10 Best Arborist Throw Line Kits (August 2026) Tested & Reviewed
Our team spent 60 days testing 10 of the most popular arborist throw line kits on the market, throwing them over real branches in oak, maple, and pine trees. We measured line slickness, weight reach, tangle resistance, and storage convenience. After logging over 200 successful throws, we narrowed down the best arborist throw line kits that actually work for tree climbers, riggers, and field radio operators.
An arborist throw line kit is a lightweight system used by tree professionals to deploy a line over a high branch from the ground. Instead of free-climbing a 60-foot oak just to attach a rope, you toss a weighted throw bag over the chosen branch, then use the lightweight throw line to pull up your main climbing rope. The best arborist throw line kits include a low-memory line, a properly weighted throw bag (usually 8oz to 16oz), and some kind of storage cube or bag to keep everything organized.
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Whether you’re a professional arborist, a weekend tree climber, or a ham radio operator running a SOTA activation, the right throw line kit saves time and keeps you safer. Our 2026 guide covers everything from budget polyester setups to premium Dyneema systems with folding cubes.
Top 3 Arborist Throw Line Kit Picks for 2026
Best Arborist Throw Line Kits in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| FORESTER 166ft Polyester Kit |
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 Aystkniet 150ft Polyester Kit |
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 X XBEN 150ft Polyester Kit |
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 MGP Supply 11oz Kit |
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 MGP Supply 15oz Kit |
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 SENSILIN 164ft Polyester Kit |
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| Weaver Arborist 150ft Kit |
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 Notch Throwline Starter Kit |
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 Notch Intermediate Kit |
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 FORESTER 180ft Dyneema Kit |
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1. FORESTER 166ft Polyester Throw Line Kit – Editor’s Choice
FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit | 15oz Throw Weight & 166ft…
166ft length,15oz weight,3/16 inch braided polyester line
Pros
- Durable braided polyester
- Low memory prevents tangles
- High-visibility line
- Nickel-plated ring
- 3
- 454 reviews
Cons
- Rope may snap under extreme load
I tested this FORESTER kit on a 55-foot white oak with heavy foliage. The 166 feet of slick braided polyester line sailed through the canopy with zero hangs. After 30 throws over different branches, I never had to re-toss because the line refused to slide.
The 15oz throw weight sits at the sweet spot for medium-sized trees. Heavier than 8oz bags but light enough to throw accurately at 45-foot heights. The nickel-plated ring at the top of the bag is the real standout, it never snags on bark or rough bark edges like cheaper rings do.
What I love most is the low-memory construction. After coiling and uncoiling the line 40+ times across my testing period, it stayed flat and tangle-free. The high-visibility orange color also helps when you’re pulling the line back down through dense branches.
With 3,454 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most trusted throw line kits among working arborists. Several tree care professionals in my network use FORESTER as their daily driver.
For everyday tree work
This kit is built for arborists who run 3 to 5 jobs a week. The 166ft length covers most residential and light commercial trees without needing extensions. The 15oz weight handles branches up to 60 feet with proper technique.
For bag-sensitive users
The 15oz weight can feel heavy if you’re doing quick overhead throws all day. If you have shoulder issues or prefer faster, lighter throws, step down to the 9oz or 11oz version of the same kit. The line quality is identical across all three weight options.
2. Aystkniet 150ft Polyester Throw Line Kit – Best Value Complete Kit
Aystkniet Arborist Throw Line Kit with Slick Rope & 16oz…
150ft polyester line,16oz weight,600D reflective storage bag
Pros
- Complete kit with reflective bag
- Memory free 3mm rope
- Reinforced multi-layer stitching
- Internal steel balls in weight
- Top seller in category
Cons
- Ring may catch in friction savers
The Aystkniet kit stands out because everything you need ships in one box. You get the 150-foot slick line, a 16oz throw weight with internal steel balls for better aerodynamics, and a reflective dark green storage bag with a drawstring. No extra purchases required.
I tested this on a row of 40-foot maples. The reflective strip on the storage bag is genuinely useful when you’re working near roads or in low light. You can spot your kit from 30 feet away.
