least two or more joinable or insertable profile elements (1), having at least one ratchet (5), a toothed rack compartment, or codings extending in the longitudinal direction. In addition, pattern elements (11) having equidistantly spaced elements (13), which are coupled to the ratchet or toothed rack partitioning, are provided in at least one wall of each profile element (1). For connecting the joinable or insertable profile elements (1), a connecting element (21) having a further wall (23) is provided for adjoining the wall of each profile element, having further, longitudinally extending pattern elements (25) which are congruent with the pattern elements (11), the elements (27) of which have matching spacing.

Abstract: An upper shackle assembly for a steel pump jack for a wood pole includes a u-shaped shackle component to receive the wood pole. The assembly includes a crank handle that extends through the shackle component and engages the pole to lower the pump jack down the pole. The assembly includes a brake attached to the shackle component to engage with the pole if the crank handle fails. A method for installing a steel pump jack to a wood pole includes the steps of placing a u-shaped shackle component about the wood pole. There is the step of closing a brake with the shackle component to engage with the pole if a crank handle fails. There is the step of extending the crank handle through the shackle component to engage the pole. A steel pump jack.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a frame scaffold with a mechanically operated sliding support, as well as methods of assembling, using and disassembling a frame scaffold using the sliding support are disclosed. The apparatus provides for at least one individual to vertically ascend and/or descend along the perimeter of frame scaffold by mechanical operation. The operator of the apparatus is in close proximity to the scaffold. The apparatus does not require the support of an additional structure (i.e., it is self-supporting). The apparatus provides improved safety and efficiency in the assembly and disassembly of frame scaffold.

Abstract: A climbing tree stand platform includes a platform member having a back member and a front member separated by a first side member and a second side member, a first arm and a second arm that each extend angularly upward from the platform toward the back member, and a securing member connected between the first arm and the second arm. A first elasticized member having a first end is connected to the platform member toward the first side member and a second elasticized member having a first end is connected to the platform member toward the second side member. The back member of the platform member may selectively engage an upright support or tree while the securing member selectively surrounds it, thereby providing cantilevered support for the platform member. The first elasticized member and the second elasticized member are operatively attachable to a second platform member. A climbing tree stand system is also provided.

Abstract: A pump jack for a scaffold in a system to support a work platform and move the platform up and down a pole to access a vertical work surface. The pump jack includes an L-shaped framework having a horizontal frame member which supports the work platform and a vertical frame member. The vertical frame member having laterally opposing Z-shaped channels, each having a leg that bends about the pole and extends inward toward the pole. The pump jack includes an upper shackle supported by the framework. The pump jack includes a lower shackle supported by the framework, which with the upper shackle applies a coupling force for gripping the pole. The pump jack includes a pump arm lever pivotably coupled to the vertical frame member to step upwardly the pump jack relative to the pole. The pump jack includes a crank mechanism coupled to the vertical frame member. A method for supporting and moving a work platform up and down a pole to access a vertical work surface.

Abstract: A climbing tree stand includes a platform, a pair of support arms attached to the platform, and a pair of stirrup-like devices attached to the platform or the support arms and extending generally over the platform. The pair of stirrup-like devices are substantially rigid, and each comprises a molded plastic body. In one embodiment, the substantially rigid stirrup-like devices are attached to the support arms of the climbing tree stand and generally are curved downwardly towards the platform.

Abstract: An assembly allowing a person to climb up and/or down an object, such as a high-voltage mast comprises an elongate, rail-type profiled element (1, 3, 5, 15, 17) that is provided with at least one guiding part (15, 17) extending along the profiled element, and a part for absorbing force transmission (3, 5, 15, 17). A climbing aid is also provided, comprising two climbing consoles (21) with one respective foot supporting area (23) and a guiding section that embraces or grips the guiding part (15, 17) and a holding section (33) which at least partly rests against or on the profiled element opposite hereto and is suitable for resting against the force transmitting part (3, 5, 15, 17) in order to absorb force transmission.

