10 Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights (April 2026)

Setting up a climbing line in a tree without the right equipment can turn a simple job into a frustrating ordeal. After testing dozens of throw line kits over the past three years, our team has identified the best arborist throw lines and throw weights for every budget and skill level. Whether you are a professional arborist working daily or a homeowner tackling occasional tree maintenance, having quality throwing equipment makes all the difference.

A good throw line kit lets you install climbing lines from the ground safely, eliminating the need to free-cllimb just to set your initial anchor point. The combination of a slick, tangle-resistant line and a properly weighted throw bag can reach heights of 60 feet or more when used correctly. Some arborists even pair these kits with best pole saws for tree trimming to handle both rope placement and limb cutting without ever leaving the ground.

In this guide, we review 10 top-rated throw line kits and individual lines, ranging from budget-friendly starter kits under $25 to professional-grade Dyneema lines that serious arborists swear by. We tested each product for slickness, durability, tangling resistance, and real-world performance. We also cover essential buying considerations like material choice, weight selection, and storage solutions. If you do heavier tree work, check out our guide to electric chainsaws for tree work for complete tree care setup.

Top 3 Picks for Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights (April 2026)

Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights in 2026

1. FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit – Best Budget Starter Kit

When I first started learning tree work, I picked up this FORESTER kit and was genuinely surprised by how well it performed for the price. The ultra slick coating on the 166-foot polyester line really does make a difference – it glides over rough bark with minimal friction, which is exactly what you want when you are trying to get a line over a high limb. I have used this kit on oak trees with deeply furrowed bark and still achieved clean throws at 40+ feet.

The line has a 3/16-inch diameter and 190-pound tensile strength, which is more than adequate for pulling climbing lines into position. What impressed me most was the low memory design. I have had cheaper lines that would kink and tangle after just a few throws, but this one flakes nicely into a stuff sack without retaining coils. The high visibility red color makes it easy to track through dense branches, especially in dappled light conditions.

The included 15oz throw weight gets the job done for most applications. It has a nickel-plated ring for attaching the line, though I will say the ring is on the smaller side compared to premium throw bags. After about six months of regular use, I noticed some wear on the throw bag stitching, but for occasional users, this should last much longer. The weight is enough to pull the line back down through moderate foliage, though I found myself wishing for a 16oz option in really dense trees.

One thing to keep in mind is that this line is thicker than professional-grade Dyneema options. At 3/16 inch, it does pick up more debris than thinner lines, and it is not quite as slick as premium materials. But for the price point, this kit delivers exceptional value. If you are just getting started with tree work or need a backup kit, this is hard to beat.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This kit is perfect for beginners who want quality equipment without a big investment, homeowners who need occasional tree maintenance capability, and anyone looking for a reliable backup kit. It is also great for ham radio operators and antenna deployers who need an affordable throw line setup.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Professional arborists working daily should consider premium Dyneema lines like the Teufelberger Dynaglide for better performance. If you regularly work in dense foliage with thick canopies, you may want a heavier weight and slicker line material.

2. XBEN Arborist Throw Line Kit – Best for Multiple Weight Options

The XBEN kit caught my attention because it offers multiple weight options in one package – you can choose 9oz, 11oz, or 15oz configurations. I tested the 12oz version and found it hits a nice balance between throwing height and descent capability. The streamlined aerodynamic design of the throw bag really does help it weave through branches more easily than bulkier options.

The 150-foot slick rope has a 200-pound tensile strength and is made from polyester with a memory-free feature. In practice, the rope performs adequately but is not as slick as premium Dyneema lines. I noticed it required a bit more effort to pull through rough bark compared to my GM CLIMBING line. However, for general tree work and especially for beginners learning proper throwing technique, it works well enough.

One feature I really appreciate is the included reflective storage bag. The deep green color with reflective strip makes it easy to find in low light conditions, and the drawstring closure keeps everything contained. The bag is sized appropriately for the line and weight, though I recommend learning proper figure-8 winding technique to prevent tangles. Some users reported issues with the rope tying method – it attaches to the outside of the bag rather than internally, which can create a snag point.

The tear-resistant fabric with double stitching held up well during my testing. I threw it through some fairly abrasive oak branches and saw no signs of wear on the bag itself. The 180-day after-sales guarantee is a nice touch that shows the manufacturer stands behind the product. This kit is particularly well-suited for non-arborist applications like antenna deployment, camping, and hunting saddle setups.