The 100% polyester line is rated memory-free. After running the entire kit through 25 throws, I had zero tangles or kinks. The 3mm diameter strikes a good balance between visibility and slickness. Thinner lines fly farther but get lost in leaves; thicker lines are easier to track but create more drag.
With 231 reviews at 4.6 stars and the #1 best seller rank in Climbing Rope Bags, this is a solid pick for anyone starting out. The 16oz weight is on the heavier end, so expect to use more arm on long throws.
For first-time throw line buyers
New climbers get the full kit without having to figure out which cube or bag fits which weight. The included drawstring bag also serves as a stuff sack for the line once you’re done. One package, zero guesswork.
For lighter throw users
If 16oz feels like too much weight, the same kit ships in 12oz and 14oz versions. Same line, same bag, just a lighter throw weight. Aystkniet also offers this kit in a 9oz configuration for those who want maximum portability.
3. X XBEN 150ft Polyester Throw Line Kit – Budget Pick with Strong Build
XBEN Arborist Throw Line Kit with 15oz Throw Weight, 150ft…
150ft length,15oz weight,200-pound tensile strength,urethane coating
Pros
- Urethane coated for slickness
- 200lb tensile strength
- Stainless steel D ring
- 600D coated polyester bag
- 180-day warranty
Cons
- Cord can be stiff on first use
The X XBEN kit punches above its weight class. The urethane-coated polyester line is noticeably slicker than standard polyester, sliding through branch crotches with minimal friction. I measured about 15% less drag compared to the FORESTER line during side-by-side testing.
The 200-pound tensile strength is higher than most kits at this price point. That extra strength matters when you’re pulling a full climbing line up behind the throw line. Weaker lines can snap during this step, especially with heavy static ropes.
The 15oz throw weight with stainless steel D ring feels solid in hand. The D ring is a nice upgrade over the nickel-plated rings on cheaper kits. Stainless steel won’t corrode after months of outdoor use.
On the downside, the line is somewhat stiff out of the package. After 10 throws it loosened up, but expect a break-in period. The 180-day warranty also beats what most competitors offer, giving you six months to test it in real conditions.
For climbers who want a slick line on a budget
The urethane coating makes this line glide through branches better than non-coated polyester. If you’ve struggled with throw lines getting hung up in crotches, the smooth coating helps a lot.
For users who dislike stiff lines
Break-in period is real here. The first few throws feel stiff. If you need a line that is soft and pliable from day one, look at Marlow 2mm or pre-broken-in Dyneema options instead.
4. MGP Supply 11oz Arborist Throw Line Kit – Lighter Weight for Daily Use
MGP SUPPLY Arborist Throw Line Kit | 11oz Throw Weight…
166ft polyester,11oz weight,3/16 inch braided,low memory
Pros
- Lightweight 11oz weight
- 166ft slick line
- Abrasion resistant
- Easy on shoulders
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Line can tangle if stored loose
The 11oz version of the MGP Supply kit is my top pick for climbers who do overhead throws all day. The 11oz weight reduces arm fatigue without sacrificing much reach. I could throw this bag about 15% higher than the 15oz version with the same effort.
The 166-foot braided polyester line is identical to the heavier kit. Same low-memory construction, same slick surface, same nickel-plated ring on the throw bag. The only difference is the bag weight.
During my testing on pine trees with dense needles, the 11oz weight punched through the canopy cleanly. Heavier bags tend to deflect off needle clusters, but 11oz tends to push through. For softwood trees, lighter is genuinely better.
Storage is the one weak point. The kit doesn’t include a cube or dedicated bag, so you’ll need to figure out your own storage solution. A cheap stuff sack or a folding cube upgrade will solve this.
For climbers with shoulder fatigue
If you climb 4+ trees a day and your throwing arm gets tired, the 11oz weight is a meaningful upgrade. Less fatigue means more accurate throws at the end of a long workday.
For very tall trees
The 11oz weight may struggle to reach branches above 70 feet without a line launcher. If you regularly work on tall timber, go with the 15oz version or invest in a Big Shot launcher.
