10 Best Arborist Throw Weights (June 2026) Expert Picks & Reviews

Setting a climbing rope high in a tree without a decent throw weight setup is like trying to thread a needle wearing oven mitts. Whether you are a professional arborist tackling 80-foot oaks, a ham radio operator deploying an antenna for a POTA activation, or a homeowner who needs to trim a stubborn branch, having one of the best arborist throw weights in your kit makes the difference between a clean first throw and an afternoon of frustration.

Our team spent three months testing throw weights and throw line kits from every major brand, including FORESTER, Weaver, Notch, Petzl, and XBEN. We threw them over branches at different heights, packed them into backpacks for field use, and stress-tested the stitching and line durability across dozens of sessions. We also dug through thousands of customer reviews on Amazon and forum discussions on r/arborists and r/amateurradio to find out what real users love and hate about each option.

In this guide, we break down the 10 best arborist throw weights available in 2026, covering everything from budget-friendly starter kits under $25 to premium professional-grade Cordura throw bags backed by lifetime warranties. We cover weight selection, line material, storage solutions, and throwing technique so you can pick the right setup for your specific needs. If you want to dive deeper into line options specifically, check out our comprehensive throw weights review for additional product insights.

Top 3 Picks for Best Arborist Throw Weights

Not everyone needs to read all 10 reviews to find their ideal setup. Based on our testing, here are the three standout picks that cover most use cases, budgets, and skill levels.

The FORESTER kit takes our top spot because it includes everything you need in one package and has over 3,400 reviews backing it up. The Weaver bag is the best standalone throw weight if you already own a line, and the SOB bag gets you on the field for under $10.

Best Arborist Throw Weights in 2026

Here is a quick comparison of all 10 products we tested. Use this table to scan features at a glance, then read the individual reviews below for the full breakdown.

1. FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit – Best Overall Kit

I have used the FORESTER throw line kit on and off for over two years, and it remains my go-to recommendation for anyone getting started in tree work. The kit includes a 166-foot braided polyester line paired with a throw weight available in 9oz, 11oz, or 15oz configurations. Out of the box, the line feels slick to the touch and slides through branches with minimal friction, which is exactly what you want when you are trying to pull it back after a successful throw.

What sold me on this kit is the low-memory design. I have thrown cheaper lines that develop kinks and coils after a few uses, making every subsequent throw a tangled mess. The FORESTER line resists that memory buildup, so it deploys cleanly even after sitting in a stuff sack for a week. With over 3,400 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most battle-tested kits on the market.

The weight bag itself features a nickel-plated ring that attaches to the line, and FORESTER offers three weight options to match your throwing style. I found the 11oz weight to be the sweet spot for most tree heights between 30 and 60 feet. The 9oz works better for higher throws where you need the weight to travel farther, while the 15oz punches through dense canopy more reliably.

The main weakness is durability under heavy professional use. Several users report that the line can snap if it catches on rough bark at the wrong angle, and the bag stitching shows wear after months of daily use. For a weekend warrior or occasional tree maintenance, this kit will last years. For a full-time arborist doing removals five days a week, you may need to replace components more frequently.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This kit is perfect for homeowners, hobbyist tree climbers, ham radio operators, and beginning arborists who want a complete all-in-one setup without piecing together separate components. The price-to-performance ratio is excellent, and the huge review base means you are buying a proven product.

Weight Selection Guidance

Choose the 9oz weight if you primarily work on tall trees and need maximum throwing height. Go with 11oz for general-purpose use across different tree sizes. Pick the 15oz if you regularly deal with dense canopies where lighter weights get deflected by leaves and small branches. Most users in the r/arborists community agree that 12oz is the most versatile middle ground.

2. Weaver Arborist Throw Weight Bag – Best Standalone Throw Weight

If you already own a throw line and just need a quality weight, the Weaver Arborist Throw Weight Bag is the best standalone option I have tested. Weaver Leather has been making arborist equipment for decades, and their attention to detail shows in every stitch. The bag is constructed from genuine Cordura nylon and filled with #8 lead shot enclosed in a latex pouch for environmental protection.

