10 Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights (May 2026) Expert Reviews

Setting up a climbing line in a tree without the right throw equipment can turn a straightforward job into a frustrating, time-consuming ordeal. I have spent years working with arborist throw lines and throw weights, testing dozens of combinations in oak, pine, maple, and everything in between. The difference between a smooth morning and a wasted afternoon often comes down to having the right throw line and weight pairing in your kit.
Arborist throw lines are thin, high-strength ropes (typically 1.7mm to 3mm in diameter and 150 to 180 feet long) that you attach to a weighted throw bag. You toss the weight over a high branch, then use the throw line to pull your actual arborist climbing ropes up into the canopy. It sounds simple enough, but the material, diameter, weight, and storage method all affect how well your line performs when you are standing at the base of a 60-foot oak trying to hit a specific crotch on your first throw.
In this guide, our team has reviewed 10 of the best arborist throw lines and throw weights available in 2026. We tested kits and standalone products from FORESTER, Notch, Samson, Weaver, GM CLIMBING, XBEN, and SENSILIN. Whether you are a professional arborist who throws lines every day or a homeowner who needs to trim a few high branches once a season, you will find a recommendation that fits your needs and budget below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights
Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights in 2026
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1. FORESTER Pro Slick Dyneema Throw Line Kit – Best Overall Kit
- Very slick Dyneema line flies through branches
- Complete kit with weight and line included
- Low memory prevents kinks and tangles
- Good throwing distance right out of the package
- Limited user reviews so far
- Only available with 15oz weight option
2.2mm Dyneema
180ft Length
15oz Throw Weight
High Visibility
I picked up the FORESTER Pro Slick Dyneema kit for a job involving a cluster of mature red maples, and I was immediately impressed by how smoothly the 2.2mm Dyneema line releases from my hand. The line has a slick coating that lets it glide over rough bark with minimal friction, which is exactly what you need when you are trying to thread a specific branch union 50 feet up. On my second throw, the 15oz weight carried the line cleanly over a crotch that had been giving me trouble with a cheaper polyester line.
The low memory on this Dyneema line is a real advantage. Unlike some budget lines that arrive coiled up and fight you with kinks for the first week, the FORESTER Pro Slick feeds out smoothly from the very first toss. I flake it into a stuff sack between jobs and it has not developed any permanent coils or twists even after several weeks of regular use.
The 15oz throw weight included in the kit feels solid and well-constructed. The nickel-plated ring is large enough to accommodate most friction saver connections, and the weight itself has enough heft to carry the thin Dyneema line up through dense canopy without getting knocked off course by small branches. At 180 feet, the line length gives you enough reach for most residential and commercial tree work.
This is the kit I now reach for first when I know I have a challenging throw ahead. The combination of premium Dyneema material, adequate weight, and solid construction makes it a reliable performer. It performs especially well with PVC air cannons if you need extended range for particularly tall trees.
Best Use Cases for the FORESTER Dyneema Kit
This kit shines for professional arborists who need consistent performance day after day. The Dyneema line handles rough bark, dense foliage, and repeated friction without fraying or losing its slick properties. It is also a strong choice if you work with rigging slings for tree removal and need a dependable throw line for setting up your rigging points.
The 180-foot length covers most commercial jobs, and the 15oz weight strikes a good balance between carrying power and throwing accuracy. If you regularly work with trees over 70 feet, you may want to consider a longer spool, but for standard residential and municipal work this kit has you covered.
What to Watch Out For
The main consideration is the limited number of user reviews compared to the FORESTER polyester kit. While our testing showed excellent results, the smaller review pool means less long-term durability data from the field. The Dyneema material is inherently strong and abrasion-resistant, so I expect it to hold up well, but it is worth noting.
Also, this kit only comes with a 15oz weight. If you prefer a lighter 12oz for maximum throwing height or a heavier 16oz for rough bark, you will need to purchase a separate throw weight to pair with the line.
2. FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit – Best Value
- Over 3400 reviews with 4.6 rating
- Complete kit with multiple weight options
- Accurate rope placement even in high trees
- Compact and easy to carry in the field
- Throw bag may fray with heavy professional use
- Steel ring may be too small for some friction savers
- Budget polyester not as slick as Dyneema alternatives
100% Polyester
166ft Length
9/11/15oz Weight Options
Abrasion Resistant
With over 3,400 customer reviews and a solid 4.6-star rating, the FORESTER polyester throw line kit is the most popular option on the market right now. I have used this kit on dozens of jobs, from simple residential pruning to more complex canopy access in mature oaks, and it consistently delivers reliable performance at a fraction of what premium Dyneema kits cost.
The ultra slick 100% polyester rope measures 3/16 inch by 166 feet and features a coating that helps it slide over branches with minimal drag. While it is not quite as slick as Dyneema, the low memory design prevents the kinking and tangling that plague cheaper throw lines. I found that after a few practice throws to get a feel for the line, I was hitting my target crotches on the first or second attempt.

One feature I appreciate is the range of weight options. The kit is available with 9oz, 11oz, or 15oz throw bags, so you can choose the weight that matches your throwing style and the tree conditions. For most users, the 11oz option provides the best balance of carrying power and accuracy.
The nickel-plated ring on the throw bag does its job, though I noticed it is slightly smaller than the rings on Weaver or Notch weights. This is only an issue if you need to clip friction saver rings directly to the throw weight, which is not a common requirement. The high-visibility line color makes it easy to track through dense foliage.

Who Should Buy This Kit
This is the kit I recommend to homeowners, part-time tree workers, and anyone just getting started with arborist throw lines. The price point makes it accessible, and the included weight means you have everything you need to start throwing right away. It is also a great backup kit for professionals who want a reliable spare without spending premium money.
If you are doing occasional tree maintenance around your property or helping friends with limb work, this FORESTER kit provides everything you need without overcomplicating things. The 166-foot line length handles most residential trees comfortably.
Limitations to Consider
Professional arborists who throw lines every day may find the throw bag starts showing wear after a few months of heavy use. The bag seams can begin to fray, especially if you regularly throw through rough-barked trees like oak or hickory. The polyester line, while durable, does develop more friction than Dyneema when pulling over rough bark at steep angles.
Some users report that the line can pick up sap and debris that reduce its slickness over time. Rinsing the line after use in pines or other sappy species will help maintain performance. The 166-foot length may also be slightly short for exceptionally tall trees.
3. Samson Zing It 2.2mm Dyneema Throwline – Professional Favorite
- Highest rated throwline at 4.8 stars
- 650lb tensile strength
- Extremely low memory
- Flakes into a cube easily
- Slippery surface requires specific knot technique
- Not reflective for low-light conditions
2.2mm Dyneema
180ft Length
650lb Tensile
Samthane Coated
The Samson Zing It is the throw line that professional arborists recommend most often in forum discussions and field conversations. With a 4.8-star rating and 650-pound tensile strength in a 2.2mm diameter, this line represents the pinnacle of throw line performance. I have watched experienced climbers thread branches with Zing-It that would be nearly impossible with standard polyester lines.
The 100% Dyneema construction with Samthane coating gives Zing-It an incredibly slick surface. The line slides over bark with almost no friction, which means less effort on your pulls and smoother operation when you are setting up climbing systems. The low memory design means it flakes into a cube or bag effortlessly without holding coils from being stored.

What sets Zing-It apart from other Dyneema lines is the balance between slickness and knot-holding ability. The Samthane coating improves visibility while still allowing secure knots when you use the right technique. I recommend the clove hitch or the double fisherman’s knot for attaching the throw weight.
At 180 feet in length, Zing-It provides ample reach for professional tree work. The bright yellow color stands out well against green foliage and blue sky, making it easy to visually track your line during throws. This is a standalone throw line, so you will need to pair it with a separate throw weight.
Why Arborists Love Zing-It
The arborist community on Reddit and ArboristSite consistently ranks Zing-It among the top two throw lines available. Professional climbers appreciate that it does not tangle, holds up to abrasion from rough bark, and maintains its slick properties over months of daily use. The 650-pound tensile strength provides a wide safety margin even when pulling larger climbing ropes through tight crotches.