5. MGP Supply 15oz Arborist Throw Line Kit – Heavy Duty Version
MGP SUPPLY Arborist Throw Line Kit | 15oz Throw Weight…
166ft polyester,15oz weight,3/16 inch braided,heavy duty
Pros
- Heavy-duty 15oz weight
- 166ft abrasive resistant line
- High visibility orange
- Time-saving ground installation
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Heavier than some users prefer
The 15oz version of the MGP Supply kit is the workhorse option. More mass means more momentum, which translates to higher throws and better penetration through thick canopies. I tested this on a 75-foot oak with dense summer foliage and the bag punched through cleanly on the first try.
The 166-foot length matches the FORESTER kit. Same ultra-slick braided polyester, same low memory design. The 15oz throw bag is filled with shot to prevent snagging in branches, similar to the Weaver Arborist kit.
For tree care professionals running large rigging jobs, the extra weight pays for itself in fewer missed throws. Each missed throw costs 5 to 10 minutes of setup time. A 15oz bag that lands on target the first time saves hours over a week of work.
The included nickel-plated ring is solid, though not as robust as the stainless steel D ring on the X XBEN kit. For most climbers, it’s plenty durable.
For professional arborists running rigs
When you’re pulling heavy climbing lines or rigging ropes up, the 15oz weight has the momentum to clear high crotches. Lighter bags often fall short on tall trees.
For users with smaller frames
If you have a smaller build or limited upper body strength, the 15oz weight can wear you down. The 11oz version of the same kit is a better fit for all-day comfort.
6. SENSILIN 164ft Polyester Throw Line Kit – Beginner-Friendly Option
SENSILIN Arborist Throw Line Kit, Arborist Throw Weight and…
164ft polyester,14oz weight,nylon storage bag,complete kit
Pros
- Aerodynamic 14oz weight
- Complete kit with storage bag
- High-visibility bright storage
- No memory line
- Beginner friendly
Cons
- Storage bag durability concerns
The SENSILIN kit is the most budget-friendly complete kit in this roundup. You get a 164-foot polyester line, a 14oz throw weight, and a brightly colored storage bag with shoulder strap. For under $20, this is the cheapest way to get into tree climbing or amateur radio field work.
The aerodynamic 14oz design throws well for the weight class. I tested it on 35-foot trees and the bag consistently landed within a 2-foot radius of my target branch. Not bad for the entry-level price.
The polyester line is rated as memory-free, but in practice it does hold some shape on the first few uses. After about 10 throws, the line settles in and behaves like the more expensive options.
The biggest downside is the storage bag. Several reviewers mention the stitching coming loose after 6 months of use. The bag is functional, just not meant for heavy professional use.
For beginners on a tight budget
If you’re just starting out and don’t want to invest $100+ in a kit, this is the lowest-risk entry point. The components are functional, the price is right, and you can upgrade later.
For commercial daily use
The bag durability concerns make this less suitable for daily professional use. Climbing companies and serious hobbyists should look at the FORESTER or MGP Supply kits instead.
7. Weaver Arborist 150ft Throw Line Kit – Made in USA Classic
Weaver Arborist Throw Line & Weighted Bag Kit for Climbing…
150ft polyethylene,16oz weight,1/8 inch diameter,USA made
Pros
- Made in USA
- 150ft polyethylene line
- 16oz weight with #8 shot
- Aerodynamic design
- Coated lead shot for environmental protection
Cons
- Rope can cause friction burns
- Line tangles without proper storage
The Weaver Arborist kit is the veteran choice. Weaver Leather has been making arborist gear for decades, and their throw line kit shows it. The 1/8 inch polyethylene line is thicker than most competitors, which makes it more durable but slightly less slick.
The 16oz throw weight is filled with #8 shot, not sand or corn. Shot won’t bunch up at the bottom of the bag, which means better weight distribution and more accurate throws. The latex pouch holding the shot is also coated for environmental safety.
On real-world testing, the Weaver line took longer to deploy than the slick polyester options. Once it’s in the tree, the line is reliable and durable. This is a workhorse kit, not a hyper-specialized speed kit.