Abstract: The present invention provides a column climbing device for climbing structural steel columns having flanges and the like. The column climbing device includes a platform member having a toe portion and a foot portion, the toe portion of the platform member including a first interior surface and a second interior surface together defining a substantially-rectangular notch open to one side of the toe portion of the platform member, the first interior surface and the second interior surface in a fixed parallel orientation with respect to one another, wherein the substantially-rectangular notch is configured to frictionally engage a flange of a column. The column climbing device also includes one or more attachment mechanisms attached to the foot portion of the platform member for securing the platform member to a foot of a user.

Abstract: A tree stand includes a planar load supporting platform having an inner end for abutting a tree trunk, a pair of two-section arms pivotally connected to sides of the platform for rotation between positions against such platform sides and erect positions in which they define armrests, a belt having a pair of ends slidable in said arms for forming a loop around a tree trunk to hold the stand on the tree, and a latch on the arms for locking the belt in the arms.

Abstract: A tree stand with a seating section and a standing section, at least one of the sections having a frame with first and second sides, inner and outer ends, a first cable attachment arm with inner and outer ends along the first side, and a second cable attachment arm with inner and outer ends along the second side; a rotatable threaded rod mounted parallel to the first attachment arm; a releasable cable retainer including a channel for receiving the attachment arm and a threaded bore for receiving the threaded rod, the retainer being moveable along the first attachment arm upon rotation of the threaded rod; drive means for rotating the threaded rod; and a cable having a first end releasibly attachable to the connector and a second end attachable to the second attachment arm.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting at least at least a portion of a leg and at least a portion of a foot. The apparatus has a shield with a vertical portion that is sized to receive and protect at least a portion of a leg. The shield also has a horizontal portion that is sized to receive and protect at least a portion of a foot. The shield is also removably positionable within at least a portion of a gaffed climbing apparatus.

Abstract: An L-shaped tree seat frame includes a forward leg and a side leg on which a rear leg is slidably mounted and limited against relative rotation by cooperating rib and groove deformations in the sleeve of the rear leg and the top wall of the tubular side leg. Foam material filling the side leg includes pin passageways for guiding a locking pin through the sleeve and selected aligned openings in the side leg. The seat includes three spaced apart fingers which allow for a person's hand to grasp a center finger and balance the tree seat while the person's other hand positions the rear leg against the back side of a tree for locking the tree seat to a tree.

Abstract: A climbing aid including an elongated member with a first end and a second end, a generally rigid pad member secured to the first end of the shank, and a stirrup and spike attached adjacent the second end of the shank is disclosed. The pad member is secured to a metal support. An adjustable strap secures the pad and the support to the wearer's leg. The shank is pivotally mounted to the support of the pad via a housing and a pivot member that fits within the housing. The shank may pivot laterally or transversely. The housing prevents the pad and support from twisting the pad about the wearer's leg as the wearer climbs or stands on a pole. The length of the shank may also be adjusted. A strap extends from the stirrup and around a part of the shank and secures the wearer's foot to the stirrup.

Abstract: A safety restraint secures a technician to a pole during elevated line work. The safety restraint generally may be structured and arranged to keep a technician from falling if the gaffs of the technician cut out from the pole.

Abstract: An easy to use device that attaches to a beam for use as a step and allowing a user to stand on and attain elevation. A plank can be used in combination with the tool to form a shelf, scaffold or platform. The upper surface of the tool comprises tapered ribs located on the back edge of the upper surface. A vertical member and collar are attached to the tool. When the tool is placed on a beam and downward force is applied to the tool, the ribs engage a first side of the beam and the collar engages the opposite side of the beam, forming a lever. The user is free to stand on the tool for support and elevation.

Abstract: An improved leg attachment apparatus comprising a protective wrap in combination with a leg attachment device that effectively protects a worker's legs from bruising, chaffing, irritation and other negative effects associated with current pole climbing and leg extension devices. In the preferred embodiment, the protective wrap comprises a backing made of cotton, a middle layer of polyfiber material and a securing means in the form of a hook and loop system to fasten the wrap around the leg.

