I have a ATN Mast Climber (new in bag not used). Has anyone used it to go up mast? I have to replace my steaming light and was wondering about going past wishbone and working on front side of mast. Guess there is one way to find out…
John,
I have not used the ATN, however an early review on them said it was critical on how you set it up. I can’t remember the details and have not had time to find the article but my best recollection is that the jammers had a this side up. IF you did not get that right there was a risk the bolts holding them together would come undone as you climbed. Read the instructions carefully.
Mark Powers & Nesta Davies
La Reina 26C
Burrard Civic
Vancouver, B.C.
The ATN Mast Climber looks a lot like the method I use with rock climbing ascenders and harness. This method was explained by Greg Silver in the old discussion group. The rock climbing harness seems safer to me than the bosun’s chair that the ATN climber uses. Whatever method you use, I suggest you have someone belay you with a second halyard if it’s available.
Art Digout
Weenin 26C 1982
I have had a ATN mast climber for years. I have been up my mast many times. I like not having to depend someone else to get up there. It is straight forward to use and it is comfortable. I has a tool/gear bag which is handy. I recommend it.
Dave Calder
NS 30C #158
Hi Dave, I did the climb today and it took some practice but once I got the technique down it was easy. Where do you tie off the line that you’re climbing on? I had mine on starboard cleat but it was a challenge going past the wishbone. Was wondering if better from Sampson post or between the wishbone.
Captain J
John,
I have a block attached to the base of the first lifelinepost on the starboard side and bring the climbing line back to the sheet winch to bring it taut. The wishbone is a bit of a bother but can be minimized by tying it off as far to port as possible.
Dave C.
Yep did that. Next time I’m going to try it from Samson post and pull wishbone in all the way. I used the the main Halyard winch to tighten up. I think half way up my new Halyard stretched some. I should have had my wife put more tension in it but I was afraid to have her touch anything while I was up there 
Captain J