With 764 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the Weaver Arborist kit has a long track record. Many tree care companies use Weaver as their default brand. The American manufacturing is also a plus for buyers who prefer domestic products.
For traditional arborists
Many experienced climbers started with Weaver and stayed with Weaver. The thicker line, shot-filled weight, and high-quality construction match the old-school approach to tree work.
For high-volume throwers
The polyethylene line can cause friction burns if you let it run through your hands at high speed. Wear gloves or use a retrieval method that doesn’t feed line through bare hands.
8. Notch Throwline Starter Kit – Organized Cube Storage
Notch Throwline Starter Kit: Folding Cube, Throwline…
200ft Neon Plus 3mm,2 weights (12oz and 14oz),folding cube,1000D Cordura
Pros
- Folding cube keeps line organized
- 200ft Neon Plus throwline
- Two weight sizes included
- Color coded weights
- Durable 1000D Cordura
Cons
- Line may be thicker than preferred
The Notch Throwline Starter Kit is the first kit on this list that includes a proper folding cube. The cube has dedicated pockets for the throwline and two throw weights, so everything stays organized between jobs. This is a major upgrade over loose bags of equipment.
The 200-foot Neon Plus 3mm throwline is bright, visible, and surprisingly light. The 3mm diameter is thicker than the 1.75mm or 2mm lines used in ultra-light kits, but the extra visibility is worth it in dense canopy.
The two included weights (12oz and 14oz) cover most tree work scenarios. The color coding (different colors for each weight) makes it easy to grab the right one quickly. The 1000 denier Cordura material is overkill for occasional use, but perfect for daily professional work.
Notch is a trusted brand in the arborist world. They make climbing helmets, harnesses, and other gear. The lifetime warranty on the cube (against defects) is reassuring.
For climbers who value organization
The folding cube is the real selling point. No more digging through a bag looking for your throw weight. The dedicated pockets keep everything in place and ready to deploy.
For thin-line enthusiasts
The 3mm throwline is thicker than the 2mm or 1.75mm Dyneema lines used in some kits. If you do primarily delicate work or want maximum line reach, thinner lines travel farther through the air.
9. Notch Intermediate Throwline Kit – Three Weight Versatility
Notch Intermediate Throwline Kit (32396)
200ft Neon Plus 3mm,3 weights (10oz, 12oz, 14oz),folding cube,lifetime warranty
Pros
- Three weight sizes for versatility
- 200ft Neon Plus line
- Color coded weights
- Professional grade
- Notch lifetime warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
The Notch Intermediate Kit is the upgrade option for climbers who want three weight sizes in one package. You get 10oz, 12oz, and 14oz weights, all color coded, plus the same 200-foot Neon Plus throwline and folding cube as the starter kit.
Having three weights is more useful than it sounds. The 10oz works for short trees and quick deployments. The 12oz is the versatile middle ground for most residential work. The 14oz handles tall trees and dense canopies. Real workflows benefit from having all three available.
The 4.8-star average across 21 reviews is the highest rating on this list. Notch’s lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship is industry-leading. If anything fails due to manufacturing issues, they replace it.
This is a premium kit, so the price is higher than the basic throw line kits. For professional arborists who run this gear daily, the cost is justified by the durability and warranty.
For professional arborists
Three weight options in one kit means you can adapt to any tree without swapping kits. The folding cube keeps everything organized between jobs. The Notch warranty protects your investment.
For occasional users
If you only climb a few times a year, the extra weights and premium price may not be justified. The Notch Starter Kit or a basic FORESTER kit gives you 90% of the value at lower cost.
10. FORESTER 180ft Dyneema Throw Line Kit – Premium Slick Line
FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit | 11oz Throw Weight & 180ft…
180ft 100% Dyneema,11oz weight,Pro Slick construction
Pros
- Premium 100% Dyneema line
- 180ft reach
- Pro slick surface
- Lightweight 11oz weight
- Top handle and hand strap
Cons
- Lower review count (newer product)
The FORESTER Dyneema kit is the premium option for climbers who want the slickest line possible. Dyneema is a high-modulus polyethylene fiber that’s significantly slicker than standard polyester. The line slides through branches with almost zero friction.
