CAPTO™ vs Prusik

By CMC

Watch how the CAPTO and Prusik compare in a variety of hauling scenarios. We often get asked about the differences between these two pieces of equipment and thought it would help to show them side-by-side. While both devices offer overload protection, CAPTO provides more reliable force-limiting capabilities and far easier installation on the rope.

CAPTO combines a rope grab, pulley, and becket in a single device that reduces the time and complexity of building mechanical advantage systems. CAPTO is designed to replace a Prusik, carabiner, and pulley, while being more compact, versatile, and user friendly. CAPTO is also smooth to reset, even after high loading, and offers a forward attachment point for remote resets and easy stowage.

Both devices have their unique uses and advantages. See our video demonstrations for details and review the analysis below for more information.

Chapters:

00:00 Building a 3:1
00:42 Building a 5:1
01:46 Converting a 3:1 to a 5:1
02:39 Remote Reset
02:51 Haul Field Advantage
03:09 Knot Pass

Building a 3:1

In this first sequence, we provide a side-by-side comparison between CAPTO and Prusik in building a simple 3:1 mechanical advantage. CAPTO installs quickly and easily on tensioned and un-tensioned lines, and is designed to be used one-handed. The double-action side plate protects against accidental opening and moves the cam out of the rope path to facilitate rigging. Both the rope grab and pulley are immediately accessible, making it possible to build a 3:1 haul system in a single motion without using knots, hitches, or additional equipment. While CAPTO is shown to be approximately 3x faster, it is more important to note that it dramatically reduces the amount of equipment and number of steps involved. This translates into fewer points of potential failure and greater operational safety and efficiency. Compared to a traditional 3:1 involving a G-Rated rope grab, pulley, and carabiner; CAPTO is faster and easier to install, lighter weight, and half the length. See the table below for a breakdown of the steps in each method.

 

3:1 Installation Steps
CAPTOPrusik
Open CAPTOTie Prusik Knot
Place CAPTO on the ropeAttach carabiner to pulley
Rig rope tail through pulleyOpen pulley
Close CAPTORig rope tail through pulley
Close pulley
Attach carabiner to Prusik
Lock carabiner

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