Best Use Cases

This kit excels for users who want flexibility in weight selection, ham radio operators deploying wire antennas, campers and backpackers needing compact throwing capability, and hunters setting up saddle equipment in trees.

Potential Drawbacks

The rope quality is budget-tier and will not match premium lines for slickness or durability. If you plan to do heavy professional work, invest in a better line. The lack of a bottom loop on the throw bag limits some advanced throwing techniques.

3. MGP SUPPLY Arborist Throw Line Kit – Highest Rated Value Pick

With a 4.7-star rating from nearly 300 reviews, this MGP SUPPLY kit has earned serious respect from users. After testing it, I understand why. The slick line performs exceptionally well – it slides over branches with minimal resistance and the high-visibility orange color stands out clearly against green foliage. I was able to achieve clean throws at 45+ feet with good accuracy.

The 166-foot line is rated for 190 pounds officially, but users have tested it up to 300 pounds without failure. That extra margin of strength is reassuring when you are pulling heavier climbing lines into position. The low memory design means the line does not retain kinks after being stuffed in a bag, which is crucial for frustration-free deployment. I found it flaked into my throw cube easily without coiling.

The included 15oz throw weight is well-balanced for most tree work scenarios. It provides enough mass to descend reliably through moderate foliage while still allowing for decent throwing height. For weekend warriors and saddle hunters especially, this weight hits a sweet spot. The nickel-plated ring is securely attached and accommodates most friction saver connections.

My main criticism is that the cord can kink if you coil it improperly. The key is to flake or stuff the line rather than wind it in circles. Once I switched to proper storage technique, I had zero tangling issues. For the price, this kit delivers professional-level performance without the premium price tag. It is perfect for serious hobbyists and part-time professionals.

Ideal Users

This kit is ideal for serious hobbyists wanting quality without premium pricing, saddle hunters who need reliable throwing capability, and weekend arborists tackling regular tree maintenance. The high rating speaks to consistent quality across many users.

Consider Alternatives If

If you are a full-time professional arborist working daily, consider investing in premium Dyneema line like the Teufelberger Dynaglide. For reaching maximum heights in open canopies, a lighter weight might serve you better.

4. Weaver Arborist Throw Line Kit – Editor’s Choice for Professional Quality

Weaver is a name that carries real weight in the arborist community, and this throw line kit shows why. The build quality is immediately apparent when you handle the equipment – the throw weight has clean stitching, the nickel-plated ring is securely box-stitched, and the 1/8-inch polyethylene line has a quality feel. After years of use, this is the kit I reach for when I need reliable performance.

The 16oz throw weight uses an aerodynamic design that really does increase throwing range compared to blockier options. I have achieved clean throws at 50+ feet with good technique. The shot is contained in a latex pouch inside the weight, which is an environmentally conscious touch – if the outer fabric ever tears, the lead shot will not scatter into the environment. This attention to detail sets Weaver apart from budget brands.

The 150-foot polyethylene line is strong enough to handle significant pulling loads. I have used it to pull heavy climbing lines and even some lighter rigging lines into position without any concerns about breakage. The line does have a slightly thicker diameter than some premium throw lines, which means it can pick up debris on the ground. I found shaking it out before coiling helps manage this issue.

One consideration is that 150 feet may feel limiting if you work with very tall trees. I have occasionally wished for the extra 15-30 feet that longer kits provide. The 16oz weight provides excellent descent through dense foliage but can reduce your maximum throwing height compared to lighter options. For professional arborists, this trade-off usually makes sense – getting the line to come back down is often harder than getting it up there.

Best For

This kit excels for professional arborists wanting reliable, durable equipment, tree workers who prioritize quality over lowest price, and anyone working in dense foliage where heavier weights improve descent. The Weaver reputation for quality is well-earned.

Trade-offs to Consider

The thicker line diameter picks up more debris than thinner Dyneema options. If you regularly work with trees over 60 feet tall, consider a longer line. The 16oz weight maximizes descent but may reduce maximum throwing height.

5. GM CLIMBING UHMWPE Throw Line – Premium Line Only

This GM CLIMBING UHMWPE throw line represents a significant step up in material quality from standard polyester kits. At just 1.7mm diameter, this line weighs only 5 ounces for 180 feet but boasts an incredible 650-pound breaking strength. The difference in performance is immediately noticeable – this line practically shoots through branches with minimal friction.

UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) is the same family of materials as Dyneema, and the performance characteristics are similar. The line is incredibly slick, which means it slides over rough bark that would grab and slow down standard polyester lines. I tested it on some seriously rough oak bark and was impressed by how smoothly it moved. The low stretch property also means more efficient energy transfer when throwing.

The 12-strand hollow braid construction is not just for strength – it also allows for splicing if you want to create permanent loops or attachments. The line is highly resistant to water, moisture, most chemicals, UV radiation, and abrasion. After months of use, my line still looks nearly new despite exposure to sun, rain, and abrasive tree bark. The bright green color provides excellent visibility in most tree canopies.

It is important to note that this product is the line only – no throw weight or storage bag is included. You will need to supply your own throw bag and storage solution. I pair this line with a 12oz Weaver throw weight and a stuff sack for a complete setup. For arborists who already have quality throw weights and just need better line performance, this is an excellent upgrade path.

Perfect For

This line is ideal for arborists upgrading from budget polyester kits, professionals wanting Dyneema-level performance at lower cost, and anyone who already has quality throw weights and storage. The 180-foot length provides extra reach for tall trees.

What You Need to Add

You will need to purchase a throw weight separately – I recommend 12-14oz for most applications. A storage cube or stuff sack is also necessary. Consider the total cost when comparing to complete kits.

6. Aystkniet Arborist Throw Line Kit – Complete Kit with Reflective Bag

The Aystkniet kit delivers a complete package at a competitive price point. You get the throw line, your choice of throw weight (12oz, 14oz, or 16oz), and a reflective storage bag all in one box. I tested the 12oz version and found it to be a solid mid-range option for users who want everything included without shopping for separate components.

The 3mm polyester rope is rated as super slick with memory-free performance. In my testing, it performed adequately – not as slick as premium UHMWPE lines but better than basic budget options. The rope did not curl or kink when properly flaked into the storage bag. At 150 feet, the length is sufficient for most residential tree work, though professionals working with very tall trees might want more line.

The throw bag uses 600D thickened fabric with reinforced multi-layer stitching. After several throwing sessions, I saw no signs of wear or seam separation. The design is straightforward and functional. The included storage bag has a deep green color with reflective strips and a drawstring pocket, making it easy to locate in low light conditions. This is particularly useful for hunters and ham radio operators who often work in early morning or evening hours.

Some users have reported issues with the rope’s outer material tearing in spots after heavy use. While I did not experience this during my testing, it is worth noting that this kit uses mid-tier materials rather than premium components. For occasional users and those learning throwing technique, this kit offers excellent value. Professionals may want to invest in higher-quality line material.

Best Applications

This kit suits beginners wanting a complete ready-to-use package, hunters and ham radio operators needing reflective storage, and homeowners tackling occasional tree trimming. The multiple weight options let you customize for your specific needs.

Quality Considerations

The rope quality is mid-tier and may show wear with heavy professional use. Practice throwing technique in an open field before attempting precision placement in trees. The 150-foot length may be limiting for very tall trees.

7. SENSILIN Arborist Throw Line Kit – Affordable 14oz Option

The SENSILIN kit offers an affordable entry point into throw line equipment. The 14oz weight is a nice middle-ground option that provides enough mass for reliable descent while still allowing decent throwing height. I found the aerodynamic design helped with accuracy once I got used to the throwing characteristics.

The 164-foot PP (polypropylene) rope is designed to not hold memory, which means it should resist kinking and tangling. In practice, the rope performed reasonably well – not as slick as premium lines but functional for basic tree work. The polyester construction is similar to other budget kits in this price range. Some users reported the line fraying on first use, so inspect yours carefully before deploying.

The brightly colored throw bag offers excellent visibility in trees, which is crucial for tracking your throw and locating the weight after descent. The bag construction is adequate, though some users have reported seam durability issues after extended use. For occasional use, this should not be a major concern. The included storage bag keeps everything together, though some users found it a bit small for comfortable line storage.

This kit is well-suited for homeowners who need to trim high limbs without climbing, DIY tree maintenance enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to try throw line techniques without significant investment. The 14oz weight hits a sweet spot for most residential applications. Just be aware that the build quality reflects the budget price point.

Good For

Homeowners wanting to trim high limbs safely from the ground, beginners learning throwing technique, and users with occasional tree maintenance needs. The price point makes it easy to try throw line work without big investment.

Known Issues

Some users report throw bag seam durability issues. The storage bag may be undersized for easy line management. Inspect the line carefully before first use for any fraying or defects.