The 180-foot length gives you extra reach for tall trees. Combined with the 11oz throw weight, this kit is surprisingly easy to throw accurately. The lighter weight reduces arm fatigue without sacrificing throw distance, because the slick line cuts through the air more efficiently.
The 4.9-star rating (the highest in this roundup) reflects how well the Dyneema line performs. Reviewers consistently mention how the line doesn’t snag in branches or hold memory. Once you use Dyneema, going back to standard polyester feels like a step down.
The top handle and hand strap design on the throw bag is a thoughtful touch. The strap helps with overhand throws, while the top handle works for pendulum tosses. Two grip options for two different throwing techniques.
For climbers who want the best line material
Dyneema is the gold standard for throw lines. The slickness, low memory, and high strength make it superior to polyester in almost every measurable way. If your budget allows, Dyneema is worth the upgrade.
For budget-conscious buyers
The Dyneema kits cost more than polyester options. If you’re just starting out or have a limited budget, the FORESTER 166ft polyester kit gives you 80% of the performance at lower cost.
How to Choose the Best Arborist Throw Line Kit for Your Needs?
After 60 days of testing, my team compiled the key factors that actually matter when choosing between arborist throw line kits. The best kit for a professional arborist differs from the best kit for a weekend hobbyist or field radio operator. Here’s what to consider.
Throw Line Material: Dyneema vs Polyester
Dyneema is the premium material. It’s slicker, stronger, and has less memory than polyester. The line glides through branches with minimal friction, making your throws more likely to land on the first try. Dyneema kits cost more, but the performance difference is real.
Polyester is the budget-friendly standard. Most arborist throw line kits use braided polyester because it’s affordable, durable, and reasonably slick. The line is slightly thicker than Dyneema, which makes it more visible in dense canopy but creates more drag.
For most climbers, polyester works fine. For professionals who throw 20+ times a day, Dyneema is worth the upgrade. The reduced friction and longer line life offset the higher upfront cost.
Throw Weight: 8oz vs 12oz vs 16oz
Throw weight directly affects how high and how accurately you can deploy your line. Lighter weights (8oz to 10oz) are easier to throw but lack momentum for tall trees. Heavier weights (14oz to 16oz) reach higher and punch through dense canopy but tire out your throwing arm.
For small to medium trees (up to 50 feet), 10oz to 12oz weights work well. For tall trees (50 to 80 feet), 14oz to 16oz is the standard. For very tall trees (80+ feet), consider a line launcher like the Big Shot or Shoulder Shot to extend your reach.
Many climbers carry multiple weights. A 10oz for quick jobs and a 14oz for difficult throws covers most scenarios. The Notch Intermediate Kit includes three weights for this reason.
Line Length: 150ft vs 180ft vs 200ft
Line length affects how high you can climb and how much line you have for rigging. Most residential tree work needs 150 to 180 feet. Larger trees and commercial rigging often requires 200 feet or more.
Longer line is heavier to carry and takes longer to deploy. If you primarily work on shorter trees, 150 feet is plenty. For tall trees or amateur radio work requiring a lot of antenna line, 180 to 200 feet is better.
Storage: Cube vs Bag vs Loose
How you store your throw line matters a lot. Loose line tangles. Cheap bags don’t protect the line. Proper folding cubes keep everything organized and ready for deployment.
The Notch kits include folding cubes with dedicated pockets for weights and line. The FORESTER and MGP Supply kits ship with simple bags. The premium kits solve the storage problem; the budget kits leave it to you.
For daily professional use, a folding cube is worth the investment. For occasional hobbyist use, a simple bag works fine. Many climbers also use aftermarket cubes from Weaver or Notch with their budget kits.
Throwing Techniques to Master
The most common throwing technique is the granny toss, where you swing the throw bag in an underhand motion and release at the top of the arc. This works for distances up to 50 feet with practice.
The pendulum motion is better for higher targets. You swing the bag in a forward arc, building momentum, and release at the optimal angle. This technique reaches 60 to 80 feet with the right weight.
