Abstract: A pulley block that includes a first side plate, a second side plate and an axle received in the first side plate and the second side plate. The axle is fixed with the first side plate and in a floating relationship with the second side plate such that the second side plate is retained on the axle and capable of rotating around the axle. The axle defines a central opening configured for receiving a soft shackle and a pulley supported on the axle between the first side plate and the second side plate in a longitudinal direction of the axle. The pulley is configured for receiving a winch line around an outer perimeter thereof. Also a method of installing a winch line on such a pulley block.

Abstract: A device for use with one or more lines that includes a unitary rigid body having an annular portion surrounding a central opening and at least four finger sections that extend from the annular portion of the rigid body. A first finger section and a second finger section curve toward each other on one end of the rigid body and terminate in blunt tips that are spaced apart from each other by a gap. Similarly, a third finger section and a fourth finger section curve toward each other on an opposite end of the rigid body and terminate in blunt tips that are spaced apart from each other by a gap. The device maximizes the pulling strength of lines while reducing the possibility of line failure. Also disclosed are methods of using the device for shortening a line, belaying an object, joining two lines together and for forming a V-bridle.

Abstract: A device for use with one or more lines that includes a unitary rigid body having an annular portion surrounding a central opening and at least four finger sections that extend from the annular portion of the rigid body. A first finger section and a second finger section curve toward each other on one end of the rigid body and terminate in blunt tips that are spaced apart from each other by a gap. Similarly, a third finger section and a fourth finger section curve toward each other on an opposite end of the rigid body and terminate in blunt tips that are spaced apart from each other by a gap. The device maximizes the pulling strength of lines while reducing the possibility of line failure. Also disclosed are methods of using the device for shortening a line, belaying an object, joining two lines together and for forming a V-bridle.

Abstract: A device for use with one or more lines that includes a unitary rigid body having an annular portion surrounding a central opening and at least four finger sections that extend from the annular portion of the rigid body. A first finger section and a second finger section curve toward each other on one end of the rigid body and terminate in blunt tips that are spaced apart from each other by a gap. Similarly, a third finger section and a fourth finger section curve toward each other on an opposite end of the rigid body and terminate in blunt tips that are spaced apart from each other by a gap. The device maximizes the pulling strength of lines while reducing the possibility of line failure. Also disclosed are methods of using the device for shortening a line, belaying an object, joining two lines together and for forming a V-bridle.