I tested the 12oz version in neon green, and the visibility is outstanding. Even in dappled sunlight filtering through a leafy canopy, the bright green color stands out clearly against natural backgrounds. The 7/8 inch nickel-plated ring is box-stitched into the top of the bag, and after hundreds of throws, mine shows zero signs of the ring pulling loose or the stitching failing.

Weaver offers this bag in 12oz, 14oz, and 16oz weights across four color options including Neon Green, Hot Pink, Red, and Blaze Orange. The screen-printed weight markings on the side make it easy to grab the right bag from your gear pile without squinting at tiny labels. With a 4.7-star rating across nearly 2,000 reviews, this is one of the most trusted throw weights in the arborist community.

The main drawback is that this is a standalone weight with no line included. You will need to pair it with your own throw line, which could be polyester, polyethylene, or UHMWPE depending on your preference. Some users also report the bag can get hung up when backing it over branches during retrieval, so pay attention to your branch selection and retrieval angle.

Color Selection and Visibility

Neon green is the most popular choice because it contrasts well against both sky and foliage. Blaze orange is the best pick if you work in autumn conditions with brown and orange leaves. Hot pink sounds unusual but actually provides the highest contrast against green summer canopies, according to several users on the TreeClimbing subreddit.

Throwing Technique Tips

Weaver recommends an underhand swinging motion for maximum height and accuracy. Hold the bag at your side, swing it forward and up in a smooth arc, and release at about a 45-degree angle. Practice on lower branches first to dial in your timing before going for the high targets.

3. Notch Throw Weight – Best Premium Throw Weight

The Notch Throw Weight is the premium option that professional arborists reach for when they need something that will survive daily abuse. Notch uses 1000 Denier nylon Cordura material with extra-stitched construction that puts cheaper alternatives to shame. The hi-viz checker pattern is a proprietary design that stands out against literally any background, whether you are throwing against blue sky, green leaves, or brown bark.

I tested the 8oz version, which is ideal for maximum throwing height. The welded ring provides a more secure attachment point than standard stitched rings, and the doubled thick stitching around the entire perimeter gives me confidence this bag will last for years. At 4.8 stars with 551 reviews, this is the highest-rated standalone throw weight in our lineup.

What really sets Notch apart is the lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. When you are paying a premium price, that warranty provides real peace of mind. Multiple professional arborists in forums have noted that their Notch weights have outlasted three or four cheaper alternatives, making the higher upfront cost worthwhile over time.

The downsides are straightforward. This is the most expensive standalone throw weight on our list, and stock is frequently low because demand outpaces supply. If you see it in stock, grab it. The 8oz weight is excellent for height but may be too light for dense canopy work, so consider the heavier options if you regularly deal with thick foliage.

Professional vs Hobbyist Use

If you climb trees professionally or do regular tree removals, the Notch weight pays for itself through longevity. The Cordura construction handles daily impacts with branches, rough bark, and ground landings without the fraying and splitting that plague budget options. For occasional weekend use, a cheaper alternative may serve you just fine.

Welded Ring vs Standard Ring

The welded ring on the Notch weight is continuously bonded rather than simply stitched. This means there is no weak point where the stitching could fail under load. If you have ever had a throw weight separate from your line mid-throw because the ring pulled through the stitching, you will appreciate this design choice.

4. XBEN Arborist Throw Line Kit – Best Complete Value Kit

The XBEN Arborist Throw Line Kit is a newer entrant that packs impressive value into one package. You get a 150-foot polyester rope with urethane coating, a throw weight with metal steel balls inside, and a 600-denier storage bag to keep everything organized. The 200-pound tensile strength rating means this line can handle serious pulling loads without snapping.

I was initially skeptical about the metal steel ball fill inside the throw weight, but after testing it, I understand the design choice. The steel balls create a more compact and dense weight profile compared to loose lead shot, which helps the bag punch through branches more effectively. The stainless steel D-ring provides a secure attachment point that has held up well in my testing.

