Hi all, just bought my first saddle kit. It's a xop mondo/ edge kit. It came out the box with all three ropes, bridge/ linemans and teather.  My question is , the ropes are all the same length.  So can I cut some off my bridge rope to shorten it ? Can I just cut it and melt the end or do I need to tape it. Also is the double over hand stopper knot safe to use on the end after I've cut it ? Pic of intended knot below. Thanks in advance for any advice or replys . Have a good weekend all.

That knot will work fine. You should be good to cut and melt the bridge rope as long as you put the knot on the end. Taping the end isn't necessary. Make sure you have a inch or so of stub hanging off past the knot.

Don't cut too short to start. You can always cut more later.
Good luck and don't be afraid to make adjustments for comfort. Not everyone does things in the same manner.
BigJim

Quote from: BigJim on October 26, 2024, 09:54:49 AM
That knot will work fine. You should be good to cut and melt the bridge rope as long as you put the knot on the end. Taping the end isn't necessary. Make sure you have a inch or so of stub hanging off past the knot.

Don't cut too short to start. You can always cut more later.
Good luck and don't be afraid to make adjustments for comfort. Not everyone does things in the same manner.
BigJim

Thanks for that much appreciated

How short are you thinking for your bridge? I've been considering the same change for ease of shooting.

Quote from: Jegs.mich on October 27, 2024, 11:17:09 AM
How short are you thinking for your bridge? I've been considering the same change for ease of shooting.

about 35 inches ish, so I don't have the rest of the rope and hoop dangling down . Would be tidy and neater

Personally the bridge should be shorter as a bridge that long your basically leaning back way to far. I would test the length before you cut by tying that knot in the excess and test at ground level different lengths and find a compromise. I use a 22" bridge that I can pull tight like a belt when walking in or let it out a little for one sticking or loosen enough to sit or lean

Go to saddlehunter.com for further guidance........

Just make sure you don't cut your bridge too short. I like to leave plenty of adjustment in mine, but that's just what works for me. That knot will work fine and you won't need to tape it just burn the end. But obviously just be sure to get a good stopper knot.

I suggest you check out JRB website or his youtube channel.  John has some great and simple ideas for another bridge and saddle hunting knots. 

M73, all good advice from the other guys, and yes, the double overhand stopper knot is pretty standard on many bridges, tree tethers, and lineman ropes.  A short bridge makes it easier to maneuver the bow over, and if you are climbing with rope techniques like SRT or DRT, make it easier to climb.  Some guys even install a two-bridge system, one for climbing on with the ropes and the other to hunt from when they are set at hunting height.  If you don't want to cut the rope, you can always daisy chain the excess to make it more manageable.  I hope this helps and that you have a great season hunting from your saddle!

Roger

My bridges typically run about 18 - 20".  Like the other guys said, yes you can shorten it and add the stopper knot. Personally, mine is a permanent bridge on my favorite saddles.

I normally leave mine set once I get it where I want it unless I'm climbing with a rope using SRT, and then I'll shorten it up while I'm climbing and reset it once I'm on stand.

Roger