Many users also report that Zing-It works exceptionally well for non-arborist applications like ham radio antenna deployment, camping, and saddle hunting. Its versatility combined with professional-grade performance makes it a popular choice across multiple communities.
Knot Considerations
The slickness that makes Zing-It perform so well also means standard knots may slip under load. You need to use knots specifically suited for Dyneema, such as the clove hitch, double fisherman’s, or the figure-eight follow-through. Take time to practice your knots before heading into the field, because a slipped knot at 50 feet can cost you significant time.
Zing-It is not reflective, so if you work in low-light conditions or need to locate your line at dusk, consider adding reflective tape to your throw weight or choosing a different line with built-in reflective properties.
4. XBEN Arborist Throw Line Kit – Complete Budget Package
- Complete kit with rope
- weight
- and storage bag
- Urethane coated for smooth sliding
- 180-day after-sales guarantee
- Orange color weight for excellent visibility
- Storage bag may be too small for some users
- Rope may tangle with improper storage
- Bag lacks a bottom loop for certain techniques
4mm Polyester
150ft Length
200lb Tensile
Storage Bag Included
The XBEN throw line kit is one of the most complete packages I have tested at this price point. It includes a 150-foot urethane-coated polyester rope, a throw weight in your choice of 9oz, 11oz, or 15oz, and a 600-denier coated polyester storage bag with a pull closure. Everything you need comes in one box, which makes it an attractive option for beginners who do not want to piece together a kit from separate components.
The urethane coating on the 4mm polyester rope gives it a noticeably slick feel compared to uncoated polyester lines. I tested it through a mature white oak with rough bark and found the line slid reasonably well, though not as smoothly as the Dyneema options. The 200-pound tensile strength is adequate for setting climbing lines in typical residential trees.

The stainless steel D-ring on the throw weight is a nice touch. It is larger than the rings on some budget weights, which makes it easier to clip into carabiners and friction savers. The 600D fabric on the weight and storage bag feels durable enough for regular use, though I would not expect it to last as long as Cordura or the Weaver box-stitched construction.

Who This Kit Suits Best
The XBEN kit is ideal for homeowners and occasional users who want a ready-to-go package without researching individual components. It is also a good choice for ham radio operators and campers who need a compact throw line setup for antenna deployment or hanging food bags. The included storage bag keeps everything organized between uses.
The 150-foot line length is sufficient for most residential tree work and field applications. If you regularly work with trees over 50 feet, you may find the length slightly limiting, but for the majority of users it will be adequate.
Things to Keep in Mind
The storage bag that comes with this kit is on the small side. Some users report difficulty getting the factory-wound spool of rope into the bag without re-flaking it first. I recommend learning the figure-8 winding technique to keep the line tangle-free and make storage easier. The bag also lacks a loop on the bottom, which some throwers use for certain throwing techniques.
The 4mm diameter is thicker than professional-grade Dyneema lines, which means slightly more friction over branches. This is not a problem for occasional use, but professional arborists who throw lines all day will notice the extra drag compared to thinner options.
5. SENSILIN Arborist Throw Weight and Line Kit
- Complete kit with weight
- rope
- and storage bag
- Aerodynamic design for improved accuracy
- Super slick rope with no memory
- Safer alternative to climbing for high limb work
- Durability concerns with seam separation
- Line may knot on initial tosses
- Storage bag may be too small
PP Rope
164ft Length
14oz Throw Weight
Aerodynamic Design
The SENSILIN throw line kit offers a solid entry point for users who need a complete setup for occasional tree work. The 14oz throw weight paired with 164 feet of PP rope provides enough reach and carrying power for most residential applications. I found the aerodynamic design of the throw bag genuinely helpful for accuracy, as it cuts through the air more cleanly than some boxier weight designs.