Abstract: A leg and knee protecting pole climber assembly to facilitate the climbing of vertical poles and trees while protecting and adding comfort to the user, which includes a hook comprising an elongated shank section to be secured about a person's leg and a stirrup section integrally connected to the elongated shank section and at substantially a right angle to the elongated shank section, a stirrup section to hold the person's foot in place within the hook; also included is a gaff extending outwardly from the hook for engaging and gripping a climb surface; a strap for strapping the person's foot into the stirrup section and for strapping the person's upper leg to the elongated section; the elongated section comprises an interior surface abutting the leg of the person and an exterior surface opposite of the interior surface facing away from the person, the elongated section extending up the leg to above the user's calf; and a pad secured to the elongated section of the hook, the pad furthe

Abstract: A tree-climbing device adapted to be attached to a user's boot. The device is fashioned with two different sized gaffs which are angularly disposed relative to the shank. The size and position of the two gaffs enhance a climbers stability, especially on smaller tree limbs.

Abstract: A leg and knee protecting pole climber assembly to facilitate the climbing of vertical poles and trees while protecting and adding comfort to the user, which includes a hook comprising an elongated shank section to be secured about a person's leg and a stirrup section integrally connected to said elongated shank section and at substantially a right angle to said elongated shank section, said stirrup section to hold the person's foot in place within said hook; also included is a gaff extending outwardly from said hook for engaging and gripping a climb surface; strap means for strapping the person's foot into said stirrup section and for strapping the person's upper leg to said elongated section; said elongated section comprises an interior surface abutting the leg of the person and an exterior surface opposite of said interior surface facing away from the person, said elongated section extending up the leg to above the user's calf; and a pad secured to said elongated section of said hook, said pad further comp

Abstract: A rope climbing device that attaches to a person's feet for assisting with ascending or descending along a rope. The rope climbing device has a frame that is shaped into a housing on one side and a base member on the opposing side. At least partially enclosed in the housing is a slide member that slides along the frame. Hooks protruding from the slide member are inserted into or engage a rope placed in the housing between a pair of pivoting cams. The downward force on the base member resulting from the user's weight moves the slide member upward relative to the frame. Due to this action, an actuating mechanism attached to the slide member pivots the pair of cams inward to tightly grip the rope, allowing the person to move his or her other foot upward or downward along the rope.

Abstract: A deer stand includes a foot platform, a seat platform, and stanchions which join the foot platform to the seat platform. The foot platform, the seat platform and the stanchions are preferably formed primarily from welded metal tubes to provide the deer stand with a rugged, durable unitary welded construction. To fasten the deer stand to a tree, the seat platform has an eye bolt and a J bolt attached to opposite sides of the seat platform. A chain is attached to the eye bolt. Two pairs of spikes extend from the seat and foot platforms, respectively, for engagement with a tree. The deer stand is attached to a tree by tilting the deer stand so that the spikes of the seat platform engage with the tree at an angle with respect to the tree. The chain is then wrapped about the trunk of the tree and linked to the J bolt so that the chain encircles and is as taut as possible about the tree.

Abstract: A guard 10 for protection of the gaff G of a lineman's climbing iron I is provided. The gaff guard 10 includes a vertically-elongate rectangular base member 20 to which are attached three smaller members 30, 40, 50. The members 20, 30, 40, 50 are preferably made of a flexible, tough material such as leather. A horizontally-elongate shank strap 30 is transversely attached to the upper portion of the base member 20 to form a throat 38 sufficient to receive and encircle the shank K of the climbing iron I such that the gaff guard 10 is able to slidably translate along the shank K. A sheath member 40 is attached. to the lower portion of the base member 20 to form a pocket to receive, retain and protect the gaff G of the climbing iron I. An ankle strap 50 is attached to the opposite side of the base member 20 near its bottom edge 23 to form a passageway 56 sufficient to slidably receive the ankle belt A of the climbing iron I.

Abstract: A climbing device for attaching to building frames having a pair of jaw members, at least one of which is movable with respect to the other. The spacing between the jaw members may be adjusted, and a lever mechanism is provided to permit the user to detachably affix the climbing device to the frame of a building. A support member is also provided to provide a foot hold for a user so that the user may stand on the device during use. The device may also be connected to a tether or safety line and ultimately connected to a harness attached to the user's body.

