Q) Does the 20’ retractor work both ways - going up and down the tree?

A) Yes - the 20’ retractor works both ways up and down the tree.

Q) Is the stowed webbing spring loaded so it retracts as you go up the tree?

A) Yes the webbing does stow back into the retractor going in both directions - up and down keeping very limited amounts of slack in the webbing at all times.

Q) Is it possible the fall guy 20’ retractor would lock up if you go down the tree too fast?

A) It is possible to lock the retractor going down, but you must accelerate to over 1/2 g - which in normal movement is not a problem. Most hunters tend to be somewhat cautious going up and down and never get close to the 1/2 g setting.

Q) If the fall guy 20’ retractor is spring loaded, can it be left hooked up at the bottom of the tree for days?

A) Yes it can be left in the tree for days.  We provide a small nylon rope that attaches to the carbineer so when you are safely on the ground you attach the rope and let the webbing spool back into the retractor (which should be attached above your tree stand).  Then you tie the small rope to the tree or a limb that can be easily reached from the ground the next time you want to climb the tree.  When you use it next time just use the rope to pull the carbineer and webbing down to you so you can safely attach it to your harness when you are on the ground.

Q) Why does the descender cost less than the 20’ retractor when the descender has the added feature of a slow descent to the ground?

A) The descender is only used as a self-recovery device.  It is used to replace your normal tree strap in your full body harness. For instance if you are in your tree stand and it collapses beneath you, if you cannot recover to a safe position and become stranded suspended in your harness - the descender allows you to pull an activation cord allowing you to slowly (under control) descend down to the ground.  It is a one-time use item only and does not protect you while you are going up or down the tree like the 20’ retractor does.

Q) Do the fall guy retractors make noise when used?

A) Yes they do make some noise when used; however, the bulk of the noise they make is when you are setting them up in the tree or when they lock up when saving you from a fall. They make very minimal noise when you are set up actually hunting. Remember that your ear is very near the retractor and naturally you will hear every little sound it makes. An animal, however, will be many more yards away and the sound level decreases rapidly with distance. We have never had a customer report to us that the retractor made a noise that scared an animal away.  

Q) Is there a way to make the snaps easier to snap?

A) Some people have reported that a small drop of oil on the tough snap will make it easier to close. Be careful to not put too much and soil the vest.

Q) What is the difference between the 3’ retractor and the 20’ retractor? 

A) The fall guy 3’ retractor has 3’ of webbing and is slightly smaller and lighter than the fall guy 20’ retractor.  Other than that they work identically.  Both allow you freedom of movement, but in the event of a slip they lock nearly instantly to prevent a fall.  The 3’ retractor is recommended for use with climbing stands and the 20’ retractor is recommended for all other stands.   In our opinion the 20’ retractor is the only practical solution available today to protect the hunter climbing up and down the tree and getting in and out of their treestand.

Q) What are the weight carrying capacity of the retractors and systems?

A) All our products are tested and certified to 300 lbs. In actual practice we know they can and do hold more than 300 lbs. The way our retractors work - allowing the hunter freedom of movement, but in the event of a slip they lock nearly instantly to prevent a fall - reduces the loading to both the hunter and to the fall arrest system. This is very beneficial for the large hunter.

Q) Does the fall guy 20’ retractor fit other harnesses or just the fall guy harness?

A) The fall guy 20’ retractor does fit other harnesses – not just the fall guy harness.

Q) Can the fall guy retractors stay in the tree for the season or do you need to bring them in after every use?

A) Yes the fall guy retractors can stay in the tree for the season – no need to bring them in until you are done using them for the season.

Q) Since the 20’ retractor has 20’ of webbing what do you do if your stand is above 20’ feet?

A) Some of our customers report that they attach at a safe place above the ground and use the 20’ retractor to protect them for the highest part of their climb. This protects them for the most dangerous portion of their hunt.

Q) Does a retractor or harness need to be replaced after a fall?

A) In most cases the answer is no, but it needs to be inspected to make sure it is not damaged and still functioning properly.

Q) Does the 20’ retractor have more than 20’ of webbing?

A) It varies, but most have a few inches more than 20’.