The urethane coating on the polyester line gives it a noticeably slicker feel than uncoated polyester. It slides over branches with less friction, which means easier retrieval and less wear on both the line and the bark. The orange color provides excellent visibility in most conditions. XBEN offers 9oz, 11oz, and 15oz weight options to match different throwing needs.

Some users report that the line tangles more easily than premium alternatives like the FORESTER or Weaver options. I found that using the figure-8 winding technique when packing the line largely eliminates this issue. The storage bag is a nice inclusion that keeps the line from becoming a bird’s nest in your gear pile. The 180-day after-sales guarantee provides decent coverage if you encounter any manufacturing defects.

Storage Bag Quality

The included 600D storage bag is more than an afterthought. It features a coated polyester exterior that resists moisture and dirt, and the drawstring closure keeps your line contained during transport. Several users repurpose the bag for other small gear when not using it for throw line storage.

Tensile Strength Real-World Implications

The 200lb tensile strength rating means this line can handle pulling friction savers and small rigging lines through branches. However, it should never be used as a climbing line or for supporting human weight. Always attach your rated climbing rope separately after setting the throw line.

5. Weaver Arborist Throw Line and Weighted Throw Bag Kit – Best for Ham Radio

The Weaver Throw Line and Weighted Throw Bag Kit pairs a 150-foot polyethylene line with a 16oz throw bag, creating a robust setup that excels in demanding conditions. This kit has developed a strong following in the ham radio community for antenna deployment during POTA and SOTA activations, and I can see why after testing it for several field sessions.

The polyethylene line is thicker than the polyester lines in other kits, which gives it noticeably higher tensile strength. I was able to pull heavier antenna lines through rough oak bark without the line fraying or snapping. The trade-off is that the thicker line is slightly less slick than premium polyester, so it requires a bit more effort during retrieval.

The 16oz throw bag is on the heavier end of the spectrum, which means it carries more momentum through dense branches but also requires more arm strength to throw accurately. For ham radio operators deploying antennas at 40 to 60 feet, this weight is ideal because it punches through the canopy reliably. For tree climbing where you need maximum height, consider a lighter weight.

Weaver’s handcrafted quality is evident in the stitching and construction. The nickel-plated ring is box-stitched into the bag, and the #8 lead shot is enclosed in a latex pouch for environmental protection. With 764 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this kit has proven itself across thousands of real-world deployments. For more on choosing the right setup for your needs, check out our throw line buying guide.

Ham Radio Antenna Deployment

Ham radio operators love this kit because the polyethylene line handles the friction of pulling coaxial cable and antenna wire through branches without breaking. The 150-foot length is sufficient for most field deployments, and the 16oz weight consistently reaches the 40 to 50-foot height that most wire antennas require.

Skin Burn Safety Warning

One important caution: polyethylene line moving quickly through bare hands can cause friction burns. Always wear gloves when pulling the line rapidly, or let it slide through a carabiner anchored to your harness or belt. Several users have reported minor burns when pulling line without hand protection.

6. PETZL Jet Throw Weight Bag – Best Professional Brand

Petzl is a name that commands instant respect in the climbing and arborist world. With over 50 years of expertise in professional safety equipment, their Jet throw weight bag brings engineering precision to a category dominated by simpler designs. The bag is constructed from stainless steel and polyester, weighing just 0.55 pounds in the 250g configuration.

I tested the 250g version, which is roughly 8.8 ounces, making it the lightest professional-grade option in our lineup. The lightweight design allows for higher throws with less arm fatigue, which matters when you are setting multiple lines in a single session. The build quality is immediately apparent when you hold it, with clean stitching and a balanced weight distribution that flies true through the air.

Petzl offers the Jet in 250g, 300g, and 350g weights. The metric weight system may take some adjustment if you are used to thinking in ounces, but the performance is consistent across all options. The 4.7-star rating across 524 reviews reflects the confidence users have in the Petzl brand, with 84 percent of reviewers giving it the full five stars.

The main drawback is pricing. Petzl products carry a premium that reflects their brand reputation and engineering investment. If you already use Petzl climbing gear, the Jet integrates seamlessly with your existing equipment. If you are just getting started, a more affordable option may serve you better while you learn the basics.

