Fig 8 contingency jamming
So on the final rap in Pine last week, I had the need to lower my partner from the get go.
I had a Bluewater Fig 8 (forged and beefy) rigged for the lower against the rapide. This was on the regular anchor, not the alternate. When he stepped out and pendulumed, the 8 dragged along the face and flipped over, pinching the rope and making a lower impossible.
As I pondered the situation and tugged and pulled, my partner nearly passed out from fear. He did not appreciate being hung up and dangling off the deck. Eventually, with enough force and pulling, and a bit of help from his legs, we got the 8 flipped in such a way as to allow the uneventful lower.
Questions:
-- It seems this can happen on many raps. I hadn't given it thought before, as the use of the contingency is rare. I got the 8 on its edge, which unpinched the rope. I'd rather not have to get lucky to make a good lower. Thoughts and comments.
-- Say I wasn't able to get the 8 flipped and unpinched. I'd need to lock the contingency and rig a raise. What are your suggestions? I had a plan in mind, but want to hear others. Keep in mind there are two bolts, one large and one small, in roughly a vertical alignment with each other.