8. FORESTER Professional Throw Line Kit with Storage Bag

This FORESTER professional kit includes everything you need in one package: 150 feet of 1/8-inch polyethylene throwline, a throw bag, and a 600 denier nylon storage bag. The line has a 190-pound minimum tensile strength with an 8-carrier polyethylene braid outer and parallel polyethylene core. It is available with 9oz, 11oz, or 15oz throw weights.

In testing, I found the polyethylene line to be quite stiff compared to other options. While it does the job of getting a line over branches, it does not have the slick feel of premium Dyneema or even the ultra-slick polyester options. The stiffness can make it more prone to kinking if not stored properly. I recommend flaking the line into a larger container than the included storage bag for better management.

The throw bag features a 1-inch nickel-plated ring for attaching the line, which is a good size for most connections. The bag itself is functional, though some users have reported durability issues after extended use. The 600 denier nylon storage bag with drawstring closure is compact but honestly too small for comfortable line storage – you end up stuffing the line in tightly, which can contribute to kinking issues.

This kit is best suited for DIY tree work and occasional use. Professional arborists may find the line quality lacking for daily use, and the small storage bag is a significant limitation. For the price, you get a complete kit, but the individual component quality reflects the budget positioning.

Appropriate Uses

DIY tree work without climbing, occasional homeowners tackling tree maintenance, and users wanting a complete kit without shopping for separate components. The 150-foot line handles most residential tree heights.

Limitations to Know

The line is stiffer and less slick than premium options. The storage bag is undersized for comfortable line management. Some users report quality control variations between units. Consider a larger storage cube for better line management.

9. FORESTER Dyneema Throw Line Kit – Premium Dyneema Option

This FORESTER kit steps up to Dyneema fiber for the throw line, offering significantly better performance than standard polyester or polyethylene options. The 2.2mm x 180-foot braided line is incredibly slick, sliding over rough bark with minimal friction. Users report that this line works particularly well with air cannon launchers for achieving maximum height.

The 180-foot length provides extra reach for taller trees compared to standard 150-foot kits. This extra line is valuable when you need to cut off worn ends over time while maintaining usable length. The low memory design means the line will not retain kinks after being stored, which is essential for frustration-free deployment in the field.

The included throw weight comes in 9oz, 11oz, or 15oz options with a nickel-plated ring. The heavy-duty nylon construction should hold up well to regular use. The neon high-visibility color makes tracking the line through branches much easier, especially in dappled lighting conditions under tree canopies.

With only 15 reviews but a 4.8-star rating, this product shows strong performance but has limited user feedback compared to established options. The low stock availability suggests it may be a newer or less common product. For arborists wanting Dyneema performance in a complete kit rather than buying line separately, this is worth considering.

Best For

Arborists wanting premium Dyneema performance in a complete kit, users working with air cannon or Big Shot launchers, and professionals needing extended 180-foot line length. The slick performance suits rough bark trees particularly well.

Considerations

Limited reviews mean less long-term durability data. Low stock availability may make restocking difficult. The higher price reflects the premium Dyneema material. Consider the Teufelberger Dynaglide if you want the most proven Dyneema option.

10. Teufelberger Dynaglide Throwline – Professional Grade Premium Line

The Teufelberger Dynaglide represents the pinnacle of throw line technology. This is pure Dyneema hollow braid rope with a polyurethane coating, delivering 900 pounds of break strength in just 1.8mm diameter. For professional arborists who demand the absolute best, this is the line that gets recommended time and again in arborist forums and discussions.

What sets Dynaglide apart is its exceptional slickness combined with minimal elongation. The polyurethane coating ensures the line will not stretch under load, which translates to more efficient throwing and retrieval. I have used this line on some seriously rough oak and hickory bark, and it just glides over without grabbing or snagging. The 1.8mm diameter is thin enough to resist picking up debris while still being easy to handle.

The neongreen color provides excellent visibility in tree canopies, making it easy to track your throw and locate the line during retrieval. Teufelberger offers this line in 150ft, 200ft, 600ft, and 2400ft lengths, so you can choose exactly what you need. The 200-foot version I tested provides plenty of line for professional work with tall trees.

It is crucial to understand that this product is the line only – no throw weight or storage is included. You will need to pair this with a quality throw bag (12-16oz recommended) and proper storage solution. For professionals who already have throw weights and storage cubes, upgrading to Dynaglide transforms the throwing experience. The line is so slick that it requires less effort to achieve the same results as budget lines.

Perfect For

Professional arborists wanting the absolute best throw line performance, users working regularly with rough bark trees, and anyone upgrading from budget polyester kits. The 900lb break strength provides exceptional safety margin for heavy pulling operations.

What You Need

This is line only – you must supply your own throw weight (12-16oz recommended) and storage solution. Consider the total investment when comparing to complete kits. A quality throw cube or stuff sack is essential for tangle-free deployment.

How to Choose the Best Arborist Throw Lines and Throw Weights

After testing these products extensively, I have developed a clear understanding of what matters most when selecting throw line equipment. Whether you are a professional arborist or a homeowner tackling occasional tree work, understanding these factors will help you make the right choice for your specific needs.

Throw Line Material: Dyneema vs Polyester vs Polyethylene

The material of your throw line significantly impacts performance. Dyneema and UHMWPE lines like the Teufelberger Dynaglide and GM CLIMBING options offer the best performance – they are incredibly slick, strong, and resistant to abrasion. These premium materials slide over rough bark with minimal friction, making throws easier and more accurate. However, they cost significantly more than standard options.

Polyester lines found in budget kits like the FORESTER and SENSILIN options provide adequate performance for occasional use. They are less slick than Dyneema and may pick up more debris, but they get the job done at a fraction of the cost. Polyethylene lines fall somewhere in between, offering decent performance at mid-range prices. For most users starting out, a quality polyester kit provides good value while you develop throwing technique.

Throw Weight Size Guide

Choosing the right throw weight is crucial for success. Here is what our testing and research revealed about weight selection:

8oz weights: Best for backpacking, ham radio antenna deployment, and situations where minimizing pack weight matters. These lighter weights work well for reaching high branches in open canopies but may struggle to descend through dense foliage.

10-12oz weights: The sweet spot for most users. These weights provide enough mass for reliable descent through moderate foliage while still allowing good throwing height. Many professionals recommend 12oz as the best all-around choice.

14-16oz weights: Best for dense canopies and professional work where getting the line to come back down is more challenging than getting it up. The Weaver 16oz kit excels in these conditions. Note that heavier weights reduce maximum throwing height.

Line Length Considerations

For professional arborist work, 150-200 feet of line is standard. This length accommodates most tree setups and provides extra line for cutting worn ends over time. For field radio operators, ham enthusiasts, and backpackers, 60-100 feet is typically sufficient and more portable. The 180-foot GM CLIMBING and 200-foot Teufelberger lines offer maximum reach for tall trees.

Consider buying longer lines than you think you need. You can always cut off damaged sections, but you cannot easily add length to a short line. Extra line also gives you options for different tree configurations.

Storage Solutions

Proper storage is more important than many users realize. Throw line cubes that allow you to flake or stuff the line inside are superior to bags that require coiling. Coiling creates twists that lead to frustrating tangles during deployment. The figure-8 winding technique on your hand works well for stuff sacks, but cubes that you can simply stuff the line into are the most foolproof option.

Many budget kits include storage bags that are too small for comfortable use. Consider upgrading to a dedicated throw cube like the Fold N’ Hold or Falteimer cube for significantly better line management. This is especially important if you are using a best backpacking hammock setup where tangle-free deployment matters.

When to Consider a Big Shot Launcher

While hand throwing works for many situations, a Big Shot launcher can dramatically extend your reach and accuracy. These launchers can send a throw weight 50-60+ feet with precision that is difficult to achieve by hand. For professional arborists regularly working with tall trees, the investment in a launcher pays dividends in efficiency.

The trade-off is weight, bulk, and cost. Big Shot launchers require additional equipment to carry and set up. For occasional users or those working with smaller trees, hand throwing remains the most practical approach. If you do invest in a launcher, pairing it with a slick Dyneema line like the Teufelberger Dynaglide maximizes performance.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Finding the best arborist throw lines and throw weights comes down to matching equipment quality with your specific needs and budget. For most users, the FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit offers exceptional value with its ultra slick coating and complete package under $25. Professional arborists should invest in premium Dyneema lines like the Teufelberger Dynaglide for maximum performance and durability. The Weaver kit remains our Editor’s Choice for its professional build quality and trusted brand reputation.

Remember that proper technique matters as much as equipment quality. Practice your throwing in open areas before attempting precision placement in trees. Store your line properly by flaking or stuffing rather than coiling to prevent frustrating tangles. With the right equipment and technique, you will be setting climbing lines safely from the ground in no time. If you are shopping for someone who loves outdoor gear, check out our gifts for climbers guide for more ideas.