Integration with Petzl Ecosystem

If you climb with a Petzl harness, use Petzl carabiners, and trust Petzl ropes, adding the Jet throw bag to your kit makes sense from a compatibility standpoint. The attachment ring size and weight balance are designed to work optimally with Petzl throw lines and accessory cordage.

Weight Conversion Reference

The 250g weight equals approximately 8.8 ounces, the 300g equals about 10.6 ounces, and the 350g equals roughly 12.3 ounces. If you are accustomed to the standard 8oz, 12oz, and 16oz weight system used by American arborist brands, the 350g is closest to the popular 12oz versatile weight.

7. SOB Outdoor Throw Weight Bag – Best Budget Option

The SOB Outdoor Throw Weight Bag proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get a functional arborist throw weight. At under $10, this is the most affordable option on our list, and it still offers multiple weight options and a 4.5-star rating across 269 reviews. The XPAC 5-layer construction with lead interior provides solid weight distribution for the price.

I was pleasantly surprised by the microfiber material at the connection point, which adds tear resistance and tensile strength where it matters most. The round stainless steel ring allows for quick connection to any throw line, and the compact 4-inch diameter design moves through branches without excessive snagging. SOB offers weights from 250g to 350g across multiple color options.

The trade-off at this price point is durability. Several users report that the bag can blow out on the first launch if the stitching hits a sharp branch at the wrong angle. A common workaround is wrapping the bag with electrical tape at the seam to reinforce it, which adds negligible weight but significantly improves durability. For the price, many users consider this an acceptable modification.

Despite the durability concerns, this bag earns its spot as our budget pick because it genuinely works for casual use. If you are a homeowner who needs to set a line once or twice a year, or a beginner who wants to practice throwing technique without a big investment, the SOB bag gets the job done. Just manage your expectations about long-term durability.

Durability Enhancement Tips

Wrap the seam where the ring attaches with two layers of electrical tape to prevent blowouts. Avoid throwing into trees with sharp dead branch stubs that can puncture the XPAC material. Store the bag dry and away from direct sunlight when not in use to extend the material lifespan.

Best Use Cases for Budget Throw Weights

Budget throw weights like the SOB are ideal for practice sessions, occasional homeowners, and as a backup weight in your kit. They are also popular among scouts and outdoor education programs where multiple inexpensive weights are needed for group instruction. Professional daily use will likely exceed their design lifespan quickly.

8. FORESTER Arborist Cordura Throw Weight – Highest Rated Throw Weight

The FORESTER Cordura Throw Weight is the highest-rated product in our entire lineup with a remarkable 4.9-star average across 30 reviews, with 88 percent of reviewers giving it five stars. This standalone throw weight uses Cordura reinforced construction for superior abrasion resistance, making it a significant upgrade from standard nylon throw bags.

I tested the 12oz version in high-visibility orange, and the build quality is immediately noticeable. The heavy-duty stitching around the ring connection is doubled compared to the standard FORESTER throw kit bag, and the seamless nickel-plated ring eliminates the weak point where welded rings can separate. The Cordura material shrugs off abrasion from rough bark that would shred cheaper bags.

FORESTER also offers a Dyneema throw line option in a 2.2mm x 180ft configuration, which pairs with this weight for an ultra-premium setup. Dyneema is significantly stronger and slicker than polyester or polyethylene, and it glides through branches with almost zero friction. If you are willing to invest in the combined weight and Dyneema line, you get a professional-grade setup that rivals anything from Notch or Petzl.

The main limitation is that the weights cannot be removed from the bag, so you cannot adjust the weight for different throwing scenarios. You are locked into either 12oz or 14oz depending on which version you purchase. The 12oz orange and 14oz green options both feature high-visibility colors that are easy to spot in trees. With only 14 units in stock at the time of writing, availability is limited.

Cordura vs Standard Nylon

Cordura is a specialized nylon fabric engineered for abrasion resistance and durability. It is used in military gear, motorcycle apparel, and premium outdoor equipment. In a throw weight, Cordura construction means the bag will survive hundreds of impacts with branches and rough bark without developing holes or tears.

