Abstract: Various hoisting systems having an assembly for gripping a hoisting line are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a hoisting system having a plurality of sheaves and a chain reeved about the plurality of sheaves. The chain includes links having clamps for selectively gripping a hoisting line. The hoisting system also includes a closing track having a travel path for the clamps of the links of the chain. This travel path includes an opening between two opposing surfaces and at least a portion of the opening has a width between the two opposing surfaces narrower than the widths of the clamps, when open, such that, when the links pass along the travel path of the closing track, the two opposing surfaces cause the clamps to close about the hoisting line. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.