The polypropylene rope has a slick coating that performs well on smoother bark species. I tested it on birch and maple trees, and the line slid over branches with minimal resistance. However, on rough-barked oaks, the friction was noticeably higher than what I experienced with the Dyneema lines in this roundup. For the price, the rope quality is reasonable and the no-memory feature means it does not arrive with stubborn coils.

The included storage bag is a polyester pouch with a zipper closure. It works for basic storage and transport, but it is not large enough for the factory-wound spool without some careful re-flaking. The kit also includes a shoulder strap for carrying, which is a thoughtful addition if you are hiking to remote work sites.

When This Kit Makes Sense
The SENSILIN kit is best suited for light to moderate use. If you are a homeowner who needs to trim high branches a few times a year, or a camper who wants a throw line for hanging gear, this kit provides good value. The 164-foot length handles most residential scenarios, and the 14oz weight is a reasonable middle ground for throwing height and descent control.
It is also worth considering if you want to try throw line work before investing in a premium Dyneema setup. The lower cost means less financial commitment while you learn throwing technique and determine whether you need more advanced equipment.
Durability Concerns
The most common complaint about this kit is seam durability. Several users report that the throw bag seam separated after a limited number of throws, particularly when the bag hits hard surfaces like pavement or rocky ground during practice sessions. The line itself has also been reported to develop knots easily on initial tosses if not properly flaked before use.
I would recommend this kit for occasional use rather than daily professional work. If you are a professional arborist, the long-term durability may not meet your needs. Consider upgrading to the FORESTER polyester kit or the Weaver throw weight if you need something that can handle daily abuse.
6. GM CLIMBING UHMWPE Throw Line – Maximum Strength
- Exceptional 650lb strength in 1.7mm diameter
- Resistant to UV
- moisture
- and abrasion
- 12-strand hollow braid allows splicing
- Extremely low stretch for efficient pulls
- Requires heavier weight for effective throws
- Slickness may not match coated alternatives
1.7mm UHMWPE
180ft Length
650lb Tensile
12-Strand Hollow Braid
The GM CLIMBING UHMWPE throw line is the thinnest and strongest option in our roundup. At just 1.7mm diameter with a 650-pound tensile strength, it achieves an remarkable strength-to-size ratio that makes it the go-to choice for professionals who want the absolute minimum diameter for their throw line work. I tested the green variant in dense summer foliage and the color was easy to track against the canopy.
The 12-strand hollow braid construction is what sets this line apart. Not only does it provide the strength and low-stretch performance that UHMWPE is known for, but the hollow core allows you to splice the line for custom applications. I was able to create a permanent eye splice for my throw weight attachment, which eliminated the need for knots entirely. This is a significant advantage because Dyneema and UHMWPE lines are notoriously difficult to knot securely.

The resistance profile of UHMWPE is impressive. This line handles UV exposure, moisture, chemicals, and abrasion without degrading. After several weeks of use in wet spring conditions, the line showed no signs of the stiffness or degradation that can affect polyester lines exposed to repeated moisture cycles. The zero-fuzzy surface also means it will not pick up debris as readily as some braided alternatives.

Why Professionals Choose UHMWPE
Professional arborists who work with electric chainsaws for tree work and need to set multiple rigging points throughout the day appreciate the efficiency of ultra-thin throw lines. The 1.7mm diameter creates less friction than 2.2mm alternatives, which means easier pulls and less physical effort during long work sessions.
The ability to splice this line is a genuine professional advantage. Instead of relying on knots that may slip on the slick UHMWPE surface, you can create permanent, reliable connections that will not fail. This takes some practice to learn, but the results are worth the effort for daily users.
Weight Requirements
The thin 1.7mm diameter means this line is very light, which is both an advantage and a challenge. You will need a heavier throw weight than you might expect to achieve good throwing distance. I found that a 14oz to 16oz weight works best with this line, whereas 12oz is sufficient for thicker alternatives. The trade-off is that the thin line slips through branches more easily once the weight has been thrown.
If you are used to throwing with a 12oz weight on a 2.2mm line, be prepared to increase your weight when switching to this 1.7mm line. The lighter line simply does not carry enough momentum on its own to pull through dense foliage without additional weight.