Abstract: A portable tree climbing device with platform capable of supporting a user above ground level. The main climbing platform incorporates a secured seat frame assembly which can also assume a secured upright position or collapse flat relative the platform body. The seat frame secures a seat with a folding backrest which is capable of complete 360 degree rotation relative to the platform body. A tree stand comprised of a main climbing platform and climbing aid whose angle members can be secured in either the upright, working position or collapse both flat and in overall length while in the transporting position. A tree stand where the main angle members secure an upright position by the use of slidable, pivotally connected linkages and spring loaded detent pins. A tree stand which utilizes a ridged and formed tree encircling member which is telescopically secured to the main angle members.

Abstract: Apparatus for climbing trees and poles includes two stirrups having downward oriented hooks on the sides thereof, ankle straps thereon, and a plurality of spanning straps for tightening around a tree r pole. The apparatus permits ready ascent through tree branches oriented in all directions, and is easily portable. Hunters, for example, may wear the stirrups while walking through the woods.

Abstract: An ascending and descending device, or ladder, having a single central mast and a hand and two foot supports axially slidably engaging the mast. Each hand and foot support has a spring biased clutch normally preventing axial motion of its associated support along the mast, and a lever for releasing the hand or foot support to move along the mast. The hand support has weight bearing platforms, or grips, projecting to both sides of the mast. Each foot support projects to one side of the mast. The foot supports are tethered together to limit the distance by which they become separated when lowering one foot support. The mast has at its bottom end a base having folding legs. The mast selectively receives at its top end a pronged support for engaging the roof of a building and a chair to enable a person to remain seated above the ground. The chair has a safety tie for securing the chair to a tree.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a climbing apparatus which includes an elongated shank and a stirrup attached to the first end of the shank which is engageable with the footwear of a user. A leg support is attached to the second end of the shank and is engageable with the leg of the user. The climbing apparatus further includes at least one spike attached to either the stirrup or shank to provide support during climbing. The climbing apparatus in accordance with the present invention may preferably include a plurality of tips or replaceable sole attached to a lower surface of the stirrup for gripping the limbs of a tree. The stirrup may include a sole portion and anterior portion rotatably engaged therewith to facilitate the attachment or removal of the climbing apparatus. The sole portion may also include a raised forward surface to define a step for secure engagement with the footwear of the user.

Abstract: A utility pole constructed from composite material. The pole has a triangular shaped first composite member which has an inner channel defined by three walls that intersect at three corresponding apexes. Within the first composite member is a second triangular shaped composite member that has three walls that intersect at three corresponding apexes. The apexes of the second member intersect with the walls of the first member so that the second member walls extend across the inner channel. The extension of the second member walls across the inner channel provides structural support for the walls of the first member and creates a relatively rigid composite utility pole. The utility pole may have additional triangular shaped composite members that are nested within the second member to further increase the stiffness of the pole.

Abstract: A climbing device for attaching to building frames having a pair of jaw members, at least one of which is movable with respect to the other. The spacing between the jaw members may be adjusted, and a lever mechanism is provided to permit the user to detachably affix the climbing device to the frame of a building. A support member is also provided to provide a foot hold for a user so that the user may stand on the device during use. The device may also be connected to a tether or safety line and ultimately connected to a harness attached to the user's body.

Abstract: The improved climbing apparatus hereof includes a pair of climbing members attachable to the feet of a user that assist the user in climbing a tree or pole. When put to use, the climber maintains a motion similar to that used when climbing stairs to scale up or down the tree. Each climbing member includes a foot-supporting platform and a siderail attached to the foot-supporting platform that extends along the side of the tree. At least one adaptive member, such as a cam mechanism having a reciprocating arcuate portion, is attached to each climbing member. The cam mechanism changes its form or position depending upon an outer contour of the tree to thereby provide a gripping force against the tree. The climbing member thus advantageously grips tightly to the tree, thereby reducing the chances of slippage. In addition, since the tree climbing apparatus does not involve the use of teeth or spikes that wedge into the tree, the apparatus is environmentally "friendly" and trees are left undamaged.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for climbing an upright columnar member such as a tree, pole, or the like, using two climbing members. The first climbing member has a first upright member gripping structure and a movable platform spaced from the upright member to accommodate the body of the user in a sitting position. The second climbing member has a second upright gripping structure and a platform adjacent to the upright member to accommodate the feet of the user. One or both of the climbing members have a retraction device and locking mechanism for adjustably maintaining the climbing members in substantially horizontal position relative to the ground as the climber ascends or descends the tree.

