Abstract: A reversible frictional brake for use with rope or the like is disclosed comprising a brake section rotatably attached to a housing. Rope is threaded between rollers, end links, snap links and an axle in the brake section. The reversible frictional brake for use with rope or the like is suspended by means of a loop attached to the housing. The frictional relationship between the rope and the rollers, end links, snap links and axle brake the travel of the rope through the brake section, thereby allowing a single rope handler to lower heavy weights and individuals attached to the rope in a controlled fashion. After a lowering operation, the brake housing may be simply rotated relative to the housing, thereby readying the reversible frictional brake for use with rope or the like for the next lowering operation.