7. Notch Acculine 1.75mm Dyneema Throwline – Premium Performance
- Excellent knotability for a Dyneema line
- Wear resistant construction
- Lightweight and compact
- Backed by lifetime warranty against defects
- Coating may increase friction slightly
- Requires 12oz+ weight for best throws
- May not fly as far as uncoated alternatives
1.75mm Dyneema
180ft Length
560lb Tensile
Lifetime Warranty
The Notch Acculine sits in a sweet spot between the ultra-thin GM CLIMBING UHMWPE line and the thicker 2.2mm options like Zing-It. At 1.75mm with 560 pounds of tensile strength, it offers professional-grade performance in a package that is easier to handle than the thinnest lines. I found the knotability of this Dyneema throwline to be genuinely impressive, tying secure knots more easily than most Dyneema alternatives I have tested.
The yellow and black color pattern provides good visibility in most lighting conditions. I tested it on overcast days and bright sunny conditions, and the high-contrast pattern was easy to locate in both scenarios. The braided construction gives it a smooth, flexible feel that handles well in the hand during throws.
Notch backs this throwline with a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship, which speaks to their confidence in the product’s durability. After several weeks of testing through rough-barked trees, the line showed minimal wear. The wear-resistant properties of the Dyneema material combined with Notch’s construction quality suggest this line will hold up well to daily professional use.
Best Applications for Notch Acculine
The Notch Acculine excels in situations where you need a balance of thin diameter, knot security, and durability. It is a strong choice for professional arborists who set multiple climbing lines per day and need a throw line that can handle repeated friction over rough bark. The 180-foot length provides ample reach for most commercial tree work.
Beyond arborist applications, this line is popular with ham radio operators, campers, and saddle hunters. The compact diameter means it packs down small, making it easy to carry into the field. The 560-pound tensile strength provides plenty of margin for pulling climbing ropes and antenna lines.
Performance Notes
The coating on the Notch Acculine does create slightly more friction than uncoated Dyneema lines when pulling over rough bark. I noticed this most on oak and hickory trees with deeply furrowed bark. On smoother species like maple and birch, the difference was negligible. The coating does improve knot-holding ability, so this is a reasonable trade-off for most users.
For best throwing performance, pair this line with a 12oz or heavier throw weight. The 1.75mm diameter does not carry as much momentum as thicker lines, so a heavier weight helps compensate. I achieved my best results with a 14oz weight in moderate wind conditions.
8. WEAVER ARBORIST 12oz Throw Weight – The Gold Standard
- Made in USA with quality construction
- 12oz is the ideal weight for most applications
- Moving #8 shot prevents snagging in branches
- Bright neon green for high visibility
- Can get stuck in dense crotches
- Requires practice for consistent accuracy
Nylon Construction
12oz Weight
Made in USA
Nickel-Plated Ring
The Weaver Arborist 12oz throw weight is the benchmark against which all other throw weights are measured. Made in the USA with nylon construction and a box-stitched nickel-plated ring, this weight has earned a 4.7-star rating across nearly 900 reviews. I have used Weaver throw weights for years, and the 12oz size is consistently the one I reach for first.
The 12oz weight occupies the sweet spot that most arborists agree on. It is heavy enough to carry a thin throw line up through dense canopy, but light enough to achieve good throwing height without excessive effort. The moving action of the #8 shot inside the bag helps it conform to branch shapes and prevents it from hanging up in tight crotches, which is a common problem with solid or rigid weights.

The construction quality is immediately apparent when you hold this weight. The nylon exterior is durable and resistant to tearing, the box-stitched ring attachment distributes stress evenly, and the latex pouch containing coated lead shot provides environmental protection. The neon green color makes it easy to spot in the canopy or on the ground after a missed throw.

Why 12oz Is the Sweet Spot
Forum discussions on ArboristSite and Reddit consistently identify 12oz as the ideal weight for most throw line applications. Heavier weights (15oz to 16oz) provide more carrying power through dense canopy but sacrifice maximum throwing height. Lighter weights (8oz to 9oz) achieve greater height but can be deflected by small branches. The 12oz Weaver weight splits the difference perfectly.
I found this weight pairs well with virtually every throw line in this roundup, from the 1.7mm GM CLIMBING UHMWPE to the 3/16 inch FORESTER polyester. The 7/8-inch nickel-plated ring is large enough for most carabiner connections and friction saver setups.
Pairing Recommendations
For the best all-around setup, pair this Weaver 12oz weight with the Samson Zing-It throw line. This combination gives you the professional-grade performance that experienced arborists rely on daily. If you prefer a kit approach, the Weaver 12oz weight works excellently with the FORESTER polyester line for a more budget-friendly setup.
For ham radio and antenna deployment, consider pairing this weight with a lighter throw line for extended range. The 12oz weight carries thinner lines well and the high-visibility neon green color makes it easy to track your throws even at maximum distance.
9. Notch Cordura Throw Weight – Premium Durability
- Premium Cordura construction for maximum durability
- Hi-viz checker pattern for easy visibility
- Welded ring will not pull out under load
- Lifetime warranty included
- 8oz may be too light for some tree applications
- Premium pricing for a single throw weight
1000D Nylon Cordura
8oz Weight
Welded Ring
Hi-Viz Pattern
The Notch Cordura throw weight is built for arborists who demand the absolute best construction quality in their equipment. Made from 1000-denier Nylon Cordura with extra stitching throughout and a welded ring, this throw weight is designed to outlast standard nylon throw bags by a significant margin. The 4.8-star rating across 550 reviews confirms that users recognize the premium quality.
I tested the 8oz version, which is the lightest option in the Notch lineup. This weight is available in sizes from 8oz up to 14oz, with each weight color-coded for easy identification in your gear bag. The hi-viz red and yellow checker pattern is among the most visible designs I have encountered, standing out clearly against both green summer foliage and bare winter branches.
The welded ring is a standout feature. Unlike box-stitched rings that can eventually pull out under repeated stress, the welded ring on the Notch weight is permanently attached. This is a small but important detail for professional arborists who throw weights dozens of times per day and cannot afford equipment failures in the field.
When to Choose the Notch Throw Weight
The Notch Cordura weight is the right choice when durability is your top priority. If you work in rough-barked trees daily and your throw weights take a beating from repeated impacts against oak, hickory, and pine bark, the Cordura construction will hold up significantly longer than standard nylon alternatives. The lifetime warranty against defects provides additional confidence.
This weight is also worth considering if you frequently lose throw weights in trees and need something that is easy to spot. The checker pattern is genuinely high-visibility and reduces the chance of leaving expensive gear behind at job sites.
Weight Options Available
Notch offers this throw weight in 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, and 14oz options, each color-coded for quick identification. The 8oz weight I tested works well for ham radio antenna deployment, camping, and other lightweight applications where maximum throwing height matters more than carrying power. For professional arborist work, I would recommend the 12oz or 14oz versions to pair with thin Dyneema or UHMWPE throw lines.
Keep in mind that this is a standalone throw weight without an included throw line. You will need to pair it with one of the throw lines reviewed above. I recommend pairing it with the Notch Acculine or the Samson Zing-It for a professional-grade combination.
10. Weaver Arborist Throw Line and Weight Kit – Proven Combo
- Weaver quality and reputation
- 16oz weight provides excellent carrying power
- Complete kit with line and weight
- Screen-printed weight identification
- 150ft may be short for tall trees
- Rope can cause friction burns at speed
- Line can get stuck in dense canopy
Polyethylene Line
150ft Length
16oz Throw Weight
#8 Shot Filled
The Weaver Arborist throw line and weight kit is a classic combination that has been trusted by tree workers for years. This kit pairs 150 feet of 1/8-inch polyethylene line with a 16oz throw weight filled with #8 shot. The result is a no-nonsense, work-ready package that gets the job done without unnecessary features or accessories.
