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    Rendezvu
    On a mission to get more people to enjoy the outdoors© 2026
    RendezvuAboutFor HostsFor BrandsFor Shoppers
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    Brand: Sterling

    Category: Climbing Ascenders, Pulleys & Rescue Systems

    Recommended by Doug Dobkowski, Outdoor Educator, Guide — North Conway, NH

    Highlights: heat resistant, rappel backup

    The Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop is a versatile and robust friction hitch and autoblock designed for climbers who demand reliability and strength. Crafted with advanced aramid fiber, this loop excels in performance as a prusik or Klemheist knot on ropes 7 mm or larger, making it an essential tool for your climbing gear. 1. **High-Strength Material**: Constructed from durable aramid fiber, ensuring enhanced strength and longevity. 2. **Versatile Use**: Functions effectively as both a prusik and Klemheist knot, providing flexibility in climbing techniques. 3. **Optimized Diameter**: At 6.8 mm, this loop is designed for compatibility with ropes 7 mm and larger, ensuring a secure grip. 4. **Length**: Measures 13.5 inches, offering an ideal size for effective friction and ease of handling. 5. **Lightweight Design**: Engineered to be lightweight, minimizing added weight to your climbing setup without compromising on performance. 6. **Enhanced Friction**: Provides reliable friction for controlled descents and secure positioning during climbs. 7. **Color**: Available in a subtle khaki color, blending seamlessly with natural outdoor environments. The Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop is ideal for climbers engaged in ice climbing and other outdoor adventures where secure rope management is crucial. It performs best in cold, rugged conditions, making it a reliable choice for winter expeditions or alpine climbing. This product is suitable for both intermediate and advanced climbers who require dependable equipment for technical ascents and descents. Whether you're navigating icy terrains or executing complex climbing maneuvers, this loop excels in providing safety and control.

    Price: $30

    Expert Review

    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 by Doug Dobkowski

    Frequently asked questions

    What does Doug Dobkowski say about the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm?

    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.

    Why does Doug Dobkowski recommend Sterling?

    Doug Dobkowski recommends the Sterling Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm for climbing ascenders, pulleys & rescue systems. 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.

    Rendezvu
    Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm by Sterling — recommended by Doug Dobkowski
    Climbing Systems

    Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm

    Doug Dobkowski
    Doug DobkowskiRecommended in “Multipitch”
    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.
    Purchasing through this link directly supports Doug
    Climbing Systems

    Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm

    Doug Dobkowski
    Doug DobkowskiRecommended in “Multipitch”
    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.
    Purchasing through this link directly supports Doug
    Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm by Sterling — recommended by Doug Dobkowski

    This product is 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.

    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.

    Is the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm a good climbing ascenders, pulleys & rescue system?

    Yes — Doug Dobkowski recommends the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. Khaki 6.8 Mm by Sterling as their climbing ascenders, pulleys & rescue systems pick. 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.

    More from Doug Dobkowski's Multipitch

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    • Mammut Contact Sling Dyneema 8.0 Blue 120 Cm
    • Metolius Sling - 11 mm Multi-Colored Quad-Length Sling
    • Sterling PowerCord Cordelette - 5.9mm
    • Camp C.A.M.P. Photon Wire Straight Gate Carabiner

    View Doug Dobkowski's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu