Abstract: A sliding descent device for controlling the movement of a user sliding down a rope includes a generally cylindrical housing containing a tubular channel member defining an axial rope path extending through the housing. The device can be installed on a medial segment of a rope without threading an end of the rope through the housing by opening a closure structure and admitting the rope to the axial rope path through a lateral rope entry path. The closure structure is moved to a closed position to capture the rope in the axial path. A brake member is mounted for movement relative to the housing into the axial rope path to apply a braking force to the rope. A first control member supports the weight of the user and moves the brake member to increase the braking force to halt the device. A second control member is manually operated to move the brake member and reduce the braking force for a sliding descent.