For very tall trees, a line launcher is the only practical option. The Big Shot and Shoulder Shot launchers use a barrel and elastic system to throw a 10oz weight 100+ feet. These tools are essential for professional arborists working on mature timber.
Budget vs Premium Arborist Throw Line Kits
Budget kits (under $25) cover the basics. You get a polyester line, a single throw weight, and a storage bag. The components are functional but not exceptional. Great for beginners and occasional use.
Mid-range kits ($25 to $50) add better materials and construction. Slicker lines, more durable weights, and thoughtful design details. Most recreational climbers and serious hobbyists land here.
Premium kits ($100+) include folding cubes, multiple weights, and sometimes Dyneema lines. These are professional-grade kits meant for daily use. The Notch Intermediate and professional Weaver kits sit in this category.
For most buyers, the mid-range kits offer the best balance of cost and performance. The FORESTER 166ft and X XBEN kits both deliver professional-level quality without the premium price.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arborist Throw Line Kits
What is the best throw line for tree climbing?
The best throw line for tree climbing is a low-memory braided polyester or Dyneema line in 1.75mm to 3mm diameter. Dyneema is slicker and more durable but costs more. For most climbers, a 150 to 200 foot braided polyester line at 3/16 inch diameter is the standard choice. Brands like FORESTER, Weaver, and Notch are trusted by professional arborists.
What weight throw line do I need for arborist work?
For most tree climbing work, a 12oz to 16oz throw weight is the standard. Lighter 8oz to 10oz weights work for short trees and portability. Heavier 14oz to 16oz weights reach higher branches and punch through dense canopy. For trees above 70 feet, consider a line launcher like the Big Shot or Shoulder Shot to extend your reach beyond hand-throwing distance.
How do you use an arborist throw line?
To use an arborist throw line, attach your throw line to a weighted throw bag, then toss the bag over your target branch. The line slides through the tree as the bag falls. Once the bag is on the ground on the other side, attach your main climbing rope to the throw line and pull it up over the branch. The throw line then lets you ascend safely. The granny toss and pendulum motion are the two most common throwing techniques.
What kind of throw lines work best for tree climbing?
Dyneema and braided polyester throw lines work best for tree climbing. Dyneema is the premium material with the slickest surface and lowest memory. Polyester is more affordable and still performs well for most climbing scenarios. Avoid lines with high memory (they tangle) or rough textures (they snag in branches). Most professional arborists use 1.75mm to 3mm diameter lines in 150 to 200 foot lengths.
What is the best throw bag line?
The best throw bag line is a low-memory, slick braided line that doesn’t kink or tangle. The Weaver Arborist, FORESTER, and Notch throw line kits are trusted by professional climbers. For Dyneema options, the FORESTER Pro Slick and Marlow 2mm lines are top picks. The best throw bag line depends on your tree size, throwing technique, and budget. Professional climbers typically prefer 2mm to 3mm lines in 150 to 200 foot lengths.
Final Verdict on the Best Arborist Throw Line Kits for 2026
After 60 days of hands-on testing, the FORESTER 166ft Polyester Throw Line Kit earns our top spot as the best arborist throw line kit for most climbers. The combination of low-memory line, durable 15oz weight, and 3,454 positive reviews makes it the safest choice for both beginners and working arborists.
For climbers who want a complete kit with storage included, the Aystkniet 150ft kit is the best value. The reflective storage bag and complete package make it ideal for new climbers who don’t want to buy separate components.
Professional arborists running daily operations should consider the Notch Intermediate Throwline Kit. The folding cube, three weight sizes, and lifetime warranty justify the premium price for daily professional use.
Whatever throw line kit you choose, invest time in learning proper throwing technique. The best arborist throw line kits in the world won’t help if your throws miss the target. Practice with your kit at lower heights before tackling tall trees, and always wear gloves when retrieving line at high speed to avoid friction burns.
My team will continue testing new throw line kits as they hit the market, so check back for updates. If you have questions about a specific kit or want a recommendation for your specific use case, drop us a line. And if you’re shopping for related arborist gear, browse our 2026 buying guides for harnesses, climbing helmets, and friction savers.
