Brand: Sterling
Category: Climbing Webbing & Cordage
Recommended by Cora Hanson, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor — St. Paul, MN
Highlights: durable, friction hitch, rappel backup, rescue systems
The Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop is a versatile and robust friction hitch and autoblock designed for climbing and rope work. Crafted with a stronger aramid fiber, it ensures reliability and performance, making it an essential tool for both novice and experienced climbers. 1. Made from high-strength aramid fiber for enhanced durability and resistance to wear. 2. Measures 13.5 inches in length, providing ample reach for various applications. 3. Compatible with ropes 7 mm or larger, making it versatile for different climbing setups. 4. Functions effectively as both a prusik and Klemheist knot, offering flexibility in use. 5. Lightweight design ensures minimal impact on overall climbing gear weight. 6. Bright khaki color enhances visibility in outdoor environments. 7. Engineered for smooth operation, reducing friction and improving safety during use. The Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop is ideal for climbing, canyoneering, and rescue operations, particularly in environments where reliable friction hitches are essential. It performs best in outdoor settings, such as mountainous terrains or climbing routes, and is suitable for users ranging from beginners to seasoned climbers. This product excels in scenarios requiring secure rope management and is particularly useful in varied weather conditions, making it a reliable choice year-round.
Price: $30
- Who it's for
- Climbers and rappellers who want a dedicated friction hitch loop for third-hand backup, hauling, or rescue systems. It suits those who prefer a purpose-made aramid loop over tied accessory cord.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise it as a reliable, durable third-hand backup for rappelling and rescue use. No criticism appears across the nine notes — feedback is uniformly positive but thin on detail.
- Worth noting
- Made from heat-resistant aramid material, which hosts flag as essential for rappel friction hitch use. Works for klemheist hitches, ascending, descending, and pulley/rescue systems.
Cora Hanson's review
This is the friction hitch I use as my third hand backup while rappelling, as well as for any type of rescue situation.
Recommended by Cora Hanson, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. for?
Climbers and rappellers who want a dedicated friction hitch loop for third-hand backup, hauling, or rescue systems. It suits those who prefer a purpose-made aramid loop over tied accessory cord.
What do experts say about the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in.?
Hosts consistently praise it as a reliable, durable third-hand backup for rappelling and rescue use. No criticism appears across the nine notes — feedback is uniformly positive but thin on detail.
What should you know before buying the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in.?
Made from heat-resistant aramid material, which hosts flag as essential for rappel friction hitch use. Works for klemheist hitches, ascending, descending, and pulley/rescue systems.
What does Cora Hanson say about the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in.?
This is the friction hitch I use as my third hand backup while rappelling, as well as for any type of rescue situation.
Why does Cora Hanson recommend Sterling?
Cora Hanson recommends the Sterling Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. for climbing webbing & cordage. This is the friction hitch I use as my third hand backup while rappelling, as well as for any type of rescue situation.
Is the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. a good climbing webbing & cordage?
Yes — Cora Hanson recommends the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. by Sterling as their climbing webbing & cordage pick. This is the friction hitch I use as my third hand backup while rappelling, as well as for any type of rescue situation.
More from Cora Hanson's Sport Climbing
View Cora Hanson's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
9 experts recommend the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in..
Dan Morley, Rock Climbing Guide
To make a klemheist hitch to the static rope for your personal fall protection while working at the edge. This device can also be used for ascending, descending, and rescue systems.
Recommended in Top Rope Anchor Gear
I use this as my "Third Hand" when rappeling. I like how it grabs the rope and it is made out of heat resistant material which is essential when rappelling.
Recommended in Multipitch
John Willard, Founder & Lead Guide @ Willard Mountain Guides
my "third hand"
Recommended in Rock Climbing
This is a great choice for friction friction hitches and rappel back-ups or "third hand".
Recommended in General Climbing Gear
Jarrod Blundy, Founder/Guide at Onward Mountain Guides
Better than a tied-off accessory cord, this lives as my backup friction hitch loop for buddies and building pulley systems.
Recommended in Ice Climbing Kit
Friction on the rope, third hand rappel, rope grab for hauling
Recommended in Rock
Chris Johnson, Apprentice Climbing Guide, Professional Ski Patroller
The go-to aramid prussik loop. I nearly always use a third-hand backup for my rappels and the Hollowblock is a durable, easy to use choice.
Recommended in Trad Climbing Gear
Philip Burnett, Weber State University Rental Manager
Great third-hand loop.
Recommended in Winter Alpine Climbing