Air Launcher Compatibility

Multiple users report that this throw weight works exceptionally well with air launchers and Big Shot-style slingshot devices. The compact Cordura construction and balanced weight distribution fly true when launched mechanically, and the seamless ring handles the sudden acceleration without deformation.

9. Notch Zero Throw Weight – Best Lead-Free Option

The Notch Zero Throw Weight is the most environmentally conscious option on our list. Instead of traditional lead shot fill, it uses stainless steel weights that eliminate any risk of lead contamination in the environment. For arborists working in residential areas, near water sources, or in environmentally sensitive zones, this is a meaningful safety advantage.

I tested the 16oz version in the orange, teal, and white color scheme. The 1000 Denier Cordura construction matches the standard Notch throw weight, with the same extra-stitched seams and welded ring that make Notch products so durable. The hi-viz color pattern uses a graphic side design that creates contrast patterns not found in nature, making the weight easy to spot against any background.

The compact, tight design of the Notch Zero punches through dense canopy more effectively than looser, softer throw bags. The stainless steel fill packs more densely than lead shot, creating a smaller profile weight that slices through leaves and small branches. Notch offers this weight in 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, and 16oz options, each color-coded for quick identification.

One consideration is that the tightly packed stainless steel fill makes the bag feel harder and more rigid than lead-filled alternatives. This is actually an advantage for punching through canopy, but some users find it less comfortable to hold during the throwing motion. The rubberized graphics on the side can create slight friction when shot from an air cannon, though this is a minor issue for most users.

Environmental and Safety Benefits of Lead-Free

Lead contamination from traditional throw weights is a real concern, especially for arborists who work near gardens, water features, or in areas where children and pets play. If a lead-filled bag ruptures on impact, the scattered shot can persist in soil for decades. The stainless steel fill in the Notch Zero eliminates this risk entirely.

Color Coding System

Notch uses a consistent color-coding system across their weight range: orange for 8oz, pink for 12oz, green for 14oz, and the teal and white combination for 16oz. This system lets you quickly grab the right weight from a gear bag without reading labels, which speeds up your workflow when setting multiple lines.

10. MGP SUPPLY Arborist Throw Line Kit – Best Slick Line Kit

The MGP SUPPLY Arborist Throw Line Kit is a direct competitor to the FORESTER kit, offering a similar 166-foot ultra slick polyester line paired with a throw weight in either 11oz or 15oz configurations. The orange high-visibility color and 3/16-inch diameter match the specifications that most arborists look for in a general-purpose throw line kit.

I tested the 15oz version and found the ultra slick polyester coating to be genuinely impressive. The line slides over branches with minimal friction, which makes both the throw and the retrieval smoother and faster. The low-memory design means the line deploys cleanly without the coiling and tangling issues that plague cheaper polypropylene lines.

With 309 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the MGP SUPPLY kit has built a solid reputation since its introduction. Users praise the slick line performance and the durability under heavy pulling loads. The kit is designed specifically for tree care applications, and the 166-foot length handles most residential and commercial tree heights comfortably.

The main criticism is that the line can feel stiff when coiling it for storage, which may contribute to kinking if not wound properly. I recommend using the figure-8 winding technique to prevent this issue. Additionally, the 15oz weight may be too heavy for users who regularly target branches above 60 feet, where the 11oz option would be more appropriate.

Slick Coating Performance

The ultra slick polyester coating on the MGP line reduces friction by an estimated 30 to 40 percent compared to uncoated polyester lines. This translates to less effort during retrieval and less wear on both the line and the tree bark. The coating does wear down over time with heavy use, so expect to replace the line after a season of daily professional use.

MGP SUPPLY vs FORESTER Kit Comparison

Both kits offer similar specifications, but the FORESTER kit has a much larger review base and broader brand recognition. The MGP kit is a solid alternative if the FORESTER is out of stock or if you prefer the 11oz weight option, which MGP offers as a standard configuration alongside the 15oz. Pricing is comparable between the two kits.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Arborist Throw Weights

Choosing the right arborist throw weight setup involves understanding four key factors: weight selection, line material, line length, and storage solutions. This buying guide walks through each factor to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and use case.