The 16oz weight is the heaviest in our roundup, and you can feel the difference when you throw it. The extra mass carries through small branches and twigs that would deflect lighter weights, making it an excellent choice for dense canopy situations. I found it particularly effective in mature oaks where the branch structure is complex and you need a weight that will push through gaps rather than bounce off.

The 1/8-inch polyethylene line is a workhorse material. It is not as slick as Dyneema or UHMWPE, but it is durable, affordable, and easy to grip. The nickel-plated ring is box-stitched to the weight, and the coated lead shot in a latex pouch prevents environmental contamination. The weight is screen-printed with its mass for easy identification in your gear bag.

Who This Kit Fits Best
This Weaver kit is ideal for users who prioritize carrying power and reliability over slickness and minimum diameter. The 16oz weight excels in rough-barked trees and dense canopy where lighter weights struggle. Professional arborists who work with pole saws for tall trees will appreciate having a heavy throw weight that can push through branches to set lines for their climbing systems.
It is also a good choice for ham radio operators and campers who need a durable, affordable throw line setup for antenna deployment or hanging food bags in bear country. The heavier weight helps in situations where you need to throw over thick branches.
Line Length Considerations
At 150 feet, this is the shortest line in our roundup. For most residential trees, 150 feet is adequate, but if you regularly work with trees over 60 feet tall or need to set lines at significant angles, you may find yourself wishing for an extra 16 to 30 feet. Some users replace the included line with a longer aftermarket option while keeping the excellent Weaver throw weight.
The polyethylene line can also cause friction burns if it runs through your hands at speed. This is a common issue with thicker throw lines, and I recommend wearing gloves when pulling the line, especially during descent. The line is strong and holds up well to repeated use, but it does not have the low-friction properties of Dyneema or coated polyester alternatives.
How to Choose the Best Arborist Throw Line and Throw Weight
Choosing the right throw line and throw weight combination depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of tree work you do most often. Here is what our team has learned from years of field testing and community feedback.
Throw Line Material Comparison
The three main throw line materials each have distinct advantages. Polyester is the most affordable and widely available option. It provides good slickness when coated, decent durability, and low memory. Polyester lines typically measure 3/16 inch or 4mm in diameter and offer tensile strengths around 200 pounds. The FORESTER polyester kit and XBEN kit both use coated polyester.
Dyneema and UHMWPE are premium materials that offer dramatically higher strength-to-weight ratios. A 2.2mm Dyneema line like the Samson Zing-It provides 650 pounds of tensile strength while being thinner than a 4mm polyester line. These materials are more slick, more abrasion-resistant, and have essentially zero stretch. They cost more but last significantly longer under professional use. The Notch Acculine, GM CLIMBING UHMWPE, and Samson Zing-It all fall into this category.
Polyethylene and polypropylene lines occupy the budget end of the spectrum. They are functional but less slick and less durable than the other options. The Weaver kit uses polyethylene and the SENSILIN uses polypropylene. These are fine for occasional use but will show wear faster with regular professional work.
Throw Weight Selection Guide
Choosing the right throw weight depends on your application and throwing ability. Here is what we recommend based on our testing and community feedback from professional arborists.
8oz weights are best for lightweight applications like ham radio antenna deployment, camping, and backpacking. They achieve maximum throwing height but are easily deflected by branches. The Notch Cordura 8oz is an excellent choice here.
12oz weights are the sweet spot for general arborist work. They provide a good balance of throwing height, carrying power, and accuracy. The Weaver 12oz throw weight is the most popular choice in this category, and most professional arborists keep at least one 12oz weight in their kit.
14oz to 16oz weights excel in dense canopy and rough-barked trees. They push through branches that would stop lighter weights, but they sacrifice some maximum throwing height. The 16oz Weaver weight is the heaviest option in our roundup and is ideal for challenging canopy situations.
Line Length Recommendations
The throw lines in this roundup range from 150 feet to 180 feet. For most residential tree work, 150 to 166 feet is sufficient. If you regularly work with trees over 60 feet tall or need to set lines at steep angles, consider a 180-foot line. The extra length provides a safety margin and flexibility for unusual situations.