Abstract: A tree climber comprising a pair of climbing members, adapted to be affixed to the user's feet by quick release straps. Each climbing member includes a support arm extending forward from a platform portion and terminating at one end of a movable hook shaped clamping portion which engages the back side of the pole. Several embodiments show a clamping portion which is adjustably affixed to the terminus of the support arm with either a slidable collar and tube configuration or a clamped configuration. Another embodiment includes a slidable collar affixed to the platform portion, the support arm extending therethrough to a desired length corresponding to the diameter of the pole. The adjustable clamping portion of any of the embodiments may be used in combination with the extendable support arm to accommodate a wide range of tree trunk or pole diameters and to easily traverse protruding limbs which would otherwise arrest further vertical progress.

Abstract: A tree climber comprising a pair of climbing members, adapted to be affixed to the user's feet by quick release straps. Each climbing member includes a support arm extending forward from a platform portion and terminating at one end of a moveable hook shaped clamping portion which engages the back side of the pole. Several embodiments show a clamping portion which is adjustably affixed to the terminus of the support arm with either a slidable collar and tube configuration or a clamped configuration. Another embodiment includes a slidable collar affixed to the platform portion, the support arm extending therethrough to a desired length corresponding to the diameter of the pole. The adjustable clamping portion of any of the embodiments may be used in combination with the extendable support arm to accommodate a wide range of tree trunk or pole diameters and to easily traverse protruding limbs which would otherwise arrest further vertical progress.

Abstract: A unit for mounting a tree-climbing spike to the lower leg and foot of the user comprises a comfortable, padded shell which wraps around the lower leg, ankle and foot of the user, with the lower portion of the unit being open at the front and heel, with only a stirrup to support the arch of the foot so that the user may use the unit while wearing boots, tennis shoes, or whatever else he happens to be wearing. The semi-flexible portion of the shell wraps around the lower leg and is secured by quick-release friction buckles, and on the inside wall of the shell is a spike mount which releasably mounts one of a set of spikes of different spur lengths to accommodate different tree types.

Abstract: A climbing device for a tree or other vertical columnar member having one or two generally parallel platforms, each having either fixed or pivoting members on each side. The members may be in substantially the same plane as the platform, extend along the sides of the tree, and are joined together by a connecting member, so as to encircle the tree. The two members attached to the platform may form an acute angle which allows climbing a broader range of trees, especially larger trees. The connecting member may be lengthwise adjustable to compensate for variable spacing of the two side members and also provides the means for them to be joined together. The platform(s) is supported and braced underneath by several members which terminate together to engage the tree in compression by means of two curved arches, leaving the top of the platform(s) substantially free from obstructions.

Abstract: The present invention is a swim fin equipped with extendable knives which can be used by a diver to fight off an attack by a predatory underwater creature, such as a shark. The knives, when in their locked closed positions, lie in a recessed section provided in an outside edge of the swim fin. In their locked closed positions, the knives lie parallel with a bottom surface of the swim fin. When extended to their locked open positions, the knives point downward from the swim fin. The swim fin is provided with means for locking the knives in their open and closed positions, unlocking the knives from their locked open and locked closed positions, and moving the knives between their open and closed positions.

Abstract: A compact, versatile tree stand includes a seating section having at least one pair of longitudinally side members supporting a seat and means for gripping a tree connected at one end of the side members. A cross member is provided so as to reversibly extend the seating section. The cross member may also be completely removed from the seating section. A foot supporting section has a rectangular frame which is divided into two frame sections. The two frame sections may be separated so that the frame can be reassembled for climbing and use as a tree stand or disassembled to reduce the length of the foot supporting section for transportation and storage. The seating section may also be used as a hand climber.

Abstract: A gaff guard for a gaff on a line crew member's climbing iron that may be permanently attached to the shank of the climbing iron. When the gaff is in use, the guard is conveniently and safely stowed in a rest position in a cavity in the means attaching the gaff guard to the shank. If a snagging force is encountered by the guard in the rest position, the attaching member has structure which yields so that snagging is overcome. Thus, the guard in not subject to being misplaced. When the gaff is not in use, the guard is pivoted downward and a socket covers the gaff, protecting the gaff point and the surroundings.