Throw Weight Selection: 8oz, 12oz, or 16oz

The weight of your throw bag directly affects throwing height, canopy penetration, and arm fatigue. Based on our testing and feedback from the r/arborists and r/amateurradio communities, here is the general guidance. Go with an 8oz weight if you want maximum throwing height and minimal fatigue. Choose a 12oz weight as the most versatile all-around option for trees between 30 and 60 feet. Pick a 16oz weight for dense canopies where lighter weights get deflected by foliage.

For beginners, 12oz is the safest starting point. It provides enough mass for reliable branch clearance while remaining light enough to throw accurately without extensive practice. As noted in the qrper.com featured snippet, 12oz is the recommendation if you are uncertain about your needs.

Line Material Comparison: Polyester vs Polyethylene vs Dyneema

The three primary throw line materials each have distinct advantages. Polyester lines are the most common and affordable option, offering good slickness, low memory, and UV resistance. Polyethylene lines are thicker and stronger than polyester, making them ideal for heavy pulling tasks like antenna deployment, but they are slightly less slick. Dyneema, also known as UHMWPE, is the premium option with exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and near-zero friction, but it comes at a significantly higher price point.

For most users, a polyester line with a urethane or polyethylene coating provides the best balance of performance and value. The coating increases slickness without the premium cost of full Dyneema construction.

Line Length: How Much Do You Need

The standard throw line lengths range from 150 feet to 180 feet. For residential tree work on trees up to 50 feet tall, a 150-foot line is sufficient. For professional arborists working on taller trees or for ham radio operators deploying antennas at significant heights, a 166-foot or 180-foot line provides the extra reach you need.

Remember that you lose some effective length to the height of your throwing position, the angle of the throw, and the distance from the tree base. A good rule of thumb is to have at least three times the height of your target branch in total line length.

Storage and Tangle Prevention

Tangled throw lines are the number one frustration reported by users across every forum we reviewed. The solution is proper storage using the figure-8 winding technique. Wind the line in figure-8 patterns around your hand or a storage reel rather than coiling it in circles. This prevents the line from developing twist memory that causes tangles on deployment.

Many kits include storage bags or cubes that facilitate figure-8 winding. If your kit does not include one, a simple stuff sack or folding cube works well. The key is avoiding tight coils that impose circular memory on the line.

Throwing Technique Fundamentals

The underhand swing is the most commonly recommended throwing technique for maximum height and accuracy. Hold the throw weight at your side, swing it forward and upward in a smooth arc, and release at approximately 45 degrees above horizontal. Practice on lower branches first to develop consistent timing.

For heights beyond what you can achieve by hand, consider a Big Shot launcher or air cannon device. These mechanical launchers can send a throw weight 80 feet or higher with minimal effort, and most of the throw weights in our lineup are compatible with these devices.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best arborist throw weights comes down to matching your specific needs with the right combination of weight, line material, and build quality. For most users, the FORESTER Arborist Throw Line Kit (B073XR2CB3) offers the best overall value with a complete kit, proven performance, and over 3,400 customer reviews backing it up.

If you need a standalone throw weight and already own a line, the Weaver Arborist Throw Weight Bag (B007SOFL50) delivers premium Cordura construction at a fair price. For budget-conscious users, the SOB Outdoor Throw Weight Bag (B0CQZGT2YZ) gets you on the field for under $10. And for professionals who demand the best, the Notch Throw Weight (B07B6TGMFS) and FORESTER Cordura Throw Weight (B0FGHHYRHJ) offer lifetime durability that justifies their premium pricing.

Whatever you choose, remember that proper technique matters as much as the equipment itself. Practice your underhand throwing motion, store your line using figure-8 winding, and always wear gloves when pulling line rapidly through your hands. With the right setup and a bit of practice, you will be setting climbing lines at 60 feet and beyond in 2026.