Thanks, Bob.

This simple step doesn't cost that much, can be used year after year and best of all it works.

Statjunk, the prusic knot can fail, which is why I spent the $40 for the ascender (and no one pinches a penny more than I do!). Because the prusic can fail, most rock climbers will not use them in any serious situation.

Here's how I look at it: I spent a pile of money on gear and clothes (I won't bore you with a list that we're all to familiar with). Why would I not spend an extra $100 bucks or so to PREVENT myself from being seriously injured or killed.

If you use the prusic, test it regularly near the ground. I was in the US Navy for many years so I'm familiar with the knot but I don't like it because it is much more difficult to slide up as you climb when compared to the ascender.