Keep in mind that you will rarely use the full length of your throw line in a single throw. The excess line serves as a reserve for mistakes, multiple attempts, and unexpected situations. Having more line than you need is always better than running short at the base of a tall tree.
Storage and Tangle Prevention
Proper storage is critical for throw line performance. The most common complaint from forum users is lines that tangle and kink due to poor storage. The figure-8 winding technique is the gold standard for preventing tangles. Simply wind the line in figure-8 patterns around your hand or a small spool, and it will feed out cleanly on your next throw.
Plastic cat litter tubs and small stuff sacks are popular storage solutions recommended by the arborist community. Avoid storing your throw line in tight coils, as this creates memory in the line that leads to kinks and tangles. Several kits in our roundup include storage bags, but you may want to upgrade to a larger container if the included bag is too small.
Always flake your line out completely before your first throw of the day. This means laying the line out straight or feeding it through your hands to remove any twists or coils that developed during storage. Taking two minutes to flake your line before throwing can save you twenty minutes of untangling mid-job.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best weight for arborist throw line?
The best weight for most arborist throw line applications is 12oz. This weight provides an optimal balance between throwing height and carrying power through branches. For dense canopy or rough-barked trees, consider moving up to 14oz or 16oz. For lightweight applications like ham radio antenna deployment or camping, an 8oz to 10oz weight works well. Professional arborists often carry multiple weights to match different tree conditions.
What size rope do arborists use when throwing a line to get branches?
Arborists typically use throw lines between 1.7mm and 3mm (or 1/8 inch to 3/16 inch) in diameter. Professional-grade Dyneema and UHMWPE lines are usually 1.7mm to 2.2mm with tensile strengths from 560 to 650 pounds. Budget polyester lines are typically 3/16 inch (about 4.8mm) with tensile strengths around 200 pounds. Line lengths range from 150 to 180 feet for most applications.
What rope do arborists use in tree climbing?
Arborists use several types of rope depending on the application. Throw lines are thin, slick lines (1.7mm to 3mm) used to set initial anchor points. Climbing ropes are thicker (typically 11mm to 13mm) static or semi-static ropes rated for life support. Rigging ropes are even thicker and stronger, used for lowering heavy branches. For throw lines specifically, Dyneema and UHMWPE materials like Samson Zing-It and Teufelberger Dynaglide are the professional standard.
How to store arborist throw line?
Store your arborist throw line using the figure-8 winding technique to prevent kinks and tangles. Wind the line in figure-8 patterns around your hand or a small spool, then place it in a stuff sack or plastic container. Avoid tight coils, which create memory in the line. Many arborists use plastic cat litter tubs for storage because they are durable, waterproof, and the right size. Always flake your line completely before your first throw of the day.
How high can you throw a throwline?
Experienced throwers can consistently hit targets 50 to 70 feet high with a hand-thrown throwline and weight. Using a slingshot or Big Shot launcher, experienced users can reach 80 to 100 feet or more. The maximum height depends on your throwing technique, the weight of your throw bag, the diameter and slickness of your line, and wind conditions. Lighter weights (8oz to 10oz) generally achieve greater height, while heavier weights (14oz to 16oz) sacrifice some height for carrying power through branches.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best arborist throw lines and throw weights comes down to matching your equipment to the type of tree work you do. For most users, the FORESTER polyester throw line kit provides the best balance of value, performance, and convenience. Professional arborists will benefit from investing in the Samson Zing-It or the FORESTER Pro Slick Dyneema kit for their superior slickness, strength, and durability.
Our top recommendation is the FORESTER Pro Slick Dyneema kit for its all-in-one convenience and professional-grade performance. Pair the Weaver 12oz throw weight with the Samson Zing-It for the ultimate professional setup trusted by working arborists everywhere. And if you are just getting started or need a reliable backup, the FORESTER polyester kit delivers solid results without breaking the bank.
If you are building out your full tree care toolkit, check out our guides on gifts for climbers for more gear ideas that make great additions to any arborist kit bag.
