Top Ascender

Part of the SRT, or Single Rope Technique kit, which is used to overcome vertical drops, using a single rope to descend and ascend. Sometimes known as a top jammer, or hand jammer. A sliding rope clamp, with a link to the centre maillon, either using the long cowstail, or a separate safety link. Will slide up the rope. A set of foot loops are attached to lift the caver up the rope. Used in conjunction with the chest ascender and possibly a foot ascender to climb a rope. There are a variety of models of ascenders available. Some designed as chest ascenders, others as top, or foot ascenders.